29 Best American Restaurants near Essex

The Essex American
247 Main Street, Old Saybrook

Customers` Favorites

Clam Chowder Lobster
45 Beef Wellington
Steak Frites
Half Chicken
Wagyu Steak
King Salmon
Tuna Tartare
Salmon Poke
Scallops
S'Mores

“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“

4.6 Superb519 Reviews
Scotch Plains Tavern American • $$
124 Westbrook Road, Essex

Customers` Favorites

spt Stilton Port & Short Rib Burger
spt Nachos with Guacamole
Crispy Chicken Sandwich
French Onion Patty Melt
Signature spt Ribs
Whole Belly Clams
French Onion Soup
The Tavern Burger
Fire Pit Burger
Ahi Tuna Sashimi

“Very nice tavern with pub fare and quite a variety on the menu. I had blackened chicken caesar salad and it was really good. I dont drink but there looks to be a large selection of beer and other drinks. Would be a good place to meet up with friends and get a drink.“

4.2 Good475 Reviews
Surfridge Brewing Co Brewpubs • $
6 Main St, Essex

Customers` Favorites

Three Cheese Pizza with Pepperoni Added
Fire Roasted Clams with Pancetta
Surfridge Sweet Tea
Roasted Cauliflower
Local Cider Houses
Charcuterie Board
Seared Shishitos
Shishito Peppers
Neapolitan Pizza
Short Rib Pizza

“Big Thank You to Alex who handled our reservation & table of 24. Great, friendly service & he juggled a lot so we really appreciated it. Food & drinks were very good. Our 1st time there - great atmosphere! Definitely check it out.“

4.6 Superb175 Reviews
The Griswold Inn American • $$
36 Main St, Essex

“Terrific location in a small New England town bordering the Connecticut River. Excellent food, wine and comfortable rooms.“

4.1 Good680 Reviews
Black Seal Seafood Grille Seafood • $$
15 Main St C, Essex

Customers` Favorites

Fried Calamari Tossed with Cherry Peppers and Served with Marinara Sauce
Calamari and Veggie Spring Rolls
Alex's Seafood Stew Classic
Rhode Island Clam Chowder
Seal Burger and Fries
Chocolate Fudge Cake
Nachos with Cheese
Black Seal Burger
Short Rib Ravioli
French Onion Soup

“I celebrated my birthday at the Seal tonight. We haven't been in a while. I had the Short Rib Ravioli, Mom had the Serloin Steak, my wife had Tuna and our son a grilled cheese. Everything was delicious! Our server said she was new, but did a great job. We finished with warm Carmel apple pie! It was the perfect ending to a great night!“

4.3 Superb224 Reviews
Edd's Place American • $
478 Boston Post Rd, Westbrook - 6.09 miles

Customers` Favorites

Corn Bread Sausage Biscuit Sammie
Kids Grilled Cheese with Fries
Lobster Roll with Fries
Philly Cheese Steak
Breakfast Sandwich
Hot Lobster Roll
Chicken Sandwich
Jalapeno Grits
Lobster Bisque
Avocado Toast

“Stopped by Ed's Place and had the Hot Chick Sandwich with a side of coleslaw both were absolutely delicious! The sandwich was flavorful and cooked perfectly, and the coleslaw was fresh and a great complement to the meal. The service was excellent, and the staff were friendly, personable, and made me feel welcome from the moment I walked in. Great food, great people, and a great experience. I’ll definitely be back!“

4.7 Superb129 Reviews
Rosemary & Sage American • $$
1080 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook - 4.38 miles

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Mozzarella Crisp Fries Coleslaw
Caprese Salad with Panko Crusted Chicken
Chicken a La Paz a House Speciality
Pear Salad with Blackened Scallops
Tomato and Roasted Garlic
Cabernet Sauvignon
Blackened Salmon
Broiled Scallops
Lobster Mediera
Chicken Piccata

