The best restaurants in New London

51 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 51 places · showing the latest additions first

When you need an easy dinner that actually hits, Wings’n’Pies Groton turns out hand-tossed pizza and gourmet pies, calzones and hot…

924 CT-12 (Groton)

“When you need an easy dinner that actually hits, Wings’n’Pies Groton turns out hand-tossed pizza and gourmet pies, calzones and hot grinders plus always-fresh jumbo wings with over 30 sauces and rubs. They’ll also cater the office lunch or weekend party so you can just take the credit.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 1, 2026

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Subway

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

91 Poquonnock Rd (Groton)

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

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If your week needs a reliable go-to, Impasto Pizzeria & Ristorante is slinging NY-style pizza and scratch-made Italian that tastes like…

681 Long Hill Rd (Groton) · ✓ checked Sep 17

“If your week needs a reliable go-to, Impasto Pizzeria & Ristorante is slinging NY-style pizza and scratch-made Italian that tastes like someone actually cares about the dough... because they do. Think familiar house favorites and catering when the whole crew shows up hungry.”

From the Groton newsletter, September 25, 2026

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The Shack

Restaurants

Whether you're meeting friends or grabbing a quick solo bite, The Shack keeps it simple with American favorites and zero pretense. With…

441 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“Whether you're meeting friends or grabbing a quick solo bite, The Shack keeps it simple with American favorites and zero pretense. With three nearby spots in East Lyme, Waterford, and Groton, plus online ordering, merch, and catering, it's the kind of local standby you end up visiting a lot.”

From the New London newsletter, October 11, 2026

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Palermo Pizzeria & Catering keeps New London and Groton well-fed with hand-tossed, deep dish, and gluten-free pies, including curveballs…

344 Mitchell St (Groton)

“Palermo Pizzeria & Catering keeps New London and Groton well-fed with hand-tossed, deep dish, and gluten-free pies, including curveballs like Moussaka and taco pizza. Add hefty calzones, classic grinders, wings, and fried snacks, and you’ve got a reliable go-to when the whole crew is hungry.”

From the New London newsletter, October 10, 2026

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Overlooking the 18th hole with views of Long Island Sound, Par Four Restaurant keeps it easy with casual plates, fresh seafood, and a full…

93 Plant St (Groton)

“Overlooking the 18th hole with views of Long Island Sound, Par Four Restaurant keeps it easy with casual plates, fresh seafood, and a full bar highlighted by the infamous Cadillac Mudslide. They also cater, and the Par 4 Curbside Catering truck is clutch for local events.”

From the New London newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Sneekers Cafe

Restaurants

Since 1984, Sneekers Cafe has been Groton’s go-to for hearty comfort food and live music that turns a regular night into a mini victory…

568 Poquonnock Rd (Groton)

“Since 1984, Sneekers Cafe has been Groton’s go-to for hearty comfort food and live music that turns a regular night into a mini victory lap. Think Wicked Chicken, Big Ass Cheeseburger, crispy Panko Sea Scallops, and those addictive fried Brussels sprouts, best enjoyed with the game on and friends in tow.”

From the Groton newsletter, September 27, 2026

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Jasmine Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar blends Thai comfort and Japanese precision into one spot locals keep in rotation. Think creative rolls…

470 Bank St

“Jasmine Thai Restaurant & Sushi Bar blends Thai comfort and Japanese precision into one spot locals keep in rotation. Think creative rolls like Red Dragon and Black Magic, generous sushi boats and the over the top Titanic, plus pad see ew and pad prik sod when you want real heat.”

From the New London newsletter, October 16, 2026

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Grille 92

Restaurants

Grille 92 at Fairview serves scratch-made plates with the kind of care that turns a quick bite into an actual meal. Expect straightforward…

235 Lestertown Rd (Groton)

“Grille 92 at Fairview serves scratch-made plates with the kind of care that turns a quick bite into an actual meal. Expect straightforward American comfort, exceptional service, and the easy perk of ordering online when life in Ledyard gets busy.”

