Head to Blackbird's Nest in Stamford for igloo dining AND a heated patio. Photo ciurtesy of Blackbird's Nest

The Best Igloo Dining in Connecticut

1. Sign of the Whale — Stamford

Igloo season has officially started at Sign of the Whale, a restaurant and rooftop bar in Stamford, CT. But these are no ordinary igloos. Sign of the Whale calls it a “a rooftop igloo experience,” and with good reason: each igloo has been transformed into a cozy room, complete with rugs, lounge-style seating, blankets, pillows, a coffee table, and a space heater. Adults can enjoy apps like crispy Brussels sprouts, Nonna’s meatballs, and mains such as burgers, tacos, or spicy vodka shrimp rigatoni. 

Pricing: $$

2. Puerto Vallarta — Danbury

Nibbling on nachos is delicioso when you dine in the igloos at Puerto Vallarta, a Mexican eatery in Danbury, CT. A brightly lit archway entrance leads to the igloos where you’ll find strands of lights sparkling overhead. Make the most of your margarita as you watch guacamole en molcajete freshly prepared tableside, or dine on the restaurant’s staples such as arroz con pollo or carne asada quesadillas. Sizzling fajitas make an even more impressive appearance as they steam their way into the igloo. And for kids who aren’t interested in enchiladas, there’s a kid-friendly menu, too. 

Price: $$

3. Blackbird’s Nest—Stratford

As if eating under the stars inside your own igloo weren’t enough, Blackbird’s Nest takes it to the next level. With three igloos that can serve up to six guests, the Blackbird’s Nest Winter Igloo Experience offers a private, two-hour dining experience featuring seasonal dishes and handcrafted cocktails that will warm you up no matter how chilly it is outside. Luxurious lighting, and beautiful décor create more than a meal—they create a moment. 

Price: $$$

4. Millwright’s Restaurant — Simsbury

Looking to eat something other than burgers? An elevated menu awaits you at Millwright’s Restaurant, making it a perfect date-night spot. Chef Tyler Anderson serves up dishes like swordfish schnitzel, roasted cabbage, or potato rosti. But if you can’t find a sitter, there are family-friendly options, including Johnny Cake Biscuits, Chicken & Dumplings, the Millwright’s Burger and fries served with garlic aioli. As for the igloos: the greenhouses are ideal for families, while the pods are perfect for smaller parties.

Price: $$$

The weather outside may be frightful, but you'll be cozy and warm dining in a CT igloo! Photo courtesy of Fire at the Ridge                                                                                              

5. Fire at the Ridge Restaurant & Tavern — Middlefield

Located at Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort, Fire at the Ridge Restaurant & Tavern has incredible views. And the igloos that adorn the deck make you feel like you’re right on the mountain.

Decadent dining options include a cheese board to share, Liuzzo burrata, New York Strip, Chicken Parmesan, Shrimp and Clams Linguini. Kids can choose from pasta (buttered or with marinara sauce), mac n’ cheese, burgers, and chicken tenders with fries — enough to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. 

And did we mention the mountain views?

Price: $$$

6. Dockside Brewery Igloo Park— Milford

Dockside Brewery doesn’t just offer igloos — it offers themed igloos all while serving the comfort food you crave, like flatbreads, fried foods, and wings.

Now, the igloos: the Zen Garden (perfect for groups of 6-8, kids included) features comfy couches, an electric fireplace and a TV where you can watch a game—or put on Bluey for the littles. But the igloos that are going to be a hit with your kids will be The Buddy the Elf Igloo, which celebrates the four major food groups (candy, candy canes, candy corn, and syrup). Ralphie’s Christmas Story Igloo sports a full-sized Santa and will make you feel like you’ve won a major award. But the award for the most inventive igloo must be the Grinchmas Igloo, where kids can eat Who Hash next to a life-sized replica of The Grinch himself. The themed igloos are only available from November 13-January 7. 

Price: $$

7. Wood-n-Tap — Farmington

Wood-n-Tap has everything you could want in an eatery—think California Cobb Salad, chowders and seasonal soups, fish and chips, and “wicked good sides” such as parmesan fries or tater tots, and buttered broccoli. (And if you want to go beyond the basics, try the Bison Burger.) 

Now, where Wood-n-Tap goes above and beyond is in its igloo décor: not only are there twinkling lights, but sophisticated chandeliers, too. Each igloo has its own personal speaker, so bring your favorite playlist and soak up the river view. 

Price: $$

Aquila's Nest adds a colorful touch to igloo dining in Connecticut. Photo courtesy of Aquila's Nest

8. Aquilas Nest Vineyards — Sandy Hook

The outdoor dining options aren’t just igloos at Aquilas Nest Vineyards in Sandy Hook —  they’re Igloo Spheres. Accommodating up to nine guests, each sphere glows in a different color (red, green, blue, or yellow) across the 41-acre winery and vineyard. 

Sip nine seasonal wines, try the Red Wine Flight (Red Blend, Merlot, Baco Noir, and Dry Rosé), or a Signature Wine Flight with an optional snack pairing. This is an ideal igloo experience for a date night (read: leave the kids home), so that you can savor the wines—and the experience—while enjoying the hilltop views. 

Price: $$$

9. Rizzuto’s Oyster Bar & Restaurant — Westport

Baby, it might be cold outside, but it’s nice and toasty inside the igloos at Rizzuto’s Oyster Bar & Restaurant in Westport. Two electric heaters inside each igloo can reach a toasty 90 degrees, so you’ll stay comfortable while dining on freshly caught fish of the day. Highlights include the lobster bisque, shrimp ceviche, and Rizzuto’s legendary lobster rolls and crab cakes. 

Chicken francese, porterhouse steak, and wood-fired pizzas are all equally yummy options. Each igloo includes linen-draped tables to make the meal extra special. 

Price: $$