City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (860) 388-4784

Address: 70 Mill Rock Rd. East

Description: This restaurant on the corner as you come off I-95 into Old Saybrook is famous throughout the state as a family place decorated inside with toys and dolls and bears. Since 1973 Pat’s has served people coming to the shore and looking for a hearty meal with country flavor. For breakfast or as an appetizer for lunch or dinner, try the clam hash, which you have probably never had, and afterwards wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. Pat’s has many of the traditional American food items you’d expect, and a few that you wouldn’t, from cranberry chicken to fried beef liver. The potato skins are famous, so be sure to get them on the side. Pat’s also has a number of healthy options on the menu, including sugar-free desserts.

City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Address: 325 Main St.

City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (860) 399-4166

Address: 1654 Boston Post Rd.

Description: With its billowing ceiling drapes, patio floor, and brightly decorated walls, dining inside Alforno is like being on the patio of an Italian cafe. Since 1992 owner Bob Zemmel has served up some of the best Italian food in the state. He began by focusing on the brick-oven pizzas that have made Connecticut famous, and expanded to a trattoria-style menu, with risotto, pasta, and ravioli. They make everything on-site, including their stocks, breads, pastas, and sauces. They have won awards and accolades for their simple, fresh food and great service. It’s refreshing to find such an inexpensive restaurant with such commitment to quality.

City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (860) 388-9646

Address: 150 Main St.

Description: This friendly, British-themed pub in Old Saybrook is a great place to enjoy a brew or have a hearty meal. The spinach-artichoke dip is legendary, bubbling with cheese and flavor. The mushroom burger and the shepherd’s pie are both meaty and tasty, or if you want something slightly healthier, try the bison burger. There’s a good selection of draft and bottled beers. For lunch this is a great place to bring the family, especially the upstairs dining room, and on game nights the downstairs bar is crowded with Patriots and Red Sox fans. Of course, if you prefer the New York teams, you’ll find a couple diehards to root with you, and you can have the pleasure of being among the few and proud if your team wins.

City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Address: 145 College St.

City: Old Saybrook, CT

Category: Restaurants

Address: 166 Main St.