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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Old Saybrook

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15 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 14 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 Aspen Restaurant restaurant
2. Aspen Restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1739)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Old Saybrook
Booked 12 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 Fresh Salt restaurant
3. Fresh Salt
4.5
Awesome(1577)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 61 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 Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge restaurant
4. Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge
4.4
Awesome(900)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Westbrook
Booked 20 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 Old Lyme Inn restaurant
5. Old Lyme Inn
4.6
Exceptional(709)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Lyme
Booked 4 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 Café Routier restaurant
6. Café Routier
4.8
Exceptional(2196)
Price: Expensive
• 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 Little Pub- Old Saybrook restaurant
7. Little Pub- Old Saybrook
4.8
Exceptional(149)
Price: Moderate
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 3 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
8. The Griswold Inn
4.9
Exceptional(949)
Price: Expensive
• American • Essex
Booked 9 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
9. Surfridge Brewing Company
4.6
Exceptional(50)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Centerbrook
Booked 4 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
10. The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn
5.0
Exceptional(100)
Price: Moderate
• Wine Bar • Essex
Booked 4 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.

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Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Old Saybrook

Discover the charm of Old Saybrook, Connecticut, a hidden gem in Middlesex County, where the dining scene brilliantly captures the essence of this quaint neighborhood. This location is renowned for its diverse array of restaurants that each bring a unique flair and high-quality cuisine to the table, making it an ideal destination for food lovers seeking a memorable dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for contemporary American delights or exotic international dishes, Old Saybrook offers an inviting atmosphere combined with exceptional service, making each meal a special occasion. Restaurants here are celebrated for their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, ensuring every dish served is of the highest quality. The cozy, intimate settings of these neighborhood gems provide the perfect backdrop for both casual dinners and special celebrations. Each establishment in Old Saybrook reflects the town's friendly community spirit and dedication to excellence, establishing themselves as must-visit spots for both locals and visitors alike. Experience the culinary excellence of Old Saybrook, where every restaurant promises a delightful and satisfying dining journey.

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