The Griswold Inn : One of the Oldest Inns in the Country!!!
The Griswold Inn is the most well-known landmark structure in Essex. Sala Griswold built the Griswold House in 1776, according to a sign at the Inn. It was originally located near the shipyard before being relocated to its present position on Main Street to become part of the house built by Richard Hayden in 1801. Hayden’s house was the first three-story structure in the Connecticut River Valley.
Image source – https://www.facebook.com/GriswoldInn/
In the 17th Century at The Griswold Inn:
Three brothers founded the local inn and watering hole, which was named after the Griswold family. Over the centuries, it has only been cared for by six families. The oldest bar in Connecticut retains all of its historical charms while staying in a modern location for food and spirits.
Image source – https://www.facebook.com/GriswoldInn/
In the 18th Century at The Griswold Inn:
The early 1800s saw the introduction of steamboat travel to the area, and by 1824, Essex had established itself as an essential stop on the Connecticut River. For decades, the Griswold Inn catered to these visitors. In the historic dining room, an impressive range of historic maritime artifacts from this golden period is on display. As the Prohibition Era began, the Griswold Inn became known as a dependable source of spirits. It was frequently raided, sometimes fined, but it was always back in business. The Connecticut River’s rum runners kept the bar stocked.
In the 19th Century at The Griswold Inn:
The Great Depression had an impact on the inn, but by the 1940s, the formation of yacht clubs and an influx of weekend travelers had revitalized the historic destination. The Griswold Inn began its expansion into surrounding buildings in the 1960s after I-95 was finished and the surrounding waters of Essex were full of weekend boaters. The Inn has grown while retaining its historic integrity as a community gathering place, and it has become one of Connecticut’s most famous restaurants.
In recent years at The Griswold Inn:
The inn’s best-known dining room is steeped in history. It was built from a dismantled New England-covered bridge and contains relics from the inn’s early days. The Griswold Inn has existed for a long time for 243 years. The walls are steeped in history. This is among the most historical sites in Connecticut that is worth a visit. It has been named “Best Bar In America” several times.
Image source – https://www.facebook.com/GriswoldInn/
A bit about the Food at The Griswold Inn:
Choose from a wide range of tried-and-true dishes that include pasta, seafood, aged beef, chicken, and more. Entrees are basic compositions with bold taste that are presented uniquely. You’ll understand why this is one of Connecticut’s most famous restaurants as you savor a delectable dinner while surrounded by decades of history.
Image source – https://www.facebook.com/GriswoldInn/
The Griswold Inn taproom, Connecticut’s oldest tavern, serves drinks and a more informal menu. In 1801 a former schoolhouse was rolled down Main Street on logs and joined to the Inn, creating the taproom. Every night, live music is performed at the award-winning pub.
Image source – https://www.facebook.com/GriswoldInn/
The Griswold Inn’s wine bar is another option for dining. Choose your favorite wine by the glass from more than Fifty varietals or try a popular wine flight.
It has got a 4.5 out of 5 stars rating on Facebook. According to some customers, they love this place. This Inn is adorable and quaint. With a great atmosphere, they provide fresh delicious food and the staffs are friendly.
Events:
There you can enjoy some interesting events having your meal. Some of the upcoming events are Irish I Were at The Gris ~ St. Pat’s Day on 17 March, The Cherry Pie Band on 5 March, Eagle & Winter Wildlife Cruises on 11 March, etc. For more information visit their website.
Location:
The location of Griswold Inn in CT is 36 Main Street Essex, CT 06426.
Website – https://www.griswoldinn.com/
Timing of Historic Dining:
SUNDAY 11:00 am-8:00 pm
MONDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
TUESDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
WEDNESDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
THURSDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
FRIDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
SATURDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
Timing of Tap Room:
SUNDAY 11:00 am-8:00 pm
MONDAY 11:30 am-11:00 pm
TUESDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
WEDNESDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
THURSDAY 11:30 am-8:00 pm
FRIDAY 11:30 am-11:00 pm
SATURDAY 11:30 am-11:00 pm
Note: Some of the images in this article may be taken from different pages from the internet and their source would be mentioned under each of the images. AmazingCT.com does not take the credit for any of the pics. We are using the pics as a reference to these sites and using them under the fair usage policy. Please let us know if you want us to remove any of the pics by writing to us at exploreconnecticut@gmail.com.