My husband's daughter was visiting from Virginia, I heard that SS Dion had great food and water view, so we decided to try it. I loved the fact that there was a ramp available because my husband uses a walker. I also loved the look of the lounge area when you first walk into the restaurant, it looked so cozy. We were seated by the window and liked the fact that the tables are not packed in, enough room for privacy. We started off with focaccia bread with a tapenade, excellent, Caesars salad was also great I would have been happy to just have dessert after eating the bread to the last crumb. We each had a different entree, all three were delicious including our desserts. The service staff were all so nice and very helpful. Looking forward to returning and maybe sitting outdoors, lots of outdoor seatings. Marie K. read more

Our first visit to SS Dion, and we were extremely pleased by the service, the food, and the view... sunset across the water. G ordered a cup of Quahog Chowder and loved it. For her meal, she had the Grilled Faroe Island Salmon, which was accompanied by blistered cherry tomatoes, capers, and roasted garlic, served atop red quinoa. It was a beautiful presentation, and G liked it a LOT. I started with a Side Caesar Salad which came in a small black bowl. Not only attractive, but also utilitarian... easy to pick at. For my meal, I ordered the Gemelli (a short, twisted pasta that looks like two strands of bucatini wound together but is actually a single strand folded and twisted). It was served with house-made fish sausage, rapini, some calabrian chilies, pangrattato (bread crumbs), and aglio e olio. The FISH SAUSAGE (who ever heard of such a thing!?!?) was the primary reason I ordered the gemelli. I just HAD to try it. And it was even better than I'd hoped: meaty and slightly spicy. Definitely a meal I will order again. read more

S S Dion - Gemelli - Seafood Near Me - Bristol, Rhode Island

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What a great spot to dine. We had a gift certificate to use and we are glad we did. I would recommend advance reservations, especially for a weekend, which we had. We sat outdoors on their deck overlooking the harbor and a beautiful sunset. Our server "Meagan" was great and took good care of us. As far as the food goes, everything we ordered was excellent. The Clams Casino (which you can get at many places) were spot on to the ones we love. The House Made Sourdough was amazing and sliced to order. The meal choices were great too, and cooked perfectly. We will definitely keep SS Dion on our dining radar for a night out. read more

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A great night tonight at the SS Dion! There were five of us and we all can't wait to go back! The friendly server, beautiful location, and delicious food and cocktails all added up to a perfect night! read more

TLDR: food is good but a little overpriced I ordered the bolognese (pictured) which was delicious but a bit overpriced ($26). Small detail but I had to ask for my water to be filled and because the cup is so small I had to wait again to flag down a waitress. The waitress was very nice though! I think if the weather was warm, it would be lovely to sit outside for sunset -- it's just across the street from the water. We were able to walk in without a reservation, but it's a Tuesday so not sure how busy they are on the weekends. read more

S S Dion - Seafood Near Me - Bristol, Rhode Island

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Scenery 5/5. Food 4.5/5. Service 5/5. Price 4.5/5. My husband and I were looking for a scenic restaurant in the Bristol area. We were visiting Rhode Island from MA and just looking for a change of scenery. The location is nicely placed by the water and a light breeze. They have both indoor and outdoor table! Overall the food is good and we would definitely come back again for their fresh made pastas! We ordered two sets of their prix fixe pasta dinner. It's a pretty good deal - for $38 it comes with an appetizer, a pasta entree and a dessert. They also had complimentary bread. It's pretty good chewy and crisp shell focacia that I believe is made at their restaurant. But the down side is that they only give two slices complimentary. We did end up ordering extra bread for $3 to dip with our pasta sauce but also a little sad that was also only two slices at that price. For appetizers we had the fried calamari and the crispy brussel sprouts. The portions were a little small but I think it's smaller for the set meals. There were probably ~ 3 brussel sprouts cut in halves in the bowl. I'd recommend to the chef that having it quarted or the layers fluffed out for more crispiness! For entrees we had the seafood fra diavolo which came with shrimp and mussels. It was very fresh and juicy! Sauce was perfect for the bread! My husband's gout makes him sensitive to shellfish and ordered the fish sausage gemelli pasta. It was also delicious like a pescatarian version of spicy italian sausage! The dessert options were also very tasty and unique. I highly recommend ordering the pairing of chocolate pot de creme (with a miso caramel!) and the basque cheesecake. Eating these two desserts together is a really amazing party of flavors!! read more

