As many know I review lobster rolls, I’ve wanted to come here for a while to review their roll on account they have been getting a lot of traction in the lobster roll game. First we will start out the Crescendo, the atmosphere was spot on with the fine establishment being right on the water, furthermore I was shocked and excited to see the out door eating area was completely enclosed with clear material for the winter weather. That’s a plus, a lot of places loose the eat by the water vibe during the winter season, but not this place it’s absolutely excels, adapts, and overcomes anything that gets thrown at it. Now onto the service, everyone was very nice. I didn’t know they opened at 11:30 and I called at 11, that however wasn’t a problem for them they took my order anyways and said it would be ready at 11:30, that however wasn’t the case. We were actually waved into the restaurant by a server with a smile on her face saying our food was ready. I saw the big guy at the bar himself Captain Stu! While she got my food, I was greeted by him with a smile and asked how my day was going. It’s a weird feeling when a restaurant does everything right, it seems like restaurants took about 10 steps back when it comes to costumer service since the pandemic. That’s not the case for this place, it’s something warming about going into an establishment and being meant with kind people who look like they are loving their life and job…. I digress, now for what this whole review is about. The Maine event if you will, the lobster roll. Upon looks I knew this one was different, as I closed my eyes and took the first bite I could hear the seagulls, the waves crashing. I could feel the salt in the air, kids laughing and making sand castles. The lobster meat, truly never frozen, no lemon flavor to cover up sub par lobster meat. Truly buttery and you didn’t even need teeth to take this one down. It was like captain Stu himself of the SS Dock 10 caught a pot full of Maine lobsters from the harbor, put them straight into a pot poached them in home made butter. The smells of the lobsters hit you as he toasts up a delicious fresh brioche roll he got from the bakery fresh and still hot from being made. He builds this magical roll, but no no no he’s not done it’s not over he chops up some green onions from his own garden that’s morning! To make each bite truly an orgasmic experience. But ever story, and dream comes to an end, all that’s left for captain Stu to do is bring you back to the dock where you reflect on a lobster roll you will never forget. I only review the best and the worst lobster rolls and let me tell you this meets the best lobster roll in ct tear. It use to be one roll to rule them all. No more it’s 3 establishments who have consistently setting the standards higher and higher. I’m pleased to say this establishment is now one of those top three who deserves best lobster roll in ct. My one critique to make it even better but this is me being nit picky, would be to include a side of that extra amazing butter for people who would want more warm butter as they eat. That’s it! Amazing place, amazing food, and service that is second to NONE! I will be back, you can count on that. Until next time Captain STU!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Shirley
My husband and I visited Drift for the first time this past Saturday even though we live in the area. Wow have we been missing out! The restaurant was inviting and clean, a nice bright and welcoming atmosphere. We were greeted promptly, our waitress was attentive and sweet. Service was perfect the entire visit. The food was amazing, I expected it to be good based on what I have heard but it exceeded our expectations. We ordered a clam chowder, lobster bisque, smashburger and a winterberry crisp salad with a crab cake. Everything tasted great, was fresh, cooked and assembled perfectly. My husband and I agree this restaurant will now be on our regular rotation and we can't wait for the warm weather to be able to enjoy their outdoor area. Thanks Drift for a really enjoyable winter afternoon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Joyce Amato
Just had the Salmon sushi special today @Drift.. it was amazing! This appetizer is effect for 2 people and is something that should be a staple on the menu.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
D Day
Wonderful Dinner! We had a fantastic experience at Drift in Essex. The atmosphere is great, but the food and drinks are what really make it worth the visit. The cocktails were expertly crafted, and every dish we ordered was fresh and delicious. Thanks for stuffed olives!
What truly stood out was the service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of, and you can tell the restaurant is run by a very hard-working couple. Their dedication to the business really shows in the details and the warm hospitality.
