The Place Guilford: Everything You Need to Know

Summer in New England is all about the food, for me.

That is, among others:

• Lobsters

• Blueberries

• Corn

• Steamers

• Grilled chicken

And all served hot and fresh from a grill or open-fire. So I was in Heaven when I first discovered The Place in Guilford CT. It’s quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in all Connecticut.

If you’re craving a social atmosphere with amazing CT food, you’ve got to check out The Place in Guilford, Connecticut. This outdoor seafood restaurant is a real gem. Sit on a log stump near the fire pit, and enjoy fresh, open-fire-cooked seafood. It’s a communal vibe like no other, perfect for celebrating late spring, summer and fall.

Ready to tuck into your meal at this highly unusual outdoor seafood restaurant, The Place Restaurant? Let’s get into it:

Quick Hits

• Outdoor Dining: Communal vibe with fire pits and log stump seating.

• Seasonal Operation: Open from late April to October.

• Seafood Heaven: Known for delicious, rustic, open-fire-cooked seafood.

A Brief History of The Place Guilford

The restaurant’s unique set-up all started with a guy named Harold “Whitey” Miller back in 1945. Whitey ran a spot called Whitey’s Roast, famous for its stump seats and outdoor fireplaces. The restaurant moved a couple of times but finally landed on Route 1, where it became a local favorite.

In the 1970s, Vaughn and Judy Knowles, who worked for Whitey in high school, decided to lease the land and start their own version of Whitey’s Roast. They called it The Place, inspired by Whitey’s saying:

“There’s no place just like this place anywhere near this place so this must be the place!”

The Place kept its rustic charm with stump seats and open-fire cooking. Over the years, it’s attracted regulars from across the CT Shoreline and even famous faces like:

• Martha Stewart

• And Will Ferrell

They’ve even had food TV shows film segments there.

So, if you’re looking for a spot with a rich history and unique dining experience, The Place is a must-visit!

What to expect at this unusual outdoor seafood restaurant

First-timers, be prepared for a fun, social experience!

Perfect for gatherings and celebrations, it’s a cash-only spot with a unique outdoor dining vibe. Be sure to bring cash or use the ATM on site.

Unique Dining Experience

The Place Guilford is unlike any seafood spot you’ve visited. Sit on log stumps (or plastic chairs, if you prefer) around big communal tables while teenagers cook the food over an open fire pit. Bring your own sides, beer, or even tablecloths to add to the fun. The rustic vibe is perfect for a laid-back, social night. And the smell is divine. Remember to bring bug spray, though.

Menu Highlights

Check out the red sign menu for seafood, chicken, and veggies. Don’t miss the roasted clams, grilled lobster with butter, and fire-roasted corn. Personally, I’m partial to the roasted corn, steamers, and roasted chicken on the menu.

Seasonal Operations

The Place is open from late April to October. Hours on the schedule are:

• Monday-Friday: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

• Saturday: 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Sunday: Noon to 9:00 p.m.

That said, it may be wise to check their Facebook. Or call ahead, just in case: (203) 453-9276

Directions to The Place Guilford CT

Getting to The Place in Guilford is a breeze. If you’re coming from our Connecticut bed and breakfast in Greenwich, CT, head towards New Haven, CT. That is, take I-95 North and hop off at exit 59. A quick turn onto Goose Lane, then right onto Boston Post Road (US-1), and you’ll find The Place at 901 Boston Post Rd. Look for the red building. The action is just behind it, with tree stumps for seats and the irresistible aroma of grilling seafood.

Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay near the Place Restaurant

Guilford may be small, but there are great places to stay nearby. Check out a few options in the next-door town of Madison, Connecticut:

• The Homestead in Madison: Cozy and charming, just a short drive away.

• Madison Beach Hotel: Offers luxury right on the water with stunning views.

Discover more things to do in Guilford, CT near the Place

Make it a classic Connecticut day trip out of your visit with a few of these fun activities in Guilford, CT:

• Henry Whitfield State Museum: The oldest stone house in New England.

• Chaffinch Island Park: Perfect for a peaceful walk.

• Guilford Art Center: Browse unique, handmade crafts.

• Guilford Green: Enjoy the town’s charm and vibrant community.

Tl;dr

The Place in Guilford, CT, is a must-visit open-air restaurant with tree stump seating and delicious seafood. Located on Boston Post Road, it’s a local favorite. While you’re here, explore Guilford’s history, parks, and arts; and finish your day tucking into some roasted corn and grilled lobster. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of food does The Place Guilford serve?

The Place Guilford is renowned for its seafood, featuring dishes like clams, lobsters, and shrimp cooked over an open fire. They also offer steak, chicken, and roasted corn, ensuring a variety of options to satisfy different tastes.

When is The Place Guilford open?

The restaurant operates seasonally from late April to October. Connecticut’s milder weather that time of year is ideal for outdoor dining.

Can you bring your own food and drinks?

Yes, you can bring your own sides and beverages to complement the main dishes offered at The Place Guilford. This policy allows for a more personalized dining experience.

Is it cash-only?

Yes, The Place Guilford is a cash-only establishment. Guests should come prepared with cash as credit cards are not accepted. They do have an ATM on-site.

What are the best lobster shacks in Connecticut?

Connecticut’s coastline is home to incredible lobster shacks serving fresh seafood with scenic views. Here are some of the best lobster shacks in CT:

• The Lobster Shack (East Haven) – Seasonal spot known for lobster rolls, grilled clams, and chowder.
• Lobster Landing (Clinton) – Iconic for its hot buttered lobster rolls with lemon.
• Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough (Noank) – Serving full lobster dinners and steamers since 1947.
• Ford’s Lobster (Noank) – Famous for its “Lobster Bomb”, a bread bowl overflowing with buttery lobster.
• Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock (New London) – A dockside favorite for seafood platters and hot lobster rolls.

Honorable Mentions: Stowe’s Seafood (West Haven), Guilford Lobster Pound (Guilford), The Lazy Lobster (Milford), and Westbrook Lobster (Wallingford).