Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Connecticut

Best Italian Restaurants in Essex, Connecticut

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Accessibility

94 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of La Marea restaurant
1. La Marea
4.8
Exceptional(1935)
$$$$
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 23 times today
Savor the authentic tastes of Italy when you dine at La Marea. Located on the shoreline of CT in Old Saybrook, our family owned Italian restaurant prepares northern and southern Italian cuisine using a mix of the finest imports from Italy as well as fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Gluten Free and Vegetarian options are available. Enjoy your dining experience in either our dining room or be sure to reserve a seat at our conversational hi-top tables or at the bar in our lounge.Important: when making a reservation through OpenTable there is an option to make a reservation at a high top table in the bar area or standard table which is in the dining room. If the high top option does not pop up as an option for you then that means that there are NO High Top tables available at those times. If you would like to reserve bar seats please leave us a note or call us. See you soon! Take-out available
A photo of Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge restaurant
2. Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge
4.2
Awesome(994)
$$$$
• Italian • Westbrook
Booked 12 times today
Nestled on the picturesque grounds of the Water’s Edge Resort and Spa in Westbrook, Dattilo Fine Italian offers an authentic Mediterranean culinary journey that transports diners straight to the sun-drenched coasts of Italy. Guests rave about the "wonderful food and service" paired with "breathtaking views" of the ocean, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. The rich and authentic menu is complemented by an extensive global wine list, enhancing the vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Whether enjoying their renowned Sunday brunch or indulging in nightly specials, Dattilo Fine Italian promises a "spectacular" dining experience that leaves a lasting impression.
A photo of Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook restaurant
3. Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook
4.9
Exceptional(204)
$$$$
• Italian • Old Saybrook
Booked 5 times today
Luigi's Restaurant in Old Saybrook is a standout destination for authentic American cuisine, offering not only a warm, family-friendly atmosphere but also an impressive menu that delights every diner. The New York Strip is frequently praised as "cooked perfectly," and their prime rib is described as "delicious," showcasing their commitment to quality. Guests rave about the attentive service, with many noting how the staff makes them feel "right at home." Luigi's is celebrated as a "wonderful gem" for both casual dining and special occasions, making it a go-to spot for those seeking classic American flavors in a charming setting.
A photo of Rustica Ristorante - Chester restaurant
4. Rustica Ristorante - Chester
4.8
Exceptional(1400)
$$$$
• Italian • Chester
Booked 16 times today
Authentic Italian Food!!!UNDER THE STATE LAW DUE TO COVID-19, RUSTICA RISTORANTE HAS IMPLEMENTED HEALTHY AND SAFE PRECAUTIONS FOR OUR EMPLOYEES AND CUSTOMERS. OUR OUTDOOR SEATING ALLOWS YOU TO INTERACT WITH EACH OTHER SAFELY
A photo of The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun restaurant
5. The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun
4.7
Exceptional(10128)
$$$$
• Italian • Uncasville
Booked 125 times today
Roomy, high-end fixture with an old-world atmosphere, reimagined Italian dishes & top-shelf spirits.
A photo of Tuscany - Mohegan Sun restaurant
6. Tuscany - Mohegan Sun
4.4
Awesome(5936)
$$$$
• Italian • Uncasville
Booked 102 times today
Tuscany - Mohegan Sun delivers an unparalleled breakfast experience that is both authentic and indulgent. Nestled in the picturesque setting of Uncasville, the restaurant's Bottomless Brunch is a weekend highlight, drawing rave reviews for its "freshly made to order omelets" and "delicious eggs benedict with a creamy light sauce." The brunch menu delights with a variety of offerings, from French toast adorned with "various sauces and fruits" to a "signature sausage not to be overlooked." Guests are consistently impressed with the "wonderful waitstaff" who ensure each dining experience is memorable. Tuscany is a must-visit for breakfast lovers seeking quality and authenticity.
A photo of La Foresta Restaurant restaurant
7. La Foresta Restaurant
3.7
Very Good(34)
$$$$
• Italian • Killingworth
Booked 14 times today
In July of 2014, following over 20 years of restaurant experience in Italy, New York City and New Haven, Killingworth resident and entrepreneur Francesco Lulaj opened the doors to his biggest wine and food dream yet. Welcome to La Foresta Restaurant & Wine Bar! ABUNDANT WINE SELECTIONS With a spactacular menu, and wine list boasting over 1,600 selections, and more than 10,000 total bottles, Francesco and staff take great pride in serving you and your family. FRESH INGREDIENTS When available, the Chefs will use local Connecticut fresh ingredients and homegrown herbs. We gladly accommodate children’s meals, allergy concerns, and other special requests; please ask your server for suggestions.