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Love the recently renovated S.S. Dion! This spot is as cozy, warm, and inviting as the staff. I've been a couple times over the past few months and have enjoyed every experience. The menu highlight for me is the raw New Bedford sea scallops, with sesame, yuzu, fennel, and crispy shallots. So delicious and the shallots add a nice unexpected texture to the dish. I could get this again and again. I'm also a fan of their take on a Caesar salad with smoked bluefish and their black spaghetti puttanesca (such a generous portion of squid). I've also had the seared yellowfin, which although pretty standard (sesame crusted, sriracha mayo, wasabi, etc.) was very tasty and the quality of the tuna was superb. Will definitely be back again soon when I'm in Rhode Island! read more

The service here is exceptional. The food is excellent, fresh and always good. Hard to get better views in Bristol. Bonus that everyone is absolutely lovely to my toddler and we've never been made to feel bad for dining out with him. read more

The last time I was at SS Dion 15+ years ago, it was a Meh experience. That was yesterday year, our experience last night was outstanding. Right from the get go Hostess Holly was attentive to our needs (making sure our bad linked emailed gift certificate worked) and server Jona was on it. Selections of scotch, beer and wine were good. Raw Bar: Oysters, Little Necks were fresh and did not need the accompanying fermented, hot sauce or mignonette although both were tasty. Caesar salad was just fine. Entrées of Roasted Mushroom Campanelle and Seared New Bedford Sea Scallops were fantastically delicious. Desserts of Cheesecake and Crème Brûlée were just fine. I'm a sarcastic and sometimes difficult customer/diner but Holly, Jona rolled with the punches with a smile. I would definitely recommend this restaurant. read more

Had a reservation for 4:45 and we arrived at 4:30 and no one waited on us for 15 minutes and then once seated no one came by to get our order or give us water for 45 minutes so we got up and left. read more

I was last here about three years ago. The place has changed in appearance and food since then and gone more upmarket. I had reserved a table for four to celebrate a birthday of one of us. We sat inside in a busy pleasant space with the full restaurant of noisy diners. Our server, Leslie, was attentive and cheerful. We ordered cocktails and shared a bottle of Spanish Tempranillo which compliments both meat and seafood. We also shared an order of tasty calamari. As the main course two people had salmon with quinoa, one had chicken parm, and I ordered duck breast (which I often do eating out as we never make at home) - all of which were delicious. We ended with a cheesecake for all four of us. It was a convivial meal. When making the reservation I had asked whether it was possible to have a small cake which never materialized: a pity which did not register or acknowledged. The check came to $300, including a twenty percent tip, which was worth it. I would recommend the restaurant and would return when I am next in Bristol. read more

Came here while visiting with some friends. All the food tasted fresh and delicious. The pasta was homemade and could easily tell. Oysters and raw seafood tasted fresh and the desert is now in my top 10. Our waitress was very friendly and made sure we never ran out of water. 10/10 service. The ambiance comes with a really nice view of the inlet overlooking all the boats, atleast for the outside seating. Will definitely be back read more

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Updated review-- love the new menu and new chef! This place now has several fantastic vegetarian options! The Brussels sprouts were delicious and a study in contrasts. I also got a grilled delicota squash (it was a special) that was really yummy. Finally, don't miss the house made sourdough focaccia-- it was the perfect texture and really delicious! Meat eating husband loved the bolognese with house made pasta. read more

Funny I have lived in Bristol for the past six years and went into S S Dion a few months ago. We'll let me tell you I should have gone earlier. Great menu with a lot of unique dishes and homemade pasta. The service was fantastic and if you're lucky enough to get a water view seat you can't beat the sunsets. Highly recommend. read more

