Had an amazing time at this wonderful hidden gem! Food came out hot! Staff was friendly and attentive! I could see a lot of people coming here for games and happy hour. I could also see it as a hangout for college kids. This place had everything from delicious food, to drinks to homemade ice cream and fried Oreos. Can't wait to come back! Thanks Jason for your hospitality!!!! read more

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We decided to try this place for breakfast on a Sat late morning. Ordered 2 Taylor Ham breakfast sandwiches on the in house made roll. It was not initially clear where exactly to place order as no one was at register (bar) but we figured it out. Lots of staff present and milling about-no other customers when we arrived. Sandwiches ok, but neither house baked roll or sandwich is something which I would return for, especially at the price point. Too many t.v.s--even 1 outside where one would hope to avoid. I don't expect we'll return. read more

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For the food it was ok the reefers dumplings were and ok 3/5 but they were WAY too hot. The dos tacos though we're the opposite of that they were colder than my dead great grandfather but they still tasted kinda good overall the food was a 3/5. The service was average giving it a 4/5. The ambiance was run down and dirty the staff was nice though. read more

I really don't know how to describe my experience at this restaurant. It was a bit of a fever dream in retrospect. First the ambiance. It's called Reef Shack but you wouldn't really know it by the decor. There were lots of lacrosse jerseys strewn up on the walls and like 5 TVs playing sports news and highlights. I didn't really understand why? Kind of puzzling. The furniture feels like it was taken right from a trendy coffee shop. Lots of tables and chairs of varying heights. There was one round table that was about 9 inches in diameter made for two people to eat at. I wasn't how anyone would be able to fit their food on it. There's a garage door on the side of the space, which was a little jarring to see open. And a couple of bottles of liquor behind the spot where you order. I couldn't quite get what they were going for other than "divey lunch spot." It was boiling hot inside on this 90 degree day. It had to be more than 80 degrees. Not the best but manageable, even with a young kid. It did feel like they should invest in some A/C to keep the customers, and most of all the staff, comfortable. Our server was a really solid guy. Seemed like he cared a lot and we appreciated that. The food service was very slow. We ordered a cheesesteak, burger and grilled cheese, and it took about 40 minutes to come out. There were only 3 other people in the place when we ordered. Our server gave us a heads up that their kitchen was backed up, which we appreciated. Must have been a huge order. Altogether the food was pretty good. The cheesesteak portion was ample and flavorful. They didn't have cheese whiz as an option for the cheese, which was too bad. The burger was good too. I wish the cheesesteak came with fries, though. I really wanted to love Reef Shack but the experience just wasn't the best this go around. read more

I went back to the Reefshack and I couldn't recognize it. It isn't a marketplace anymore as the earlier photos suggest. No longer are cheese steaks the focus of this business. The owners have completely changed the menu, adding lots of things, and have hidden the once centerpiece kitchen beyond chalkboards advertising food and drink specials. Fried chicken? Bar pizza? Belgian Waffles? No more college kids in the kitchen taking orders. No way to watch what the cooks are doing. Instead of the open concept, they now have tables for sitting and a full bar for liquor and beer sales. A dozen flat screen TVs cover the walls, playing every sport you can imagine. The formerly bright location is darkened, the floor sticky, and it is no longer the high-end location I described in my earlier review. It seems like they are trying to pitch directly to the college crowd, expand the food to cover other palates and increase the bottom line with liquor and beer sales. This is a small college dive bar in the making. There is one small silver lining in my review - the cheese steak was just plain awesome (and actually it was a little cheaper/better portion sized that last time). Time will tell if this is a good move by the ownership. I'm kind of turned off by it all. read more

Wow. This place when you use your credit card makes you pay for the transaction fee, yes they put automatically put this charge on your bill. Ever wonder why when you drive by the place always looks slow. Suspect it because they don't put the customer first. No good read more

It's a sure thing when ordering from The Reef Shack. Not once have we been disappointed. Originally we only ordered breakfast, however, we have ventured beyond breakfast to their sandwiches. Hands down delicious. Thus far The OG is a favorite. Their Cubano & Fairfield Cheesesteak are serious standouts. The service and food are exceptional, and this is a welcomed addition to The Fairfield Beach neighborhood. Can't wait to place our next order, I plan on trying every item on the menu. Don't hesitate - The Reef Shack is a must try!!!! read more

