Discover My Favorite Local Places in Southeastern Connecticut
Hi there! I’m Rachel, the farmer and florist behind Bloom Harvest Farm. When I’m not in the garden, you’ll often find me enjoying the amazing local food, shops, and experiences southeastern Connecticut has to offer. Here’s a little peek into some of my go-to favorites!
Harvesting Flowers at Bloom Harvest Farm in Southeastern, CT
Where I Eat
Italian: Il Pomod’Oro in East Lyme is my top pick for Italian flavors.
Mexican: I love Zavala’s in East Lyme or their sister location in Stonington. For something a little different, Frescais great too.
Pizza: Losing Illiano’s in Niantic was tough—it was a family favorite for over 20 years! Now, we get pizza from Boardwalk Pizza in Niantic, V’s Brick Oven Pizzeria in Montville, or Mango’s in Mystic.
Sushi: I’m not a sushi eater, but my family swears by Osaka in East Lyme and The Spice Club in Niantic.
Burger: The Whiskey Burger from The Black Sheep in Niantic is a serious craving of mine. Hands down the best burger around!
Chinese Food: Johnny’s Peking Tokyo in Mystic is worth the drive, but if I’m staying local, Great Wall in Niantic is a solid choice.
For Date Night
Drinks & Music: Strange Brew in Norwich is our go-to for a fun night out!
Dinner Spots: Depending on my mood, I love Scotch Plains Tavern in Essex, Otter Cove in Old Saybrook, or Todd English’s Tuscany in Uncasville for a special treat.
Local Breweries
Beer’d Brewing Co. in Stonington has fantastic craft brews and I love going to the Velvet Mill.
Fox Farm Brewery in Salem also has a great atmosphere and beer.
Breakfast Favorites
For a traditional breakfast of eggs, bacon, and home fries: The Shack in East Lyme or The Parthenon in Old Saybrook.
For amazing avocado toast: Shift in Niantic—it’s seriously SO good.
To meet friends and enjoy a breakfast sandwich or muffin: Café Sol in Niantic.
Caring for Our Pets
Veterinarian: We love Old Lyme Veterinary Hospital. Their team is fantastic!
Saying Goodbye: If you need an at-home service, Dr. Hall in Old Lyme provides such compassionate care.
Dog Kennels: Skyline Kennels has been our go-to for years.
Dog Training: Coastal K9 in Salem is incredible. Shannon truly knows her stuff.
Shopping & Boutiques
Grace in Niantic is perfect.
For kids: The Shop at The Dinosaur Place in Montville
Maximus Antiques in Old Saybrook is a recent discovery, and I love it there.
or grab a bouquet from our farm in the summer
Outdoor Adventures
Local Parks: Harkness Memorial State Park is stunning.
Beaches and Hiking Trails: Rocky Neck State Park is a favorite.
Seasonal Activities
I always like to see what kind of events Friends of the Forest is having.
Autumn Favorites:
Enjoy cider at Clyde’s Cider Mill in Mystic.
Visit the Wee Faerie Village at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme.
Winter Favorites:
The festive lobster trap tree in Stonington Borough.
Spring and Summer:
Is a busy time of year for me here at Bloom Harvest Farm
Coffee Shops
Café Sol in Niantic is a favorite spot for great coffee.
Two Wrasslin’ Cats in East Haddam is another must-visit.
Floral Inspiration
The gardens at Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford are breathtaking.
The garden at the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme always inspires me.
Family-Friendly Fun
Museums: Mystic Seaport and the Slater Memorial Museum in Norwich are always worth a visit.
For Kids: The Children’s Museum of Southeastern Connecticut in Niantic is wonderful for little ones. Or Ray of Light Farm in East Haddam.
Wellness & Relaxation
Massage: Tranquil Balance is my go-to.
Relaxation: The salt caves in Niantic are so soothing.
Bookstores & Libraries
The Book Barn in Niantic is a treasure trove for book lovers.
And of course, I love visiting our town library!
But my all-time favorite place is our little farm, Bloom Harvest Farm. Especially in the spring, summer, and early autumn when it's in full bloom. We’re open seasonally, and if you get the chance, you should swing by when our farm stand to grab a fresh bouquet. They sell out quick so make sure to check the dates and time the farm stand is open and you can also email us and we might be able to reserve one for you!