“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“

4.7 Superb125 Reviews
Red House American • $$
158 Main St, Deep River - 2.95 miles

Customers` Favorites

Smitty's Pulled Pork with Pink Slaw 1 from Every Sandwich Goes to the Dick Smith Memorial Fund
Best Fried Chicken Sandwich
Side Order of Mean Beans
BBQ Pulled Pork Platter
Brick Pressed Chicken
The Loaded Pork Nachos
Blackened Mahi Tacos
Everything Pretzel
Pulled Pork Nachos
Burnt Ends Platter

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

4.6 Superb128 Reviews
Nataz Restaurant American • $$
1 West Main Street, Clinton - 8.04 miles

Customers` Favorites

Cheese Board with Hummus Honey Butter and Oil
Tuna with Seaweed Salad
Assorted Dessert Plate
Nataz Signature Salad
Potato Croquettes
Tomahawk Steak
Tiramisu Cake
Bottled Water
Wedge Salad
Charcuterie

“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!“

4.5 Superb228 Reviews
The Log Cabin Restaurant Seafood • $$
232 E Main St, Clinton - 7.52 miles

Customers` Favorites

Long Hot Peppers with Sausage Potentes Comens
Braised Beef Short Ribs over Mashed Potatoes
Boneless Braised Beef Short Ribscover
Garlic Bread and Mozzarella Sticks
Fried Whole Clam with French Fries
Spaghetti and Meatballs
Lobster Ravioli Tuscano
Baked Stuffed Mushrooms
Cavatelli and Broccoli
Ziti with Tomato Sauce

“You will never leave hungry! All of their entrées are delicious and to die for. Portions are really overly big and the atmosphere is very cozy. This restaurant is in a real log cabin with a cozy fireplace during the Fall and Winter months. I give them five stars plus.“

4.5 Superb192 Reviews
Cafe Flo American • $$
96 Lyme Street, Old Lyme - 4.41 miles

Customers` Favorites

White Bean Sausage & Escarole Soup 7
Vegetarian Black Bean Chili
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Waldorf Chicken Salad
Sliced Bistro Steak
Cabernet Sauvignon
Tuna Nicoise Salad
Veggie Sandwich
Grilled Chicken
Poached Salmon

“This place is really a wonderful establishment. It is not often in this area that you find a place with great quality, interesting, and rotating/seasonal dish options. And all of this is at a fairly reasonable price and a great view of the Lieutenant river. Highly recommend.“

4.7 Superb55 Reviews
Café Routier American • $$$
1353 Boston Post Rd, Westbrook - 5.04 miles

Customers` Favorites

Endive & Argula Salad with Gorgonzola Green Apple & Toasted Walnuts Sherry Vinaigrette
Chocolate Cake Vanilla Ice Cream and Pecan Brittle
Grilled Hanger Steak with Island Spices
Vanilla Bean Creme Brulle
Bajan Rubbed Duck Breast
Tuna Sashimi Nachos
House Made Fries
Steak Fajitas
Moms Meatloaf
Fried Oysters

“Fabulous from the beginning to the end! Excellent staff and great food. Enjoyed it very much. The lobster chowder was fantastic! Kobe sliders amazing! And the best porkchop I've ever eaten! Great bottle of wine 🍷
I'll definitely frequent this place. Highly recommended 👌“

4.4 Superb277 Reviews
Aspen Restaurant American • $$$
2 Main St, Old Saybrook - 3.94 miles

Customers` Favorites

Chocolate Raspberry Bomb
New England Clam Chowder
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Side Fettucine Pasta
Warm Toffee Pudding
Lobster Bolognese
Flank Steak Meal
Pan Seared Salmon
Grilled Octopus
Crispy Calamari

“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!!“

4.4 Superb243 Reviews
Little Pub Old Saybrook American • $$
1231 Boston Post Rd, Old Saybrook - 4.34 miles

Customers` Favorites

South by Southwest Egg Rolls
Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ladder Company Hot Wings
Salt and Pepper Calamari
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Little Pub Big Pretzel
Dragon Roll Burrito
Chicken and Waffles
Buffalo Cauliflower
Pulled Pork Sandwich

“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!“

4.4 Superb170 Reviews
Fox Hopyard On the Rocks Restaurant American • $$
1 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam - 7.03 miles

