Fair Haven Oyster Co. is a seafood bar located at 307 Front Street in New Haven, Connecticut, along the picturesque Quinnipiac River. The restaurant offers an intimate and nautical ambiance, featuring expansive waterfront views and a deck. The interior boasts mid-century design elements combined with a modern and cozy tavern atmosphere.
The menu, curated by Chef/Owner Emily Mingrone and her team, is eclectic and classic, complemented by gin and sherry-focused drinks. Notable dishes include the Bone-in Skate Wing.
Fair Haven Oyster Co. operates from Tuesday to Saturday, 4 PM to 9 PM. Reservations can be made through their website.
Appetizers:
- Ninigret and Black Point oysters – Very good.
- Seared Foie Gras –with apple butter, radicchio & pickled onion. Okay, but slightly bitter to some.
- Linda’s Escargot –with garlic herb butter & crusty bread; Lacked flavor and seasoning.
- Chickpea Cacio e Pepe –in parmesan broth with pecorino and black pepper; Not enjoyable for our group, though popular with other patrons.
Main Courses:
- Pan-Roasted Striped Bass – with Yukon gold potatoes, spigariello kale, salt cured olives & pine nut butter; Very good.
- Grilled Dorade (fish) –with stewed beluga lentils, bagna cauda & roman spices; Very tasty.
- Bone-In Skate Wing (fish) – pan seared with capers, Meyer lemon, tomato preserves & brown butter; Excellent!
Desserts:
- Chocolate Mousse with whipped cream & cacao nibs
and Date Cake with averna caramel & salted crème fraîche; Both great.
Drinks:
- Well-prepared and enjoyable.
Service
- Service: Mixed—a detractor from the overall experience.
Overall Opinion
- Rating: 6.5/10.
Return
Most of our group would go back, likely for the standout main dishes and desserts. This seems like a place worth revisiting for the highlights while perhaps managing expectations on service and certain menu items. Everyone would also consider trying other offerings next time.
