Location: Essex
Top Restaurants in Essex
Top Things to do in Essex
Top 3 Diner food in Essex, Connecticut, United States
Find out what Diner restaurants to try in Essex. Essex is a town in Middlesex County, Connecticut, United States. The population was 6,683 at the 2010 census. It is made up of three villages: Essex Village, Centerbrook, and Ivoryton.
Things to do in Essex
1. The Chestnut Grille at The Bee and Thistle Inn
Overall Ratings
4 based on 118 reviews
Reviewed By jweAVL
We were staying at the Bee & Thistle Inn after spending part of our honeymoon there some 37 years ago. We also wanted to dine there again and saved this for our last night at the Inn - and so glad we did as it was the absolute best dining experience all week. We experienced some other restaurants weâd dined at all those years ago, but they did not live up to our memories. Times, dining habits, chefs all change. However, the Chestnut Grille not only lived up to our memories but exceeded them. An amazing meal and impeccable service. All those years ago we were seated in one of the side porches but this time we were seated in a dining room near the back of the Inn. Delightfully decorated with soft lighting, white table clothes - this is an amazing room. Our server was Kristen, who greeted us warmly - as all Inn staff do - worked with us to create a memorable experience. The pacing of the meal was spot on - something many restaurants sadly fail to take into account these days. After drinks - we started with the Smoked Trout Napoleon to share, and it was amazing not only in presentation but taste. A perfect start to the meal. We followed this with the Faroe Island Salmon and the Grilled Filet - both prepared to perfection. The wine pairing Kristen recommended was a wonderful accompaniment to the meal. As this was a special occasion we opted to each have a dessert instead of sharing - and had the Pumpkin Creme Brulee and the Apple Pear Bread Pudding. The bread pudding was the best I have ever had. Everything about the meal was superb - the setting, the service, the pacing, the food, the atmosphere. The only regret is that it took us 37 years to get back. We wonât (well, to be honest we canât) wait that long for our next visit. Bravo!
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2. Parthenon Diner-Old Saybrook
Overall Ratings
3 based on 119 reviews
Reviewed By melanies668
The placemat states it is one of the best diners in America and the statement is correct. It seems to be a place where there are a lot of locals eating here and I can understand why. I spent many years in CT and lived in Wilton while working at my first corporate job. We had dinner meetings at many restaurants but this would be one to go to enjoy good food on my off time.Hi Melanies668,Thank you for taking the time to review us on TripAdvisor. We are happy to hear you are a loyal customer and we appreciate your business!Have a great day!
Where to eat Pizza food in Essex: The Best Restaurants and Bars
3. Courtyard Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By Bob J
Hidden behind Home Goods on the Stop & Shop side of the triangular shopping center, you'll need to look for the flagpole and the hidden Courtyard to find this local hangout. The place is small, the staff is friendly and the prices are very reasonable. The menu is simple and I feel the cook could use a bit more seasoning in the food. But based on the elderly clientele I saw, it's probably best to allow them to season their own food.It's easy to forget about this place because it is hidden, but it's worth a try.
