ACK! I cannot believe summer is almost over, but I’ve been steadily checking off my bucket list! I wish I had at least another month, there are just too many fun things to do on the Shoreline during the season.  

The other day, a FWB (friend with boat) invited me for a cruise to Siren, the casual eatery at the marina in Essex. We set off up the CT river for a bite and a cocktail on a warm and gorgeous evening. Siren can also be reached by the little free launch on Ferry Street in Essex Village. After a fresh shrimp salad, we headed back, feeling like we just enjoyed a mini vacation.

sirenkitchenandbar.com/

Dinner at the Flo Gris Cafe is only offered on Tuesdays, and if you haven’t yet enjoyed what I consider to be the best al fresco dining with a view, make reservations! The food will never disappoint; I always have the lobster salad, studded with fresh corn and avocado, and plenty of the crustacean. Delish! 

While there, don’t miss the current exhibitions, Nancy Friese Living Landscapes and Cow Tales.

florencegriswoldmuseum.org/nancy-friese

Cafe Flo Menu: florencegriswoldmuseum.org/visit/museum-campus/cafe-flo-menu/

Reservations recommended.

I’ve been obsessed with these burrata boards that keep appearing on my Instagram feed, and finally threw one together. It’s meant to be an appetizer, but for me, with some crusty bread, it’s the perfect girl dinner. Try this when even turning on the grill feels like a chore! 

Next up? An end-of-summer ritual: the CT River Museum’s Swallow Cruises (book now, these fill up quickly!). https://ctrivermuseum.org/events/tree-swallow-sunset-trips-on-onrust-riverquest/