Where to Eat in Essex: The Best Restaurants and Bars

Located in the “storybook” village of Essex mere steps from the Connecticut River, this 1776 landmark offers three distinct dining experiences. “Historic Dining” is offered in four handsome rooms - The Covered Bridge, The Gun Room, The Library and The Essex Room – where a renowned maritime art collection fills the walls. The Inn’s New England heritage and connection with the sea is apparent in the classic seasonal cuisine offered; diners may enjoy a more contemporary culinary experience in the stunning wine bar featuring tapas-style dining and an extensive selection of wines by the glass; tavern fare is offered in the atmospheric, award-winning Tap Room where lively music rings out nightly. Patio dining is an option May through October, weather permitting. Lunch and dinner served daily, Hunt Breakfast on Sunday.

Liv's is the brainchild of John Brescio. He is a French Culinary Institute-trained chef who worked at Tavern on the Green and Judson Grill in New York as well as Aux Delices in Greenwich. Liv's is names for the Brescio's young daughter Olivia, a photogenic tyke whose black and white blowups grace the walls. 'The combination of easy comfort and really good food makes Liv's Oyster Bar in Old Saybrook such a find' - The NY Times.

Red House provides an array of food and drink that keeps customers wondering what is coming next. Whether it is seasonal menus, southern bbq, hot trends we keep are customers coming by keeping our ingredients fresh.

cookery and taproom located in the center of Ivoryton across from the Ivoryton Playhouse. Casual dining for lunch dinner and late night. New taproom opened with ct craft beers.

Sweet P's, has been established in Essex, CT since 1989. We specialize in gourmet ice cream- Ashley's gourmet ice cream voted Connecticut's best for many years in a row, fresh smoothies made with the pulp of the fruit, hand crafted paninis and soups. Our handcrafted soups afford you the opportunity to enjoy gourmet, restaurant-quality soup at home without spending the day in the kitchen. Enjoy a "night-out" experience Sweet P's also offers gourmet freshly made panini (in Italy panino is a singular and panini is a plural) these are sandwiches toasted to grill-marked crunchiness on an Italian made iron press. Our meats are lean and our chicken is steroid-free/antibiotic free. All panini come with a free option of veggie chips. A complete gourmet lunch box to go :) Are you a local? Come and try us. We guarantee good service,delicious food and a fun time with us. Are you simply spending the weekend or a long vacation in our charming village? Make us part of your adventure and let us add a satisfying experience to your vacation. Our family welcomes you to come and enjoy new Sweet History Established in 1989. Sweet P's, has been established in Essex, CT since 1989 but has been under new management since May of 2014. Sweet P's started initially as an Ice cream and candy shop. Over the years the products vary from penny candies to high end chocolates and different brands of ice cream. As the new owner I have selected to sell Ashley's ice cream. Ashley's Ice Cream is a premium gourmet ice cream that is locally made with Connecticut ingredients. It is truly amazing! Our signature flavor is Essex Mud which is exclusively made for Sweet P's. Customer service is a huge priority for the Sweet P's family! Due to our increasing demand of Panini, we recommend that you call ahead to place your order instead of waiting in line; however, if you are not in a rush and don't mind waiting a few minutes you can simply place your order and take a brief walk, sit in our court yard or even visit the ducks at the docks and by the time you return your order will be ready to your satisfaction. Meet the Business Owner Angelica Business Owner I grew up in a big family with lots of good home cooking. I love to cook but most importantly I like to make quality food. When I was a single mom, I worked full time but I wanted my children to enjoy good food and treats, so finding restaurants or takeout shops with quality food was a bit of a challenge. At Sweet P's, when I see a mother sharing a panini meal with their children it brings back fond memories. I want to provide food that is fast and convenience but not fast food. I have created a menu that I believe is the perfect blend of gourmet quality and value in a simple take-out order without paying the price of a seat down restaurant. If you are visiting Essex Village by car or boat please feel free to stop by and say hi. Smiles and a friendly greeting are free! :) Boaters who wants to cook after swabbing the deck? Imagine eating a fresh panini while in the Connecticut River on the deck of your boat... And why not have some Ashley's ice cream for desert. you deserve it! :) General Information Come down for a lunch, mid-afternoon snack or dinner and try our new Soup & Panini menu with a cup of Essex Mud ice cream. It will blow your mind!