Opentable Diners Choice
10 Best Restaurants in CT
CT Magazine Best Restaurants in CT
Rising Chef Star Colt Taylor CT Mag
Best New Restaurant Yankee Magazine
Passion, love and innovation fuel our vision. We value the foundation of French Technique with a modern approach to classic American Cuisine.
Experience Modern American cuisine that draws inspiration from the land, sea and deep heritage of the Connecticut River Valley, alongside a legion of international flavors. The Essex marks the transition between old New England charm and upscale elegance; a time that calls for refreshment and rejuvenation. Steeped in the rich heritage of the Shoreline focused on sustainable and locally-sourced products available from farm and sea.
Based on 243 reviews, the restaurant has received a rating of 4.5 stars. Price $$$
✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Takeout ✔️ No delivery
Address:
247 Main St, Old Saybrook, CT 06475
Phone: (860) 237-4189
Social Profile: 
Hours
| Saturday | 4–10 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday
(Labor Day)
|
Closed |
| Tuesday | 4–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 4–9 PM |
| Thursday | 4–9 PM |
| Friday | 4–10 PM |
Menu
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Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Reviews
LP VMD
We had a lovely meal here last night. They were extremely accommodating to a vegan who joined us for dinner and the appetizers and entrees were fantastic. We had the fluke for dinner and it was excellent. The cocktails were light and fresh and perfect for an evening out on the patio. We have been searching for a good dining experience locally and most places have fallen short but the Essex delivered nicely. We will be back to try and sit at the bar!
Jason Paul
Quaint, personable staff & relaxing atmosphere all culminated with amazing food! We had the 5 course chef’s tasting, each course was absolutely delicious. Our next visit we plan to sit at the bar to watch the chef’s at work.
Everett Legassey
This dining experience is a top 3 for me. The food and atmosphere were both amazing. The open kitchen is nice and the kitchen staff was very entertaining and friendly. The Chef’s tasting menu offers a great variety of different flavors to enjoy. The service was professional, prompt, friendly, and knowledgeable. Every dish was explained as it was delivered and the wine pairings were accurate and flavorful. Highly recommend for a great meal in a cute intimate setting.
Heath Henry
We’ve been to The Essex new location in Old Saybrook twice now and came away quite satisfied both times – we will definitely be going back. Most recently, we reserved bar seats and enjoyed a couple cocktails and some food off the a la carte menu. The steak tartare and the halibut dish (both pictured) tasted just as good as they look. Pacing was perfect between the “appetizer” and the main dish. The bartender John was quite friendly and prepared some tasty drinks. Previously, we sat at the chef’s counter for my birthday in July – a very intimate experience – where the interaction with the kitchen staff made for a great foodie experience. The portion of food and time between dishes was perfect to avoid that feeling of being full setting in. The team was also more than happy to accommodate my duel food allergies. It’s clear they take great pride in the details for both the food and drinks they prepare and the results are quite delicious.
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Jack Cole
Remarkable food. Really great service. Appetizers were delicious. Entrees were next level. Desserts were insane. The drinks were wonderful.
John Hennessey
We really enjoyed the experience! New location looks great, cozy and fun. The staff were great and chef checked in on us. The cocktails were crafted, not just thrown together, and we’re great. We went with the five course chef’s menu and were very impressed with the flavors. There were bonus apps, dessert and complimentary champagne for our daughter’s birthday; although not the ideal place to celebrate a 21st. The right amount of food for all except our growing seventeen year old. We would highly recommend!
Kem Core
My husband and I had dinner here for our 18th wedding anniversary. Service was top notch as was the quality of food. We opted for the 5 course meal and we weren’t disappointed.
Tyler Kupper
What a great local spot! We sat at the chefs table and had a great a la carte meal (5 and 7 course tasting available). Staff and owner were so friendly…can’t wait to get back!
Raina Bretan
We’re from NYC and have an appreciation for fine dining and this place exceeded our high expectations. John, mike and Ryan let us close down the restaurant – excellent service. The food was delicious (highlights were the tagliatelle, short rib and prime rib). Drinks were also on point. The whole vibe was excellent, too – the open kitchen concept showed off how much fun the chefs were having. Will be back when we return to old Lyme!
Eric Schreiber
Loved it! We did the 7 course tasting menu and John the bartender mixed us some delicious cocktails. We sat at the bar where there are plenty of seats and ample space if you can’t get a table. The food was amazing. Despite the small portions of the tasting menu, we were stuffed and had to box the dessert for later. We are definitely going back for another incredible meal.
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