Lenny & Joe's

First time here and we will be back! Great service, menu options, and parking. Food was served fresh, hot, and delicious. We ordered the fish tacos, shrimp dinner, and clam roll. Definitely worth the trip!

Hadn't been here since the early 90s but it is mostly just how I remembered it. Fried clam strips were alright, didn't love the lobster bisque. Staff was nice, vibe was great, just thought the food could have been a bit better. Also ended up with some classic Lenny and Joe's shirts, still amazing affordable and available in a crazy range of colors.

What a delightful dining experience! The meal was absolutely mouthwatering, and the staff made us feel right at home with their warm hospitality. The atmosphere was truly family-friendly, making it the perfect spot for a cozy meal together.

I'm not a huge seafood fan, however one thing I really adore is great clam strips. I have been to each of the locations and enjoyed both. This one was a bit more kid friendly, the other one had a nice quiet atmosphere. The next time I'm at my favorite Connecticut beach this place is a top contender for seafood.

My son and his girl took me here for my birthday. The food the shrimp and the scallops I got were Excellent. But, I also ordered some sweet potato fries, and as you can see in the photo were burned. The coleslaw I ordered was tasteless.

Great lobster rolls and fried seafood. There is a picnic area outside with and without shade. It's amazing sitting outside on a nice day with a tasty lobster roll. Or you can get take out and go to the beach to eat good food with a view. Can't go wrong with any options.

They should go back to the old ways here. Paperware and plastic ware served by a waitress instead of counter service. No refill on drinks. Seemed like alot of fries and not alot of fish for the money.

𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐄𝐖 🦞 This spot holds special memories for my husband, it was his favorite growing up so while we were in the area visiting Hammonasset, we decided to stop by. The atmosphere is exactly what you’d expect from a classic New England seafood shack: casual, bustling, and full of families. Some of the food definitely delivered, but a few items left us disappointed. ⸻ 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐒 The grilled lobster and shrimp with veggies was excellent, my husband really enjoyed it and said it brought back nostalgic memories. The kid’s fries were a standout: perfectly crisp, golden, and flavorful. The gift shop was a pleasant surprise too, with very reasonable pricing and lots of cute options for souvenirs or clothing. The whole place had a fun, easygoing vibe that makes it a great post-beach stop, especially since it’s so close to Hammonasset. —- 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐒 Unfortunately, the kid’s chicken missed the mark. It came as one large, oddly seasoned piece that was dry and tasted like it had been fried in the same oil as seafood, which isn’t ideal for picky eaters or kids who don’t like fishy flavors. The lobster roll was cold and the bun was soggy, which caused it to fall apart quickly. It also didn’t include fries, which wasn’t clearly stated on the menu. The milkshakes were watery and underwhelming, we drank them, but definitely wouldn’t order again. Another small frustration: the menu doesn’t have food photos, which can make ordering a bit confusing. And if your kids want to ride the carousel, make sure to bring cash, it’s cash-only, and we didn’t know until we got there. —- 𝐓𝐈𝐏𝐒 Use Google to preview menu items before you go since there are no food photos at the restaurant. If you’re planning to sit outside, bring a picnic tablecloth or cover, we saw other families do this and it made their tables look so much nicer and more comfortable. If you’re into browsing, the shop is worth a peek for affordable clothing and souvenirs. And lastly, don’t forget to bring cash for the carousel if you have little ones in tow.

Service good Many changes that seem focused on profitability (only table service inside now with waiter, much smaller portions) Lost much of the ew England charm that made it a popular choice. Time to look for new fave!

I have been to Lenny & Joe's a few times and have always enjoyed my experience. Most of their entrees are fried, but they do have a few broiled entrees, but their fried fish is delicious. I had the fried calamari and scallop combo with fries and cole slaw. The fish was lightly battered and cooked perfectly. I am picky about cole slaw but theirs passes the test, with a nice tangy flavor. The meal was reasonably priced for what you received. Their customer service is outstanding. I arrived ahead of my party but they gave me a table (I was prepared to wait for all of my party to arrive). We were very well attended to and they gave my nephew ice cream as we were there celebrating his birthday. I am looking forward to my next visit.