“Birthday dinner. Everything was fantastic. Service impeccable. Our server lylia was awesome. Will definitely be coming back.“

4.6 Superb19 Reviews
Comfort Café LLC American • $
90 Essex Rd, Old Saybrook - 3.31 miles

“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.,“

4.4 Superb31 Reviews
The Village Bistro Modern European • $$
59 Main St, Chester - 4.27 miles

Customers` Favorites

Mussels-Smoked Chorizo Pickled Fennel Roasted Pepper Pan Sauce
Buttermilk Dressing
Roasted Pork Belly
Sunday Brunches
Calabrian Chili
Vodka Rigatoni
Steak Tartare
Caesar Salad
Charcuterie
Onion Soup

“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!“

4.7 Superb90 Reviews
Paperback Cafe American • $$
210 Main St, Old Saybrook - 4.22 miles

Customers` Favorites

Smoked Norwegian Salmon on a Bagel with Cream Cheese Red Onion Tomato and Capers
Berry Berry French Toast
Poached Eggs Monterrey
Salvadorian Scramble
The Big Breakfast
Yogurt Parfait
Paleo Pancakes
Avocado Toast
Paleo Waffles
Hash Browns

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

4.3 Superb114 Reviews
The Stumble Inne Pubs • $$
90 Halls Rd, Old Lyme - 4.07 miles

Customers` Favorites

Stumble House Salad
Buffalo Wings

“Love this place!!! Very friendly staff“

4.3 Superb24 Reviews
Liv's Oyster Bar & Restaurant Seafood • $$
166 Main St, Old Saybrook - 4.23 miles

Customers` Favorites

Fresh Cut Fries Truffle Parmesan Fries
Fava Bean Falafel Appitizer
Shrimp and Cod Curry
Pan Seared Scallops
Special Noodle Bowl
Happy Hour Calamari
Crusted Tuna Steak
Seafood Fried Rice
Eggnog Creme Brulee
Oyster of the Day

“Such great service but even more so, the chefs are incredible with their creativity and delivery of unique and delicious food. Liv's is an oasis away from home....they do so much to make dinner special every time. Thank you all.“

4.6 Superb297 Reviews
The Hangry Goose American • $$
11 Halls Road, Old Lyme - 4.17 miles

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Cod Sandwich with a Side of Coleslaw
In-House Thick Cut Texas Style French Toast
Roast Beef Wrap with Sweet Potato Fries
Hangry Cure with Homefries
French Toast with Bacon
French Toast Breakfast
Corned Beef Hash
Belgian Waffles
Scrambled Eggs
Eggs Benedict

“So happy they are here! The foos is always good and the servers are always friendly and welcoming!!! Thank you for bringing a great restaurant to this town!!!“

4.6 Superb195 Reviews
Jimmy’s Legacy Grille American •
9 Main Street, East Haddam - 0.18 miles

“We stopped in last minute before our Saturday night Goodspeed show and sat at the bar. The drinks were very well made and brought out promptly. We knew we did not have time for entrees and ordered the Eggplant Rollatini and Crab Cake special appetizers. They also were brought out promptly and were absolutely delicious and generous portions. We are looking forward to going back soon!

Follow up: We came back looking forward to another great meal. The drinks were still fantastic. We orders three appetizers and dessert. The Eggplant Rollatini which last time was fresh, delicious and generous this time felt like warmed over left overs and a smaller portion. The Brussels were good. The meatballs were good but felt like a small portion for $15. We were really bummed about the cheesecake for dessert, it was a very petite slice which we got to share and tasted like a frozen cheesecake maybe worth $6-8 but not $12. We might come back again but dialing back our expectations for the next visit.“

4.1 Good44 Reviews
Penny Lane Pub Pubs • $$
150 Main St, Old Saybrook - 4.2 miles

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Potato Fries with a Side of Chipotle Aioli
Beer Flight Is a Great Way to Sample
Chocolate Chip Cookie Pie
New England Clam Chowder
Jumbo Coconut Shrimp
Penny Lane Burger
French Onion Soup
Impossible Burger
Corned Beef Hash
Steak Au Poivre