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 3, 2026

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Gansett Wraps

Restaurants

On days when the clock wins, Gansett Wraps nails the quick-bite thing with fresh ingredients and solid sandwich-shop staples. Skip the line…

214 CT-12 (Groton)

“On days when the clock wins, Gansett Wraps nails the quick-bite thing with fresh ingredients and solid sandwich-shop staples. Skip the line by ordering ahead in their app, or loop them in for catering when the office lunch emails start multiplying.”

From the Groton newsletter, September 28, 2026

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New York Family Pizza is that reliable Groton go-to when you want a classic thin-crust pie or just a quick slice, plus wings with legit…

220 Route 12 #7 #3414 (Groton)

“New York Family Pizza is that reliable Groton go-to when you want a classic thin-crust pie or just a quick slice, plus wings with legit sauce options and hearty grinders. The menu gets playful too... think Spicy Pepperoni, Chicken Carbonara, and a square Grandma pie, with gluten-free cauliflower crusts available.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 16, 2026

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New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

258 CT-12 (Groton)

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

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Midway Pizza

Restaurants

Midway Pizza treats every pie like it’s for family, with careful prep and ingredients that taste like someone actually cares. The calzones…

33 Fort Hill Rd (Groton)

“Midway Pizza treats every pie like it’s for family, with careful prep and ingredients that taste like someone actually cares. The calzones get serious love, and the crew remembers regulars by name, so don’t be surprised when your usual becomes, well, your usual.”

From the Groton newsletter, September 24, 2026

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Taqueria Cinco

Restaurants

Taqueria Cinco keeps it low key and legit with tacos and burritos that hit the spot, plus aguas frescas made with real fruit like…

441 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“Taqueria Cinco keeps it low key and legit with tacos and burritos that hit the spot, plus aguas frescas made with real fruit like watermelon and strawberry or mango, pineapple and tamarindo. Add the fruit cocktail with chamoy and tajín, then peep their new gift shop for graphic tees and custom mugs.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 3, 2026

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Bennedito's

Restaurants

Bennedito's has been Groton’s home for authentic Italian grinders for over 30 years, the kind of no-fuss sandwiches that hit exactly when…

233 Poquonnock Rd (Groton)

“Bennedito's has been Groton’s home for authentic Italian grinders for over 30 years, the kind of no-fuss sandwiches that hit exactly when you need them. If your lunch routine needs a reliable upgrade, this friendly sandwich shop keeps it simple, satisfying, and very Groton.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 4, 2026

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If you want fresh salads, homemade wraps and stacked sandwiches from a true bakery cafe, Village Bake House is that hidden Groton gem…

500 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“If you want fresh salads, homemade wraps and stacked sandwiches from a true bakery cafe, Village Bake House is that hidden Groton gem locals whisper about. Daily specials keep it fun, you can order online, and there’s local delivery when lunch needs to come to you.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 8, 2026

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Texas Roadhouse

Restaurants

Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.

400 S Frontage Rd

“Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.”

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Whether you're corralling the fam or dodging dishes on a random Groton Tuesday, Koto Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar brings flashy…

527 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“Whether you're corralling the fam or dodging dishes on a random Groton Tuesday, Koto Japanese Steak House and Sushi Bar brings flashy hibachi theatrics and sushi that actually hits the spot. A trusty pick for birthdays, team dinners, or anytime you want your meal to sizzle right in front of you.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 2, 2026

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Subway

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.

283 CT-12 (Groton)

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

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Gold Star Pizza

Restaurants

Gold Star Pizza lets you build the pizza or calzone of your wildest dreams, then actually bakes it the way you meant it. Solid, no-nonsense…

520 Gold Star Hwy (Groton)

“Gold Star Pizza lets you build the pizza or calzone of your wildest dreams, then actually bakes it the way you meant it. Solid, no-nonsense pies, easy pickup or delivery, and a menu that covers both adventurous cravings and classic comfort make it a reliable weeknight fix.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 10, 2026

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The Shack

Restaurants

The Waterford outpost of The Shack is that reliable go-to for American classics, with breakfast, lunch and dinner covered, plus catering if…

131 Boston Post Rd #3 (Waterford)

“The Waterford outpost of The Shack is that reliable go-to for American classics, with breakfast, lunch and dinner covered, plus catering if you need to feed a crowd. Easy choice when you just want something good and not a whole production.”