This usually is five stars all day long. First, let me say that the service was impeccable. Every one of the staff is so nice I sat out in the porch area, and placed my order for Rhode Island clam chowder, along with a meal which consisted of deep fried shrimp and sea scallops with french fries and coleslaw I also ordered the house brand of Sprite to drink. Almost immediately came the Rhode Island clam chowder, along with the soda. This Rhode Island clam chowder is on point and some of the best in the area. Barely 3 minutes went by, and I was just getting started with the chowder after letting it cool for a bit, and the meal arrived. Just poor timing. So there I was splitting time between eating the chowder and the meal The french fries were good, but not seasoned. The coleslaw was as normal as normal coleslaw could be. The sea scallops and shrimp were deep-fried in a very light batter. But the oil they were deep fried and seemed either burnt or too high of a temperature because they just didn't taste right. They were also lacking seasoning. So looking around on the picnic table, I was sitting at, there were napkins, but no salt or pepper. I looked around at the other tables, no salt or pepper. WTF this is a restaurant! Anyways, the meal the chowder and the soda came to $38 and change, I left a $10 tip. I hope you aren't slipping Lenny and Joe's, and this was just an anomaly.

A nice experience overall. We chose to stop after a beach day for a quick lunch. Our clam strip rolls with fries and coleslaw were delicious. They definitely had a really good special that day for $16.99 .The service was nice. I just wish the hostess would tell us The other room was also available as well as the outdoor. We thought that they were not open. Therefore, we stayed in a first room which is not the most updated one. We ended up going outside for ice cream and that's where we had a really good time. We remembered coming here with our kids when they were little and using the carousel. It's a really nice place and I will definitely return.

Came here after a few months, and found it more disappointing than in the past. As someone who has loved this place since I was a child, I was left disappointed by the dinner. The food here has gone downhill for sure. I got the scrod dinner for $20, and expected more. The batter was bland and tasteless, and the fish was flaky and bitter; overall just tasted flavorless without any sauce. The sauce they do give you is in these very small cups (~1 tablespoon of ketchup and tartar sauce), and had to ask for more. Party member got a scrod sandwhich and got a small sandwich smaller than their hand with no sides. Need to improve their food for sure. The service was nice, very friendly and helpful. They were very good at getting food and checking in on my party. Great locals, amazing staff and good conversations. The ambiance was always very nice. Very nice atmosphere and reminds you of a true fish restaurant on the water. Doesn't get better. Other than the food, this place is a great stop. However, due to the quality of the food, I'll be lessening my trips here.

Best chowder Great service The kids love the carousel Scallop roll is my fav Finished at the Ice Cream hut - Perfect ending

The cod was fresh and deliciously prepared. It was accompanied by a brown rice pilaf and a nice selection of mixed vegetables which unfortunately were a bit charred. My friend ordered a fried platter of scallops and clam strips. Perhaps it is the oil they are using, but she believed the breading and oil overpowered the taste of the scallops and clam strips which didn't seem as fresh as they used to taste. Lenny and Joe's Fishtale in Madison has definitely evolved over the years. They seemed to be shortstaffed and the food was served on paper plates. The service and ambience was pleasant but nothing like it used to be. I am sure it's a sign of the times and yet we were thankful that they are still in business. Hopefully, in time, they will return to their days of glory.

I hadn't been here since I was a kid. My grandma lived in Madison and we would come here all the time. My sister & I did not like fish and still don't but we loved the fried chicken sandwich & birch beer. Had it today and it was just as good as I remember. A great step back in time to wonderful memories.