This is the fifth year going to Bristol after leaving Block Island for vacation. This was if the first year we tried SS Dion, that came highly recommended by our B&B owner. It will not be our last time going here. Our service was exceptional,on a very busy night, and we were not rushed (seems to be a standard at most places today). The cocktails and wine options were great. The food was exceptional. The heirloom tomato salad was the BEST we ever had. A must is the Gemelli, because you will not see this as an option on any restaurant. I do not think you could go wrong with anything on the menu. read more

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Great seafood pasta! Location is beautiful right in the water and if you can get a seat outside, you won't be disappointed.

Visiting Bristol for the night and discovered SS Dion (bar seats) . The appetizers, mocktails, dinner and dessert were thoughtfully seasoned, prepared and served-like we were the only customers they were cooking for. The chef(s) hit it out of the park. The bartender was attentive, but not overbearing. This was the best dining out experience we have had this year! read more

This is the best meal I've had period. My group and I were visiting from DC and stopped by unassuming and enjoyed our first night so much, that we trekked back for dinner the next night. Both nights, the service, ambiance, and most importantly the meal itself was superb. read more

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Love the unique specials! Best place around for a nice bite at the bar. The butterfish were amazing!

A most excellent restaurant. First time I visited. We went last night with friends for dinner and drinks. The main dining room interior was really well laid out with a large bay window that overlooks the water. Tables were spread out so everyone had room and the ambient noise was low so everyone could talk without raising their voce. Server was very attentive to everyone's need as the night progressed. Cocktails were fabulous and priced right. The food was the star of the show. We started with tuna tartar with house made pita chips. It was really tasty and full of tuna. One of the other couples had the clams casino and they looked really nice too. I had the fried clams for dinner and they were perfect - lightly battered with fresh clams. My wife had the baked stuffed shrimp. The stuffing was full of crab and the shrimp (4) were colossal. Cost was very reasonable. Everyone had a great time. We will certainly be back read more

S S Dion - Perfect fried clam plate - Seafood Near Me - Bristol, Rhode Island

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First off, what an amazingly friendly staff! I was greeted warmly and enthusiastically immediately upon entering and what a wonderful feeling :-) I sat next to a window, allowing me to enjoy an incredible view of the water. My server, Jordan, was friendly, accomodating and those big brown eyes and chiseled arms made me feel even more welcomed...but I digress...on to the booze! Maple Old-fashioned - boozy and delicious. I requested less maple syrup, as I prefer my drinks less sweet. [Can't remember the name of this cocktail but it had mezcal] - strong and tart, I enjoyed it. Mushroom Naan- now that i think about it, there was No cheddar on this dish and there was supposed to be! Even still, it was delicious. Wonderfully, relaxing dinner here. Would definitely repeat read more

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Very nicely newly renovated. Outside seating with fireplace. Overlooks the harbor while you enjoy the beautiful sunset. That's a bonus no charge! Indoor seating is very spacious between Tables. The dinner was excellent. Sirloin steak was a tasty decision. Our waitress was very pleasant and helpful with the menu. All in all I would definitely recommend read more

Our first visit in a few years. We went when we first moved to RI and friends said "their favorite local restaurant". Although food was good, it was a throwback to 1960s in decor and menu. Like the stained carpetting... One of our Warren friends raved as the mantle has passed from the father to son (mom still in the kitchen) and completely redecorated and a new menu. We dined last night (in the "fierce storm') with three friends. The recommendation was right on. The place is modern and cozy. Service superb. Good cocktail menu and between us 5 we tried 4 different drinks. Of course the pear martini was the winner. We shared a cheese board and Brussel sprouts. The latter is often cited as a signature dish, The cheese board was enough for sharing (and fortunately enough bread) but 4 of the 5 local cheeses were "hard" cheeses. Recommend another soft cheese or two. Entrees were salmon, seafood bake, and 3 (made-every-day pasta) pasta dishes. All were tasty (and served HOT) and good sized. Will visit again and see if 5 stars are in order. Plenty of parking. read more