Reef Shack - Fairfield Cheesesteak - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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I have gotten nice think juicy burgers as well as lobster rolls with fries. Always felt satisfied and happy. Service was prompt and friendly. The ambiance is very casual. I like that fact that you can eat outside in the good weather. Definitely a new go to spot for me and the fam. read more

Service was great. They have a unique selection on their menu. I like the style of the place. Games & half outdoor seating with pool table. This is a spot to go before/after a beach day. read more

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Visited Reef Shack for lunch and was very impressed with everything we had! They're really well known for their cheesesteaks, so we ordered a half sandwich of the Reefer Cheesesteak, which was super filling. The bread comes fresh from the Bronx daily! We also had the Jersey Shore breakfast sandwich, which comes with Taylor Ham (Pork Roll) fresh from New Jersey. I think it's awesome how the owners of the Reef Shack go the extra mile to bring in things that are tough to find in CT like Taylor Ham! The wings had plenty of meat on the bone, and the homemade Italian ice sorbets were super refreshing. They have a ton of flavors to choose from, and I'd love to come back in the summer for more. The frozen lemonade is also a good choice! The Reef Shack is super laid back, and I really look forward to coming back in the warmer weather to enjoy their patio area. read more

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On the recommendation of the Mike the awesome bartender from the Blackstones Grille we tried the Cheesesteak and homemade Italian ice. The sandwich was on delicious bread coated in sesame seeds, there was a ton of perfectly grilled onions and nicely chopped tender sandwich steak. The best part was the homemade cheese sauce, it wasn't fake processed cheese. The lemon Italian ice was the perfect ending to the meal, not too sweet and a soft consistency. read more

Reef Shack - The Reefer Cheesesteak - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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My family had a great first experience. Our daughter said it was the best chicken and fries. Our son doesn't eat fries, and agreed with her as he polished off her fries. The owner and servers were very attentive. The overall vibe is very beach and kids loved the games. We'll be back. read more

I just wanted to pop in and update this review. This place is totally different. It's no longer an open concept type restaurant. It feels like a bar type place with a dinner/ lunch menu. I can't really put my finger on it. I stopped in just to grab a few waters for the beach but ended up staying for a few beers! I will surely be back to update this rating again, excited to try some food next time! I would love to go when there is more of a crowd to see the atmosphere! read more

Reef Shack - Grilled chicken with tomato, mozzarella, and avocado - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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The meatball parm is great - the meatballs are tender, the sauce is tangy without being overwhelming, the bread is just the right amount of crusty. Hector's service was attentive and upbeat. Heart. read more

This is an odd place. 11AM in the morning and Creed is cranked up to a too-high level, TV's blaring, mismatched furniture and a couple of games you'd normally find in an arcade. First time I went in the owner was drawing on a white board and would absolutely not look up at a customer standing at the counter. I finally asked where I picked up the food and he turned and half heartedly handed the bag that was next to him. Bizarre. Second time they had a difficult time finding the order even though it was sitting next to the cash register. On the positive side, the egg sandwiches are excellent. read more

My son and I met a friend here for lunch today. There was no one in line when we got here and only one other family waiting for food on the outdoor patio. After we ordered more people came in and it got increasingly busier. The place was utter chaos. The owner was walking around, not doing anything. A young teen, if he was that old seemed to be running the entire place himself. Our drink was wrong, my friends order took double the time to come out. The table next to us never got their food. The owner needs to step up and work or he can say goodbye to his restaurant. read more

If you want amazing grilled cheese and amazing fries and amazing lobster rolls this is the place!!! Hector the waiter.. jack of all trades was so friendly and wonderful! love the casual atmosphere,pop corn and tv out on the patio! and I was able to bring the dog!! I'll be there again very soon!!! Can't wait for an instant replay and order the same thing although I heard the honey barbecue wings are killer! Have to add that too! read more