I've been here several times over the years. They are definitely consistent in their efficiency, friendly service, and quality of food. I usually get the sauteed shrimp or scallop meals, which are delicious. I've tried the fries too, which are very tasty. They're always fast and efficient, even if they have a lot of customers, like they did today. Yelp is asking me about ambiance and of course, it's wonderful. You can sit inside or outside, where there's a carousel.

Loved the location, close to the beach. Fun casual restaurant after a day on the sand. Customer service was very friendly. We arrived 30 minutes before closing and the staff made us feel very welcome. We both ordered the Sautéed seafood plate which included lobster, scallops, and shrimp. We asked for double veggies instead of rice, they were happy to make the substitution. We really enjoyed it and would definitely order again. Next time we would try the fried zucchini sticks as opposed to the calamari. We left with Lenny and Joe t-shirts! Such fun!

If you're looking for good seafood, drive on. We were headed down the road to a different seafood restaurant after taking a walk at the beach but we passed this place and turned around to try it. We like to try new places but we sort of wish we hadn't. The restaurant is half seafood market and half restaurant. While it is very informal they did have a sectioned off side area with a separate door for entry if you have a large party. Wood booths for seating and tile floors. When we came their co2 machine was broken so we couldn't get anything carbonated so we asked for iced tea instead but they only had unsweetened. Why any restaurant does that is beyond me. We ordered clam chowder, a scallop roll, a lobster roll and onion rings. I wish I had taken a picture of the chowder. It was nothing more than brother with 1 clam and some diced potato's. And I'm not exaggerating one bit. The scallop roll was good but dry. It was just fried scallops on bread. No tomato, no cabbage slaw, no nothing. The lobster roll was very good but it was the same sort of texture- dry. The onion rings were mediocre. They were hand made but unless you know how to make a good batter it's even worse. And the batter too was bland. I hate to sound like such a negative person with this review but it's just honestly what we experienced.

Food is good. Lobster rolls are good for the price. Good classic sea food. No mumbo jumbo, this aint no long John silvers.

Food and ambience is worth a 5 star. Eating outside is where it's at. Place your order at the little shacks by the menu on the wall. Pickup inside when they call your name. Drink refills cost $. Midafternoon wasn't as busy as it looks like it can get. Enjoy! We sure did.

Great food. The only reason it's getting a 4 star instead of 5 star rating is that it feels like takeout even though it is a very nice setting. Everything is served in disposable container () , including drinks. No alcohol on the menu. The food however was delicious. We both got the baked cod with with lemon caper sauce, nicely served on the side and (plentiful) rice and fabulously prepared veggie. ( Yes, really). Outstanding meal.

Stopped here for lunch after spending the morning at the beach. It was a good stop to bring my family from out of state! They enjoyed the experience and food here. We sat outside so we ordered at the booth and then went inside to grab our food. We got the fried calamari, salmon dinner & chicken teriyaki dinner. Everything was good and everyone was happy with a full tummy!

amazing service!! food came in less than 10 minutes, was really yummy, and all the servers/good runners were soo nice!!!!

Was on my way to a job that didn't start for several hours so I was looking for a place to stop for lunch. Having heard about this place I figured I would give it a try. The place was fairly empty upon arrival but I received the warmest welcome from the staff. The place itself didn't actually impress me. Pretty plain inside nothing spectacular but very clean. I looked over the menu and saw several things that looked very good but I didn't want to over indulge so I was excited when I saw the steamer clams because not a lot of places serve them. While waiting they give you delicious bread and butter. Steamers arrived in nice net bag with fresh broth and hot butter. They were very clean. Only one or two with some sandy feel to them. I would say my experience between the food and the warm waitstaff was a very pleasant one.

This place is hit or miss. We eat here about 5 times a a year. Sometimes the food is outstanding and sometimes blah. It used to be quaint with its walk up service and placard menus on the wall above the counter. Now it is table service and has lost the fry shack charm. They have also markedly increased prices and now charge for an extra portion of cocktail or tartar sauces. So average but with the chance of better on a good night.

