2 Best Restaurants in Essex, Hartford and the Connecticut River Valley

The trip to Chester, a few miles up Route 9 from Essex, will be a memorable one as husband and wife team Joel and Lani Gargano have converted a turn-of-the-century bank into one of the most sought-after seats in the Connecticut dining scene. Chef Joel has created an Italian-focused menu that draws inspiration from the Italian (Puglia-specifc) tradition of collecting the charred wheat left over when fields were burnt after harvest season to make pasta and bread. This tribute earned Grano Arso (burnt grain in Italian) an overall win as Connecticut Restaurant of the Year in 2019. 

Share small plates, have a pub-style sandwich, or enjoy a full entrée at this iconic neighborhood tavern—there's something on the menu that will appeal to everyone; the Friday Night Prime Rib Special is a big draw. There's also a great selection of local craft beer and cider and a full wine list.