Essex, Connecticut | A Coastal Town With Charm
Eat
The town offers quite a few food options including spots that have stood the test of time. The Griswald Inn marked by green shutters was opened in 1776 and is the oldest continuously run inn in America. In addition to being a hotel, the Tap Room is a must-visit for a bite to eat. The cozy, dimly lit room is anchored with a multitude of framed nautical prints illuminated by picture lights and centered around an old wood stove and a long wooden bar. The back dining area is the place you want to be in the winter perched next to the roaring stone fireplace. The fish and chips are a delicious bet as is the homemade chowder. For something sweet, walk across the street to Chocolate Geeks, a shop dedicated to cocoa, which sells an array bean-to-bar chocolate and decadent warm chocolate chip cookies (look for the sign in the window). But their claim to fame is the Truffle Shot, which is an award-winning, patent-pending dose of goodness that is essentially the inside of a chocolate truffle that is funneled into a shot glass you get to keep. If the temps are high and you want to cool down with ice cream, swing next door to Sweet P’s. If a caffeine pick-me-up is needed, grab a cold brew at Essex Coffee & Tea Company. Dining al fresco by the water is what summer is all about so head to Siren Kitchen & Bar located in the Essex Island Marina. Take the complimentary ferry from the mainland—it’s a quick two-minute ride —and enjoy a menu that includes salads, sandwiches, and two different types of lobster rolls. Outside the main thoroughfare is The Essex, which serves modern-American cuisine with a French flare, and offers both a tasting and set menu. The dishes are inspired by the season and recently included gnocchi nestled with nettles and lobster bisque.
Shop
Main Street is dotted with a handful of independent shops and boutiques. For kitchen goods visit Weekend Kitchen, where you’ll discover a curation of new and one-of-a-kind vintage items, alongside stationary and home goods. Across the street from The Griswald Inn is The Griswald Inn Shop Goods & Curiosities, where you’ll find something for everyone including books with local history, art supplies, coffee table books, clothing, and more. Across the way is Essex Duck a rubber duck emporium you never knew you needed to visit. This quirky shop sells 750 different types of rubber ducks outfitted in every way from a viking and dentist, to a Game of Thrones themed toy.
See
The town is ideal for strolling and taking in the salty breezes of the Connecticut River. In addition to shopping, eating, and walking around the quaint neighborhood, there are a few spots to check out. The Connecticut River Museum displays artifacts and stories from the area from Native American to present day.