Reef Shack - Fabulous lobster roll! - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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Frozen lemonade, lobster rolls, creative breakfast/egg sandwiches are the shining stars of the menu -- always been happy with my selections, been multiple times - great location, nice staff! read more

I love Reef Shack! I usually get a Stacy's mom, funny name and tastes great. I would recommend. It's a great environment to bring your family for a hardy meal to fill you up and the outdoor section of the store is great. They have a patio outside and if you want to have some fun, they have corn hole set up. I would definitely go back! read more

Bizarre vibes in this spot, bad bizzare. I got super sick from their chicken and every time I order food there (in person, no substitutions) it's always somehow wrong. Overpriced for what you get. Also owner and staff were making inappropriate jokes quite loudly with other customers in earshot. Do not recommend. Unless you want food poisoning and a weird experience. read more

Great food with huge portions! I recently came across this new deli/restaurant and was excited to try one of their sandwiches. The place is nice inside and has a unique layout with a mini market and an outdoor patio. Previously, my husband came here for breakfast and really liked the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich and said the "hard" roll tasted more like a croissant. I finally visited last weekend and was beyond impressed with the value and quality of my sandwich. Everything I ordered was fresh, delicious, and filling! I highly recommend trying this place and I can't wait to try other items on the menu! read more

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Perfect summer food! We visited for lunch and it totally hit the spot. It was busy so we had to wait a bit but they have some nice outdoor seating and it was totally worth it - the lobster roll was amazing! read more

Reef Shack - Papa's Lobster Roll - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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Reef Shack is one of our new favorite spots in Fairfield. All of the staff are so nice and helpful while you are looking over their huge menu. They offer a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They are also starting to have longer hours each day of the week so you can enjoy for any meal of the day. Check them out if you haven't already! Pictured are their delicious tacos, which I would 100% recommend. read more

Reef Shack - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

I get home to discover that there is a mistake with the order, which happens. I called over there and was taken aback when person on the phone replies by saying that they'll refund the difference between what I received versus what I paid for on the premise that I was already home with the order. No offer to correct the order or provide a full refund. Not a big ask. Sad to see a local business staffed by individuals who could seemingly care less about the customer experience. read more

Reef Shack is the kind of place where you either get it or you don't. It's a down to earth hometown bar where everyone knows your name. I have never been to a place with such a cult following. If you know the shack then you love the shack. My family and I walked into the shack randomly one day and now it's our favorite place in Fairfield. The food is really good, anyone can do beach fare or sandwich's and it can be halfway edible, but it takes care and attention to details to make it worth coming back and that's what they've done. It's the quintessential neighborhood bar/restaurant so if you take yourself too seriously or want your food fast at the expense of quality then might I suggest Duchess up the road? read more

Pretty good. Sandwiches are kinda heavy and rich but if that is what you into, then this is your spot.

Got the cheesesteak for my husband who is a big fan of cheesesteaks and he said it could well be the best one in Fairfield County. High praise. The fries were sodden and a huge disappointment though. I'll be back but skip the fries next time read more

I just went to the Reef Shack for the first time this morning and had a terrible experience. Here is a run down of the issues I ran into: - the music (Christian country) was way too loud. The kid behind the counter could barely hear my food order. Any music in a restaurant should be ambient music at best so the servers can hear the customers correctly. - I ordered an iced coffee with half and half (came out with creamer), no big deal. The kid replaced it and that was fine. - I ordered a bacon, egg, and cheese and a breakfast crunch wrap with sausage and no tortilla chips to go. Both those items were on menu. - 2 guys came in after me and ordered their food. They also asked to turn the music off (I had asked that too) and the kid turned it off no question. Listening to 2 guys instead of me, a woman. - I waited 15 minutes and their food came out first. The 2 guys left. - I asked the kid what the deal was with my food. He said their regular cook was on vacation. A woman who had ordered after me came in asking for her food, which wasn't ready yet. - My food came out 25 minutes after I had ordered, and it wasn't until I got home that I realized my order was incorrect. The bacon, egg, and cheese was right, but my breakfast crunch wrap was completely wrong. It had bacon, not sausage, and no avocado. It was clearly made in a hurry and after the other guys food because it was very hot. - The cook either wasn't listening to which order came first or just didn't care. The place was empty when I came in at 9:30am, and there is no excuse for all these mistakes first thing in the morning. My family has lived in this neighborhood for generations and I was visiting from New York this weekend, but with reliable places like the Firehouse Deli down the street, I definitely won't be back here. read more

