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Best Restaurants with a Vibrant Bar Scene in Essex

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18 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of The Griswold Inn restaurant
1. The Griswold Inn
4.8
Exceptional(949)
Price: Expensive
• American • Essex
Booked 16 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 The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn restaurant
2. The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn
5.0
Exceptional(100)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Essex
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 Liv's Oyster Bar restaurant
3. Liv's Oyster Bar
4.8
Exceptional(2731)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 23 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 Surfridge Brewing Company restaurant
4. Surfridge Brewing Company
4.3
Awesome(53)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Centerbrook
Booked 5 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 Aspen Restaurant restaurant
5. Aspen Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1742)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Old Saybrook
Booked 24 times today
The Aspen Restaurant has a vibrant bar scene with its dual-sided fireplace creating a great ambiance. Reviewers love sitting at the bar and appreciate the excellent service. The restaurant's bar area is great for drinks and dinner, making it a popular spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.
A photo of The Brushmill by the Waterfall restaurant
6. The Brushmill by the Waterfall
4.4
Awesome(660)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Chester
Booked 24 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 Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge restaurant
7. Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge
4.4
Awesome(901)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Westbrook
Booked 28 times today
Located on the expansive grounds of the Water’s Edge Resort and Spa sits a beautiful restaurant with magnificent ocean views, Dattilo Fine Italian, the jewel of the Connecticut shoreline. The cuisine is fresh, creative and bold, with flavors reminiscent of old-world Italy. A rich authentic menu pairs with our extensive wine list features wines from across the globe. In addition to the seasonal menu Dattilo also offers nightly dining specials and themed dinners. Each Sunday we end the weekend with one of the finest Brunches in Connecticut featuring carving, pasta, crepe, and omelet stations. The brunch theme changes each week offering a new variety of fare to experience.
A photo of The Essex restaurant
8. The Essex
4.9
Exceptional(1072)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 27 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 Café Routier restaurant
9. Café Routier
4.8
Exceptional(2197)
Price: Expensive
• American • Westbrook
Booked 20 times today
Café Routier is a vibrant bar scene, as noted by numerous reviews. It's a popular place for drinks, with reviewers praising the 'creative eclectic menu and drinks' and 'nice healthy drinks from the bar'. The bar area is also described as 'lively and more active', making it a great place to start your dining experience. Plus, there's a 40-seat lounge serving small plates and tapas, adding to the lively atmosphere.
A photo of Sip Wine Bar - Old Saybrook restaurant
10. Sip Wine Bar - Old Saybrook
5.0
Exceptional(3)
Price: Expensive
• Wine Bar • Old Saybrook
Escape to Sip Wine Bar, your destination for global wine adventures in Old Saybrook. Enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere where rustic charm meets modern elegance. With over 40 wines from around the world available by the glass or bottle, your palate is in for a treat. Savor delectable small plates made with fresh, seasonal ingredients that pair perfectly with your wine. Our passionate staff is here to guide you through our diverse selection, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Whether you're planning a romantic evening, a lively gathering with friends, or a solo retreat, Sip Wine Bar offers the ideal setting. Join us and embark on a journey of flavor and discovery, one sip at a time.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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