We wanted a good meal at a nice new place, and we absolutely found it at SS dion! The ambiance is stunning and the food and service were outstanding! I had to try some fresh local oysters, which were absolutely amazing! As was the clam chowder and margarita! I went for the grilled Mediterranean swordfish dinner, and the flavors were absolutely as described. The most perfectly cooked, generous, piece of swordfish with a definite Mediterranean taste. Even my wife, that normally is not a fan of swordfish, found this to be delicious! We simply could not have asked for a better meal! I cannot wait until we come back here again! read more

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Had such a fantastic meal here last night!! It had been years since I was here last and I am so glad we opted to dine here last night! Not only was the food and service top notch, but so was the view of the Bristol harbor we had while dining! I had the Baked Stuffed Shrimp with a Crab Meat Stuffing served with delicious Whipped Local Potatoes and Fresh Baked Green Beans. Wow! SO delicious! It came with a choice of a salad or chowder and you know this girl definitely didn't pick the greens! lol The chowder was so flavorful, the Quonset Point Oysters on the half shell were super tasty, the Margaritas were perfect and I can't forget to mention how soft, fresh and delicious their bread was! Five stars all the way!!! Will definitely be back soon!!! read more

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The food is always excellent here, I can say the same for the service! (Meghan was great!) And the location is hard to beat: we watched the sun set over the bay from our table. I would say that the value is good overall, but unfortunately, like most restaurants in Bristol, the prices have gone up significantly over the years. It's now trending toward high-end dining prices; it's no longer possible to get a cheaper option, e.g., fish and chips or a burger. These too are quite expensive. We still love going here, and will return regularly, but it is on a more limited basis than we could have done before. I would highly recommend it for a nice evening out, as a couple, or with friends. read more

We wanted to venture out and try something new so we headed to the Bristol, RI located on the East Bay of Rao and came across the S.S. Dion Kitchen + Bar. The parking lot was full and the outside was clean and looked appealing so we circled through the town and head back to try it out. From the moment we walked in we were greeted pleasantly by the hostess which we found out was the daughter of the owner. We asked if we could sit out on the deck and she granted our request. Our waitress came over right away to take our drink over and to tell us of the nightly specials (all sounded yummy) but after reading over the menu we had our heart set on what we were going to order. I had the Smoked Bluefish Paté and it can tend to be fishy (it's natural flavor) however this was not bad at all. It was topped with some calabrian chillies which were a little spicy and super tasty. We also had the Mushroom Naan which was incredible. The pasta is made in-house and when I hear that I have to try it out so I had the Chitarra pasta (sort of like spaghetti but with rough edges) there was plenty of seafood and while I went for this in the garlic butter (I would have liked a lot more garlic but then again I'm Italian is there ever enough) they also offer it in a Fra Diavolo sauce which the waitress recommended and should have tried it. The swordfish was thick and juicy and cooked perfectly. We had a fantastic bottle of wine, which was priced perfectly, and finished our meal off with banana fosters flambé which I wish it had chunks of banana in the actual dish or had a more banana flavor but the vanilla bean ice cream cut the sweetness and was great. Next time I would try the crème brûlée as that's my favorite. I highly recommend this family run restaurant and I would suggest making reservations as it looks like it could fill up quickly. read more

