Location: Old Lyme
Top Restaurants in Old Lyme
Top Things to do in Old Lyme
Top 10 restaurants in Old Lyme, United States
Old Lyme is a coastal town in New London County, Connecticut, United States. The Main Street of the town, Lyme Street, is a historic district. The town has long been a popular summer resort and artists' colony. The town is named after Lyme Regis, England.
Things to do in Old Lyme
1. The Chestnut Grille at The Bee and Thistle Inn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 103 reviews
Reviewed By missterryn - Hartford, Connecticut
I had grilled salmon, which was done perfectly, over wild mushroom risotto with a cucumber salsa-delucious! My husband had pan roasted scallops that were equally delicious. The chef really listens to your requests and delivers creative, satisfying dishes. Cocktails are generous. We highly recommend this restaurant and will soon return.
2. Griswold Inn ~ Dining
Overall Ratings
4 based on 440 reviews
Located in the “storybook” village of Essex mere steps from the Connecticut River, this 1776 landmark offers three distinct dining experiences. “Historic Dining” is offered in four handsome rooms - The Covered Bridge, The Gun Room, The Library and The Essex Room – where a renowned maritime art collection fills the walls. The Inn’s New England heritage and connection with the sea is apparent in the classic seasonal cuisine offered; diners may enjoy a more contemporary culinary experience in the stunning wine bar featuring tapas-style dining and an extensive selection of wines by the glass; tavern fare is offered in the atmospheric, award-winning Tap Room where lively music rings out nightly. Patio dining is an option May through October, weather permitting. Lunch and dinner served daily, Hunt Breakfast on Sunday.
Reviewed By carriagehouse37 - Mystic, Connecticut
My wife and I chose the Griswold Inn to celebrate our 49th Anniversary. We went for lunch rather than dinner to enjoy the immediate surroundings of Essex, a quintessential New England town. The inn, itself, is fascinating; oldest continuously operating inn in the United States, dating back to 1776. My wife savored the soup of the day (Vegetable Beef) Italian half-sandwich w/ arugula, melted cheese, and Italian meat ($11.00). I ordered a special - Butternut Ravioli w/ feta and toasted nuts ($17.00). The Griswold Mud Pie w/ chocolate crust, topped with chocolate sauce and toasted almonds ($7.50)...DELICIOUS dessert to complement our meal. I wholeheartedly recommend the Griswold Inn; be sure to allow time to survey the historic architecture and decor. Located in Essex, Connecticut (Rt-9) just 15 minutes off I-95 (Exit 69)
3. Liv's Oyster Bar & Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 253 reviews
Liv's is the brainchild of John Brescio. He is a French Culinary Institute-trained chef who worked at Tavern on the Green and Judson Grill in New York as well as Aux Delices in Greenwich. Liv's is names for the Brescio's young daughter Olivia, a photogenic tyke whose black and white blowups grace the walls. 'The combination of easy comfort and really good food makes Liv's Oyster Bar in Old Saybrook such a find' - The NY Times.
Reviewed By GolfNut1968 - Madison, Connecticut
Tried Liv's Saturday evening. Ordered dinner of scallops, portion is appetizer size and obviously precooked as we were served within 5 minutes after placing order. Wife ordered swordfish which was slightly larger portion but also precooked. Restaurant is noisy, overpriced (a la carte entrees $28 & 29) precooks its meal, service was fine & friendly but would prefer watching a movie at this theatre turned restaurant. Will not return.
4. Old Lyme Ice Cream Shoppe & Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
Reviewed By 3142013 - Warwick
The OLICS claims to have on a a national award with their rose moroccan flavor ice cream. I believe it. The flavor has rose water, cardamon, cinnamon, pistachios, etc. it was really good. There are 13 other flavors,mosty familiar but well done. There are 16 toppings for cones or sundaes, so you can dress up your ice cream
There are also 8 sandwiches/wraps, but all are cold. Self service.
Neat looking place from outside and inside. About 4 tables inside and a couple outside. Great ambience. In the center of a very charming town center.
Be sure to try an oat cookie
5. Ashlawn Farm Coffee
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By fithy07 - Boston, Massachusetts
This place is a great little coffee joint. EVERYONE in town comes here and you can often find a line.
