Best Authentic Restaurants in Bridgeport

The best dining experience I have had in a LONG time. The vibe of the restaurant is stylish yet comfortable, the waitstaff was knowledgeable, friendly, and on-point. But the food... out of this world. We split lemongrass mussels for an appetizer - more than enough for two, where my date asked for a spoon for the broth. The entrees were halibut and salmon special, the salmon came with a smoked rouge sauce that was hands down the best sauce to go with fish I've ever had. My date cleaned her plate of the halibut and said the combination of flavors on her plate was divine! I had goat cheesecake and we split the apple tart for dessert - both absolute winners. And the coffee was locally roasted, super fresh, and the perfect way to end the meal!! The chef also came out to say hello and ask how everything was! Can't wait to go back!!

This is my go-to all time favorite Mediterranean restaurant in all of CT. We drove through the snow to dine at Esh and it was worth the 40 mile round trip! We are always so excited and so look forward to dining in this most beautiful warm inviting establishment. The interior is captivating with its beautiful bar, the lit trees stretching towards the sky and the red heart balloons adorned the restaurant throughout since it was Valentines Day weekend.From the Esh margaritas to Grandmas biscuit cake, the food is just divine, I literally have visions of what we will order. The Taboon bread is the BEST, and the hummus, tzatziki and eggplant & feta dips are enough to be blissfully content but why stop there. Baby gem salad, roasted beets, the ribeye steak (thanks Markaduke for the recommendation), the brazino and beef shawarma, perfection. Congratulations to Norm and his team of Chefs, culinary wizards, and the manager Nino who I just love for his caring nature, hostesses Gabriella and Charlotte who understand and elevate what the customer experience should be. Always a great experience above and beyond. I can’t wait for the next occasion to dine here. ❤️

The restaurant was full of people for this year's Valentine's Day. However, the ambience was perfect: not too much noise, wonderful lighting, and lovely details. The food, as usual, was outstanding, as was the service. This restaurant never lets you down. Thanks to Pasquale for his professionalism and kindness in greeting his guests.

Our first visit to Tablao was a wonderful experience. The reserved table fulfilled my teservation requests: away from bar, kitchen or service station. The room is nicely arranged in rows of small tables, set apart a reasonable and comfortable distance. Our wait staff varied as the evening evilved, at one point including the owner in serving our meal. Our selections, from an extensive listing of 25-30 tapas, was served in pairs, so as not to overwhelm either our tastes nor the small square table. There were breaks, respites, as we finished the two before the next two were delivered. We had no influence about which were served or in what order. Each was interesting, tasteful, sizeable and seemingly authentic- showing care in the preparation and presentation. We added cappacino, coffee and a split dessert, the last being the low note of the entire fare- a lemon tart. We spent an enjoyable two+ hours in leisurely dining and, though not inexpensive, was worth the pricing ( tapas averaged @ $16) We will return, especially to partake of their 3-6 pm happy hour with occasional 1/2 priced bottled wines.

Awesome first time at Mercato in Shelton! Hallie C. was great and very hospitable to us for our Valentines lunch. Great ambiance with the right tone of music. Will definitely be returning soon.