Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Connecticut

Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Essex

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighbourhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

5 restaurants available nearby

A photo of La Marea restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1805)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 9 times today
Savor the authentic tastes of Italy when you dine at La Marea. Located on the shoreline of CT in Old Saybrook, our family owned Italian restaurant prepares northern and southern Italian cuisine using a mix of the finest imports from Italy as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy your dining experience in either our dining room or be sure to reserve a seat at our conversational hi-top tables or at the bar in our lounge.Important: when making a reservation through OpenTable there is an option to make a reservation at a high top table in the bar area or standard table which is in the dining room. If the high top option does not pop up as an option for you then that means that there are NO High Top tables available at those times. If you would like to reserve bar seats please leave us a note or call us. See you soon! Take-out available
A photo of The Essex restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1036)
Price: Expensive
• American • Old Saybrook
Booked 8 times today
Set in the heart of downtown, across from the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, the “new” Essex will continue to offer the progressive, modern, approachable cuisine that has made it a top restaurant in the region. Whether it’s a pre-theater dinner, a casual gathering with friends, or a tasting menu for a special evening, guests can gather at The Essex to create memories with family and friends while enjoying excellent cuisine. The Essex menu showcases modern American cuisine that draws inspiration from the land, sea and deep heritage of the Connecticut River Valley, using the freshest locally sourced products available from farm and sea. All will inspire an ever-changing menu of progressive interpretations of timeless dishes. "Voted Best New Restaurant in New England" Yankee Magazine "Best Restaurants in Connecticut" CT Magazine "Not to be Missed" Town & Country Magazine"Rising Chef Star" CT Mag
A photo of Café Routier restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2174)
Price: Moderate
• American • Westbrook
Booked 10 times today
Cafe Routier is a perfect choice for special occasions. Reviews rave about its romantic ambiance, superior service, and outstanding food. One reviewer said, 'If you are celebrating a special event this is it. Great every time.' Another mentioned it's their 'family favorite for all special occasions.' The restaurant's globally inspired, constantly evolving menu and attentive service make every visit a memorable one.
A photo of Fresh Salt restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1519)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Old Saybrook
Booked 12 times today
Fresh Salt is more than just a restaurant; it is a place to enjoy one another’s company and experience the breathtaking views of the Long Island Sound quietly intertwined with the Connecticut River. Utilizing the chef’s simple yet high quality approach, the fresh, seasonal local ingredients of Connecticut are transformed into beautifully inspired dishes. Our Local Food Commitment allows us to work with local farmers and artisans to ensure the quality of locally grown ingredients from the sea, land and soil. These fresh ingredients and vibrant tastes of Fresh Salt are available daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located right on the water means seriously fresh seafood and our menu definitely delivers. From the beloved Lobster Roll to the cherished Clam Chowder and so many more specialties, Fresh Salt dishes are guaranteed to please every palate. We offer indoor and outdoor dining, outdoor dining is based on a first come first serve basis, outdoor dining is non-reservable.
A photo of Chamard Vineyards, Farm Winery Bistro restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2454)
Price: Expensive
• French / American • Clinton
Booked 8 times today
Established in 1983, Chamard Vineyards, is one of the Connecticut Wine Trails founding fathers. Tucked between the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River, Chamard enjoys a unique marine micro-climate ideal for growing European Vinifera vines such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Pinot Noir. To produce “French Inspired Wines from the Connecticut Shoreline” has been Chamards mission from the start. As a farm, Chamard honors agriculture by partnering with fellow growers and producers to pair food with wine in celebration of Connecticut’s local gastronomy.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Stuart
    Connecticut •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food and service was excellent We loved the ambience
    More info
    Ballo Italian - Mohegan SunPrice: Very Expensive• Italian• Uncasville
    4.7
  • SheilaVIP
    New York City •39 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    After several wonderful visits, we brought friends to enjoy La Marea with us tonight, and, as always, they did not disappoint. The food (sea bass and fettuccine with shrimp specials for all of us) were outstanding! Equalled by the always attentive, personable and knowledgable server who makes us feel so at home and taken care of, Karen. All of the staff was right there to take care of everything at just the right time. Nino's visit to the table later in the evening to check on our experience capped off a truly special night. Thank you to everyone at La Marea for another great evening, cementing why this restaurant is our go-to for a special evening out. :)
    More info
    La MareaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Old Saybrook
    4.8
  • Ann
    Greater Boston •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The food was fantastic. The seating wasn’t great. I made these reservations 2 months ago and thought we would get a nice table. We asked to sit inside as it was a little cold by water. Our first table was in a dark hallway. When I asked for a different table we were seated out side by the water. We literally had to shout to have a conversation. They cater to large groups and don’t give much thought to a couples dining experience. Also, we arrived thirteen before our reservation time and were told to return at the exact time of our reservation. The hostesses need better training.
    More info
    Tuscany - Mohegan SunPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Uncasville
    4.4
  • BobVIP
    New York City •39 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The dining experience we enjoyed at The Essex will undoubtedly be one of our favorite meals of the year. We reserved a spot at the Chef's counter which overlooks all the action happening in the kitchen. Watching how well the culinary crew was orchestrated was a real treat. We opted for the Chefs Tasting Menu, and it was a great decision. Highlights were the lobster bisque. the Hiramasu Cru, lobster quenelles (a real treat), crispy octopus, Jurgielewicz duck, and the Wagyu. Shout out to the chef and his team, and to our server who helped us pair our meal with some enjoyable wines. The Essex has a cool vibe, and they strive to make everyone feel welcome. Highly recommended!
    More info
    The EssexPrice: Expensive• American• Old Saybrook
    4.8
  • Suzanne Zitser
    New York City •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Unbelievable/ a go to - as we go to constantly. Everything about this place is perfect.
    More info
    Café RoutierPrice: Moderate• American• Westbrook
    4.7

Discover best special occasions restaurants in Essex

Discover the ideal dining destinations in Essex, Connecticut for your special occasions. Nestled in the scenic region of Middlesex County, Essex offers a variety of restaurants perfect for creating memorable experiences, whether it's a romantic dinner, an anniversary, or a celebratory gathering. Each establishment in this charming locale prides itself on delivering exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and an ambiance that complements any festive event. With a focus on quality and a commitment to memorable dining, these restaurants ensure every meal is special. The dining scene in Essex is characterized by its elegant settings and culinary excellence, making it a prime destination for those seeking a truly remarkable dining experience. As you plan your next special occasion, consider the refined selections Essex has to offer, where each meal is crafted with care and every visit promises to be unforgettable.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo