Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Middletown

Treated like they really wanted you to visit and enjoy yourself. Our waiter, Christian, could not have been more accommodating. The food was delicious, so much so that every bite was pleasant for both of us. Very imaginative preparation and presentation. You go to a place like Max’s on a special occasion hoping to get your money’s worth and we always have. And it seems we always comment the next day how much we enjoyed our night out at Max Fish. The ONLY thing I’d change if I were king: Max Fish always provides delicious rolls/bread in a nice basket, but the tiny pad of butter they provide is rock-hard, unspreadable and not even enough for one person, and we had two people. Would love spreadable butter or olive oil for dipping. Still, that minor irritation is nothing that would keep us from a return visit.

Chefs Andre and Josh presented a wonderful "Christmas Around the World" menu. From the duck tamales to the prime rib, everything was perfectly prepared. Our servers, Makenzie and Ben, kept the food and drinks coming to our large family party. This was a memorable night.

Arethusa has always been a great experience. They sweat the details and operate as if they expect to be a perpetual 5 star restaurant. There are hints of well-considered minutiae everywhere you look. For example, a glass saucer arrived on a desert plate that had a small cutout of tacky shelf liner material. My guest and I were impressed that the shelf liner was there so the saucer wouldn't slide off the plate. Water is offered either carbonated or flat. You will be given complimentary fresh made bread, and probably a shot of cold cucumber soup (or seasonal flavor of their choosing). Flavors are expertly honed and curated. Plates arrive at the table photo-ready and impressively organized. Best to choose not to look at the menu prices, and cost is sort of besides the point here. It is as fancy a dining experience as you will get in the county of Litchfield, CT. Appetizers and entrees have relatively small portion sizes, but each bite is to be savored. The gourmet cheeseboard is a necessity, as is the savory lamb belly, as are the pork dumplings, as is the tuna tartare with homemade potato chips.... I have never had a bad morsel of food here. Staff is beyond attentive; telekinetic is a more apt word. They see and sense exactly when to engage and usually do the right thing at the right time. Bonus: they are also associated with a working dairy farm and make their own ice cream. And it is THAT good.

Amazing service, great wine list and amazing steak!!

Never been before thought we’d give it a try. Don’t think the reservation was really necessary but the dining area was very clean and welcoming. The server, Lisa, was a super sweet and attentive. Helped make recommendations and substitutions as requested. The food was great. Spinach salad was a nice taste of summer with berries and goat cheese. I had the steak which was cooked as requested. The veggies were were also tender crisp and not covered in oil or butter. Definitely recommend this spot. Lisa was a true delight as a server and we had a great time with her.