We definitely will be back when the snow melts and the views are back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
J B
Hidden gem. Great food. Great cocktails. Great service. Great location.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ted Theriault
Food was well priced, bartender was awesome. Had a great meal and will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Steven Cammarata
A crab cake disappointment. I always try them when I see them on a menu but these missed the mark. The texture felt like lump crab meat from a can, thrown into a food processor with breadcrumbs. Flavor and depth were both lacking. Honestly, this version of a crab cake was such a letdown, it nearly brought a tear to my eye. Please, spare us this abomination.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
DougMichelle Cantrell
UPDATE: 12/3/25 it was so good we went back the next day! This time we had the apple cider calamari again, crab smash and lobster roll. I’ve never tasted anything better! Even their butter was good!! Try the apple cider margarita!
12/2/25 Wonderful stop! Had great service from Grace and the food was amazing. You won’t regret the Apple cider vinegar calamari, smash burger or fish and chips. The espresso martini was delicious!
M C
UPDATE: 12/3/25 it was so good we went back the next day! This time we had the apple cider calamari again, crab smash and lobster roll. I’ve never tasted anything better! Even their butter was good!! Try the apple cider margarita! 12/2/25 Wonderful stop! Had great service from Grace and the food was amazing. You won’t regret the Apple cider vinegar calamari, smash burger or fish and chips. The espresso martini was delicious!
Andrew and Payton are the best bartenders in Connecticut! Ever since I discovered the place I’ve been going once a week. Amazing for the family or the single man.
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Stewart is the most personable , professional host/bartender/owner…with a full bar he made us feel like we were the only guests he was serving.
I was unsure what cocktail to order. I told Stewart my vibe and he made me a white Negroni. Perfect.
Ordered the calamari app then lobster roll and ahi tuna salad. Amazing.
10 out of 10. Would recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Melissa Titus
I've been waiting to come here. Sad I missed the summer menu but the fall menu didn't disappoint. Drink the Bong Water!!
The food was good, the service was good.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 5
As many know I review lobster rolls, I’ve wanted to come here for a while to review their roll on account they have been getting a lot of traction in the lobster roll game. First we will start out the Crescendo, the atmosphere was spot on with the fine establishment being right on the water, furthermore I was shocked and excited to see the out door eating area was completely enclosed with clear material for the winter weather. That’s a plus, a lot of places loose the eat by the water vibe during the winter season, but not this place it’s absolutely excels, adapts, and overcomes anything that gets thrown at it. Now onto the service, everyone was very nice. I didn’t know they opened at 11:30 and I called at 11, that however wasn’t a problem for them they took my order anyways and said it would be ready at 11:30, that however wasn’t the case. We were actually waved into the restaurant by a server with a smile on her face saying our food was ready. I saw the big guy at the bar himself Captain Stu! While she got my food, I was greeted by him with a smile and asked how my day was going. It’s a weird feeling when a restaurant does everything right, it seems like restaurants took about 10 steps back when it comes to costumer service since the pandemic. That’s not the case for this place, it’s something warming about going into an establishment and being meant with kind people who look like they are loving their life and job…. I digress, now for what this whole review is about. The Maine event if you will, the lobster roll. Upon looks I knew this one was different, as I closed my eyes and took the first bite I could hear the seagulls, the waves crashing. I could feel the salt in the air, kids laughing and making sand castles. The lobster meat, truly never frozen, no lemon flavor to cover up sub par lobster meat. Truly buttery and you didn’t even need teeth to take this one down. It was like captain Stu himself of the SS Dock 10 caught a pot full of Maine lobsters from the harbor, put them straight into a pot poached them in home made butter. The smells of the lobsters hit you as he toasts up a delicious fresh brioche roll he got from the bakery fresh and still hot from being made. He builds this magical roll, but no no no he’s not done it’s not over he chops up some green onions from his own garden that’s morning! To make each bite truly an orgasmic experience. But ever story, and dream comes to an end, all that’s left for captain Stu to do is bring you back to the dock where you reflect on a lobster roll you will never forget. I only review the best and the worst lobster rolls and let me tell you this meets the best lobster roll in ct tear. It use to be one roll to rule them all. No more it’s 3 establishments who have consistently setting the standards higher and higher. I’m pleased to say this establishment is now one of those top three who deserves best lobster roll in ct. My one critique to make it even better but this is me being nit picky, would be to include a side of that extra amazing butter for people who would want more warm butter as they eat. That’s it! Amazing place, amazing food, and service that is second to NONE! I will be back, you can count on that. Until next time Captain STU!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
