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Best Cozy Restaurants in Old Saybrook

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12 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of The Essex restaurant
1. The Essex
4.9
Exceptional(1068)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 15 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 Fresh Salt restaurant
2. Fresh Salt
4.5
Awesome(1577)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 65 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 Café Routier restaurant
3. Café Routier
4.8
Exceptional(2196)
Price: Expensive
• American • Westbrook
Booked 20 times today
Café Routier is a cozy spot, as praised by many reviewers. One customer mentioned the 'romantic ambiance' while another highlighted the 'quiet ambiance' which contributed to a delightful dining experience. The 'lovely setting' and 'great ambiance' were also noted, making it a great place for a gathering or special occasion.
A photo of Old Lyme Inn restaurant
4. Old Lyme Inn
4.6
Exceptional(709)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Lyme
Booked 7 times today
The Old Lyme Inn’s restaurant and bar offers guests contemporary New England Fare in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. Our chef embraces the changing seasons and bounty of the Connecticut River Valley to offer creative menus. Since its opening in April 2012, the restaurant has quickly become a celebrated meeting place for visitors and locals alike. The inn boasts three different dining rooms, a grand eight seat bar and a fireplace adorned library. The Side Door Jazz Club offers shows every Friday and Saturday night and has been recognized by 'Down Beat' magazine as one of the best jazz venues in the world.Whether you're joining us for our famous "Jazzy" brunch, cozying up with a friend at our afternoon tea or enjoying an elegant dinner before a show at the Side Door; we can't wait to exceed your expectations.
A photo of Little Pub- Old Saybrook restaurant
5. Little Pub- Old Saybrook
4.8
Exceptional(149)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 4 times today
Great food, generous drinks, and a lively pub atmosphere you'll feel right at home in. A rustic neighborhood gathering place with a relentless focus on customer service, value, and fun.
A photo of The Griswold Inn restaurant
6. The Griswold Inn
4.9
Exceptional(949)
Price: Expensive
• American • Essex
Booked 8 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 Surfridge Brewing Company restaurant
7. Surfridge Brewing Company
4.6
Exceptional(50)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Centerbrook
Booked 2 times today
Wood fired Artisanal pizza and brewpub. Cold and hot share plates, Neapolitan Pies, and chef driven cuisine. House brewed beers, wines, mixology. Large patio, family and dog friendly.
A photo of The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn restaurant
8. The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn
5.0
Exceptional(100)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Essex
Booked 2 times today
The Wine Bar at The Griswold Inn is an extraordinary space in which to enjoy a delicious experience in every respect. It features an innovative tapas menu, inspired "macro" plates, artisanal cheeses and handcrafted desserts. The menu changes periodically to take advantage of all that characterizes a particular season, though there are a few classics that remain on the menu throughout the year, like its very popular Grilled and Carved Bistro Steak, served with white truffle-laced pommes frites, arugula,and red wine jus. A consistent winner of Wine Spectator's prestigious Award of Excellence, it offers numerous wines by the glass, wine flights, and a more extensive bottle list. A full-service bar is also available. A creative and accomplished chef and a knowledgeable and attentive service staff complete the experience.
A photo of The Brushmill by the Waterfall restaurant
9. The Brushmill by the Waterfall
4.5
Awesome(659)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Chester
Booked 12 times today
The Brushmill By The Waterfall is a restaurant and tavern featuring contemporary cuisine in an elegant setting overlooking a romantic waterfall on the Pattaconk Creek located in picturesque Chester, Connecticut.
A photo of Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro restaurant
10. Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(2472)
Price: Expensive
• French American • Clinton
Booked 13 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
  • William
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The tasting menu was a wonderful, elegant culinary journey. We enjoyed sitting at the counter and observing the talented kitchen crew at the height of service. Had a chance to chat with Colt, the chef and owner. All in all a memorable and delicious experience.
    More info
    The EssexPrice: Expensive• American• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.9
  • NancyVIP
    New York City •146 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Food was very good as well as service. Loved our seat overlooking the water in the corner. A bit pricey but it was a special occasion.
    More info
    Fresh SaltPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.5
  • ChristineVIP
    Greater Boston •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Perfect Father's Day Jazz Brunch! Nice corner table and wonderful Jazz Ensemble! Food and drinks were delicious and our server was very personable and engaging!
    More info
    Old Lyme InnPrice: Expensive• American• Old Lyme
    •
    4.6
  • Rance
    Greater Boston •80 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 6, 2025
    We've been visiting Cafe Routier for years and its always a wonderful experience. The food is superb, the ambiance lovely and the service outstanding. We went last night for my mothers 90th birthday and had another memorable meal with them and as always they did a splendid job making sure everything was perfect. I can say without reservation that the cafe is a gem here on the shoreline and as locals, we go there often. Anyone looking for superb food, wonderful service and a most memorable meal should consider visiting, locals and tourists alike when in Westbrook.
    More info
    Café RoutierPrice: Expensive• American• Westbrook
    •
    4.8
  • Tammy
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on May 29, 2025
    Our server, Kyle, was great. Friendly and attentive. Food was amazing and came out quick. The restaurant was full on our side but not noisy. My parents were in town for my 50th and it was a perfect place to have a casual yummy dinner.
    More info
    Little Pub- Old SaybrookPrice: Moderate• American• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.8

Discover best cozy restaurants in Old Saybrook

Discover the charm of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, through its delightful array of cozy dining spots perfect for a warm, intimate meal. Nestled in the scenic Middlesex County, this historic town offers a variety of restaurants that embody the essence of coziness with their inviting ambiances, soft lighting, and comfortable seating, making each dining experience uniquely comforting. The local cuisine is praised for its blend of traditional American flavors with a touch of New England charm, ensuring every meal is not only delicious but also memorable. Old Saybrook's dining scene is vibrant yet relaxed, with eateries that are ideal for both casual get-togethers and romantic evenings. By prioritizing high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, these restaurants not only promise a tantalizing meal but also support the surrounding community. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these cozy eateries in Old Saybrook offer a perfect backdrop for dining that feels both luxurious and homey, reflecting the town's rich culinary culture and warm hospitality.

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