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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Essex

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Griswold Inn restaurant
1. The Griswold Inn
4.4
Awesome(905)
Price: Expensive
• American • Essex
Booked 3 times today
The Griswold Inn is an inn and restaurant located in the historic seaport village of Essex. The Gris, as it is affectionately known, has been in continous operation since 1776.`Currently we are offering dine in, dine out, and Gris To Go! Inside, guests may enjoy dining in historic, art-filled rooms which exude character, charm and tradition. Seating for the alfresco experience is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with the exception of larger parties of 7 or more which may be made by calling 860.767.1776. The Inn boasts a wine list consistently recognized by Wine Spectator with the prestigious Award of Excellence; Food & Wine and Travel + Leisure have recently recognized the Inn's restaurant as "Connecticut's coziest" and it is included in Patricia Schulz's "1000 Places to See Before You Die". The Griswold Inn is also the recipient of Connecticut's Highest Award for Hospitality. The best of old and new meet here.
A photo of La Marea restaurant
2. La Marea
4.8
Exceptional(1763)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 18 times today
Savor the authentic tastes of Italy when you dine at La Marea. Located on the shoreline of CT in Old Saybrook, our family owned Italian restaurant prepares northern and southern Italian cuisine using a mix of the finest imports from Italy as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy your dining experience in either our dining room or be sure to reserve a seat at our conversational hi-top tables or at the bar in our lounge.Important: when making a reservation through OpenTable there is an option to make a reservation at a high top table in the bar area or standard table which is in the dining room. If the high top option does not pop up as an option for you then that means that there are NO High Top tables available at those times. If you would like to reserve bar seats please leave us a note or call us. See you soon! Take-out available
A photo of The Essex restaurant
3. The Essex
4.8
Exceptional(1003)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 10 times today
Set in the heart of downtown, across from the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, the “new” Essex will continue to offer the progressive, modern, approachable cuisine that has made it a top restaurant in the region. Whether it’s a pre-theater dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a tasting menu for a special evening, guests can gather at The Essex to create memories with family and friends while enjoying excellent cuisine. The Essex menu showcases modern American cuisine that draws inspiration from the land, sea and deep heritage of the Connecticut River Valley, using the freshest locally sourced products available from farm and sea. All will inspire an ever-changing menu of progressive interpretations of timeless dishes. "Voted Best New Restaurant in New England" Yankee Magazine "Best Restaurants in Connecticut" CT Magazine "Not to be Missed" Town & Country Magazine"Rising Chef Star" CT Mag
A photo of Liv's Oyster Bar restaurant
4. Liv's Oyster Bar
4.8
Exceptional(2673)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 13 times today
Opening in 2006, Liv’s Oyster Bar and Restaurant quickly became a dining destination in Old Saybrook. Inspired by his daughter, Olivia, and years of experience in the restaurant industry, owner John Brescio set out with a desire to welcome the community to his family’s table.Dining at Liv’s, whether in the main room, at the bar, or on the patio, is an experience to be savored with friends and family long after summer on the shoreline has past.John Brescio also serves as Liv’s Executive Chef, creating simple, focused dishes with an emphasis on local ingredients, and the stunning seafood that the area provides. The menu at Liv’s changes with the seasons, bringing guests a true taste of the pristine environment. John works closely with Liv’s partners to make sure only the best produce is used, as he would serve nothing less to his family.Together with his exceptional staff, John welcomes you to the special experience he’s created at Liv’s Oyster Bar.
A photo of Scotch Plains Tavern restaurant
5. Scotch Plains Tavern
4.3
Awesome(703)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Essex
Scotch Plains Tavern is a neighborhood gem because of its authentic tavern cuisine and rustic ambiance. Reviewers rave about its excellent food and great atmosphere, with one even mentioning that it's a 'fantastic establishment to come & enjoy time with family'. The staff is also highly praised for being attentive. The outdoor seating with fire pits and the renovated upstairs bar are additional highlights that make this place a local favorite.
A photo of Café Routier restaurant
6. Café Routier
4.8
Exceptional(2147)
Price: Moderate
• American • Westbrook
Booked 13 times today
Café Routier is a neighborhood gem because of its excellent service, delightful food, and a consistently evolving menu. Reviewers rave about its creative, flavorful dishes, with one noting, 'The menu is always exciting and always on point!' Another reviewer says, 'The food is outstanding. I have been going to this restaurant for the last three years. Each time is better than the last!' The restaurant is also praised for its ambiance, being described as 'cozy and romantic' and 'welcoming.'
A photo of Aspen Restaurant restaurant
7. Aspen Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1689)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Old Saybrook
Booked 17 times today
Aspen Restaurant is a neighborhood gem, located in Old Saybrook, CT. Known for its contemporary American cuisine with global accents, it was voted the 'Best New Restaurant for 2009' by Connecticut Magazine. Customers rave about its warm, comfortable elegance, great service and delicious food, with many reviewers rating their experience as 'outstanding' and 'consistently excellent'. The restaurant offers a variety of options and is described as 'always top notch' and 'excellent'. It's a favorite among locals and is appreciated for its cozy ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing dinner or a special occasion.
