For no good reason, Mystic and Stonington fall off my radar in winter. On a blustery day, I headed east to see what’s new But first, sustenance! Nothing better than the cheery mango interior of the Captain’s Bar at the S&P Oyster Company on a gray day. The second floor room is open and airy thanks to the floor to ceiling windows that provide a majestic view of the Mystic River. And those of you that think S&P is for the tourists, you’ll be surprised–the  menu is an array of New England seafood classics with a modern twist. While I tried to stick to my Total Transformation (lightly dressed Caesar Salad with perfectly grilled shrimp), I helped myself to a few mouthfuls of my husband’s order. The Oyster Stew is the classic version, creamy and studded with plenty of plump bivalves. We both loved the daily special: a small-plate of wood-grilled scallops wrapped in bacon (tell me one thing, just one, that isn’t better with bacon) on a bed of white bean, jicama and tomato salsa with a hint of spice. Delish and I managed to stick to my diet (sorta).

Tags: Oysters, Seafood, Mystic, Waterfront, Fine Dining