From the Waterford newsletter, October 12, 2026

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Serving friends and families since 1962, Pizzarama Drive-In keeps the New London style alive with “pizza pies with personality.” Their…

625 Broad St

“” Their family welcomes requests and builds your pie how you like it... a local staple to reach for when only a classic, crispy pizza will do.”

From the New London newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Craving red or white pies without the drama of a weekend trek? Recovery Room Restaurant keeps it simple with well-made pizzas and the…

445 Ocean Ave

“Craving red or white pies without the drama of a weekend trek? Recovery Room Restaurant keeps it simple with well-made pizzas and the Italian classics you actually want on a Tuesday. Dine in, grab takeout, or let delivery save you from the what’s-for-dinner spiral.”

From the Waterford newsletter, October 10, 2026

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Woodfellas Pizza & Wings is the local move for blistered, wood-fired pies with gluten-free and vegan options, and wings that get roasted in…

45 Huntington St

“Woodfellas Pizza & Wings is the local move for blistered, wood-fired pies with gluten-free and vegan options, and wings that get roasted in the oven then flash fried for a smoky, crispy finish.”

From the New London newsletter, October 4, 2026

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Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.

369 N Frontage Rd

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

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El Punto Exacto LLC is the kind of Nuevo Latino go-to that hits when you want something bright, savory, and not the same old. Simple online…

121 Montauk Ave

“El Punto Exacto LLC is the kind of Nuevo Latino go-to that hits when you want something bright, savory, and not the same old. Simple online ordering, bold flavors, and zero fuss... a nice upgrade for weeknights in Waterford or when friends swing by.”

From the New London newsletter, October 3, 2026

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For those nights you want something hearty without a production, Philly's - A Taste of Philadelphia brings straight-up American comfort…

944 CT-12 (Groton)

“For those nights you want something hearty without a production, Philly's - A Taste of Philadelphia brings straight-up American comfort with that classic Philly twist. Dependable, satisfying, and close to home, it’s the kind of spot Ledyard locals keep in the rotation.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 7, 2026

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Su & Sa Sushi And Salad leans into authentic Thai dishes made with fresh ingredients, plus you get the fun of an exhibition kitchen doing…

45 Bank St

“Su & Sa Sushi And Salad leans into authentic Thai dishes made with fresh ingredients, plus you get the fun of an exhibition kitchen doing its thing. Fast, friendly, and easy to order ahead, it’s the kind of casual spot you keep in the regular rotation.”

From the New London newsletter, September 24, 2026

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If you’re craving legit, straight-up tasty pizza without the chatter, The Rolling Tomato Pizzeria does it right, with food-truck roots and…

505 Long Hill Rd # B (Groton)

“If you’re craving legit, straight-up tasty pizza without the chatter, The Rolling Tomato Pizzeria does it right, with food-truck roots and a knack for crowd-pleasing pies. Bonus, they cater, so your next backyard hang or office thing can smell like victory and melted cheese.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 10, 2026

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Supreme Pizza

Restaurants

Since 1979, Supreme Pizza has been the dependable spot for classic pies and slices, with pastas and subs when you want more than…

27 Boston Post Rd (Waterford)

“Since 1979, Supreme Pizza has been the dependable spot for classic pies and slices, with pastas and subs when you want more than mozzarella. No fuss, just solid, satisfying comfort that hits on lunch breaks, game nights, and those evenings you pretend cooking is optional.”

From the Waterford newsletter, September 22, 2026

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Five Guys

Restaurants

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

143 Gold Star Hwy (Groton)

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

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Pokémoto

Restaurants

Pokémoto nails the build-your-own poke thing, with fresh proteins like high-grade yellowfin ahi, crisp veggies, crunchy toppings and…

255 CT-12 (Groton)

“Pokémoto nails the build-your-own poke thing, with fresh proteins like high-grade yellowfin ahi, crisp veggies, crunchy toppings and house-made sauces, plus sushi burritos if that’s your vibe. Add a boba tea or spicy cucumber salad and call it a midweek win, New London.”

