The Little Station is one of my favorite gift shops in Connecticut. Whenever I visit Hammonasset…read moreduring the summer, I make a point to stop in at the Little Station afterwards, but it's definitely worth a trip into Madison unto itself! The shop wares are eclectic, whether you're looking for a beach tunic or bag, lotions and lip balms, loose leaf teas, jewelry, candles, perfumes and eau de toilettes... They've got it. There are always special little treats that you just won't see elsewhere, which makes this a great stop if you're looking for stocking stuffers or small gifts. On my most recent visit, they had wildflower confetti: biodegradable confetti containing wildflower seeds, so you can celebrate and garden at the same time! I got a packet of those for my nephew, so hopefully he can have fun planting his own little garden. Highly recommend the Little Station, whether you're just passing through the area or making a special trip of it!

A sure sign of summer is the annual opening of The Little Station at Beech Tree Cottages. It's a…read morecharmer of a shop, the sort of place you can pick up a beach hat or bottle of water on your way to Hammonnasset. But that's never all. Owner Amanda has sweet taste in everything from breezy scarves and sarongs, to Rifle Paper Company Cards (a personal favorite), and cheap and cheerful costume jewels. If you don't know about the Beech Tree Cottages, it's become a popular Shoreline spot for a rustic wedding or family gathering. Either throw your bash on the tented lawn out back, or rent the entire venue, including eight tidy cottages. Their famous CT Roadside BBQ Truck provides a full-on Southern feast, from brisket and pulled pork to corn bread. There are plenty of fancy venues on the Shoreline, but if you're looking for something a bit out-of-the-box, Beech Tree Cottages could be just the ticket.

We ended up coming to Lobster Landing twice during our trip -- once on the way to Mystic and again…read moreon the way back -- which probably says everything you need to know. It's definitely a little more expensive than some of the other lobster spots we tried, but I honestly liked the food here the most. The lobster meat is lightly seasoned with what tasted like butter and lemon, and it all worked perfectly together without overpowering the lobster. The bun was incredibly soft and loaded with so much meat that it was practically falling apart in the middle. We got the half-pound lobster roll both times and would absolutely order it again, but it is $60. The clam chowder was also excellent. It's creamy without being too thick, and you can really taste all the ingredients. The hot dogs seem to be really popular -- almost everyone was ordering a lobster roll and a hot dog combo. My son loved them so much he had two the first visit! The outdoor seating and water views make it such a relaxing place to sit and eat, and there's also a market on-site where you can buy lobster and shellfish. Definitely one of our favorite stops and somewhere we'd happily return to.

Great lobster roll, the meat was perfection, the bun unique and hearty, nice views of the harbor,…read moresturdy seating. Wish there was the option of fries but I get it more money on ventilation etc. they offer bagged chips, lobster bisque (which I wish we got to dip in) the tables are also a bit gross on some (due to weather and birds) but since it's outside this is inevitable. You're here for the lobster and water and you get it. Pure summer vibes.

If you need a souvenir, this is your place to go. They have your local Connecticut seaside vacation…read morechockskeys, book about the area, jewelery, and books and toys for children. It's located across from the Griswold Inn, and there is parking available behind the store. Sadly, no postcards though!

The Griswold Inn Store is one of my favorite holiday shopping destinations. If you're completely…read moreflummoxed by your list, this shop will have you exclaiming, "oh, my sister would love those" or "finally, the perfect tchotchke for my mother-in law"! There is truly something for everyone in this packed and charming shop. Me, I loved the recycled Christmas stockings, the vintage inspired stationery and fountain pens, unisex mismatched wool fleece slippers, stunning wrapping papers from Caskata, cufflinks crafted from old copper pennies, and the giant lollipops from classic Hammond's candies. From hostess to baby to best friend, you can get it done here. The buyer has a keen eye and the staff is lovely.

Great fresh produce available daily. Family farm where the staff is gracious and helpful !read more

Cole's farmstand has the best fresh corn and musk melons ever. Early in the season great for peas…read moreand lettuce as well. extremely nice family operation.

It is a log Cabin! Highly recommend if you are hungry! The food was delicious and the service was…read moresuper friendly! We took home tons of leftovers because the portions were so large. The prices were very reasonable too. The best part was how good the food tasted and it was in such a friendly, casual setting!

Food - top shelf. Portions huge. Prices very reasonable. The brunette appetizer was off the…read morecharts good. The meat ball is a must - tender, soft, and the tase - superb. We got the sauce on the side with our "pasta bowl". As good as the homemade red sauce - the oil and garlic sauce was incredible. My osso bucco fell off the bone and was perfection. My wife's veal w eggplant - tender, tasted great, and we too home enough for another meal! We will be back. Next time try to leave room for dessert.

Such a solid stop went on the go! I typically stop by here for a lunch sandwich and I'm super…read moresurprised by how fantastic their breakfast sandwiches are. I ordered egg and cheese with roasted red peppers. The eggs were fluffy and delicious! The roasted peppers added a ton of flavor but layered so they didn't soak the freshly baked roll. I will definitely be back to this small business for a quick on the go breakfast again. They have amazing chicken sandwiches, hand made meatballs and tons of other goodies. Stop by if you are in the area!

Great sando place, easy to hit if you're headed to hammo. Sal's employees were all friendly and…read morefood was prepped quickly even though it was lunch time. You can tell that there's a lot of locals who come here which is all ya need to know about a solid deli. I'll be back to try some cutlets.

Italian Food Store is a hidden gem! They offer such high-quality products to cook at home from…read moreolive oils to pastas and sauces (but so much more!) I also can't say enough good things about their fresh coffee and pastry menu. Their Italian coffee menu is spot on from their cappuccinos to their affogatos, they offer something everyone will love! There is also cute nook areas inside and outside seating to enjoy your fresh cannoli's (THE BEST) or other menu items at. Everything we've had from there has exceeded our expectations. Not to mention the staff at Italian Food Store is the best, you will not meet anyone like them: truly the nicest group of people. We can't wait to stop in again!

This store was really cute, and the man at the counter was nice, but I was quite disappointed…read moreoverall. The classic cannolo was decent, but my main issue is actually with the branding. There was a sign with a phrase that was also written on the box for the cannoli I ordered that said "pleaza donta squeeza da cannoli!". The saying was around what looks like an ai generated stereotype of an Italian chef. I understand that the store is clearly Italy themed and claims to bring the culture and authenticity to the area which is great, I just think there is a better way that doesn't involve mocking a people or accent for that purpose. Again very cute store, great options, and wonderful service. Just consider the impact that the branding may have on the community you are trying to support. Thank you.