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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Old Saybrook

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4 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Essex restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1034)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 6 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 The Griswold Inn restaurant
4.5
Awesome(933)
Price: Expensive
• American • Essex
Booked 10 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 Scotch Plains Tavern restaurant
4.4
Awesome(701)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Essex
If you’re looking for an authentic tavern cuisine and rustic ambiance, Scotch Plains Tavern is the place to be. Located minutes from Essex Steam Train, Rt. 9, and I-95, guests can kick back with a drink and some wings in our newly renovated upstairs bar, redesigned in a modern vintage industrial style while maintaining the original bar from Oliver’s Tavern. The bar, retrofitted for additional space, was originally built in 1913 for a bar in Chicago where Al Capone is rumored to have regularly tipped a glass.
A photo of Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2450)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Clinton
Booked 2 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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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Eileen
    New York City •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    We had a lovely brunch at the Artisan this afternoon. We had a 12:30 reservation, which was a good time as it was not too crowded. Both our selections from the fixed price menu were excellent. We had the French toast and the Crocque Madame. The eggs were perfect. The noise level was acceptable and there was a very good guitarist playing quiet background music. Very satisfactory. We recommend it.
    More info
    ArtisanPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Southport
    4.7
  • C
    New York City •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We came for the Valentines special tasting menu. Normally I am not a fan of the bloated vdaypreset menu, however at $165 per person this over delivered and was truly special! 9 courses of excitement, attentive service, wonderful wine and an unpretentious atmosphere. The food, I mean this was the best meal we have ever had! The surprise winner of the night? “The Beet”. No words can even do justice to a simple roasted beet with a magical ride of adventure! And the best part? As they said, this is not a one off for the holiday, this is just like any other night at the restaurant with their tasting menu!
    More info
    The EssexPrice: Expensive• American• Old Saybrook
    4.8
  • amandaVIP
    Rhode Island •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Consistently excellent dining at Ella's. We dined here for Valentines Day last night, and as always it was perfect. The chocolate mousse special dessert was really good. Ella's never makes us feel rushed. Ella's is one of our constant go-to's ever since they opened.
    More info
    Ella's Food and DrinkPrice: Moderate• French American• Westerly
    4.9
  • John
    New York City •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable staff. Francesco was our server and he was outstanding. The food was delicious and prepared perfectly. Wonderful way for us to spend our Valentines Day.
    More info
    The North Fork Table & InnPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Southold
    4.8
  • Deborah
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We had heard a lot about the tin peddler and were very happy to try it with friends this week. Service was delightful and the food was phenomenal. The cocktail selection was also great. and the sticky toffee pudding was delicious ! What a treat !Definitely will return soon.!
    More info
    The Tin PeddlerPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• North Stonington
    4.9

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Old Saybrook

If you're planning a culinary road trip to Old Saybrook in Middlesex County, Connecticut, you're in for a treat. This charming town is not just a scenic enclave but also a hub for dining experiences that are "worth the drive." Each restaurant in the area brings a unique blend of flavors, often focusing on local seafood and seasonal ingredients, which embody the essence of New England cuisine. The dining scene in Old Saybrook is vibrant and diverse, offering everything from casual eateries to upscale dining, ensuring there's something to satisfy every palate. Visitors can expect top-notch service, a welcoming atmosphere, and, most importantly, memorable meals that justify the journey. These establishments not only highlight culinary expertise but also emphasize a warm, hospitable environment that complements their delicious offerings. Whether you're a local or a traveler, these restaurants promise an enriching dining experience that's well worth the drive.

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