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    Ripkas Beach Cafe

    3.6 (88 reviews)

    Ripkas Beach Cafe Photos

    RIPKAS BEACH CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Loud
    Casual
    Dogs allowed
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - Ripkas Beach Cafe

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    Hazpacho
    Nancy F.

    This is a cute cafe on the resident beach of Norwalk. The menu is extensive for a " beach shack." However today was not their best day. We ordered 2 Caesar salads with grilled shrimp and we were told they were out of Caesar dressing and offered balsamic or oil and vinegar as substitutes. The balsamic was good. They then were out of the grilled shrimp so we substituted with grilled chicken and the other salad substituted 2 crab cakes- also good. The soups were delicious, cold gazpacho- clam chowder creamy version and the lobster bisque which I think had the claws of 3 lobsters sweet and tender. The other meal was whole belly clams and French fries- decent portion and crispy. My frozen mango was delicious and refreshing on this hot summer day. Norwalk allows alcohol on their resident beach.

    Pina Colada and IPA
    Mollie W.

    I was searching for a tiki bar type of joint to stop in for lunch during an 8-state summer road trip. Ripka's had great reviews and looked like just the place to get a cocktail near the water. What I found was a small walk up with outside seating near a park. Beyond the park was the beach (for families - lots of children). It wasn't the vibe I was looking for, but the food was surprisingly good and so were the drinks! The frozen pina colada was refreshing and tasty on a hot day. The Tilapia Tacos were very good. Lots of pico and crema over large portions of grilled fish. The tortillas were grilled and yummers. The shrimp basket was also delicious with plenty of fries to share. I'd call this a successful pit stop, considering I didn't even know what state I was in (literally, where was I? figuratively, the pina colada).

    Fried clam strips - killer!
    Tari Lynn D.

    Always spot on with their fried clam strips platter!Wow! Traveled 20 miles to get these and they did not disappoint. Hands down my favorite clam strips anywhere. I asked if the included fries could be truffled and for a small, reasonable upcharge they obliged. And they were absolutely phenomenal!! So worth it. Friendly staff, great management. Love Ripka's!

    Lobster roll and chowder
    Carol S.

    We came upon this place because of traffic on I95 and searched for waterfront dining on Yelp nearby. The place is counter service and there's parking marked for Ripkas visitors. We ordered clam chowder and lobster rolls. I didn't love the chowder - too much bacon and lemon for me, but could see why some might enjoy it. I can say that the lobster roll ruined me for others. Honestly I think it's the best I've had - of many many lobster rolls. Big chunks sautéed with shallots, butter, and herbs, served on a roll rather than hot dog bun. Service is polite and efficient but slow. They were out of cole slaw which would have accompanied lobster but didn't offer any substitute. Will definitely return.

    Lobsta roll
    Lisa W.

    Beach Day when it is 75 in November! Topped off with a perfectly delicious hot buttered lobster roll with sautéed shallots! YUMMMMM

    Exterior/Outside- Outdoor Seating Area

    A great place to grab seafood in the Norwalk area. This isn't your high end seafood place, but a quick beach cafe that covers your basics: fish and chips, fried shrimp, lobster rolls, and more. Their menu is actually really expansive! Ripka's is right on the beach and near some play areas with swings on the beach. They've got plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as a private parking lot adjacent to the restaurant. The service is pretty fast and you can tell it's a popular place during the summer. Prices are reasonable. Overall, the food was solid. The fish and chips and the lobster mac and cheese were the highlights for us. The lobster mac and cheese had a lot more lobster than I thought it would have, so definitely try that out if you're into lobster. A solid place to grab a quick bite if you're strolling the beach in the Norwalk area!

    Hot lobster roll
    Mark R.

    Only one caveat. Make sure you park in the one row of spaces that are clearly marked as being for this establishment or you are looking at $150 fine. If you get a parking space, this place is worth the drive from anywhere. I have never had lobster rolls as good as this place, the lobster mac & cheese is really good also. I can't recommend the hot lobster rolls highly enough. They are beyond anything in my experience. I will drive a couple of hours to get here just to have lunch. Just watch out for the parking.

    Hot Lobster roll. Delicious.

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    Clyde R.

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    5 years ago

    Great shell fish and beer spot at the beach sometimes entertainment too. Can be crowded so be prepared.

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    7 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Maybe the best fries I've ever had? And the lobster roll is excellent--love the drinks as well.

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    Great, fresh food and awesome location facing the beach. Owner/manager is also super nice and went out of his way to help us.

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Ripkas Beach Cafe

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    The Spot Deli in Norwalk, Connecticut, is known for its diverse menu, combining Italian-American…read moredeli staples with fresh, homemade Latin hot-lunch dishes. While in the area, I was looking for something to eat for lunch. I spotted this place while driving by and decided to stop in. I was greeted as I walked in and ordered the number 13, known as the Seth Combo Wrap: chicken cutlet, arugula, long hots, tomato, jalapeños, cheddar, mayo, and balsamic on your choice of wrap. I asked to switch the wrap to a grinder and removed the jalapeños and long hots since I don't like spicy food. The sandwich was ready in about ten minutes. It turned out to be really good and incredibly fresh. The arugula added a bold, peppery, slightly spicy flavor with a nutty, sharp bite. I especially loved the balsamic vinegar, which gave the sandwich a rich, sweet, and tangy kick. The chicken was crispy and tasty, though it could have been a bit more seasoned. Overall, it was a solid sandwich -- fresh and satisfying. The service was excellent, and I'll definitely be back to try more items from the menu.

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    Ripkas Beach Cafe - seafood - Updated September 2026

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