Port of Call invites you to indulge in a dining experience where creativity meets maritime charm. The atmosphere evokes the feel of stepping aboard a vintage ship, while the menu takes you on a global culinary journey. From the polished wood interiors to the innovative drink selection, this restaurant is a true gem in Mystic’s vibrant food scene.
The bartenders at Port of Call are true artisans, known for crafting intricate cocktails inspired by ports from around the world. The drink menu is thoughtfully organized by flavor profiles, ensuring there’s a cocktail to match every craving—whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, sour, salty, or bitter. And if you’re feeling adventurous, we were fortunate enough to have an exceptional bartender who went above and beyond to whip up some off-menu creations. One standout was a coquito, a traditional Puerto Rican holiday drink made with cashew, pumpkin, and coconut, reminiscent of eggnog. It was so delicious, it should definitely be added to the permanent menu.
With its exceptional food pairings and a variety of exciting events on the calendar, Port of Call stands out as a must-visit destination. Here’s an overview of what you can expect from this one-of-a-kind dining experience:
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Charting the Course
The story behind Port of Call begins with a vision to bring the spirit of international ports to the heart of Mystic. From its nautical decor to its globally inspired dishes, every aspect of this restaurant is designed to evoke a sense of adventure. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or settling in for a multi-course meal, each visit feels like embarking on a new journey.
One of the standout features of Port of Call is the meticulously designed interior, which brings the maritime world to life. The bar top, for instance, is made from the exterior hull planking of the Charles W. Morgan, a historic whaling ship preserved at the Mystic Seaport Museum. This iconic piece of the restaurant’s decor not only adds authenticity to the setting but also connects diners to Mystic’s deep maritime roots.
In addition to its stunning atmosphere, Port of Call pays tribute to history through its drink offerings. They proudly serve The Real McCoy rum, a brand inspired by the remarkable story of Bill McCoy, a high-quality rum runner during Prohibition. To evade the legal restrictions of the U.S. government, McCoy lived in international waters, making his rum one of the finest and most sought-after during that time. This fascinating backstory is embedded in the essence of Port of Call, with the rum featured in their expertly crafted cocktails. For those interested in learning more, links to documentaries about McCoy and the Charles W. Morgan are available, allowing guests to explore the rich history behind these unique details.
With its seamless blend of history, maritime charm, and modern creativity, Port of Call offers a dining experience that transports guests to faraway places while celebrating the local heritage of Mystic. Each element—from the bar’s historic wood to the storied rum—makes this a truly immersive journey, bringing the world’s ports right to your table.
See it to Believe it
Taste the World
The menu at Port of Call is an essential part of that journey, with each dish and drink inspired by a specific port city from around the world. Every item has been thoughtfully crafted to reflect the flavors, traditions, and culinary influences of its namesake port.
Take, for example, the Bayside Boil, with a port of call of Providence, Rhode Island. This innovative drink is inspired by the flavors of a classic clam boil, with butter washed aguardiente, corn liquor, Narragansett bay leaf syrup, lemon, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of Old Bay. It’s a coastal-inspired cocktail that captures the essence of Rhode Island’s maritime history, offering a rich and complex flavor profile similar to that of a Bloody Mary.
For a more rustic experience, try the Ham & Warm Crusty Bread, with a port of call of Palermo, Italy. This dish features dry-cured prosciutto, smooth cultured butter, and a drizzle of truffle oil – all served alongside grilled sourdough. It’s a celebration of simple yet luxurious flavors, reminiscent of the charming trattorias in Palermo, where every bite feels like a comforting taste of Sicily’s culinary heritage.
Meet the Visionaries: The Culinary Minds Behind Port of Call
At the helm of Port of Call is Chef and Owner René Touponce, a culinary powerhouse who has redefined the dining landscape of Mystic, CT. With deep Italian and Puerto Rican roots, René’s approach to cooking blends the vibrant flavors of her heritage with the rich, coastal traditions of New England. Her passion for crafting inventive, locally-sourced dishes reflects not only her upbringing but also her respect for the local community and environment.
René’s talent has earned her numerous accolades, including being named Chef of the Year at the 2022 Connecticut Restaurant Association CRAzies Awards, a 2023 James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef Northeast, and most recently, a 2024 James Beard Award finalist for Outstanding Chef. Her philosophy emphasizes zero-waste cooking and honoring every ingredient, a practice that sets her apart as both a chef and a steward of sustainable cuisine.
In addition to Port of Call, René is the chef behind Oyster Club, a revered farm-to-table restaurant known for its ever-changing menu driven by the freshest local ingredients. From fishermen to artisans, every element is sourced locally, ensuring a dining experience that’s as dynamic as it is authentic.
With every dish she creates, René offers more than just a meal—she provides a thoughtful, flavorful journey that celebrates local flavors, sustainability, and creativity. Her influence makes Port of Call more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination where food tells a story, and every bite feels like a connection to something greater.
Dive In: Mystics Hidden Gem
No visit to Port of Call is complete without a stop at Dive. Located beneath the main restaurant, Dive offers a completely different vibe—casual, fun, and perfect for pre-games or late-night vibes. With vintage arcade games, shuffleboard, and a photo booth, there’s always something to keep you entertained. Plus, the reverse happy hour from 10-11 PM is a great way to end the night without breaking the bank.
The area was certainly a bit smaller and boasted strong”towny” energy with larger groups, but we feel like thats exactly what would make it perfect if you visit the area semi-regularly.
Events and Entertainment
Port of Call keeps the energy high and the atmosphere vibrant with a fantastic lineup of regular events. One standout is the Sea Queens Drag Show, held on select Sundays. This lively performance isn’t just a show—it’s an interactive, unforgettable experience that invites the audience to be part of the fun. Expect dazzling performances, fierce costumes, and plenty of laughs, all while celebrating self-expression and creativity in a truly unique way.
For those who love live music, Port of Call also offers Friday night jazz-funk performances, adding the perfect soundtrack to your evening. These talented musicians bring a mix of smooth jazz and funky grooves, creating an atmosphere that’s both laid-back and energizing. Whether you’re there to sip on cocktails, enjoy great food, or just soak in the music, these performances add another layer of enjoyment to an already fantastic experience.
In addition to these regular events, be on the lookout for farm-to-table collaborations throughout the summer, offering special menu items and experiences that highlight local ingredients and seasonal flavors. And to keep up with everything happening, an updated event calendar is available on their website, ensuring you never miss out on the fun. With a calendar full of exciting events like these, Port of Call is much more than just a place to eat—it’s a vibrant community hub where you can make lasting memories.
