Welcome to The Main Moose
Located in Columbia, Connecticut, The Main Moose is a delightful roadside eatery that combines delicious food with family-friendly fun. Patrons rave about its mouthwatering menu, featuring everything from juicy burgers and fresh seafood platters to irresistible ice cream flavors. The inviting atmosphere includes ample outdoor seating and engaging activities like gem sluicing for kids and adults alike. Guests appreciate the quick service and friendly staff, making every visit enjoyable. Whether you’re stopping by after a hike or looking for a charming spot to grab a bite, The Main Moose promises a satisfying experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
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94 CT-66, Columbia, CT 06237, United States Hotline: +1 860-337-0113
Nestled along the picturesque stretch of CT-66 in Columbia, Connecticut, The Main Moose beckons to locals and travelers alike with its charming roadside appeal. This vibrant eatery stands out not just for its friendly atmosphere but for a menu that boasts a delightful fusion of classic comfort food and an array of family-friendly options.
As you approach The Main Moose, the casual charm of this establishment is palpable. With ample outdoor seating, shaded by umbrellas and canopies, diners can enjoy their meals while soaking in the fresh air. Patrons order at a convenient window, receiving a buzzer to collect their dishes—a system that enhances the carefree vibe of this dining spot.
Food enthusiasts rave about the perfectly cooked fries, celebrated for their crispy exterior and soft, flavorful centers. Whether you opt for a hefty burger overflowing with cheese or one of their famed lobster rolls, each bite promises satisfaction. Notable mentions include the juicy burgers, whole belly clams, and giant fried shrimp, all crafted with care to ensure quality and flavor.
For those with a sweet tooth, the ice cream selection at The Main Moose is a must-try. From unique offerings like graham cracker ice cream laced with chocolate-covered honey bits to classic favorites such as butter pecan, there's a flavor for every palate. The separate ice cream window allows guests to indulge in a cool treat paired with their meals.
What truly elevates the experience is the engaging atmosphere. With activities such as the Moose Sluice, where both kids and adults can sift through dirt to uncover gems and fossils, The Main Moose is more than just a dining venue—it's a destination for family fun and memorable moments. Friendly staff members, known for their warm hospitality, add to the welcoming vibe, ensuring that every visit feels special.
In a world where dining experiences can often feel impersonal, The Main Moose succeeds in creating a space where delicious food and fond memories converge effortlessly. Whether you aim to quench your hunger after a day of hiking or simply wish to enjoy a casual meal with family, this roadside gem is certainly worth the visit. So next time you find yourself traveling through Columbia, make a stop at The Main Moose—you won’t be disappointed.
We hit this spot on the way home from a day of hiking and I'm so glad we did. It's so nice to find great little places when you're driving around. They had plenty of seat yourself tables out of the sun with a covered area and tables with umbrellas. You order at a window and get a buzzer to pick up your food. The food and ice cream windows were separate. We didn't have to wait long at all and the food was good, the fries especially were cooked perfectly and had such good flavor. Husband and boy got chili dogs and I got steak and cheese that I could only eat half of so husband finished it, so filling but so delicious, and also we had to try the ice cream. Which was absolutely worth trying, I got the graham cracker ice cream with chocolate covered honey bits and boy got cookie dough and husband got the old man's special of butter pecan. Such a great spot, definitely worth checking out. They accept cash and cards.
The Main Moose is a fantastic spot for great food and family fun! I had a delicious, freshly grilled burger that totally hit the spot. The menu has something for everyone—seafood platters, lobster rolls, sandwiches, salads, and more. The hardest part was choosing an ice cream flavor with so many tempting options! The Moose Sluice (panning for stones) was a blast and such a fun, unique activity. The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. I even bought a t-shirt to remember my time there. Can’t wait to go back!
Great whole belly clams and huge delicious fried shrimp!!! Excellent French fries, crispy and soft at the same time! OUTSTANDING!
The food is roadside with a twist. The fries are some of the best. Plenty of cheese on their burgers. The Drinks are great. Regular sodas to homemade lemonade and more. The ice cream is AMAZING. Covered eating area for bad weather but still outside for fresh air. The employees are super nice and very helpful.
Food was excellent. Juicy burger. Chicken strips were great. Had games for the kids. Plus now on the other side of the parking lot you can go sluicing. Which is taking a bag of dirt and running it threw water in a basket to find gems and fossils. Very fun. Kids and adults loved it. Prices for the bags of dirt vary on size but you'll want the big bag.
Found this place unexpectedly. What a great place!! Food is delicious. Service is quick and staff is very friendly and helpful. You order your food and find a seat. Outdoor seating, plenty of it. Can't wait to go back
Really fun place to go with the family once the weather is nice. Lots of things to do on the grounds and places to eat. We usually bring cards or games to play while we wait for food and the kids can keep themselves entertained. My one qualm is I wish they had a few more vegetarian options. Everything I’ve had though is well made and I love the drink selections.
I think I was having a bad day the other day when I left a less than glowing review. I had a few service issues at The Moose, which In retrospect were quite minor. Being a little teed-off, and being a former journalist, can cause me to take to the typewriter when I should be a little more understanding and tolerant. Jackie, the manager, was kind enough to respond with a seemingly heartfelt apology and a reasonable explanation for my experience. I very much appreciate her taking the time to do that. For that reason, I've retracted my negative review and submitted a 5-star. This is a lovely roadside restaurant that the town of Columbia is fortunate to have. The food and vibe of the place are excellent. I wish The Maine Moose continued success, and recommend it without hesitation. I expect to be patronizing them regularly this season... and will also work at being less of a curmudgeon.