This was a great sport for casual seafood. They've turned it from quick serve to table service. Now you get quickserve food, still on paper plates, but you have to sit and wait for it. Of course this has led to higher prices plus a tip. They've changed this from a fun quick spot to a cheap table service restaurant.

Very very small servings . Very expensive. I got the fried fish sandwich. Less than 3 oz of fish . Onion rings tasty but soggy and greasy.

Solid seafood restaurant very close to Hamonasett Beach. Plenty of seating indoors or outdoors. Ice cream. Activities for children. A real family friendly spot. Average and decent for seafood these days. Nothing about my lobster roll meal wowed me but it was decent and fresh. I think it was the special for $26 on my visit. A ok spot.

Excellent lobster roll. These come on a heavily buttered split top bun full of flavorful lobster served with a side of tasty coleslaw. We also ordered both whole belly clams and clam strips that were served with a tartar sauce. Staff was friendly and food came out quickly.

So sad to see how BAD this local gem is now. First we were seated in the covered porch area. We had to move as the smell of shellac was very strong. ( They heavily shellac their tables and were clearly just redone.) I can't believe the are seating people in there to eat. We happily moved to the main room and were excited to have the first lobster roll of the season. We all ordered lobster rolls with fries extra lemon and mayo and no drink. The waitress never came back after dropping off our plates at $35.00 per person. This was an issue as she dod not bring the requested mayo fir the fries. And it is what table serve is..."Service"! We did not get the mayo requested and could not make eye connect with our waitress or any other server who passed us. So not to allow the rolls from getting cold, I went to get mayo for the table. I was handed mayo packets. These cheap packets are full of chemicals and sodium and is not close to real mayo. But in the end it didn't matter because the fries were gross. While they did not look burnt, they sure tasted carcinogenic. Which tells me they don't change their frying enough. Not okay. Besides, why would such a high priced restaurant not offer really mayo? How pathetic. The lobster roll were completely dry. Where is the melted butter folks??? We all took turns getting up for our needs that should have been delivered upon serving and preparation. The alternative to getting up to serve your group was waiting for service- which was not an option without dancing on the table and waving them down to even look your way. Run! Don't walk. There are too many great places in this area to get a lobster roll. This is quintessential New Englad food. Madison Fish Tale is a huge disappointment these days. And the owners don't care that you are dissatisfied , as they are running to the bank with the money they are making with this sub-par food and service. This ship has sailed. So bummed. Go elsewhere...You have been warned.

I've always thought the food and vibes here were amazing since I was little! I love the outdoor benches where you eat. The hot dog has always been a favorite of mine and you can never go wrong with their fried food with their delicious tartar sauce!! They have you order at a window and then call your name when the food is ready, making the service quick and efficient. For further review, check out @gbennieats on Instagram

There isn't much I can add to the words of praise already said about this CT seafood landmark. We stopped in during early April, they must've just opened for the season, and as usual the restaurant operated like a well oiled machine that it is. Although they were already starting to get busy at 11:30am, ordering was quick. Wait time for our food was short! The seafood was fresh, the chicken was moist and cooked perfectly. We were very happy and always love the festive outdoor seating. My only complaint, which I'm sure was an oversight that's already been corrected, is there were no hand sanitizers near the condiment pumps. Yes most of us carry our own these days, but I left mine in the car and was uneasy after filling my ketchup cups (and actually came down with a terrible cold the next day... coincidence? I don't blame them! I am at fault for throwing caution to the wind.). We really enjoyed our lunch at Lenny's and will definitely be back. I tend to visit Lenny's at least once or twice a year and have never been unhappy.

Always a solid meal here! My favorite is the clam strips, but have changed my diet so I tried the sautéd shrimp and lobster. It was delicious! Not overly greasy and the veggies were nice and crisp! My DH got the broiled haddock and enjoyed that as well! The servers are always nice too! This location did change from an order at the counter place to a traditional wait to be seated and served which was nice.

