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Best Casual Restaurants in Branford

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lockworks Tavern restaurant
1. Lockworks Tavern
4.5
Awesome(94)
Price: Moderate
• Steakhouse • Branford
Booked 10 times today
Lockworks Tavern isn't just your neighborhood tavern; it's an experience unto itself, a destination for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. Situated at the crossroads of tradition and innovation, the tavern captivates with a blend of rustic charm and modern flair. Here, conversations flow freely and your glass is always full.
A photo of HOME restaurant
2. HOME
4.7
Exceptional(218)
Price: Moderate
• American • Branford
Booked 3 times today
What does home feel like? In our welcoming space, we craft a variety of delicious comfort food dishes to give you that feeling every time you visit. Comfort foods with a twist and nothing but local support is our specialty!
A photo of The Essex Brasserie restaurant
3. The Essex Brasserie
4.2
Awesome(75)
Price: Moderate
• French • Branford
Booked 3 times today
Chef Colt Taylor, celebrated for his culinary gem, The Essex in Old Saybrook, is proud to announce the opening of The Essex Brasserie in Branford, Connecticut, This is comfort food at its finest.The Essex Brasserie showcases Chef Taylor’s innovative approach to French cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and bold flavors. The menu features classic French dishes, including many of the favorites at The Essex. Among the highlights:Lobster Bisque, Clam Chowders & French Onion SoupThe Wagyu BurgerBeef Wellington served with pomme purée, haricot verts, and bordelaiseFluke Meunière: A zesty and flavorful dish with peanut chile crisp Moules Frites: Fresh mussels offered in three unique stylesThe famous Essex Lobster & Beet Fusilli
A photo of Little Riggs restaurant
4. Little Riggs
4.8
Exceptional(26)
Price: Moderate
• American • Branford
Booked 1 time today
The mission stays the same though. Good food ties us to the memories and the people we love. I share the memories and the food I love. 3 years ago I started a little food truck breakfast in a little bar parking lot, today we call that parking lot ours and that little bar, is now Little Riggs.
A photo of Lobster Shack - East Haven restaurant
5. Lobster Shack - East Haven
4.9
Exceptional(18)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • East Haven
Booked 1 time today
The Lobster Shack is located on the beautiful Connecticut shoreline in East Haven. If you're searching for Connecticut's Best Lobster Roll then visit us!
A photo of Gioia - Wooster Street New Haven restaurant
6. Gioia - Wooster Street New Haven
4.7
Exceptional(397)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • New Haven
Booked 24 times today
PLEASE NOTE: The rooftop at GIOIA does not accept reservations. Seating is first come, first served. Cheerful Italian food and drink in Wooster Square. Follow us @GioiaNHVOnline reservations are now available through our website!!!
A photo of Il Gabbiano - New Haven restaurant
7. Il Gabbiano - New Haven
4.6
Exceptional(326)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • New Haven
Booked 13 times today
Il Gabbiano is an Italian Steakhouse brought to the historical waterfront district and neighborhood of the city of New Haven, Connecticut by Chef Valentino Stakaj owner of the city's iconic Adriana's on Grand Avenue and La Lupa in North Haven, Valentino has rebuilt the famous restaurant location at 501 Long Wharf Drive which overlooks the Long Island Sound. Monday to Sunday happy hour from 12:00-6:00pm drink and appetizer specials every day.
A photo of Elm City Social restaurant
8. Elm City Social
4.4
Awesome(314)
Price: Moderate
• American • New Haven
Booked 9 times today
Voted Connecticut’s Best New RestaurantElm City Social evokes the spirit of the 1920s, bringing back to life the craftwork of cocktails that has been lost until now. In the kitchen, Chef John Brennan draws you in with seasonally inspired menus that can only be described as “comfort food with a flavorful twist.” People love our style; we were even named one of the Best New Restaurants this year by Connecticut Magazine.We’re located inside the historic building that once housed Kasey's Restaurant in the early 1900's. By the corner of Chapel and College Streets, we're situated across the street from the famed Shubert Theater and just off the New Haven Green. Join us today.
A photo of The Luke Brasserie Bar & Cafe restaurant
9. The Luke Brasserie Bar & Cafe
4.8
Exceptional(362)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary French / American • New Haven
Booked 5 times today
Chef Vincent is excited to bring a dynamic contemporary brasserie experience to New Haven.Chef Vincent has worked with such culinary giants as: Charlie Trotter, Daniel Boloud, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Marcus Samuellson, Rocco Dispirito, Georges Blanc, Paul Bocuse, Michel Geurard, and Stephen Starr.
A photo of Olives and Oil restaurant
10. Olives and Oil
4.4
Awesome(225)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • New Haven
Booked 13 times today
Brought to you by the team at Elm City Social, Olives and Oil explores Chef John Brennan's modern take on rustic Italian cuisine, wine, and life in a vintage setting.What you'll find inside: fresh ingredients, small plates, brick oven-fired pizza, and a delicious raw bar.Serving lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch!

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JacquelineVIP
    New York City •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    As always the dishes were innovative and tasty and the service was perfect.
    More info
    HOMEPrice: Moderate• American• Branford
    •
    4.7
  • JohnVIP
    New York City •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Very nice evening. Live music was a nice surprise. “Impromptu” dessert highly recommended!
    More info
    Little RiggsPrice: Moderate• American• Branford
    •
    4.8
  • Bob
    New York City •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 14, 2025
    A great place to eat and celebrate a special occasion or just for drinks and or dinner. Food is delicious with choices for everyone including non meat eaters and gluten free. The menu for specialty drinks is very good. Beer menu also provides many choices. Both beer and cocktail menus provide non alcoholic choices. Servers are attentive and efficient. Prices are a bit higher than a typical pub tavern however the food is outstanding!
    More info
    Lockworks TavernPrice: Moderate• Steakhouse• Branford
    •
    4.5
  • MarkVIP
    Greater Boston •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 13, 2025
    Wonderful bistro. Relaxed atmosphere, low noise level allowing for conversation, and outstanding food. Terrific addition to the area dining scene.
    More info
    The Essex BrasseriePrice: Moderate• French• Branford
    •
    4.2
  • Shenel
    New York City •6 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Feb 8, 2025
    The staff were kind. The place is family friendly and has nice decor for photos. It's not too noisy so you can still hold a conversation without yelling. The food was yummy. I wish my hot lobster roll came with melted butter and the drinks were not very strong. Aside from that I would for sure visit again.
    More info
    Lobster Shack - East HavenPrice: Expensive• Seafood• East Haven
    •
    4.9

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