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This was recommended to me by a local ... and it seems to be one of those places that has a very loyal local following. It's not fancy ... probably hasn't been updated much inside since the 1970's but in a homey kind of comfortable way. Usually a good sign someplace is pretty good ... an 'if it ain't broke, why fix it?' sort of thing. Most of the customers were in their 70's and pulled up in Mercedes. This doesn't look like the Mercedes/BMW type of crowd but again ... a good sign. We sat on the outdoor patio, which has been converted from an uneven parking lot due to covid. However, we were thankful for the outdoor option as we are still not ready for indoor dining. This is across the street from a beautiful harbor, so while not right on the water, you'll have partial water views across the street. The food was okay ... maybe not as amazing as we had been told. I would say it was fresh and well cooked, albeit tragically underseasoned and a bit bland. The menu was not expansive ... we were told because the owner likes to keep the costs down. Don't expect to find lobster on the menu, however it does have a fresh seafood emphasis. I had the seafood medly with pasta in white sauce. It was served with a bountiful assortment of scallops, tiny mussels, which were pretty small, steamed littlenecks and small shrimp. That came on boxed angel hair pasta which was soft and bland ... straight from the box, more of a garnish. The broth was bland and needed something more, however overall it was satisfying and the scallops were the star of the dish. I wasn't let down with the dish but wouldn't order it again. My date had the baked seafood casserole which included much larger shrimp than in my dish, scallops and fish. All were cooked perfect and the shrimp were stuffed with a sweet bread and pepper mix which was the only part of the meal that wasn't on the bland side. However, again ... this was a satisfying dish and was not disappointing. My date said she would order this again. The meal came with Italian bread and salted clarified butter which was a nice touch. You could also choose salad or soup (chowder or chicken). We chose the salad (blah) and chowder which was among the best we've had in Rhode Island. It's not the creamy variety ... but the flavor was fantastic. More potatoes than clams but this was our favorite dish of the night. The green beans on the side were also quite good. We left with room enough to stop for ice cream on the way home for dessert. The portions are good but not huge. Wine and beer selection was good ... a surprise for a little, local joint. I'd say our meal was above average and we would come back. Next time I'd get the steak as this type of place normally does well with steak. It was a friendly vibe from the staff and we were not rushed through our meal despite the reataurant's popularity, which was nice. Know that weekend reservations go fast, so male sure to book in advance if you are dining on the weekend. This place seems consistent and crowded which is no surprise it has been a local favorite for decades. My only recommendation is that they bump up the seasoning/flavor a bit. read more

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More than a review I'd like to add an observation. Young people looking for a dinner date location are missing the boat by not coming to the Dion. People in Bristol tend to dine early. That means a table with a sunset view of Bristol Harbor can be had for later dining (7:30). The outside tables provide a spectacular view of the sunset over the harbor. The menu has locally sourced ingredients prepared exceedingly well. Bye bye Providence. When I can have this view high food quality and service by people who enjoy their work and making my night special I'm there I have enjoyed the Dion many times. The food is excellent and the service friendly and family like. read more

S S Dion - Tuna seared rare, black rice and a bourbon cocktail in the setting sun on the patio overlooking Bristol harbor. Beat that for a nice day. - Seafood Near Me - Bristol, Rhode Island

My husband and I came here for my birthday dinner, so my husband let them know in advance. We decided to have prefix pasta. He chose calamari to start with, and mushrooms campanelle. I got calamari for starter as well, and fra diavolo chitarra for second. We both loved calamari, they were tender and sweet. Our both pasta dishes were big portions, mine was great, but his was not present as mine. brussel sprouts were practically raw and big, and flavorless, so he asked for parmesan. We shared seasonal crisp and basque cheesecake. my husband was happy because he ate most of them. Overall, it was a quick and present dinner, but one thing bothered me the most was no mention about my birthday, not even verbally. so sad read more

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We went on a cold Friday evening as guests with family. They had been recently and invited us to join them for an another dining experience. We were not disappointed. The restaurant was already busy at 5:30 pm but we had made reservations so there was no wait. A table for four by the front window was ours and the view was wonderful even at night. Started with adult beverages and apps ( clams casino, oysters, clam chowder and the charcuterie plate. Mains were the small scallops (both fried and baked), mussels, and veal parmigiana. All were delicious and everyone got to sample all dishes. Portions were very generous and we took some home. We shared two desserts- mud pie and crème brûlé. Service was great - attentive and friendly. The atmosphere was good- not a lot of noise even though the restaurant and bar area was full. Prices are decent for the choices and portions and pretty much competitive with other area restaurants. read more

ambiance:5/5 service:5/5 food:5/5 The reason that my family always chooses to eat here is because we love this place and there are GREAT people working there. The place looks so nice,brings all of that Rhode Island vibes.My family goes there every Friday for the really good pasta.The owners love us so much they made a drink call Timmy's tea and Timmy style named after my papa.When I walk in everyone knows my name and there always glad I came. Don't you wanna be at a place where everyone one knows your name. read more

