Clinton, along with surrounding towns on the shoreline such as Madison and Old Saybrook, has amazing food and welcoming atmospheres. The students at Morgan have some favorites from breakfast, lunch, to dinner, and maybe some are your favorites too.
Whether you’re here to learn about these hot spots or maybe find a new one for yourself, your friends, or your family, here’s a lineup with variety and soul.
For best breakfast, the most important meal of the day, we have the Paperback Cafe located in Old Saybrook, which has something for everyone, ranging from omelets to deli sandwiches. Katelyn Connolly is the new owner as of 2022. Paperback Cafe first opened in 1996 by a local couple named Karen & Carl! It was originally half the size it is today and later expanded into the storefront next door.
Connolly purchased the business in 2022 and is the fourth owner of PBC. Paperback has indoor and outdoor seating, with affordable prices averaging about $15 per person. Connolly said, “I’ve tried to modernize the menu in a lot of ways, like using better quality ingredients, adding more trendy items like avocado toast and amping up our espresso drink game.”
A popular dish is Eggs Benedict, made with poached eggs and hollandaise sauce. There’s more to this place than just the food, but the history. Connolly stated, “The original owners had a massive collection of paperback books on the wall of built-ins, which guests were encouraged to take a book, leave a book.” Connolly also says that her parents “have always been my biggest supporters & inspiration” and are a big reason for where she is now. “I am proud of myself for not only taking a massive risk on my own but for seeing it through and running such a successful place,” said Connolly.
The best popular after-school spot, Swell in Old Saybrook, was newly opened in 2025 by owner Kameryn King. Swell has been booming with business and is a favorite for Morgan students. Students say it’s their favorite after-school spot. King says her goal is to “foster a community of people who uplift and inspire one another—where healthy living feels approachable, enjoyable, and, most importantly, sustainable.” With health as a priority, King uses “high-quality ingredients, balanced flavors, and simple combinations packed with nutrients, antioxidants, and essential vitamins to fuel both one’s body and mind.”
A great meal for Morgan students, especially student athletes such as Senior Paige Monty. Monty says, “I love Swell so much. It’s just the perfect place with a great atmosphere for me and my friends to go after school and get a bowl or some toast. I’m so glad it opened since it’s become one of my favorite spots to eat.”
Avery Cutler, a fan of Swell, says her order is the “Locals Only Bowl,” each with a different fruit base preference. Sophomore Addy Beck says she gets the “Big Island Bowl with Pitaya base.” It has bananas, strawberries, blueberries, granola, honey, and more.
King has always dreamed of owning a business, but says the concept didn’t arise until after she graduated college. King says her “biggest inspiration throughout the journey of opening Swell has been my family. They’ve always supported me, encouraged me to pursue my dreams, and shown me the value of hard work and resilience. Their belief in me gave me the confidence to take the leap and turn my vision into reality. The lessons I’ve learned from them—about dedication, perseverance, and the value of hard work and community—have been guiding forces every step of the way.” The most rewarding part to her is seeing people connect with and appreciate what we’ve created. There’s nothing more fulfilling than watching customers return, hearing how much they love the food, and knowing that Swell has become a meaningful part of their daily lives.
Best spots for lunch and dinner. Bradley and Wall, located in Madison, is not only popular among the students at Morgan, but also their families. Morgan students refer to Bradley and Wall as “Bwall.” Ms. Mazzarella, a teacher and parent, says, “Both of my kids love the Boss Wrap. It’s convenient, quick, yet delicious food.” Many factors make this restaurant feel homey, but one is that only locals know certain menu items. This makes customers feel connected and special.
The Boss Wrap is actually one of their most popular items, but the catch is that it isn’t actually on the menu. Most locals know of this menu item, but tourists and out-of-town folks wouldn’t. Sophomores Libby Burns, Taylor Breen, Nora Winsor, and Gwen Madura all agreed it was their favorite meal to order from there. Their menu is extensive, and the prices range from about $10-20 per person. Their food is described as prepared food, including wraps, pasta, cutlets, pizza, and deli items.
Adding variety to lunch and dinner food, the Mexican restaurant Pica Chica Tacos in Clinton serves as the “Taco Dealer” of Clinton, which they express in their slogan. It is a family-run business opened by owner Mari Lee in May 2021. Their most popular item is the mix-and-match three-taco combo. Junior Maddy Caruso excitedly claimed, “Pica Chica is my comfort food. The environment in the restaurant is so welcoming, and the food is so tasty and full of culture.” Her favorite items on the menu are flautas, chicken-filled deep-fried rolls, and shredded beef brisket chimichangas.
Owner Mari Lee said, “I first opened Pica Chica in May of 2021 after having a food truck in Clinton for a year. It was the old Aunt Shirley’s restaurant, which was previously closed.” The business has been thriving since then, with their “busiest months being the summer,” Lee said. Lee grew up in Weslaco, Texas, being one of 10 kids. Her father was always cooking with her, being where she picked up her passion for it. She always dreamed of having a restaurant one day, and “with the help of my family and my community, that dream was able to come true,” Lee said.
Finishing out the lunch and dinner menu, Steamed, located in Madison, has a variety of Chinese cuisine from dumplings to cold noodles. It opened in 2015 when it replaced a prior restaurant. It has since become a popular place in the downtown area. Their prices are extremely affordable, with Pork Buns for $3.50 to pork dumplings for $8.00. Senior Michael Fusco says, “Whenever I go to Steamed, I get the pork dumplings and brown sugar boba.” Steamed has friendly staff. According to Morgan junior Lauren Abbott, “Their staffing is amazing because I will go and sit down and have immediate service, and they are always quick with getting your food to you.”
Sophomore Hernika Singh also said, “Me and my friends are always at Steamed, and one of my friends goes so often. The staff is so personable, and they know their customers because they know her order before she even asks to order.” The atmosphere is dimly lit with cultural decorations and wooden tables and chairs, making it feel cozy.
No matter the meal, these establishments dish out the perfect food, atmosphere, and prices according to Morgan students and families. All located on Route 1, they are local and just right for a solo meal or a family dinner. There are reasons why Morgan students love these spots, from hospitality to taste. Take a friend and go see why!
