Community Table

New Preston, CT

Community Table

Address: 223 Litchfield Turnpike, New Preston, CT
State: Connecticut
Website: https://www.communitytablect.com

Overview
Community Table is one of those places that just feels like Litchfield County—stylish but unfussy, locally rooted, and built for long, relaxed meals. Tucked just outside of New Preston, it’s a modern country restaurant with a real sense of place. The interiors are clean and warm, with wood beams, high ceilings, and a laid-back polish that makes you feel right at home.

The menu is seasonal and changes often, based on what local farms and producers are bringing in. You’ll find creative vegetable dishes, house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and comforting mains that hit the sweet spot between rustic and refined. The cocktails are thoughtful, the wine list is solid, and the atmosphere is the kind of chic-casual that works for both a spontaneous weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why It’s Worth a Stop
It’s elegant but easygoing, with great food, great drinks, and a strong local heartbeat. The kind of place you wish was in your own neighborhood.

What to Know Before You Go

• Closed Mondays and Tuesdays
• Reservations are encouraged
• Menu changes frequently with the seasons
• Good options for vegetarians and gluten-free diners
• Indoor and seasonal outdoor seating available

Fun Fact
“Community” isn’t just in the name—CT regularly partners with local farms and artisans to bring the best of the region to the table.

The Shipwright’s Daughter

Mystic, CT

The Shipwright’s Daughter

Address: 20 Water Street, Mystic, CT
State: Connecticut
Website: https://www.shipwrightsdaughter.com

Overview
This one’s a gem. Tucked into the lobby level of The Whaler’s Inn in downtown Mystic, The Shipwright’s Daughter is easy to miss—which makes it even better when you find it. The vibe is relaxed but elevated, with just the right amount of coastal charm (no anchor décor in sight). The menu changes daily based on what local fishermen and farmers have brought in, so it always feels fresh and seasonal.

Expect plates that are thoughtful without being fussy—like roasted carrots with tahini and herbs, house-made gnocchi, perfectly cooked seafood, and one of the better bread services you’ll find anywhere in New England. The cocktails are great, the service is warm, and there’s something about the whole experience that just feels… right.

Chef David Standridge and his team don’t just talk the talk—they walk it. Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here; it’s how they run the place. From the tide-to-table ingredients to how they support their staff, there’s real care behind every plate and every decision. It shows.

Why It’s Worth a Stop
It’s one of the most genuinely thoughtful restaurants in the area, with a rotating menu that keeps things exciting and a relaxed atmosphere that still feels a little special.

What to Know Before You Go

• Located inside The Whaler’s Inn, but totally open to the public
• Menus change daily—check online or just go with an open mind
• Good mix of seafood and non-seafood dishes
• Vegetarian and gluten-free friendly
• Reservations are a good idea for dinner, especially on weekends

Fun Fact
The team here isn’t just focused on the food—they’re trying to build a better restaurant industry. From retirement matching to paid trainings, they’re investing in careers, not just jobs.

Grano Arso

Chester, CT

Grano Arso

Address: 6 Main Street, Chester, CT
State: Connecticut
Website: https://www.granoarsoct.com

Overview
Grano Arso is one of those spots you almost don’t want to tell people about because it’s that good—but also too good not to share. It’s tucked into a cute little town (Chester), inside what used to be an old bank, and it hits the sweet spot between cozy and cool. The food is Italian with a twist—homemade pasta, beautiful veggies, and comforting dishes that feel just a little elevated.

Chef Joel (who’s cooked in some really impressive places and been on a few cooking shows, too) runs the kitchen, and his wife Lani keeps the vibe warm and welcoming out front. Together, they’ve created the kind of restaurant that feels like a treat without ever being too fancy. It’s the kind of place you go for a casual date night… and end up staying for three courses and a cocktail or two.

Why It’s Worth a Stop
The food is genuinely delicious, the service is thoughtful but never over the top, and the whole place just feels good. Like a little night away, without the travel.

What to Know Before You Go

• It gets busy—definitely make a reservation, especially on weekends
• Closed Sundays and Mondays
• The cocktails are great and change with the seasons
• Gluten-free and veg-friendly options are available
• Ask about the Chef’s Tasting if you want to try a bunch of things (it’s fun and totally worth it)

Fun Fact
Every now and then, they flip the whole menu and do a pop-up Vietnamese night—Lani hops in the kitchen and makes it happen. (If you see it, go.)