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Welcome to One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack

At One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack, nestled in the heart of Meriden, CT, fresh and flavorful seafood takes center stage. This cozy eatery is more than just a seafood destination; it boasts a diverse menu featuring house-made barbecue, hearty burgers, and tasty hot dogs. The charm lies in its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, led by owner Mike, who prioritizes customer satisfaction. Guests rave about the buttery lobster rolls, crispy fried shrimp, and southern-style cornbread, all crafted with care. With outdoor seating and a full bar, One Eyed Willy's invites you to enjoy a delightful dining experience where every dish is a testament to culinary passion.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack, a charming seafood haven nestled at 641 E Main St, Meriden, CT. This delightful eatery has quickly become a local gem, attracting seafood lovers and foodies alike with its extensive menu that promises something for everyone.

From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Despite its cozy size, the décor is tastefully renovated, elevating your dining experience. The enthusiastic owner, Mike, commits himself to exceptional customer service, making every guest feel valued. It’s clear from customer testimonials that both food and service are priorities here.

  • Menu Variety: One Eyed Willy’s offers an impressive selection beyond just seafood, including house-made barbecue, juicy burgers, and chili dogs. Signature offerings like the buttery lobster roll and fried shrimp platter have garnered rave reviews.
  • Outdoor Seating: The setup includes both heated and covered outdoor seating, providing a comfortable space for diners to enjoy their meals in a pleasant environment.
  • Happy Hour Specials: With a full bar on site, patrons can partake in affordable drinks during happy hour, enhancing the laid-back vibe of the shack.
  • Customer Favorites: Regulars love the fried clam strips, whole bellies, and bubbling plates of fried shrimp—not to mention the amiable service that keeps them coming back.

One Eyed Willy's isn't merely a place to eat; it's a community spot where locals gather, savor quality meals, and enjoy each other's company. As Julianne L. notes, it's refreshing to find such a solid seafood option without needing to make the trek to the coast. The feedback from patrons reinforces their dedication to quality and taste; the dishes are not only generous in portion but also reasonably priced.

With offerings such as the renowned brisket, delectable cornbread, and even breakfast options, One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack has something to satiate every craving. Hoping for a seafood fix? Or perhaps a hearty burger? Either way, this establishment promises a remarkable dining experience that beckons you to return.

So, whether you're looking to dine in, enjoy outdoor seating, or takeout for a picnic, make sure to take the time to visit One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack. Trust me, this is one "shack" you won’t want to miss!

START YOUR REVIEW OF One Eyed Willy's Seafood Shack
Carol F.
Carol F.

What a great find! We were looking for a place to have a late lunch at a place we hadn't been before. After searching the Internet, we decided to give One Eyed Willy's a shot. We were pleasantly surprised that it had a great varied menu that offered Seafood, house-made Barbecue, Hamburgers, Hotdogs and more. I had a buttery lobster roll loaded with tender juicy lobster and was served with crispy French fries and onion rings and wonderful house made coleslaw. My husband had a huge juicy cheeseburger and a tasty chili dog, both of which were very flavorful. Our food was very good, and we could hear all of the people sitting near us "ooo-ing and ahh-ing" about how good their food was ... and it all looked delicious! The place is quite small with only a few tables, but they also have a couple of high-tops and counter service ... and a full bar! Everything was clean, freshly renovated and tastefully decorated, and the cheerful service was excellent! And .. the food was very reasonably priced! We definitely will be going back again!

Kenneth J.
Kenneth J.

Always the best food and I can't speak more highly of the customer service I get from Mike the owner. Really great guy who cares about his customers. As a former chef, customers are your #1 priority. Thanks mike for good food and customer service. . I wish this customer service here was everywhere. Thanks again mike. Keep up the good food and service.

Julianne L.
Julianne L.

A loved local establishment that I think Meriden needed. They offer seafood, BBQ, burgers, and breakfast. They also have a bar and a decent amount of seating inside and outside. I think it's interesting when a restaurant offers many options, but I hope they don't lose the essence of being a seafood restaurant. I've tried quite a few things here, but the fried clam strips, whole bellies, and fried shrimp have never missed for me. I'm not big on lobster rolls, but it's next on my list to try! It's great to not have to drive to the coast for seafood. I give them 5 stars because of Chef Mills. I've liked the Pig Mac sandwich, smoked kielbasa, coleslaw, and I love the cornbread, but didn't like the ribs another day I went. It could have just been the day I went, but I was so shy to let him know, and he fixed it for me. He genuinely wants you to like his food and seems like such a nice guy. He said he's been tweaking the recipe, and I'd be happy to give it another chance because of him.

Ray R.
Ray R.

The restaurant is small, but the portions are good size. Never been disappointed. I agree!!

Daniel H.
Daniel H.

Fast , fresh and local .not to mention the bar section is more than (good selections ) expected . I will be returning with more mouths to feed .

Jessica C.
Jessica C.

Fantastic food, great local beer on tap and a welcoming atmosphere! The brisket was by FAR the best I've had...and that's topping other local bbq places.

Paula E.
Paula E.

I ordered for pick-up. There's a small lot in the back, but there's also street parking on the side street. I called in the order to be picked up at 5. The person on the phone was pleasant. It's small inside, but there are tables and a bar. I didn't take photos, as people were dining. I wanted to try a couple of different things, so I ordered the garlic knot lobster rolls, fried shrimp platter that comes with cole slaw and fries, and two cornbreads. Everything ordered was very good! The fried shrimp were surprisingly big and juicy. Those are always hit-or-miss. The next time I go, I'll get the regular lobster roll. The garlic knot one was okay, but I think I'd like the roll better. I'd even consider getting the fried shrimp again. The cole slaw was also good. It's nice having a seafood spot here in Meriden. There's plenty on the menu to choose from!

Kathy M.
Kathy M.

This is our third time here, Food was great, the lobster roll had just the perfect amount of butter, not too much and not too little. The fries had a nice tasting seasoning in them. The steak sandwich was fresh sliced steak, not some pre sliced "steak-um's" like most places. It came with American cheese and we asked for the liquid golden cheese as well, perfect combination, the roll was soft and held its own amongst the gooey cheese. This would be 5 stars based on the food but the "waitress" we felt should be in another business, she had an attitude and had a snotty attitude. When we stated we didn't like the spicy white sauce that normally comes on the steak grinder and requested the golden cheese sauce she got an attitude stating that is how it is served according to the menu, we had told her that we were previously told we could ask for the golden cheese, and not the spicy white one, she didn't seem happy at all, it was like she couldn't be bothered to place an order that is different than what was on the menu. Then when she brought over the sweet tea gave a big sigh when I asked for a straw like I should just drink out of the mason jar that it is served in. This was out first experience with this "waitress" and hopefully our last because a small establishment like this can not afford to have an employee with this attitude. This is a a great little place a Sam all hole in the wall place that makes it feel like your local neighborhood eatery where you are always greeted by the owner and the food is fantastic.

C L.
C L.

We have been back many times since my first review. Now there is a new menu with more items. Everything has been excellent. The quantity of food is great. They are still very busy, sometimes a little bit of a wait, but it is worth waiting for. We haven't had a chance to eat in the dining room, soon I hope to have the time. The service is great even under all the pressure of a crowd. Everyone is very pleasant. I'm posting new pictures of the menu. They have specials sometimes that pop up. They also have some tables and umbrellas outside to sit at. I highly recommend eating here.