Stopped by with a friend for dinner after an afternoon of shopping at the outlets and the seafood did not disappoint! We ordered the fried shrimp, lobster roll, and Rhode Island clam chowder. I really enjoyed the chowder - it's thinner than the classic New England style chowder, which I actually preferred. The fried shrimp were excellent - they were so big and perfectly fried, not overcooked at all. The lobster roll tasted great but I thought the bread to lobster ratio was a little off - too much bread for my taste. We both really liked the coleslaw too - crisp, tangy, and refreshing! The workers were very nice and knowledgeable about the menu - our waitress was the one who recommended the shrimp and I'm glad we went with it! The service was attentive and efficient. Overall vibe was beachy, no frills and very family friendly. Overall a great place for seafood. Would definitely stop by again if I'm in the area!

Food and service were very good. I had the Calamari dinner Restaurant was very clean. Lenny and Joe live up to their reputation. We will be back when in the area.

Many reviews many visits, just a good place to enjoy great seafood in a relaxing atmosphere. The ice cream hut is and added bonus!

After a last second stop the beach driving home from a road trip, decided to stop in. Their gift shop of T-shirts and hoodies was 10/10 - so cute and witty! Liven their food was not bad, it just wasn't anything to write home about. We tried to sit outside and nearly every single table had ice cream or something gross on its. There IS a ton of seating though! Some inside and massive amount of tables outside both in the sun and with shade.

Excellent food. First time visiting. Had the combo fish dinner and the two way combo. A little pricey but the norm these days.

Sigh... far cry from the glory days of Lenny and Joes. Having lived in the area for over 40 years I know the shoreline restaurants well. Outdoor Lenny and Joes was great even after the ownership changed. Now it's just a profit center. Lobster roll was very small with no tail meat at all. Portions were way too small for the prices. The French Fries container was half filled as was the Maine steamers. I'm sorry to say that if you hade great memories of going to the beach and grabbing awesome seafood.... Please move along and pass up L&J.

Service is very good here and staff is very helpful. Our favorite dish is the fisherman's platter with whole-belly clams. It doesn't matter if the clams are large or small, they are succulent and lightly breaded. We are from Maine and consider ourselves to be connoisseurs. So, any size of the clams considered to be tender or not is a myth. The shrimp on the platter is out of this world. My personal favorite are the sea scallops. My wife doesn't eat them, so they are all mine. Maybe the fish could be a little larger. She says the tarter sauce is excellent. And it doesn't matter which store you go to, the food is the same.

We usually eat at Westbrook restaurant and it's very good. Yesterday we were at Hammonasset so stopped for lobster bisque in Madison and they are completely different. The one in Madison had a lot of carrots in it. Why are carrots in lobster bisque? Also there was hardly any lobster. The lobster bisque at Westbrook is hands down much better

Hello summer! This is a classic outdoor glorified seafood shack. Don't get me wrong, it has some indoor seating and it's a full service place but the vibe on this place is total summer. You get assigned a picnic table (there are lots of them) and then order at a stand. It's easy and the food get delivered to your table. We were here for the seafood. It's wonderful. Got the whole belly platter and there were lots of clams without being too greasy. Fries are solid. The clam strips are also quite good if you're not into the whole belly. Dining companions raves about the hot lobster roll and the scallops as well. Really it was just about a perfect way to spend a warm summer Saturday night. Put your cares away.

I found my new 'favorite' menu item today and will 'never go back'! Trying a taco in the land of lobster rolls seems fraught with problems. The fish taco with that coconut curry sauce is excellent. It's fresh and light and filled with flavor. You get the fried fish and in that simplicity you get the best. I can't stop thinking and talking about that sauce as it was such an unexpected treat with a great kick. I partnered it with onion rings and not fries for a great combination of flavors. Got sat a the last table on the porch with so little room for legs or tummy so was a bit uncomfortable. The place was mobbed so service was effective but slow. This is really a place to sit and relax and eat good food prepared to order so there was, for me, no problem.

