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Since its opening three years ago, Ripka’s has elevated beachside dining at Calf Pasture. Though it features a variety of classic shore snack such as burgers and hot dogs, the locally sourced seafood steals the show. Fresh clams and oysters are harvested straight from Long Island Sound by East Norwalk’s Copps Island Oysters and are served daily.
“Not everyone restaurant that says they’re farm to table actually is. Here, we get our local product delivered daily,” says owner Clyde Ripka. Whether you like your shellfish fried and served on a delicious Louisiana style po boy or raw with a little hot sauce and lemon, Ripka’s does it all with a local touch.
Most dishes go from the ocean to plate in less than a day, says Ripka, as keeping everything local is at the heart of his business.
A Norwalk Seaport Association member for eight years, he has catered several events for the association on Sheffield Island, hosted local clam bakes and operates several additional food ventures in southwest Fairfield County.
Ripka’s location has also made it a hit with the beach’s active crowd. Thanks to its proximity to the volleyball, baseball, softball, and bocce leagues, business doesn’t skip a beat when the sun goes down. On some weeknights, concerts are held within earshot of the outdoor seating, and several local benefits are a stone's throw away.
Just steps from the beach, Ripka’s is the summer place to grab a burger and beer and enjoy the sun and sand. Pressed for time and don’t want to spend money on beach parking? Simply tell the parking attendant that you’re grabbing lunch and they’ll let you in for a lesser fee.
For more information visit Ripka’s online or call 203- 956-6060. Open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., or later depending on events. It's open year round.
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