Lenny’s
Love that Shore Dinner
As a Branford, Connecticut resident, I have frequented and drive by Lenny’s all of the time without really knowing its history. I used to be known as an outsider I guess. Lenny’s began under a different name, Fitzgerald’s Tavern in 1939.
For the next two years, the bar operated under various management until 1968 when Leonard Conlin purchased the Indian Head Inn and it continued as a popular night spot. Now a popular seafood restaurant, Lenny’s Indian Head In still draws a lively night crowd, but it enjoys a reputation as a great family restaurant with pretty marsh views, a great traditional Shore Dinner.
When I first started eating and drinking at Lenny’s, credit cards were not accepted, which made for several tense moments. Not anymore, credit cards are now accepted.
I am writing this article to talk about the food, namely the Shore Dinner. Big days seafood and lobster lover, it is a perfect fit for me. What is a Shore Dinner? Taken directly from their menu, it is:
Lenny’s Famous Shore Dinner
includes cup of chowder – (2) Cherrystones, sweet corn – lobster – steamers, coffee – watermelon (in season).
If that does not give you the taste of the shore, I do not know what will. There are many other items on the menu for people that do not have an appetite for the Shore Dinner or an appetite for seafood.
Lenny’s used to look like a broken down roadside shack. It’s still kind of does, but that adds to the mystique. Inside that has been totally renovated. Then there is an outdoor patio in the rear, which faces the salt marsh.
If you are in the area, definitely play visit to this historic restaurant.
I love Lenny’s, especially the oysters…fried and/or on the half shell. Over the years the portions have decreased and the prices have very much increased, but the it is always good. As a former restaurant worker I can tell you their frying oil is always clean…and that, in itself, is a reason to go.