Sea Swirl

The fried clams at Sea Swirl in Stonington, CT are some of the very best we’ve had anywhere. This, “clam shack off the Mystic River” delivers on its promise of seafood and ice cream with water views and all the nostalgia. Right on the Mystic line, you’re smart to dip off 95 early and follow Route 1 until you can smell the fried food and see the crowd. 

What To Order

Order clams. Specifically fried and definitely whole belly. They pop as soon as you bite down and deliver on everything you ever wished a fried clam would be. We got the whole belly clam roll, but a side order would definitely do. Both are served with tartar and are sure to make a lasting impression.  If you’re looking for other seafood and roll combinations, the lobster and seafood salad rolls are both very worthy orders, same goes for the sea scallops and crab cakes. And remember, whatever direction you end up heading in, make sure it’s with a soft serve ice cream for dessert. 

Where to Go

Just around the corner from Sea Swirl is Willams Beach Park, home to Shoreline Beach. Digest and drive around Mason’s Island — just up the road — and take in the views of houses and coastline, turning around at the Mason’s Island Yacht Club before you head back into town. Finally, decide which way the day is going and either grab some wine at Saltwater Farm Vineyard or launch some kayaks into Little Narragansett Bay from the Barn Island Wildlife Management Area.