Griswold Inn
Although locals know it simply as "the Gris," there is nothing to be taken lightly about the restaurant The New York Times calls "the most famous brunch in Connecticut." Griswold Inn has been open for business since 1776, and although the modern restaurant provides upscale cuisine, the inn itself provides Connecticut residents with a link to the past. Its location on the Connecticut River made the inn a frequent stop for sailors and yachtsmen, and today's restaurant offers authentic Colonial-maritime décor. Dark wood tones, large open fireplaces, antique nautical prints and hand-carved eagles bring the inn's visitors back to a simpler time.
The inn serves lunch and dinner. However, Sunday brunch--a classic hunt breakfast--is the star of the show. The menu changes weekly to reflect the available seasonal ingredients, but patrons can count on such mainstays as a Belgian waffle station, an omelet station, a variety of breads and pastries, and an assortment of salads and fruits. Typical dishes include such items as cod in a sun-dried tomato sauce and a pecan-caramel French toast soufflé. Reservations are strongly recommended.
The Griswold Inn
36 Main St.
Essex, CT 06426
860-767-1776
griswoldinn.com
The Black Seal
The lively crowd that gathers in the bar and the relaxed, casual atmosphere in the dining ensure The Black Seal is a favorite of Essex residents. A bright yellow flag with a large black seal on it beckons to passers-by on Main Street. Like many other area restaurants, the interior follows a nautical theme, with even the bar being dubbed the "Sail Loft."
Classic American favorites dominate the menu, which offers appetizers, soups, sandwiches and salads alongside beef, seafood, poultry and vegetarian entrees. Customer favorites include the pan-seared steak au poivre with a shallot and brandy-cream sauce, fish and chips, and the Whittingly sandwich--it's made with turkey, ham and melted cheddar on a croissant and topped with apple butter.
The Black Seal
15 Main St.
Essex, CT 06426
860-767-0233
theblackseal.net
Oliver's Restaurant & Taverne
Zagat-rated Oliver's Restaurant & Taverne draws on Essex's rich maritime history--the restaurant is named for a naval ship built in 1775, The Oliver Cromwell. The building's ground-level houses the main dining room, which features rustic woods, cathedral ceilings, stained-glass window insets and comfortable leather banquette seating. The second floor is home to a lively sports bar, complete with high-definition televisions so patrons can watch their favorite games.
Oliver's cuisine is a clever combination of pub grub, classic American comfort food and regional favorites. The menu features an assortment of appetizers, burgers, salads and sandwiches, as well as beef, seafood, poultry and pork entrees. Popular dishes include home-style meatloaf with mashed potatoes, brown gravy and onion rings; baked-stuffed chicken with Vermont cheddar, pears and gravy; and barbecue baby back ribs.
Oliver's Restaurant & Taverne
124 Westbrook Road
Essex, CT 06426
860-767-2633
oliverstavern.com