“I had the bison burger with sweet potato fries. The dipping sauce for the fries was amazing. My server Jackie was great about never letting our glasses become empty and making sure to help out with my daughter’s allergies!“

4.5 Superb341 Reviews
Wayback Burgers Hamburger • $
1657 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook - 4.45 miles

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Chicken - Craft Your Own
Kids Meal - Kids' Cheeseburger
The Nine Patty Burger
Bourbon Bacon Burger
Double Bacon Burger
Bacon Cheeseburger
Chili Cheese Fries
Single Cheeseburger
Bacon Cheese Fries
Full Cheese Fries

“Food is awesome and the staff is great! Food is cooked fresh and worth the wait! Lori is amazing!! I highly recommend!!“

4.6 Superb137 Reviews
Turtle Cafe Cafe • $
4 Westbrook Pl, Westbrook - 4.98 miles

Customers` Favorites

Corned Beef Hash and Eggs over Easy
Clam Hash and Fried Eggs
Old City Falafel Wrap
Breakfast Burrito
Lobster Benedict
Cheese Omelette
Scrambled Eggs
Tiramisu Crepe
Cornbeef Hash
Nutella Crepe

“I saw the Channel 12 News segment over 11 years ago and have had been wanting to go and have their lobster crepe. It surpassed my dreams, which is a rarity. The first bonus was the wonderful staff (waitress and cook). I was so touched by their kindness that most places miss nowadays. Having driven from Stamford to Turtle Cafe was the best decision of self love I could ever give myself. The crepes were amazingly flavored, big pieces of lobster and the goat cheese highlighted the dish. They serve it with a small field green salad that complimented the dish. So take it from a true foodie, go and experience it for yourself. Who knows, you might be as lucky as I was to meet the couple who I was honored to meet who go there everyday. That's how GOOD Turtle Cafe is. Addicting!!“

4.6 Superb120 Reviews
Ivoryton Tavern American • $
8 Summit St, Ivoryton - 1.94 miles

Customers` Favorites

Mozzarella Sticks
Nachos Supremos
Fish and Chips
Ruben Burger
Shrimp Tacos
Our Table
Burgers

“5 of us went for lunch yesterday, Haley & the kitchen knocked it out of the park. None of the other guys had ever been before,all said they'd be back. So laid back, not at all stuffy. Don't ever change.“

3.9 Good53 Reviews
Otter Cove Restaurant & Bar Gastropubs • $$
99 Essex Rd, Old Saybrook - 3.16 miles

Customers` Favorites

Shrimp and Seared Scallops
Cheesecake Slice of Cake
Salmon with Broccoli
Chocolate Cake
Steak Tacos
Calamari

“The food is amazing. Highly recommend the firecracker calamari and the OC Salad. My stuffed lobster was perfect and I also really enjoyed the Chocolate Mousse Cake. This is a special place with a relaxing atmosphere and outstanding service. I highly recommend.“

4.7 Superb63 Reviews
Marker 37 American • $$
72 Railroad Ave, Chester - 4.08 miles

Customers` Favorites

Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Fig and Prosciutto Flatbread
Hot Buttered Lobster Roll
Stonington Sea Scallops
Buttermilk Onion Strings
Ninigret Nectars Oysters
Lobster Mac and Cheese
Tempura Fish & Chips
Chicken Milanese
Marker 37 Salad

“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.“

4.1 Good214 Reviews
Hally Jo's Corner Restaurant Breakfast • $
165 Main St, Deep River - 2.92 miles

Customers` Favorites

Corned Beef Hash Eggs Benedict Florentine
Banana Nut Bread Pancakes
Pancake or French Toast
Blueberry Pancakes
Sausage Egg
Home Fries
Egg Salad
Hamburger
Muffins

“Love, love the food and staff of this fabulous breakfast lunch restaurant!
Great specials. The sausage and biscuits best in CT.
The homemade muffins and breads out of this world! My favorite is the Cinnabon bread. Yum!
Outdoor seating if you have a dog with you.
Right on Main St, Deep River if you want to pop in one of the local stores after very nice unique !“

4.6 Superb64 Reviews

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