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Located right on the scenic beachfront of West Haven, CT, Jimmies of Savin Rock stands as a cherished seafood restaurant that has been a beloved local institution for generations. Renowned for its classic New England seafood fare, Jimmies seamlessly blends the nostalgic charm of a family-run eatery with the inviting atmosphere of a casual, welcoming spot perfect for both locals and visitors craving a genuine seaside dining experience.
The menu is a celebration of fresh, flavorful seafood offerings that are expertly prepared to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Starters like the Fried Calamari offer a crisp, golden crunch with tender, subtly sweet squid inside, while the Sampler for 2, featuring wings, potato skins, and fried mozzarella, bursts with a variety of textures and savory delights—ideal for sharing or indulging solo if you’re feeling adventurous.
For heartier bites, the sandwiches—especially the Jumbo Hamburger and Jumbo Cheeseburger—offer perfectly cooked 8 oz. Angus beef patties, grilled to your preferred doneness from rare to well done, delivering a juicy, satisfying bite each time. But what truly captures the essence of Jimmies are the “Dinner from the Fryer” specials: the Fried Filet of Sole, with its delicately flaky fish encased in a light, crisp coating, and the Fried Clam Strips, which provide the quintessential seaside indulgence, combining briny freshness and a golden, savory crust.
One of the standout qualities of Jimmies is its palpable connection to the community. As Jasmine K., a loyal patron for over three decades, fondly shares, this spot is her first stop back in town, even bringing back frozen orders when she visits from Florida. Such heartfelt loyalty speaks volumes about Jimmies' consistent quality and warm service—something that Kamyia Jacobs also noticed during her visit, enjoying not only the generous portions (65 dollars well spent) but also the unbeatable beachside booth with stunning views and genuinely friendly staff.
The dining atmosphere is unpretentious and cozy, yet vibrant, where customers can savor their meals with the soothing backdrop of ocean waves and harbor breezes visible through large windows. It invites you to slow down, disconnect, and relish the simple joy of great food in a timeless setting.
While some recent reviews hint at challenges, longtime customers like Mike Brough and S Kornman defend the restaurant's integrity and heritage, dismissing negative remarks as unfounded or fueled by local competition. This spirited defense underlines how deeply Jimmies is woven into the fabric of West Haven life. Its story is rich with decades of memories and is emblematic of the neighborhood’s resilience and community spirit.
Whether you’re chasing the classic tastes of New England seafood, looking to unwind next to the water, or seeking a piece of local history served with every plate, Jimmies of Savin Rock is a must-visit destination. It evokes a sense of belonging, comfort, and timeless flavor—a reminder of the simple, authentic pleasures that make a meal unforgettable.
Elvira was wonderful as always. I’ve been coming here my entire life and I’m 36. Even after moving to Florida, every time I come back home this is the first stop as soon as the plane lands. I always get to go orders to freeze and take back :)
Grew up going to Jimmies. Haven't been here in years. After reading the reviews. I decided to make a stop to see if it really is as bad as they say. After much research and personal experience, I am convinced many of the bad reviews are hate from locals and possibly associated with a brewery that was looking to move in next door. I saw reviews of bad food, bad service and the inside falling apart. All of which I found to be untrue. Google should consider removing those reviews and going down and enjoying a meal to confirm this. I have attached photos as proof that Jimmies is clean. The service was very good and the food was enjoyable. Also posted a receipt to show the prices are reasonable as well. Unlike the reviews portray. And to those who are trying to tear this place down with negative false reviews.. kick rocks!
I was on a work trip and chose this restaurant because it was right on the beach. I went on Wednesday night around 7pm. The staff were extremely friendly and immediately greeted me when I walked in. There was no wait time. I got to sit in a booth right next to the window! Perfect view of the beach! I spent $65 because I wanted to try everything lol. I started with the Sampler for 2 and it was HUGE. It came with potato skins, mozzarella sticks which were absolutely delicious (look at that cheese pull), and wings which were crispy and sauced to perfection. I then got the fish and fried shrimp platter once again the portions were HUGE this came with a roll, a salad, 2 pieces of fish, I’m thinking 10-12 shrimp (I didn’t count), fries and 2 slices of bread. The only reason I’m giving food 4 stars is because I was hoping the seafood would be more seasoned. The tartar sauce and cocktail sauce was really good though. I finished off with the Brownie Sundae once again delicious! At the end I walked away with two take home boxes and a take home salad bowl, I got about 2 1/2 additional meals out of this. Very nice! My waiter ( I believe his name was Scott) was very kind and patient with me!
I am an airline crew member and while on a layover in Hartford (Springfield Mass is our crew hotel location) I have rented a car twice to drive to West Haven to see the home I grew up in, right up the street off Kelsey Ave. My memories of Jimmies were back in the 1960's. After two trips to Jimmie's while on my layovers, I can very highly recommend you eat here. I had clam strips the first time and the second visit clam strips again along with some fried shrimp and fries. First class all the way. The clam strips bought back so many memories. My food was hot and full of flavor, just like I remembered. The service was letter perfect as were both my meals. I had such a great time, bought two beer glasses to take home, chatted with the staff about how, as child, my parents would always take me for a hot dog way back in 1961. There is nothing to complain about. Heard the grandkids from the original owner are running the restaurant. I am floored with the negative reviews. My two visits were terrific, and I crave the next visit when I can bring my wife to experience Jimmie's
The closure of this establishment marks the end of an era. I have been a patron of Jimmy's since my childhood in the 1960s. The family who owned and operated it was truly wonderful, and their impending closure is deeply regrettable. The redevelopment efforts in the area during the 1970s proved to be catastrophic. I am hopeful that the new mayor will bring about positive changes.