I had a the best meal yet in Bristol at the S S Dion! Friendly professional service. Good view of the water. The decor is contemporary, clean, and comfortable. There is good range of delicious dining options for your choosing on the menu. 1. You could dine in a standard way, appetizer, salad, main, desert. 2. There is prix fixe menu option, which worked for me. 3. There is a good section of delicious looking appetizers, which would be a fun dinner. I remember sandwiches and other goodies being on the menu. All were appealing and will have to wait for my next visit. My meal! The Negroni cocktail was delightful. I had a delicious and innovative Caesar salad with beautifully smoked bluefish accompanying it. The pasta dish with mushrooms, brussels sprouts leeks and pea tendrils was lovely. For desert I had the fabulous Bananas Foster, which is set on fire at the table! Delicious, perfectly balanced between sweet, adult, with great textures and drama. The food is contemporary, delicious, clean, in ways that are both familiar/comforting while containing surprises that elevate it. I'd like to take the S S Dion home with me! read more

This is a nice seafood restaurant with a beautiful view. Everything is prepared fresh and was delicious. Service was fantastic! In addition, we had a great view of the sunset from our table. read more

S S Dion - View from the dining room. - Seafood Near Me - Bristol, Rhode Island

One of my favorite spots in Bristol. The food is amazing. They have great seafood, homemade pasta dishes, locally sourced. The drinks are delicious. There's a gorgeous view of the water. The service is fabulous. Great spot for any occasion. read more

This was the last night of our vacation and boy did we pick a winner. Everything was delicious. We would definitely recommend. We sat outside on the patio to see the beautiful sunset. We would return again if we're visiting the area. read more

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The dining room is very noisy and loud. You will not have a pleasant dinner. The service was harried.

My family and I (table of 10) had the hands down BEST Dining Experience here last night! It was my mothers bday and a family reunion and truly from the ambience to the staff and the food we couldn't of asked for a better time! We had a table in the lounge. Our server was a class act and gave us 5 star service and amazing hospitality! The drinks were strong and the food was so fresh and flavorful! I recommend the Blue Fish Patè appetizer and Calamari The Scallops the risotto and Halibut Special was amazing and extremely fresh and perfectly seasoned! The dessert! Holy Sh*** the Banana Foster Bread Pudding and Berry Crisp with Rhubarb Sorbetto! Amazing! Thank you SS Dion for a truly beautiful experience and we all will be back! read more

I really can't believe I've lived here in Bristol for 10 years, and this past Friday was my first time here! I made reservations on their website a couple of days before hand (FYI if you are requesting outside seating you need to call in the reservation). But they were still able to accommodate us. It was a perfect evening to sit outside and enjoy the scenery of the harbor. For the appetizer we ordered the calamari and it was very tasty. For my entree I ordered the dijon scrod. Man oh man was it delicious! Our waitress, who was excellent by the way, mentioned that if you're not a big fan of mustard than you probably will not like it and I have to agree. It's a homemade dijon mustard sauce that gives the scrod just an excellent balance of flavor. The scrod itself was excellent. I tried one of their drinks on their specials menu, the castaway and it was very refreshing. All in all I had a very good experience here and I do plan on returning as this is definitely a gem in the heart of Bristol. read more

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First of all, I give 5 stars like one every 3-5 years. This dinner was a clear 5! Service was excellent and engaging, drinks and apps were timely and the dinner (seafood trio and swordfish, both cooked perfectly!) were just excellent. Very impressed. Thanks for a great night! read more