A family business that makes it to the second generation is a rare thing these days, but Flanders Fish is keeping customers fed and happy with all four kids in the biz and a recent expansion. The Formica family has just opened 374 Kitchen & Cocktails in Niantic. This new iteration, led by Liv Formica (Paul’s daughter and “best chef” according to New London Day), has a spunky attitude and a strong menu concept (everything is available every DAMN day, according to them), you’ve got lots of options for brunch, lunch, dinner and even late night.

As per usual, we didn’t hold back and sampled a variety of tasty plates. French Onion Soup is irresistible on a cold, rainy day, so I started there, with a robust broth, plenty of melted local Cato Corner Farm Vivace cheese and toasted ciabatta. That was plenty, but the Fried Oyster Toast had my name on it: toasted slabs of baguette topped with slaw, avocado, and plump fried oysters. Delish, and enough to share. Laura can never resist a Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich, and she was thrilled with this version. A pile of blistered shishitos added some needed green to our meal!

The menu offers salads (with or without your choice of protein), hot and cold apps, including poke, raw bar, and charred octopus, a variety of cold or hot “toasts” from French to egg scramble, hand-helds, and a simple evening menu of seared salmon, short rib, steak frites or gemelli pasta with littlenecks. You’ll have analysis paralysis because everything sounds so appealing, with an emphasis on locally procured ingredients and novel presentation.

The space is cute and cozy, with super comfy chairs, chic striped banquettes and a witty fire blazing on the big-screen. The bar is just the right place for a bite, the game, or cocktail with friends. With an innovative menu, well-seasoned staff, and the entire family in front AND behind the scenes. 374 is destined for success.

374kitchenandcocktails.com

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