22 Best American Restaurants near Chester

“It's a Friday night and we're meeting up with some friends! One of them suggested Marker 37 for a variety of reasons and today, we're going to find out why! Here's how things went for me during my visit. Atmosphere/Appearance: Set right on the Connecticut River in Chester, CT connected to its own marina is this gem. Reservations are recommended especially in the summertime since THIS is the place where you wanna be. We were here in early April so things hadn't quite picked up, but at least the snow was gone and we didn't need to wear super heavy coats. The parking lot is massive so if it's busy you'll be walking for a minute before you get to the door. But once inside it's pretty modern, chill and relaxed. The decor isn't over-the-top. Everything is straight-edged and just... almost minimalistic. However, we sat in the patio area that was certainly heated so we could see the view of the water while the sun set. It was a wide-open setting and I'm very glad the restaurant didn't smash too many tables and chairs in there. Service: I can't remember who took care of us, but I don't remember having any issues throughout dinner. It was fairly slow so I didn't expect any hold-ups. Food/Drinks: I started off with an old-fashioned which was fine. Nothing crazy. Next up was a New England clam chowder which is perfectly seasoned and flavorful. Textures were good and so were the seasonings. Spot-on. For dinner I went with their Prime Rib! It came out perfectly medium-rare with a side of fingerling potatoes, grilled squash, au jus and horseradish sauce. It was good. Just... kinda not exciting. :-/ Maybe I should've gone the seafood route since we were on the water. But no matter. Value: Not too crazy here. It's a nice restaurant, but prices aren't out of control. You can totally come here to chill, have a drink and an app or a full-on family dinner and not be upset at the final bill. In conclusion I liked it here, just not enough to want to drive all the way out here again. Would I come back? Sure, if I were invited by friends and stuff, but I highly encourage you reading this to pay this place a visit and enjoy the views! Thank you for reading.“

“The food was amazing. Beautiful restaurant. The service was just a bit awkward. It was almost like they were annoyed we were there. Our initial server who took our order was very kind and attentive, but after him, the other two waitresses seemed put out and almost rushed us out. Hopefully it was just an off hand experience because other than that we loved the restaurant!“

“I have been going here for at least 11 years. The food never disappoints. I love the daily specials and holiday special orders. Fresh and delicious. The bakery is excellent, the cookies are irresistible. Quaint gourmet sandwich, coffee, and gift shop in downtown Chester. Highly recommend, outdoor seating. Always friendly service.“

“Honestly originally came here thinking it was a typical tavern. Left having one of the best food experiences I have ever had! The food was amazing and so perfectly prepared I have been back countless times since and am always recommending them to friends and family. Definitely need to fit in a date night here really soon!!!“

“Obsesssssed, our new favorite place. Short ribs melt in your mouth yummmm so good. Great attentive servive. Super friendly staff, I can go on and on about the positives!“

“Hungry after a few hours at Gillette Castle, we were looking for lunch/dinner. We had a wonderful experience at Pattaconk! Our waitress was friendly and attentive to my dietary needs (Celiac’s). We had a burger, quesadilla & Nashville chicken stripes. My burger had a gf bun & was delicious, husb & daughter loved the stripes & quesadilla. Restaurant had a nice, chill atmosphere, everyone enjoying drinks & food. We will be back when out in the area.“

“Absolutely outstanding! 5 star experience from start to finish! Our hostess was a gem! Very kind..Our server Peter was a professional.. made some wonderful suggestions on wine and appetizers! And one of the most important parts was the food! It’s a must try! Memories were made! Can’t wait to go back and enjoy a beautiful experience if they’ve gave 10 stars the Essex would get an 11 cheers“

“My wife and I recently dined at The Wharf Restaurant. Servers Kevin and Arad were attentive, knowledgeable and friendly. The food was prepared as specified and was delicious. The overall atmosphere was pleasant and welcoming. We look forward to returing.“

“Excellent!! Crab cake appetizer was the "best I've ever had" according to my son. There were four of us and all were very pleased. I've been twice and looking forward to going back. This restaurant is definitely the place to go when you want to take your time between courses and enjoy the food and people you are with. I like the 20% service charge(tip) added to bill. Keeps paying thoughtless as service is excellent. 5 stars on everything!“

“Went here for my birthday dinner with my family and we had a wonderful meal/time. The portions are HUGE. Your table gets free pasta with dinner and it's a really big bowl! The service was good, the only reason it got 4 stars instead of 5 is because we had to often find our waitress, she didn't check on us and I would say it's because it's a busy place but it's so small that it isn't hard to check on your tables. She was nice and the service was good just wish she would have checked on us a little more. Lastly the atmosphere is great, it's a nice small little restaurant, I expected it to be bigger but not an issue. If you have a party of 5 or more make sure to make a reservation so you can guarantee a table. Anyway food 5/5 service 4/5 atmosphere 5/5 ... We will def be eating here again...“

“Very good dining experience. food, service and atmosphere get a big thumbs up 👍“

“This is a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ restaurant for sure from the Food which was mouth watering to the service and atmosphere a fantastic place to eat! You won't find a better steak around. I can't say enough about how pleased I was tonight with everything . Hats off to Jack and Nancy I highly recommend it“

“Stopped in and had the best chili dog I’ve ever eaten in my life! Perfection!“

“We had the most amazing meal sent to our hotel. Tuna crudo, crab salad, strip steak and zabaione; ( custard desert). It was delicious. If you can try his cooking“

“Wanted to take a second to share my opinion and experience at Donahue’s. I can’t say enough good about our experience. We were super impressed with the service, the food and the staff. What impressed me most was the owner. He was right there to help his staff and actually served us our meal. He was very kind and welcoming. I will definitely return and highly recommend this establishment. Thank you.“

“As I entered the premises I was shortly greeted by staff and my needs addressed. I was assigned a great table in the bar area with a banquette, I loved the dim lighting. It made for a very special evening. The server and busboy were attentive and sociable, the service quick and appreciative.
Didn't go for a full meal experience but definitely will return.“

“My husband and I went to Aspen the other night for our wedding anniversary. We had our rehearsal dinner there 4 years ago and were blown away by the food.. well, once again, they nailed it! It was delicious!! Not only was the food good, but our waiter, Joe M (funny, same name as my husband 😅), was wonderful! We will definitely be back again!!“

“We were in the area last night- headed home from the casinos- and like to sing Karaoke. We stopped here and the people were so warm and welcoming. Also drinks were very reasonable. I’ll definately stop again next time I’m in the area. Only wish I lived closer. It’s a good atmosphere for any age group.,“

“Ordered the Rigatoni Ala Vodka and they had me at the first bite. I can honestly say that I’ve never had better. We ate at the bar and loved the atmosphere, staff were friendly and very talkative.in a positive way! I thought prices were reasonable and food options were a pleasant surprise. We ate everything in sight and didn’t feel bad at all Put this place on your list.“

“Amazing service from the moment I walked through the doors. I had a table of 7 booked for my birthday meal and couldn’t have wished for better service! Food was amazing as always and the atmosphere was great! 😊 Thank you little pub!“

“Always loved this place. Food and service amazing! Always stop here on my way through town.“

“1st time in after driving past on my way to work. I made reservations on valentines day. Figured we would give it a shot. Atmosphere was great very relaxed. Service was great, prompt and efficient. We didnt feel like we were in a rush. Band was great, food was amazing. We will definitely return. We saw other people food come out and it looked and smelled amazing. Highly recommend“