The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn

Essex, CT · Restaurant

Rating
4.6/5
★★★★★ 4.6
Reviews
18
Rank in Essex
#5
of 16 restaurants
City Percentile
73%
rating percentile
Address
The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn, 36 Main St, Essex, CT 06426
Phone
(860) 767-1776
Website
griswoldinn.com/food-wine/wine-bar-dining
Status
Closed · Opens 5:30 PM

The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn is a restaurant located in Essex, CT. It is one of 16 restaurants listed in Essex. Its 4.6-star rating is above the Essex city average of 4.3 stars. It ranks #5 among Essex restaurants by combined rating and review volume. There are 10 photos associated with this location.

About The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn

The Wine Bar & Bistro at The Griswold Inn is another way to enjoy our culinary offerings. This distinct and separate dining outlet on premise features small plates, macros plates, select cheeses, special desserts and, of course, wine! Our... More

Hours

Saturday5 PM–10 PM

Customer Reviews

★★★★★ 5.0 Rebecca Clingenpeel · Jan 2026

Wow! As a CT nativeI can't believe I had never been here. Historic, charming, and delicious food with attentive service. We were a large group and everything was great. It's nice to see all the old decorations as well. A must visit!

★★★★★ 5.0 Colin C · Dec 2025

Fine dining atmosphere and experience at the Library room with very Christmas feel along with carols. Celiac (gluten free friendly), dairy and egg dietary restrictions were accommodated, including dessert, which is uncommon. Great service and food. Thank you.

★★★★★ 5.0 Maysa · Jan 2025

I brought my cousin from out of state who is a big foodie and they were very impressed! The menu options were a mix of comfort and elegance with a dash of creativity. The staff were extremely professional and very attentive - my water glass was filled frequently without me having to chase anyone down! Will definitely be coming again.

★★★★★ 5.0 Jen B. · Apr 2025

What an amazing experience to eat in the oldest continuously running restaurant since 1775, and only 6 owners ... Truly authentic, the food is out of this world!! Potato pancakes, grilled Reuben, hamburgers, just phenomenal!

★★★★★ 5.0 Arvydas Saffari · Apr 2025

Dining at The Griswold Inn isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience wrapped in centuries of charm. From the flicker of candlelight to the low wooden beams and vintage maritime artwork, every inch of the place whispers history. You feel like you’re stepping back in time, but the food is anything but dated. The menu leans into hearty New England fare, and it delivers. The pot roast is fork-tender and rich, the clam chowder is creamy and full of flavor (no skimping on the clams), and the baked scallops are fresh, buttery, and beautifully seasoned. And if you’re lucky enough to be there on a prime rib night—don’t miss it. The staff is warm, attentive, and clearly proud to be part of such a beloved institution. It’s the kind of place where you’re encouraged to linger, sip a glass of wine or cider

Accessibility & Amenities

✓ Wheelchair Accessible Entrance ✓ Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot ✓ Wheelchair Accessible Restroom ✓ Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Services

Restaurant

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This listing is informational. Contact the business directly to verify credentials, services, and availability.