Dandelion Restaurant Cuisine du Soleil
Dandelion serves, in my humble opinion, the best Mediterranean food in Connecticut. We’d heard great things about the restaurant, which has been open for less than a year, but what we experienced far exceeded our expectations. The space is breathtaking and by far one of New England’s prettiest atmospheres. Trees spring forth from the interior dining room like an enchanted forest of culinary delights, while the sun sets over the warm hues of the outdoor area, bathing the courtyard in dappled sunlight, framed by trickling fountains. I wish I could share all the lovely photos from this meal, but there isn’t enough room here. For now, enjoy some of my favorites, and book a table at Dandelion to experience it for yourself.
Dandelion
Location: Inside Delamar Westport
Address: 1595 Post Road East, Westport, CT
Food Type: Mediterranean
Dining Experience: Indoor & Outdoor
Price: $100+ per Person
Dress Code: Smart Casual+
Reservations: Recommended
Special Diets: Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Gluten-Free (not GF dedicated)
Our Meals
Wood Fired Halloumi
I first fell in love with halloumi in Scotland, where it was on menus everywhere we went. It’s something I rarely see in the States, so of course we had to try it. The wood fire imparts an incredible, rustic flavor to the halloumi while labneh, dukkah, spiced lemon honey, and organic herbs bring it all together in a hearty, delectable starter that I would gladly eat every day. We would return just for this!
Black Sea Bass Crudo
This was like a sunset in a bowl. Kumquat vinaigrette, pickled watermelon rinds, herb oil, and crispy lemon peel elevate this delicious crudo, making every bite heavenly. This dish was extraordinary!
Wood Fired Broiled Prawns
These were huge, delicious, and beautifully plated. I could’ve eaten a dozen! Okay, maybe not a dozen. The prawns were actually the perfect size for a smaller main course. Three took up the entire plate!
Wood Fired Sea Bream
Half of the sea bream was coated in zhoug, and the other half was drenched in seeded chermoula. The entire experience was a beautiful one from start to finish, and every bite was a little different, which made the dish all the more interesting.
Oh, the sea bream was served with incredible lemon sumac potatoes, too. These aren’t something I’d normally eat, but I’m so glad I tried them. Their unique flavor is phenomenal.
Turkish Affogato
We’d had Italian affogato, but this Turkish coffee was on another level completely. I find myself craving this now!
Outdoor Dining Area
We dined inside because it was so hot and humid out, but hopefully it will have cooled off a bit by our next visit, and we can dine al fresco. How gorgeous is this space?
The Verdict
If you’re interested in exploring authentic Mediterranean food beyond Italian cuisine, Dandelion restaurant is the perfect place to do so. Everything was a 10/10, and you know I don’t say that lightly. The service is outstanding, and the atmosphere takes diners straight to the coasts of Greece, Spain, Morocco, Türkiye, and beyond. If you have food allergies, rest easy knowing their staff is well-trained to guide you. If you have celiac disease like me, you can be sure to find many safe, delicious options here. This was one of the best meals I’ve had all year, and I already can’t wait to go back.
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