December 8, 2021

Snapshots from the Relaunch of The Essex on 247 Main St.

A short visual story of visiting and dining at The Essex Restaurant, at 247 Main St. Old Saybrook, CT.

Some places have a way of leaving a person speechless. In this case, visiting and dining at The Essex Restaurant did exactly that. From the teamwork of hospitality, to the nautical details in decor, from the displays of culinary expertise, all the way to the final results of edible artwork, the overall experience was nothing short of delectable. That said, scroll onwards for visuals from the restaurant’s relaunch, now located at 247 Main St. Old Saybrook, CT.

About The Essex Restaurant:

Before we get started, here is a little backstory about the restaurant, in words of Head Chef and Owner, Colt Taylor:

“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 Connecticut River Valley, the land infuses our culinary vision with the freshest locally-sourced products available from farm and sea. We call on traditions from around the world, as well as the avant-garde to represent both the nostalgic and the modern through progressive interpretations of timeless dishes.”

Photo Gallery:

The bar facing the open kitchen at The Essex Restaurant
A glimpse of the tasting menu bar and part of their intimate seating. Artwork by Chef Colt Taylor’s mother: Melissa Barbieri.
The Essex Restaurant talented chefs and employees
Sharon Service, Charles Brousseau and Ryan preparing their mise en place before guests arrive.
Chef Colt Taylor demonstrating plating techniques in the view of the open kitchen.
Chef Colt Taylor demonstrating plating technique, from the view of the open kitchen.
Short rib dish part of the rotating tasting menu at The Essex Restaurant
Savory toffee braised short rib with Seacoast Mushrooms.
Spicy crab pasta dish part of the rotating tasting menu at The Essex Restaurant
Spicy peekytoe crab agnolotti with a Calabrian chili pistou, paired with pinot noir.
Refreshing plate from the rotating tasting menu at The Essex Restaurant
Raw hiramasa with passion fruit and minced celery and apple salad.
The two bars at The Essex Restaurant
The employees preparing and organizing moments before the grand opening.
Chefs Ryan and Charles setting up their work stations at The Essex Restaurant
Ryan and Charles Brousseau exchanging laughs while prepping their work stations.
The bar facing the open kitchen at The Essex Restaurant
A view of the exclusive tasting menu bar facing the open kitchen.
A decadent dish part of the rotating tasting menu at The Essex Restaurant
Caviar beignet with créme fraiche and egg, paired with Raffaitin Sancerre.
Freshly made pasta details at The Essex Restaurant
Freshly made egg pasta awaiting further preparation.
Spicy crab pasta dish part of the rotating tasting menu at The Essex Restaurant
Spicy peekytoe crab agnolotti with a Calabrian chili pistou, finished with grana padano, hazelnuts, and Japanese milk bread.

* Admittedly, I am a little biased. I am thankful to say I am fortunate to grow alongside Chef Colt’s restaurant. Through the years, he allowed me to develop my photography skills through our food collaborations. And for that, I am undoubtedly grateful. Though, even if I did not have this opportunity, the food and atmosphere would still lure me in. (Thank you David Milton for introducing us. It is always a pleasure for the three of us to create together!)


Recent Articles Featuring The Restaurant:

To stay up to date with Chef Colt’s menus, please visit the restaurant website at www.theessex.com. To follow along through social media, visit their Instagram account at @TheEssexRestaurant or their Facebook page.

For more posts like this, scroll through my Field Notes or follow along with me on Instagram here.