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 9, 2026

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Water Street Waffle Company turns scratch-made batter and house sausage into the kind of breakfast locals brag about, from caramelized…

133 Bank St

“Water Street Waffle Company turns scratch-made batter and house sausage into the kind of breakfast locals brag about, from caramelized Liege waffles to fried chicken comforts. Pair it with nitro cold brew or a mimosa flight, and book the cozy private room when your brunch crew multiplies.”

From the New London newsletter, September 25, 2026

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When you want real-deal corned beef hash, fluffy omelets, or a Benny that doesn’t skimp on the hollandaise, Jake's Diner on State Street…

138 State St

“When you want real-deal corned beef hash, fluffy omelets, or a Benny that doesn’t skimp on the hollandaise, Jake's Diner on State Street delivers the comfort classics fast and friendly. Ideal for a quick bite before errands or a low-key catch-up that feels like your regular spot.”

From the Waterford newsletter, October 4, 2026

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On The Waterfront Restaurant is that reliable, family-run spot locals quietly brag about, with classic seafood, steaks, and Italian plates,…

250 Pequot Ave

“On The Waterfront Restaurant is that reliable, family-run spot locals quietly brag about, with classic seafood, steaks, and Italian plates, a full bar, and Thames River views that do half the talking. When it warms up, the patio is prime... and they handle private parties and easy pickup catering.”

From the New London newsletter, September 22, 2026

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Whether the table is split between curry lovers and roll fanatics, Kin D Thai & Sushi nails both with fragrant Thai noodles, vibrant…

123 State St · ✓ checked Sep 25

“Whether the table is split between curry lovers and roll fanatics, Kin D Thai & Sushi nails both with fragrant Thai noodles, vibrant curries, and seriously fresh sushi. Easy pickup or delivery to Waterford saves weeknights, and the lunch bento situation is a sneaky solid upgrade to your midday routine.”

From the Waterford newsletter, October 2, 2026

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Chef Diego Ortiz turns out fresh pasta daily and Italian-American plates with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, upscale room that…

35 Governor Winthrop Blvd

“Chef Diego Ortiz turns out fresh pasta daily and Italian-American plates with locally sourced ingredients in a cozy, upscale room that still feels like a weeknight win. La Luna Ristorante New London also shines for happy hour, a lively bar, and stress free parties with a private dining room and banquet halls.”

From the New London newsletter, September 27, 2026

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Whether you're grabbing a quick slice or plotting a full-on pie strategy, Waterford Pizza Palace nails the classics and gets playful too,…

116 Boston Post Rd (Waterford)

“Whether you're grabbing a quick slice or plotting a full-on pie strategy, Waterford Pizza Palace nails the classics and gets playful too, with things like Chicken Bacon Ranch, Greek, and the hometown Waterford Pizza. Plus calzones, grinders, hearty Italian dinners, and gluten-free options to keep everyone fed.”

From the Waterford newsletter, September 25, 2026

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Crown Pizza

Restaurants

From Greek-leaning pies (think spinach, tomato, feta) to grinders, seafood dinners, and homemade chicken lemon soup, Crown Pizza nails the…

430 Boston Post Rd (Waterford)

“From Greek-leaning pies (think spinach, tomato, feta) to grinders, seafood dinners, and homemade chicken lemon soup, Crown Pizza nails the cozy takeout vibe locals actually want. Grab a container of their creamy garlic dressing and a sheet pizza for game night, then pretend you cooked.”

From the Waterford newsletter, September 29, 2026

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Smashburger

Restaurants

Counter-serve chain featuring signature smashed burgers, plus sides & shakes.

903 Hartford Turnpike (Waterford)

“Counter-serve chain featuring signature smashed burgers, plus sides & shakes.”

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When only sizzling-on-the-griddle flavor will do, D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches comes through with the legendary Steak Number 9, classic…

587 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“When only sizzling-on-the-griddle flavor will do, D'Angelo Grilled Sandwiches comes through with the legendary Steak Number 9, classic steak & cheese, and satisfying rice & grain bowls or grilled-topped salads for your being-good days.”

From the Groton newsletter, September 22, 2026

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Since 1962, Ocean Pizza Restaurant and Seafood House has been the family-run spot for New London folks who want 40+ pizza styles, fresh…

88 Ocean Ave

“Since 1962, Ocean Pizza Restaurant and Seafood House has been the family-run spot for New London folks who want 40+ pizza styles, fresh seafood, and hearty Greek and Italian plates. Portions are generous, prices friendly, and the vibe is pure neighborhood comfort... the kind of place you actually crave midweek.”

