Some see cocktails as mere liquid appetizers, while others build entire evenings around them. For those who believe the perfect drink deserves an equally perfect plate, this list celebrates Bridgeport’s establishments where the bar and kitchen perform in delicious harmony. Whether you’re pairing craft cocktails with small plates or settling in for a full meal with expertly matched pours, these spots prove that in Bridgeport, the best bars are also restaurants.
Evolution Sport Bar and Lounge
$$$ | (203) 908-1588 | WEBSITE
Evolution Sport Bar and Lounge is the ultimate nightlife flex in Bridgeport. It’s a haven of energy and entertainment that’s as fun to experience as it is reliable. Their take on the classic sports bar comes packed with phenomenal bartenders, top-notch security, and a nostalgic shower of phenomenal music from the DJ. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and it’s welcoming enough to keep you going even after a long day at work or a sizzling round of drinks with friends. Mr.
Yoel and his wife Maria ensure everything is perfect, from the excellent service to the clean environment, all with no cover charge. Open until 2am on weekends, this spot is a must-visit for a great time.
Metric Bar & Grill
$$ | (203) 576-6903 | WEBSITE
Metric Bar & Grill’s salmon is flaky, moist, and cooked with just enough precision to make every bite feel like a perfectly satisfying highlight during a lively evening of drinks, music, and conversation. It’s rich and flavorful on the palate, and paired with a side of seasonal vegetables for a bit of added freshness. Don’t expect any wild cards—just classic comfort food done right.
Karaoke On Main
$$$ | (203) 923-8000 | WEBSITE
Karaoke On Main’s mojito tastes like a Friday night celebration in a glass. It’s mixed with fresh mint and a bright lime wedge that adds a cool, zesty kick to the rum below. It’s not overly strong like a lot of mojitos can be, and it makes for a nearly perfect way to start a night at one of the most fun spots in the city. Or just consider making a night out of a tasty mojito and delicious wings to really hammer in the party mood.
Beverly Pizza House
$ | (203) 335-5240 | WEBSITE
A lot of pizza joints have come and gone in Bridgeport, but an OG that stands the test of time is Beverly Pizza House. It’s exactly what it sounds like. A pie of Greek-style pizza that looks like a crisp, golden disc arrives at your table, then you notice the unique sauce bubbling around the edges. It’s cheesy and savory, but the sauce adds a tangy brightness that works as an excellent centerpiece to a meal in this cozy neighborhood spot.
The thin crust provides that satisfying crunch with every bite, and the free salad they offer feels like a genuine thank-you gesture. At around $18 for a medium specialty pie, it’s a solid value for the quality you get. The atmosphere is comfortable and familiar, with warm lighting and booths that invite you to settle in. They’ve got a good selection of sodas too—the old-fashioned root beer pairs perfectly with the pizza’s bold flavors.
Sure, you might wait a few extra minutes during busy times, but that oven sizzle tells you it’s worth it. This place has been serving the community for over fifty years, and one visit shows you why.
Fire Engine Pizza Co
$ | (203) 333-3473 | WEBSITE
Pizza is a Bridgeport tradition—it’s the go-to late-night food in this city, to be exact—and this local spot on the corner makes a great one. As its name suggests, Fire Engine Pizza Co’s classic blend of crispy crust and creative toppings fits right in with the neighborhood vibe (though you can also get it loaded with extras if you’re feeding a family). Their menu features unique options, but the mashed potato pizza is forever.
Mr. Crab Seafood & Bar
$$ | (203) 612-7933 | WEBSITE
We’re not sure if Mr. Crab’s ‘classic, old-school’ atmosphere is as timeless as they suggest, but we did mention the peaceful vibe to a friend visiting from out of town, so perhaps there’s some merit to the description.
Seafood doesn’t always promise excitement, but it’s the innovative preparation—like crab served in a steam bag with corn on the cob and potatoes, alongside decent portions of large crab legs with tools provided—that elevates this meal from a simple dinner into something worth planning a trip around.
While the fried fish and chicken tender meals might occasionally be overcooked, and service can be a bit slow, the Lobster Rolls and overall delicious, plentiful food make this spot a recommended destination for seafood lovers, especially when ordering directly to avoid extra fees.
Captain’s Cove Seaport (Marina, Restaurant & Bar)
$$ | (203) 335-7104 | WEBSITE
Captain’s Cove typically has about eight to 10 seafood options available on any given day, and they’re all excellent ways to enjoy a meal at this marina restaurant. Order the lobster roll if you’re here for lunch—it’s among the most popular in town—but save room for a visit to the ice cream parlor. Start with the view of the boats docked along the harbor and (at least) one seat on the outdoor patio, then grab whatever else looks good from the shops.
Anything you experience will have a lot of charm in it, which means it should (theoretically) last a while in your memory at home, too.
Captain’s Cove Heliport
$$ | (203) 335-1433 | WEBSITE
While most of Captain’s Cove Heliport’s menu feels equally influenced by fresh seafood and classic American fare, the restaurant’s waterfront setting leans more heavily on the nautical side of the equation. When that means we get a deck overlooking the bay with live bands on weekends, we’re perfectly OK with the scales tipping. This spot isn’t overly fancy—it’s relaxed and charming, with lots of distinct elements that introduce new and pleasant experiences at every turn.
Rum & Tequilla Fusion
$$ | (203) 330-3388 | WEBSITE
Rum & Tequilla Fusion has a few standout dishes, but we’re helpless against the tender oxtail with no fat and lots of flavor. It takes a moment to arrive, so you’ll want to order it early while enjoying the amazing happy hour specials, like the shrimp Rasta pasta. The whole experience is a delight. A server like Lani or Natasha comes by your table to ensure everything is perfect, making the meal memorable with top-tier service.
It’s bordering on indulgent, which is exactly what you want during a night out with music and great vibes anyway.
