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Dining at Connecticut's Vineyards Last Updated: April 2023
Most wineries welcome picnics, and many offer bites to enhance the tasting experience, such as cheese, bread and chocolate. Others have snacks for sale in a market setting, like locally made cheeses, breads, jams, baked goods and meats. But a few vineyards throughout Connecticut Wine Country also offer richer dining experiences on site or nearby, with chef-inspired menus that require reservations, often weeks in advance. Here a few of the wonderful fine dining options close to the heart of Connecticut’s vineyards.
The Bistro at Chamard Vineyards, Clinton
This casual, French-inspired bistro offers a memorable dining experience, with a menu of French and American dishes made with seasonal ingredients locally sourced from Connecticut farms. The space is intimate with vineyard views, but be sure to make reservations.
The Hopkins Inn, Warren
Just down the road from the Hopkins Vineyard and overlooking scenic Lake Waramaug, the Hopkins Inn features an award-winning restaurant specializing in Austrian cuisine, complemented by an extensive wine cellar.
Sharpe Hill Vineyards & Fireside Tavern, Pomfret
The Fireside Tavern at Sharpe Hill Vineyards, available by reservation only, offers a wine & food experience. Their Creole Shrimp entrée was even included as one of Connecticut Magazine’s “Fifty Dishes to Try Before You Die.”
The Library Wine Bar & Bistro, Wallingford
The family owners of popular Gouveia Vineyards have opened this restaurant just a short drive from the vineyards. The Library Wine Bar & Bistro serves Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as specialties including tapas and paella, in the lovingly restored 1899 town library building.
The Harvest Kitchen at Jones Winery, Shelton
Looking for a unique winery dining experience? At Jones Winery, their Harvest Kitchen Farm-to-Table Cooking Studio offers popular “Sip & Savor” cooking classes where you can learn to pair different types of food with wine.