Fair weather makes one want to enjoy the outdoors.  Finding that perfect dining spot where you can take in the sun can be challenging.  With so few waterfront dining spots in our area, we were pleased to dine recently at Boca Oyster Bar.

Located in the newly developed coastal neighborhood at Bridgeport’s Steelpointe Harbor, Boca Oyster Bar takes its place as the anchor restaurant and event venue within this urban multi-use destination.  Sitting right on the waterfront this restaurant is but a minute drive from Exit 28 on Interstate 95, so getting there is a snap. The entire Steelpoint Harbor area is being redeveloped with all new dining and shopping.

With a seafood inspired food concept, which fits in perfect on the New England waterfront, spirited beverage program, and waterside location Boca’s location in city of Bridgeport makes this unique restaurant a true standout within Fairfield County’s constantly evolving restaurant scene.

The restaurant located on the first floor of a brand new building is quite large.  Indoors features a large rectangular bar, a wall of windows facing out to the outside deck and marina,  antique maps of the harbor, as well as a mast from a 1870 schooner that once plied the waters of Long Island Sound.   There is plenty of seating in this space with  ash wood tables, and nautical rope globe lights that soften the look of this modern space.

On our early August visit we elected to dine outside in the late afternoon sun.  The deck of Boca is very large and composed of brick pavers and flanked by a metal railing much like a sailing vessel.  The view is a mix of the new marina,  industries across the water as well a view directly out into Long Island Sound.  There are plenty of tables outside, a lounge area of comfy outdoor couches, and a beautiful four corner bar that would be right at home in a Caribbean resort.

The bar has a list of wines, local craft brews and some excellent tropical cocktails to put you in the mood.  Appetizers are plentiful as is a fine selection from the raw bar.  Feeling in a seafood mood, then grab a few like minded friends and try to conquer the three tiered Boca  Raw Bar Platter with east and west coast oysters, clams, ceviche, jumbo shrimp cocktail and topped with a 10 oz. lobster tail.  Bring your appetite.

Other starters include the delicious Grilled Octopus served hot in an iron skillet, and the wonderful Crab Cakes.  If seafood is not your passion, the Marinated Flank Steak Tacos and the Chicken Avocado Flatbread was the perfect appetizer for one or to share.

Salads include the Sashimi Tuna Salad, a perfect blend pan-seared sushi grade ahi tuna, mango, avocado, mixed greens,  and a cilantro ginger vinaigrette.  The Boca Salad was another hit perpared with burrata, seasonal fruit jam, heirloom tomato, bruschetta, red roasted peppers, crostini, evoo, balsamic glaze, and fresh basil.  There is even a Vegetable Tower.

Main dishes range from steaks, to roasted chicken, Chicken Milanese Stack, and  French Cut Porkchops.  Plenty of seafood options also and we recommend the delicious Chilean Sea Bass with Mussels and the Blackened Salmon.

Boca Oyster Bar has something for everyone on the menu.  There are happy hour specials and check the website for live music events.  So get out into the sun and enjoy the latest addition to the waterfront dining scene.

 

Boca Oyster Bar

10 East Main Street Bridgeport Ct

web  https://www.bocaoysterbar.com

 

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