A photo of Drea's by Goodfellas | Branford restaurant
8. Drea's by Goodfellas | Branford
4.7
Exceptional(93)
$$$$
• Italian • Branford
Booked 13 times today
Chef Gerry Iannaccone makes his triumphant return to Branford alongside his life partner, Andrea “Drea” Coppola. Together, they return to their roots with Drea’s by Goodfellas—a dining experience that blends tradition, warmth, and hospitality. With a combined 50 years in the restaurant industry, Gerry and Andrea honor the Goodfellas legacy by presenting exquisite dishes prepared with simple, authentic ingredients and served with genuine care. From hand-crafted pastas and rich, traditional sauces to indulgent house-made desserts, every plate tells a story of heritage, love, and flavor. At Drea’s, we bring the heart of Italy to your table. Set in a warm, relaxed atmosphere, dining at Drea’s feels like a visit with Nonna—where stories are shared, laughter fills the air, and every meal becomes a memory. More than just a restaurant, Drea’s by Goodfellas is a place to gather, celebrate, and savor the timeless flavors of Italy.
A photo of Gioia - Wooster Street New Haven restaurant
9. Gioia - Wooster Street New Haven
4.8
Exceptional(605)
$$$$
• Italian • New Haven
Booked 21 times today
Gioia - Wooster Street New Haven is a true gem for cocktail enthusiasts in the heart of New Haven. Known for its "fantastic cocktails" and vibrant atmosphere, Gioia stands out as a premier cocktail bar destination. The creative and extensive cocktail menu, featuring both classic and innovative concoctions, offers something for every palate. Patrons rave about the signature cocktails, describing them as "perfect" and making Gioia their new favorite spot. The lively ambience, combined with attentive service, ensures an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or visiting, Gioia promises an exceptional cocktail experience that will keep you coming back.
A photo of Andiamo restaurant
10. Andiamo
4.7
Exceptional(66)
$$$$
• Italian • Mystic
Booked 26 times today
Old World cuisine meets modern New England. Andiamo serves Italian classics made with the finest ingredients. Enjoy pastas, salads, pizzas, desserts, and a full bar. Many options are available made without gluten (AMWG) like our very popular chicken parmesan.Step into our red sauce joint of yesteryear.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • EricGold
    New York City •51 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Overall amazing experience, been before, will be back soon! Can't say enough that all service, food and ambiance points hit 100% - seen very rarely lately in Ct restaurants.
    More info
    The Farm Italy Mohegan Sun$$$$• Italian• Uncasville
    •
    4.7
  • Nancy
    Greater Boston •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Always delicious and worth a visit. Great service and ambience.
    More info
    La Marea$$$$• Italian• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.8
  • Arthur
    New Jersey •14 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We experienced another wonderful evening from the moment our hostess sat us. We had a fantastic waitress named Catherine. She was knowledgeable and made our evening most enjoyable. Catherine and the hostess both sand happy birthday to my wife which was special and was appreciated. Catherine is always smiling,pleasant and an asset to the restaurant
    More info
    Dattilo Fine Italian at Water’s Edge$$$$• Steakhouse• Westbrook
    •
    4.2
  • KimberlyGold
    Greater Boston •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    It was our first time to Luigi’s and it was fantastic! Food, drinks, service…so good! Portions were just right. We had leftovers, too! We will be back!
    More info
    Luigi's Restaurant - Old Saybrook$$$$• Italian• Old Saybrook
    •
    4.9
  • EdGold
    New York City •125 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 28, 2026
    I left a glowing review on their site directly but for OT members- THIS WAS THE MOST WONDERFUL FOOD I’ve had in 6 months of living in the local area. This restaurant went to my top picks for a fantastic dinner. I’m an experienced diner from nyc, I admit I’m spoiled. So when it came to dining here- in a casual strip mall I was expecting more of the same “comfort” or “good to average”. Well this place rocked me because of the great handmade and beautifully crafted dishes. The spinach salad with feta was fresh and tender and the dressing great. The pastas with fungi and the one with fennel sausage was WONDERFUL. We were able to split it, which they did in the kitchen. A delicate thin pappardelle noodle with a delectable sauce. The bottle of Chianti was great, but we went in with a gelato and a cannoli and 2 espressos which were TERRIFIC! White tablecloths and napkins, nice glassware and very good service rounded out a simple but immaculate and naturally bright dining room area separated from the popular bar. I can’t wait to go back. EXCELLENT. GO HERE FOR THE FOOD!
    More info
    Rustica Ristorante - Chester$$$$• Italian• Chester
    •
    4.8

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2026 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo