It's Time for Comfort Food (and Drink)
Autumnal comfort food embodies the cozy, warm essence of fall, offering hearty flavors and nourishing ingredients that soothe the soul. As the air turns crisp and leaves begin to fall, dishes like creamy soups, savory sandwiches, and buttery baked goods take center stage. The season's produce — such as pumpkins, squash, apples, and root vegetables — brings a natural sweetness and depth to meals, while spices like cinnamon and chili add warmth. There’s no better way to celebrate Fall than indulging in seasonal, local fare…and what’s on the menu at our favorite Stonington Borough food and beverage establishments.
What’s better than a sandwich inspired by and named after a day dedicated to comfort food? Pop into Indulge Coffee & Sandwich Co (17 High Street) and order the Thanksgiving sandwich from the artisan menu: turkey, stuffing, cranberry, and mayo, served on a NY roll.
Oysters have long been considered a comfort food, offering a taste that embodies the flavor of the sea. Whether raw on the half shell, grilled, or fried, they carry a rich, briny flavor that brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. As a comfort food, oysters deliver more than flavor; they offer a sense of place and a moment of indulgence in the familiar rhythms of the shore. You’ll find fresh, local oysters on the Specials menu at Noah’s Restaurant (113 Water Street).
We happen to think Mexican cuisine is the ultimate comfort food — gooey cheese and warm tortillas, rice and beans — yes please! Don’t miss the Choriqueso at Milagro Café (142 Water Street). It’s a sizzling skillet of Mexican sausage and cheese, topped with fresh cilantro and onion and served with warm corn tortillas.
The rich, buttery layers of a croissant or the sweet, flaky crust of a fruit-filled pastry can instantly lift one's mood, paired with a fresh cup of Colombian coffee or Chai tea of course! Whether it's the start of a quiet morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, pastries and coffee are a comforting combo that feels like a small, delicious escape from the day. You’ll find lots of options at Macondo (530 Stonington Road). Order online and bypass the line!
Photo credit KrushGraphics
Saltwater Farm Vineyard (349 Elm Street) is currently serving four red wines, perfect for Fall sipping. Their suggestions:
A light bodied Pinot Noir which while dry, offers a refreshing palate featuring prominent tart cherry flavor and a touch of minerality.
A Bordeaux-style red blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot. This coastal New England take on a French classic is barrel-aged in French oak for 12-18 months before bottling. A hint of cigar box on the nose is followed by flavors of black cherry, currant, and dark chocolate. The distinctive pepperiness of the Cab Franc is smoothed and rounded out by the added sophistication of the Merlot.
The team at Saltwater Farm Vineyard plans to stay open weekends throughout the winter. Be sure to check their Facebook page where they post all the fun events they’re hosting.
The Boro Bodega and Scoopery (109 Water Street) is still scooping out ice cream, but they’re also offering delicious cold and pressed sandwiches and salads. We’re addicted to the Figgin’ Brie — a savory and sweet concoction on a panini with fig jam, extra virgin olive oil, and arugula. Also new this season are brown butter pumpkin spice cookies.
Dog Watch Café
It’s always on the menu and for good reason! The Bang Bang Shrimp at Dog Watch Café (194 Water Street) is divine! It’s a generous heaping of crispy shrimp tossed in a sweet and spicy, creamy chili sauce. You also can’t go wrong with the Dog Watch Pasta, which also qualifies as comfort food — Cavatappi pasta tossed with chicken, roasted tomatoes, artichokes, and spinach in a white wine, garlic herb sauce.
Cove Ledge (147 Water Street) is a small, boutique wine shop with a unique selection of wine, spirits, and craft beers. They do weekly tastings and classes (check their Facebook and Instagram pages for the most up-to-date info) and right now, they have some fantastic spirits that will give you all the comforting Fall feels.