The food here is incredible! Their bagel selection is unbelievable, I love the French toast bagel toasted with cream cheese, unreal. Their sausage cheese biscuit is the best breakfast sandwich you will put in your mouth ( I love it because there is no egg), these go fast and are homemade. It is pretty heavy and filling.
The coffee I have found to be okay. I drink mostly espresso. The lattes are made with cold brew instead of espresso, do when I order my lattes I usually ask for "hot shots" instead of cold brew. They are much better served this way. The cappuccinos are pretty delicious I might add.
All in all we find ourselves coming here every weekend for breakfast when we visit. The staff is super friendly and very patient. A cute place that is always packed with regulars enjoying coffee and a good conversation.
6. Fresh Salt
Overall Ratings
4 based on 662 reviews
Named Best Waterfront Dining and Best Seafood by Connecticut Magazine in 2016, Fresh Salt serves seasonal and locally inspired meals. Our tables overlook the waters of the Connecticut River where the fresh river meets the salt of the Long Island Sound. It's a treasured and historic spot with a natural environment that is rich in life. Fresh Salt restaurant reflects that lively diversity: We have a raw bar, a seasonally varied menu, and offer as much as we can from the farms, brewers, cheese makers and other food enterprises that are springing up around our region. Fresh Salt delivers a dining experience that's comfortable and relaxed. Our staff is here to be of service to you, our kitchen stands ready with fresh ingredients, a deep wine cellar and carefully crafted fusions of foods and beverages that bring tastes together in delicious and new ways. We have tables by the fire, at the bar, and in season offer seating outdoors on the Fresh Salt Terrace. Awards include: - Best Brunch, Best Waterfront Dining, Best Seafood, and Best Hotel Dining from Connecticut Magazine, January 2016 - Named Upscale Restaurant of the Year by Connecticut Restaurant Association, December 2015
Reviewed By siteations - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
I've had numerous meals at the Fresh Salt and every one has been amazing. The lobster roll is a buttery taste explosion. The New England Clam Chowder is fantastic and I always start with that. When I don't get the lobster roll and try another of their seafood offerings I'm never disappointed.
The desserts are always a treat and I always get something chocolatey. Even though I shouldn't.
7. Morning Glory Cafe
Overall Ratings
4 based on 127 reviews
Reviewed By cindylee40 - Kensington,ct
My husband and I went hter for breakfast a few times while renting a cottage at Hawks Nest Beach. The location is so pretty! We sat outside in the sunshine and had breakfast. Afterwards we sat on the swing and watched the river go by. It's a little noisy from I-95, but after a little bit, it gets tuned out... The food was pretty good. It tends to be more on the healthy side, which is a plus.
8. Abby's Place
Overall Ratings
4 based on 182 reviews
Casual waterfront dining located in the Brewer's Dauntless Shipyard. A bit hard to find but defintely worth the effort. Abby's Place serves American cuisine with a flair, specializing in fresh, locally sourced meats and seafood.
Reviewed By Melinda M - Saint Louis, Missouri
My husband and I were traveling with another couple from Philadelphia to Newport and Boston. It was a goal to try lobster rolls from various locations to see if we agreed on the winner. Abbey's beat the others we tried in Newport and Boston hands down. The crab melt, clam chowder and cocktails were wonderful as well.
9. Coffee's Country Market and Catering
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 50 reviews
Fantastic country store with a great deli - wonderful salads, sandwiches and prepared foods. Wonderful market selection & now quaint eat in tables!
Reviewed By TerrierGal - Ledyard, Connecticut
Two of us, both had meatloaf grinder. Delicious for sure. Warm meatloaf, fresh great bread, lettuce, tomato, provolone, ketchup, mayo, huge and delicious. We arrived 11:45 and jsut beat the noon rush. Had a great lunch, extra nice waitress, wish it were closer to home I'd go every day.
10. Olive Oyl's
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By NLW70
Quite possibly THE best sandwiches we have ever had! Exquisitely prepared! Try the Turkey with brie and mango chutney!!!! Lots of meat! Everything here is great!
