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Welcome to Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge

Welcome to Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge, a culinary gem in Westbrook, CT. Known for its innovative tapas and New American cuisine, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. From the exquisite Fava Gnocchi to the mouthwatering Braised Rabbit Pancetta, each dish is crafted with precision and creativity. The service is top-notch, and the ambiance is warm and inviting. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a casual gathering with friends, Cafe Routier delivers exceptional food and memorable dining experiences. Don't miss out on trying their signature dishes like the Seared Duck in "Potacchio" and the Seafood Brodetto. Your taste buds will thank you.

LOCATIONS
  • Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge
    1353 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT 06498
    1353 Boston Post Rd Westbrook, CT 06498 Hotline: (860) 399-8700

Welcome to Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge, a culinary gem located at 1353 Boston Post Rd in Westbrook, Connecticut. This unclaimed sanctuary of flavor falls into the category of Tapas Bars and New American cuisine, serving up an unforgettable dining experience that embraces both innovation and tradition.

Cafe Routier invites guests to indulge in a dynamic menu that balances bold flavors with creative presentations. Start your meal with the Fava Gnocchi, beautifully paired with sheep ricotta and lemon salt for a refreshing beginning. For those looking to dive into a more savory bite, the Pork Belly Porchetta, set atop frisée and shaved fennel, is a standout dish that many avid diners can't stop raving about.

The main courses elevate the dining experience even further. The Seafood Brodetto, laden with black bass, shrimp, and mussels in a fragrant saffron-wine broth, is a testament to the bistro’s focus on high-quality seafood. If you prefer poultry, the Truffle Roasted 1/2 Chicken with house linguine and mushroom cognac jus promises a rich, satisfying flavor profile that leaves you longing for more. And for a robust, unique flavor, consider the Seared Duck in "Potacchio", married perfectly with a spicy tomato-wine sauce that dances on your palate.

The atmosphere at Cafe Routier is cozy yet vibrant, providing a perfect backdrop for sharing plates with friends and family. While some patrons note a lively buzz that can make conversation challenging, many agree that the joy of the dining experience far outweighs this minor inconvenience. Individuals like Pat C. and Gregory M. have highlighted the exceptional service provided by the staff, with specific mentions of delightful dishes like the Thai steamed mussels and an irresistible French fry appetizer with aioli.

For dessert, crème brûlée comes highly recommended, served at the perfect temperature to tantalize your taste buds. As Debra D. fondly notes, Cafe Routier has consistently delivered excellent meals, making it a local favorite that stands the test of time.

Dining at Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge feels less like a meal and more like a warm embrace from the culinary world. With its inventive dishes and flawless service, it welcomes you back time after time, transforming each visit into a memorable occasion. Make sure to reserve a spot in their main dining area, especially on busy nights, to ensure you have the full experience at this beloved shoreline destination.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Cafe Routier, Bistro & Lounge
Pat C.
Pat C.

There was nothing here not a 10! Except maybe the crème brûlée. It was too early in the evening to have it. It has to come to room temp. Dan is the man!! And his instructions to a capable chef made for a memorable meal. Memorable , this was beyond that. You have to come here!! Best (so far) on the shoreline. Enjoy!!

George N.
George N.

Great Service, excellent food. The atmosphere is a little noisy but get the French fry appetizer and you won't care. Parking can be tight on busy nights. I do wish they'd strike a deal with the property. Next door. Mom's meatloaf with mashed potatoes (2024, $30) is my go to but I've had the hanger steak and specials. Brussel Sprouts are all that as well. I highly recommend making a reservation (only accepted for the dining room) just in case. There is a smaller seat yourself bar as well. The shoreline cognoscenti can be found there.

Gregory M.
Gregory M.

This is one of my favorite restaurants in the area. Service is outstanding. Got to try the Thai steamed muscles and the fries with aioli - both are terrific. Also had the scallops and they were amazing. A must go.

Debra D.
Debra D.

For many years we have never been disappointed with ANY part of our meals at Routier. The Staff is flawless. The food is inventive and always delivers. The ambiance is warm and comfortable.

Nichole D.
Nichole D.

I loved the good vibes here as well as the food and service. Definitely will be back.

Teresa A.
Teresa A.

My Wife and I visited for our date night this week. We've lived in the area for 7 years, and somehow always found a reason to not give Cafe Routier a try. After visiting, our only regret was that we waited 7 years to come here for dinner! The service was top notch. Very professional and highly attentive. Our dinner was equally as amazing. We tried items from the spring menu, and stuck to the Iberia region offerings. The Moroccan half duck, Lamb Kefta, and Pollo Pepitoria were all delicious and extremely well prepared. Highly recommend, and we look forward to making an excuse to visit Cafe Routier more often from here on out!

Kath E.
Kath E.

Amazing food, great service. Tuna was the highlight of the meal. Muscles were fresh, scallops cooked perfectly

Corinne Z.
Corinne Z.

We sat near the hostess station and seemed like there were many repeat visits by locals. Requested a different table in empty restaurant and it caused a bit of a problem as if all other tables seemed to be reserved for certain people. Told only two least popular tables available. Minus one star as a lot of tables still empty when we left.. Large menu of full dinners and many small plate options for those repeaters. Dry January so Virgin Bloody Mary and a tasty orange mocktail to start. Shared app and dessert meant we left stuffed. Food cooked as ordered. Only food critique was more mushrooms than gnocchi in appetizer but as it was shared husband ate all the mushrooms and I the gnocchi. Large portion of duck and hanger steak with tasty sauces. Will think twice about going back even though we are now locals.

Nicole W.
Nicole W.

First time eating at Cafe Routier did not disappoint! We went here for a date night after a few neighbors had recommended it. We were really happy with all the food we had. We shared a bunch of small plates and apps. We had the fries- made them truffle fries and they were so delicious! The Brussels sprouts were perfectly crispy and had truffle honey on them. Also went for the ahi tuna "nachos"- delicious. We added 1extra because they came in an order of 3. We split the scallop dish for our main and it came out plated nicely on two separate plates. Our waitress was so nice and warm. She explained the menu to us- it's always changing and has different themes. They do keep some favorites- like the fries always on the menu. There were definitely a ton of regulars here and a reservation is highly recommended! Easy to do on open table!