From the New London newsletter, September 26, 2026

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Groton Townhouse Restaurant keeps it simple in the best way, with homemade country fried steak, chicken parm, chicken and waffles, and…

355 CT-12 (Groton)

“Groton Townhouse Restaurant keeps it simple in the best way, with homemade country fried steak, chicken parm, chicken and waffles, and crispy breakfast staples served fast by friendly folks, plus portions and desserts big enough to rescue a long day.”

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 13, 2026

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Just down the road in downtown New London, The Social Bar + Kitchen keeps locals happy with 50 craft beers on draft, a modern comfort-food…

208 Bank St

“Just down the road in downtown New London, The Social Bar + Kitchen keeps locals happy with 50 craft beers on draft, a modern comfort-food menu with legit veggie options, silly-good trivia nights, and that weekend brunch with bottomless mimosas... plus house-made desserts from Cakes by Suzy.”

From the New London newsletter, September 28, 2026

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Two Greeks Pizza

Restaurants

Two Greeks Pizza does the classics right, then slips in the good stuff... think White Gyro Pizza with tzatziki, Florentine, shrimp scampi,…

123 Old Norwich Rd (Quaker Hill)

“Two Greeks Pizza does the classics right, then slips in the good stuff... think White Gyro Pizza with tzatziki, Florentine, shrimp scampi, plus spanakopita, Greek fries, and baklava. When you want a casual spot that hits beyond pepperoni, this place quietly overdelivers.”

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 11, 2026

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The Blue Duck Bar & Kitchen is the kind of local spot you end up calling your default, with a solid bar, a Sunday brunch ritual, and…

52 Bank St

“The Blue Duck Bar & Kitchen is the kind of local spot you end up calling your default, with a solid bar, a Sunday brunch ritual, and weekday happy hour that hits right. They also do banquet packages and events, plus easy online ordering for lazy nights.”

From the New London newsletter, October 5, 2026

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New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.

909 Hartford Turnpike (Waterford)

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

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Pizza Palace

Restaurants

Whether you're team crispy edge or classic fold, Pizza Palace is the Groton standby locals actually agree on. On the official Connecticut…

944 Poquonnock Rd #1 (Groton)

“Whether you're team crispy edge or classic fold, Pizza Palace is the Groton standby locals actually agree on. On the official Connecticut Pizza Trail and celebrating 60 years of pies, grinders, pasta, and even seafood, it's the kind of dependable, no-drama dinner move you'll happily repeat.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 11, 2026

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Noodles & Rice Bistro brings lively Thai cooking to life with an exhibition kitchen, fresh ingredients, and genuinely friendly service.…

165 Bank St

“Noodles & Rice Bistro brings lively Thai cooking to life with an exhibition kitchen, fresh ingredients, and genuinely friendly service. Order ahead online for a zero-stress pickup, or settle in for bold, comforting flavors that make midweek dinners in New London feel a little celebratory.”

From the Waterford newsletter, October 4, 2026

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Helmsman Kitchen & Bar is serving a coastal-inspired New England menu that actually feels fresh, from Rhode Island oysters and grilled…

625 N Rd (Groton)

“Helmsman Kitchen & Bar is serving a coastal-inspired New England menu that actually feels fresh, from Rhode Island oysters and grilled branzino to heirloom tomato burrata, plus a solid cocktail game and patio vibes. Keep an eye on their Wine Dinner Series if you like learning while sipping.”

From the Ledyard newsletter, October 10, 2026

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Kyoto Sushi

Restaurants

Kyoto Sushi is the kind of casual, counter-friendly spot you keep on speed dial for fresh rolls, solid hibachi, and quick comfort like…

754 Long Hill Rd (Groton)

“Kyoto Sushi is the kind of casual, counter-friendly spot you keep on speed dial for fresh rolls, solid hibachi, and quick comfort like noodles, soups, and salads. Vegetarian options and a relaxed vibe make it an easy pick when the crew wants something tasty without the fuss.”

From the Groton newsletter, October 9, 2026

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