My husband and I visited Drift for the first time this past Saturday even though we live in the area. Wow have we been missing out! The restaurant was inviting and clean, a nice bright and welcoming atmosphere. We were greeted promptly, our waitress was attentive and sweet. Service was perfect the entire visit. The food was amazing, I expected it to be good based on what I have heard but it exceeded our expectations. We ordered a clam chowder, lobster bisque, smashburger and a winterberry crisp salad with a crab cake. Everything tasted great, was fresh, cooked and assembled perfectly. My husband and I agree this restaurant will now be on our regular rotation and we can't wait for the warm weather to be able to enjoy their outdoor area. Thanks Drift for a really enjoyable winter afternoon!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Just had the Salmon sushi special today @Drift.. it was amazing! This appetizer is effect for 2 people and is something that should be a staple on the menu.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Wonderful Dinner!
We had a fantastic experience at Drift in Essex. The atmosphere is great, but the food and drinks are what really make it worth the visit. The cocktails were expertly crafted, and every dish we ordered was fresh and delicious. Thanks for stuffed olives!
What truly stood out was the service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure we were taken care of, and you can tell the restaurant is run by a very hard-working couple. Their dedication to the business really shows in the details and the warm hospitality.
We definitely will be back when the snow melts and the views are back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Hidden gem. Great food. Great cocktails. Great service. Great location.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Food was well priced, bartender was awesome. Had a great meal and will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A crab cake disappointment. I always try them when I see them on a menu but these missed the mark. The texture felt like lump crab meat from a can, thrown into a food processor with breadcrumbs. Flavor and depth were both lacking. Honestly, this version of a crab cake was such a letdown, it nearly brought a tear to my eye. Please, spare us this abomination.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 3
Service: 4
UPDATE: 12/3/25 it was so good we went back the next day! This time we had the apple cider calamari again, crab smash and lobster roll. I’ve never tasted anything better! Even their butter was good!! Try the apple cider margarita! 12/2/25 Wonderful stop! Had great service from Grace and the food was amazing. You won’t regret the Apple cider vinegar calamari, smash burger or fish and chips. The espresso martini was delicious!
UPDATE: 12/3/25 it was so good we went back the next day! This time we had the apple cider calamari again, crab smash and lobster roll. I’ve never tasted anything better! Even their butter was good!! Try the apple cider margarita!
12/2/25 Wonderful stop! Had great service from Grace and the food was amazing. You won’t regret the Apple cider vinegar calamari, smash burger or fish and chips. The espresso martini was delicious!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Nice bar area, we discovered this place two weeks ago. Awesome cocktails, great food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fried Calamari, Truffle Honey Chicken Sandwich
Andrew and Payton are the best bartenders in Connecticut! Ever since I discovered the place I’ve been going once a week. Amazing for the family or the single man.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Seared Ahi Tuna Salad, Hamburger
Great food
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
If I could give more than 5 stars I would. Stewart is the most personable , professional host/bartender/owner…with a full bar he made us feel like we were the only guests he was serving.
I was unsure what cocktail to order. I told Stewart my vibe and he made me a white Negroni. Perfect.
Ordered the calamari app then lobster roll and ahi tuna salad. Amazing.
10 out of 10. Would recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I've been waiting to come here. Sad I missed the summer menu but the fall menu didn't disappoint.
Drink the Bong Water!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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