The Oldest Restaurant In Connecticut Has A Truly Incredible History
By Taylor Ellis|Published July 31, 2016
×
Taylor Ellis
Author
Taylor Ellis grew up in southern Connecticut. She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. Follow her at taylorellisblogger.com
The oldest restaurant in Connecticut also has the honor of being the fourth oldest restaurant in the country. Esquire named this place one of America’s 5 best restaurants older than a hundred, which is pretty cool considering it’s much older than a lot of its competitors. So, where is this incredibly historic restaurant? Let me tell you!
The Griswold Inn in Essex was established in 1776!
That means this gorgeous Colonial-style lodging has been around since the birth of the country. Sitting on the banks of the Connecticut River, this place is pretty picturesque. The inn is one of the longest continually operating in the United States, with an inside that will blow you away. The downstairs dining areas are split off into different sections, with each offering its own unique experience.
The inn hosts tours and has a number of historic rooms, in addition to their fantastic dinner menu. Their weekly "hunt breakfast" is one of the best brunches in Connecticut, and they've been perfecting it since 1812. So this place is anything but dated! It exudes a timeless charm, creating an atmosphere of sophistication. Sip on the extensive wine offerings and dine worry free!
Classics like this are just the beginning to the refreshing and unique menu at The Griswold Inn. Some menu highlights include Baked Stuffed Shrimp, Seared Swordfish, and the Crispy White Truffle and Chive Fingerling Potatoes. Is your mouth watering yet?
In the famous Covered Bridge Room you feel instantly transported to the past. Rich wood envelops the room, decorated with paintings of the state's rich past. History buffs will instantly fall in love with the space, but it's also the perfect place to take your partner on an impressive date. After all, there's no other place in the state like The Griswold Inn in Essex!
And you'd be missing out big time if you didn't stop by the Tap Room!
This room is actually a former schoolhouse built in 1730. But its been considered the 'Most Iconic Bar in Connecticut' for decades now. The schoolhouse building was attached to the inn in 1801 with the help of some oxen, who rolled it on logs down Main Street. Folks come for the nightly entertainment and live music. Not to mention the popcorn machine!
This will be your new favorite dining destination!
It's pretty incredible that this place has not only withstood the test of time, but transformed and grown along the way. It's a truly wonderful establishment that demands to be seen. So don't take my word for it. Go check it out for yourself!
Did I mention you can also spend the night? Check out this aerial view of the town and see why this place needs to be your weekend destination!
Address: 36 Main St, Essex, CT 06426 Hours: Monday thru Thursday 12 – 8
Friday and Saturday 12 – 9
Sunday 11 – 8
If you thought the oldest restaurant in Connecticut was pretty cool, liven up your summer with a trip to one of these incredible seafood joints!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
