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Best Cozy Restaurants in Essex

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14 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Griswold Inn restaurant
1. The Griswold Inn
4.6
Exceptional(939)
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 The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn restaurant
2. The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn
4.9
Exceptional(90)
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 The Brushmill by the Waterfall restaurant
3. The Brushmill by the Waterfall
4.5
Awesome(606)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Chester
Booked 7 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 La Marea restaurant
4. La Marea
4.8
Exceptional(1812)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 11 times today
Savor the authentic tastes of Italy when you dine at La Marea. Located on the shoreline of CT in Old Saybrook, our family owned Italian restaurant prepares northern and southern Italian cuisine using a mix of the finest imports from Italy as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy your dining experience in either our dining room or be sure to reserve a seat at our conversational hi-top tables or at the bar in our lounge.Important: when making a reservation through OpenTable there is an option to make a reservation at a high top table in the bar area or standard table which is in the dining room. If the high top option does not pop up as an option for you then that means that there are NO High Top tables available at those times. If you would like to reserve bar seats please leave us a note or call us. See you soon! Take-out available
A photo of Aspen Restaurant restaurant
5. Aspen Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1720)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary American • Old Saybrook
Booked 11 times today
Aspen Restaurant is often described as cozy and comfortable with its dual-sided fireplace creating a nice ambiance. Reviewers mention the restaurant's 'nice festive atmosphere' and 'warm comfortable elegance'. They appreciate the 'relaxing environment' and 'comfortable atmosphere'. The restaurant's overall ambience is consistently rated highly, adding to its cozy feel.
A photo of Rustica Ristorante - Chester restaurant
6. Rustica Ristorante - Chester
4.7
Exceptional(1312)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Chester
Booked 3 times today
Authentic Italian Food!!!UNDER THE STATE LAW DUE TO COVID-19, RUSTICA RISTORANTE HAS IMPLEMENTED HEALTHY AND SAFE PRECAUTIONS FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND CUSTOMERS. OUR OUTDOOR SEATING ALLOWS YOU TO INTERACT WITH EACH OTHER SAFELY
A photo of Little Pub- Old Saybrook restaurant
7. Little Pub- Old Saybrook
4.6
Exceptional(139)
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 Essex restaurant
8. The Essex
4.8
Exceptional(1040)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 11 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 Scotch Plains Tavern restaurant
9. Scotch Plains Tavern
4.4
Awesome(699)
Price: Moderate
• Pub • Essex
Scotch Plains Tavern is described as having a 'rustic ambiance' and a 'modern vintage industrial style'. The interior features high ceilings and beams in a 'farm style', and the outdoor seating features fire pits. The atmosphere is praised as 'lovely', 'lively', and 'fantastic', with live music and great service. It's a 'casual and comfortable place to dine', suitable for families and those looking for a good time.
A photo of Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook restaurant
10. Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook
4.9
Exceptional(102)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 3 times today
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Discover best cozy restaurants in Essex

Discover the charm of cozy dining in Essex, Connecticut, where each restaurant brings a unique blend of comfort and local flair. Nestled in the heart of Middlesex County, Essex's dining scene showcases an inviting atmosphere that perfectly compleates the quaint surroundings of this New England gem. Restaurants in this area excel in creating warm, intimate settings that are ideal for a relaxed meal with family or a romantic evening out. Expect to find establishments featuring rustic decors, such as wooden beams and fire pits, which enhance the cozy ambiance. Many of these eateries also offer live music and boast excellent service, making each dining experience not just a meal but a delightful event. With a focus on both quality and comfort, these restaurants cater to those who appreciate a truly homely dining experience amidst beautiful settings. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a beautifully charming environment for a special occasion, Essex's cozy restaurant scene will not disappoint.

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