Shelly's on the River

Just around the corner from downtown Stamford at is a gem of a restaurant. Lovely soft lighting, the sounds of cool jazz and attentive service are just a few reasons to try . 

The menu at Shelly's is described as American fusion by its chef, Tim Depelteau.  Depelteau is one of the city's younger chefs and possesses a stellar talent. He apprenticed in an American bistro in Hastings-on-the-Hudson, NY, under his brother, who is a French Culinary Institute graduate. 

“Food is a universal language just like music” Depelteau told Patch. “I look at cooking than more than just a job, it is a trade that I carry with me everywhere."

Moroccan Spiced Lamb Chops magically appeared soon after I took my seat at the table. These baby chops are served with a spectacular double coriander cream sauce. They are sublime and seasoned perfectly with just a hint of heat. 

You may order these lamb chops either on a small plate for $10, or as a main course with Garlic Sautéed Spinach and Roasted Fingerling Potatoes for $28. As an accompaniment, there were Little Zucchini Wraps ($7). Bursting with flavor, I could distinctly taste every ingredient of roasted peppers, spinach, roasted tomato and fresh mozzarella.

The next course was Grilled Open Fire Tiger Shrimp with Garlic Crostini with Bourbon Spiced Cajun Cream Sauce ($9). I then sampled Iron Seared Angus Petite Filet ($10), which melted in my mouth. Served with a forest mushroom ragout, it was just the ticket on this frigid February night. As if that wasn’t enough, out came Won-Ton Seared Scallops with Tomato-Ginger Chutney ($9).

Having no intention of having dessert, Chef Depelteau tempted me with his Chocolate Crème Brule ($7), which is made from scratch. There are no words to describe it other than "heaven." Other desserts include Fried Ice Cream ($7), Bananas Foster ($6) and Mini Cheesecakes ($8).

Menu options also include Shelly’s famous Hickory Smoked Ribs with Jicama-Apple Slaw, a specialty of the house. Again, you can order them as a small plate or as a main course. A variety of soups and salads are also offered along with interesting side dishes. 

The bar bites menu is perfect for happy hour, late nights or anytime in between.  Enjoy a grilled Angus Beef Burger ($12), Mini Beef Sliders ($9) or Margarita Pizza ($9).

Shelly’s offers a full bar with specialty drinks that are absolutely refreshing. Try the Louisiana Mint Julep, Mojito Mania or a 151 New Orleans Hurricane. Any one of these lively cocktails will surely get the party started. And on Thursday evenings, Shelly’s presents live entertainment, while on Friday nights, a DJ spins the latest dance grooves.

Shelly’s on the River has it all and is highly recommended.