From apizza to lobster rolls, Connecticut is home to various types of restaurants and, yet again, Connecticut Magazine's contributing food experts have shared their favorite eateries in the Nutmeg State for the Connecticut Magazine's Top Restaurants for 2025 list.
Experts have named restaurants in dozens of categories, from top cuisine (American, Mexican, Chinese, Italian, Middle Eastern, vegetarian, etc.) to outstanding appetizers and desserts, romantic ambiance, beer and wine selections and the best places to grab a burger.
Here, explore the top restaurants in Middlesex County. For those looking for something new to try, Connecticut Magazine experts also shared their picks for the 34 Top New Restaurants in Connecticut.
Scroll below to see which Middlesex County spots were named as the top restaurants by Connecticut Magazine experts.
Lobster rolls
152 Commerce St., Clinton, 860-669-2005
Chinese
233 East Main St., Clinton, 860-664-4454
Traditional American
36 Main St., Essex, 860-767-1776
Hidden gems
51 Warwick St., Middletown, 860-788-2450
Barbeque
482 S. Main St., Middletown, 860-358-9828
Beer selection
695 Main St., Middletown, 860-347-3547
Deli/sandwich shops
560 Main St., Middletown
Brunch
2 Bridge St., Old Saybrook, 860-395-2000
Burgers, raw bar
166 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-395-5577
Deli/sandwich shops
178 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-388-3308
Hot dogs
910 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, 860-388-4032
Burgers
1231 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, 860-339-5591
Indian
93 Elm St., Old Saybrook, 860-510-9803
New American
247 Main St., Old Saybrook, 860-237-4189
Burgers, traditional American
571 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, 860-388-4866
Italian
6 Main St., Chester, 860-322-3143
Breakfast
1261 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, 860-399-4211
Mediterranean/Middle Eastern and Greek
704 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, 860-577-5054