Always love coming here as seafood quality is extremely fresh. Huge venue with quick service. Portion sizes are rather large too so plenty for leftovers. I enjoyed the crab cakes as well as the lobster roll

Been visiting this place since I was a teenager. We still make it a stop when we visit family in CT from California. Great food, neat atmosphere and service is always good.

Got a fish sandwich. It was MINUSCULE (it was literally 3.5" x 3.5"). Not going back.

Whole clams The batter kept falling off - as soon as I picked up a clam. The clams were different in size. The big clams on the top tasted wet and soupy, and the small ones were crispy but only if the batter was still clinging on to them. Hot Dog This hotdog was cooked on a skillet, and it tasted undercooked. I prefer a hotdog cooked on an open flame. $32 approx $4 tip $36 total I will not be going back for a very long time.

Booth was a bit tight for us big old folks but otherwise it was a great meal. Service was excellent and friendly. Food came out fast and hot. Generous wine pour. Hubby loved his Cajun Salmon salad and my lobster roll, slaw and fries were as good as any I've had any other place.

Again, we tried this place. The whole belly clams were MUSHY and chewy! The fries placed underneath the clams give the appearance that you are getting a lot of clams.... Charging 30 cents for extra tartar sauce is unreal! It used to be so good years ago!!! And it was NOT busy at all!!!!

Very relaxing. We stopped here on our way to Providence. The steamers is excellent paired with their corn on the cob!

Big! Big indoor dining area. Big outdoor dining area. Big portions. Big parking lot. Friendly, fast service. Great fried clam strips and fish. The coleslaw was ehh. Big family atmosphere.

We were there in July. Best clam strips I've ever had! The shrimp was yummy too! I'll be back!

I ordered a whole belly claims dish. No sides. The portion seems small $25, about 10-12 pieces of claims. It was a take out, so not sure about the service. It is an order and sit down type of restaurant, the ambiance appears to be minimal from what I can see.

Always a pleasure to visit this age old seafood establishment right on the coast. With a wonderful carousel, delicious crabs and lobsters, and a home town feel, I have been coming to Lenny and Joe's for the better part of twenty five years. They always have great options and local favorites. The ordering has changed a bit, they offer table service now! Having a waitress is a great part of the experience. The staff was all nice and friendly. I got the Rhode Island Clam Chowder, Clam Strips, and a lemonade. Definitely great tasting and a good portion of food. Can't wait to come back in the summer to sit outside! It's o oh a few blocks from the state park so you can swing by after a big day of ocean fun.

DELICIOUS FRIED SEAFOOD Our friends took us to Lenny and Joe's Fish Tales, a local institution in Madison CT. It feels like you are on a beach vacation when you walk inside and are seated by a teenage server who may be working his/her first summer break job. There is both indoor seating (uncomfortable old wood booths) and outdoor seating (picnic tables). The booths are separated by tall plastic dividers, a reminder of COVID. Overall, the quality of the food matched or surpassed the fried seafood meals we had enjoyed in Boston and Maine during the past week. Our seafood lunch was delicious and unbelievably priced. We had the fried scallop roll ($14.99), fried shrimp roll ($12.99), onion rings ($5.99) and our friends ordered the fried pickles and fried zucchini appetizer, the fried whole belly clam platter (mkt price) and a lobster roll ($25.99). Both the scallop roll and the shrimp roll had 10 - 12 pieces of seafood - my favorite were the large plump scallops that were fresh and barely dusted with flour and deep fried. Skip the limp soggy deep fried veggies. We were too full to go to Lenny and Joe's ice cream parlor that was next door with the Magical Charity Carousel.

After a wonderful day at Hammonasset State Park we stopped here to grab a seafood dinner. I had the whole belly clam roll while my wife had the fish tacos. We were both pleased with our selections and had no wait whatsoever. Our server was very attentive to us. The restaurant has a nice beach atmosphere to it.