Joey C’s Boathouse: The CT Waterfront Taco & Margarita Spot Everyone’s Talking About
Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill: Meet the Chef
We sat down with Chef Joe Catalano of Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill in Stratford, Connecticut. Set along the Housatonic River at the Dock marina, this lively waterfront spot blends Tex-Mex, BBQ, and fresh seafood into a casual, high-energy dining experience. The menu ranges from tacos and margaritas to ribs and seafood platters, giving it a “something for everyone” appeal. What makes it stand out is its “clean comfort food” approach—recipes skip refined sugars and rely on fresh ingredients, organic agave, and house-made sauces for a lighter twist on indulgent favorites.
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
The vibe is just as important as the food: think open-air seating, marina views, live energy, and tropical-Key-West-style décor, making it one of the more unique waterfront hangouts in Connecticut.
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I like to start my day with a nice ginger lemon shot to kick-start my engine! Ending the day with a nice meal with my family and some teatime relaxes us for a good night's sleep. We're tea fanatics in our house!
Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?
Hard question... don't have a favorite. We love sushi and of course great pasta from Italy! There are many awesome chefs doing wonderful things with quality ingredients from Italy.
Stay true to your standards, learn as much as you can, and be humble.
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?
My biggest achievement is opening up Joey C's Boathouse in a location that many others failed. My wife and I knew that it was a diamond in the rough in a beautiful waterfront setting, so we took the plunge to completely renovate and create what is now CT's premier waterfront dining and music venue.
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
What do you typically cook at home?
Fish... all kinds. We're seafood lovers!
What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?
Poke' bowls. Love the combination of textures and flavors! Plus, you can eat Poke' with a fork and ditch the chopsticks with no shame!
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
What's the strangest food combination you've ever tried? And did you like it?
Probably what I would call the strangest is pineapple on pizza. As an Italian who lived in Italy, you just don't do it. So, the answer is: no!
What drink do you enjoy most?
I love a proper Negroni. The balance of sweet, bitter, and herbal is perfect. But a nice red wine is king.
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
What’s Your Instagram So Readers Can Follow You?
You can follow us on Instagram at @joeycsboathouse.
Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?
Yes, I have cooked for several famous people. Madonna at an Italian restaurant in NYC called Remi back in the 90's. Robert Redford and Mayor Giuliani at the Country Club of Fairfield where I was chef. Sting at The Ritz-Carlton in Marina Del Ray. Michael Jordan and the whole Chicago Bulls team at the Ritz, and I could go on... I've been fortunate to work at some great restaurants that gave me the opportunity to create nice food.
Image Credit: Joey C's Boathouse Cantina & Grill
Why should readers visit Joey C’s in Stratford, Connecticut?
People love the atmosphere, the food, and the music! We try to give our guests more than just a meal. It's a one-stop place for fun! We are located on the beautiful Housatonic River and marina, with a huge patio for dockside dining. We even have free transient slips if you would like to come by boat! It's a fun, relaxed atmosphere with great seafood (our lobster rolls are famous!), burgers, steaks, and of course cocktails! To top off your experience, we are one of the largest live music venues in Connecticut! Dinner and dancing under the stars!
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