A photo of Penny Lane Pub restaurant
8. Penny Lane Pub
4.5
Awesome(324)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 13 times today
Penny Lane Pub & Restaurant is an English style pub located in Old Saybrook. The casual and friendly atmosphere on two stories offers plenty of options for diners. Whether you choose the entertaining and active downstairs or the quieter dining upstairs or even the patio when weather permits, the casual pub fare will win you over.Lunch choices at Penny Lane Pub & Restaurant include classic English pub favorites such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie and a corned beef Reuben. Be sure to also visit Penny Lane Pub & Restaurant for live music on Friday nights. Heading to the Kate theater just walking distance down Main street? Make a reservation today!
A photo of Fresh Salt restaurant
9. Fresh Salt
4.6
Exceptional(1485)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 39 times today
Fresh Salt is more than just a restaurant; it is a place to enjoy one another’s company and experience the breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound quietly intertwined with the Connecticut River. Utilizing the chef’s simple yet high quality approach, the fresh, seasonal local ingredients of Connecticut are transformed into beautifully inspired dishes. Our Local Food Commitment allows us to work with local farmers and artisans to ensure the quality of locally grown ingredients from the sea, land and soil. These fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes of Fresh Salt are available daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located right on the water means seriously fresh seafood and our menu definitely delivers. From the beloved Lobster Roll to the cherished Clam Chowder and so many more specialties, Fresh Salt dishes are guaranteed to please every palate. We offer indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor dining is based on a first come first serve basis, outdoor dining is non-reservable.
A photo of Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro restaurant
10. Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(2433)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Clinton
Booked 18 times today
Established in 1983, Chamard Vineyards, is one of the Connecticut Wine Trails founding fathers. Tucked between the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River, Chamard enjoys a unique marine micro-climate ideal for growing European Vinifera vines such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Pinot Noir. To produce “French Inspired Wines from the Connecticut Shoreline” has been Chamards mission from the start. As a farm, Chamard honors agriculture by partnering with fellow growers and producers to pair food with wine in celebration of Connecticut’s local gastronomy.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Laurenvip
    Greater Boston •120 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We loved the festive atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Our server, Aiden, was wonderful and friendly. We knew the restaurant was busy and he had lots of tables to handle. He was great. I had the butternut squash soup and butternut squash ravioli (both delicious)! My husband had the prime rib and enjoyed it as well. It was a relaxing night out in a quaint historic setting.
    More info
    The Griswold InnPrice: Expensive• American• Essex
    •
    4.4
  • Karenvip
    New York City •129 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The menu has a good variety. The food was excellent! Tasty with a nice presentation. The Chef Antonio is wonderful, accommodating & friendly. He offered us a shot of their homemade Bailey’s… delicious! We ordered a few bottles for Christmas.
    More info
    La MareaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.8
  • Johnvip
    New York City •54 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Local gem, buzzing with activity on a Wednesday evening. Good food, good service, lovely evening out!
    More info
    Liv's Oyster BarPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.8
  • Weston
    Hawaii •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 23, 2024
    We had the 7 course chef’s experience with wine pairing. Absolutely outstanding! The first course was unbelievably delicious. Yet somehow each course got even better. Wine selection was beautifully paired. Waiter was attentive and very helpful with descriptions. Loved our experience.
    More info
    The EssexPrice: Expensive• American• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.8
  • Joseph
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 14, 2024
    Food and staff are Great! Will not disappoint...
    More info
    Scotch Plains TavernPrice: Moderate• Pub• Essex
    •
    4.3

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Essex

Discover the hidden culinary treasures of Essex, Connecticut, a charming town in Middlesex County renowned for its vibrant dining scene. Here, each restaurant shines as a neighborhood gem, offering unique dining experiences that cater to both locals and visitors alike. These establishments are celebrated for their exceptional service, where friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure a memorable meal. Patrons can expect a selection of venues that boast both cozy, rustic ambiances and elegant, refined settings, perfect for any occasion from casual outings to special celebrations. The culinary offerings are as diverse as they are delectable, with menus featuring everything from traditional tavern fare to sophisticated gourmet dishes. Many restaurants in this area also take pride in their beautiful settings, whether it's a picturesque outdoor seating area with fire pits or a quaint, architecturally rich dining room. For those seeking an authentic taste of Essex's local flavor and a truly personal dining experience, these neighborhood gems are sure to delight and satisfy.

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