Came in on a Tuesday around noon. I love the idea of this place, but it felt uncomfortably quiet. Then I mistook this see-saw for a bench. The two other customers hopefully got a laugh.... read more

Reef Shack - Oops - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

What are your thoughts on the Reef Shack? We came in this evening and live in the neighborhood. We were told to have a seat when I asked the young man with the dark hair if we should order at the counter. We sat for 10 minutes with no acknowledgement. The place was empty. When we said to one of the workers we were leaving because no one acknowledged us the guy got weird and said we should have checked in with the host. What host? We lost the 7/11 for an over priced crap shack with bad service? read more

The fries were nice and crispy and well seasoned with salt. I bought their cookie dough yesterday afternoon and this evening there are only three left. Nice calories! read more

Reef Shack - The right amount of plump raisins and oats. - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

Over the course of the past year, I've purchased lunch here maybe 12 times. The sandwiches are big and the bread is fresh. Certainly two positives when thinking about quality sandwiches. However, they drown everything in the cheese sauce, and I recommend you order it on the side or just don't get it at all. And whether via phone or online, my orders are consistently wrong. Everything from wrong bread, cheese or even the whole sandwich. I like to support local businesses, but there are too many other options that provide better dining experiences. read more

A new restaurant in town. Friendly employees and delicious food, prepared fresh. Known for their Philly cheesesteaks, I can confirm they are mighty delicious. Huge and filling, got 2 meals out of mine. read more

Reef Shack - Philly cheesesteak - Cheesesteaks Near Me - Fairfield, Connecticut

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My father and stopped in for lunch last Friday - we were the only customers in the place at the time. Our waiter (any maybe owner?) Paul, couldn't have been nicer, and the food we ordered (burger and fries/philly cheesesteak) were delicious and reasonably priced. I would highly recommend this place if you are in the Fairfield area. read more

I'm a huge fan of chicken scarpariello so I was excited and intrigued by the scarp bowl! Ugh save your money. A hodgepodge of conflicting flavors and nothing good!! Couldn't come close to finishing it I tossed it and thankfully had a fresh baguette and cheese to complement my wine and keep me content ! read more

Meh. Unimpressed. Got a 'Stacy's Mom' breakfast sandwich. Gotta say, I was a little uncomfortable ordering a "Stacy's Mom'. There's a perverted joke in there somewhere. Time for a rebrand. The sandwich was billed as a steak, egg, and cheese but was really just a glorified Steak-umm, egg, and cheese. Unremarkable in every way. The place has a weird flow to it. Step in and you're already in the seating area without any sort of proper entryway. Order at the counter on the left which has several bar seats but which is apparently not intended for seating. Strange. Plus, what kind of breakfast place doesn't open until 9 am? I paid over $13 for a mediocre breakfast sandwich and coffee. This combination of quality and price point, plus the weird vibe makes for one non-returning customer. read more

Amazing steak and cheese! The best steak and cheese outside of philly! Home made salad dressings...... green goddess is my favorite! The kids chix fingers and fries are a hit with my kids. Be Refreshed with a homemade Italian ice to end the meal! read more

Fantastic spot. They now have a liquor license as well. Hardworking staff. Chill vibe outside with cornhole, fire pits, comfy chairs. read more

Really want to like this place since it's down the street. Today was the 4th time they messed up and when I called (way before the lunch time rush) repeated my order 4 times because this has happened over and over got there paid walked half way home before I checked it and it was wrong. When I went back and the kids working took forever to talk to me I said forget it not even worth waiting another 10 mins refunded me and said if the money is not back on my card to call and talk to someone. I'll walk a little further to life is a beach shack or firehouse deli. Good luck read more

This was amazing! Great service, great food and great environment. The owners were even great in dealing with a crummy couple who showed up over-served and ride. read more