Looking for a unique historic dining experience? Connecticut has a host of wonderful restaurants located in truly unique reclaimed buildings. Rather than let these architectural gems go to waste, some creative restauranteurs have looked beyond the ordinary 4 walls and a roof to show off their culinary chops.
From casual to upscale, you can find a dining experience to fit your mood. Are you a train lover? Head over to The Station Restaurant in Naugatuck to dine inside a restored train station built in 1911. How about a fondness for the law? Enjoy some steaks or seafood at The Courthouse Bar & Grill in Putnam.
Whatever you in the mood for, give it a twist and enjoy an amazing meal while experiencing CT’s rich history.
Restaurants
The Stand, Branford: Former Gas Station
196 S. Montowese St, Branford CT (203) 433-4728
Originally a full-service gas station, now a filling station for folks with an appetite for authentic barbecue, local produce and community building.
The Station Restaurant, Naugatuck: Restored Train Station
195 Water Street, Naugatuck, CT (203) 714-6611
Constructed in 1910 in grand Spanish Colonial Revival style, this iconic building closed in the 1960’s. Today, it’s been transformed into an ornate restaurant that accentuates the features of the original building and serves up tantalizing seafood, chicken, steak, pasta and gluten-free favorites.
Oko Kitchen, Westport: Former Firehouse
6 Wilton Rd, Westport CT (203) 557-8404
Located in the Vigilant Hose Company firehouse in Downtown Westport. Open design flows from the kitchen through the bar and into the dining room, creating an atmosphere where outstanding Japanese food and beverage come together.
The Library Wine Bar & Bistro, Wallingford: Converted Library
60 N. Main Street, Wallingford, CT (203) 678-4656
Once Wallingford’s first public library, the restaurant is combines the essence of historic downtown Wallingford with the old-world traditions of Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine, plus a worldwide wine selection.
Market Place Tavern, Litchfield: Former Jail
7 North Street, Litchfield CT (860) 361-9930
One of the oldest penal facilities in the state, the jail was originally built to hold British prisoners during the War of 1812. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and features “American Tavern Food” with Craft Beers and Cocktails made with local spirits.
Millwright’s Restaurant, Simsbury: Former Mill
77 West Street, Simsbury, Ct (860) 651-5500
The Hop Brook Mill, built in 1680 and now Millwright’s home, overlooks a sparkling pond and rushing waterfall, visible from the dining room and the deck. Enjoy sophisticated comfort food from locally-sourced ingredients.
Tavern at Graybarns, Norwalk: Former Textile Mill
194 Perry Ave Norwalk, Ct (203) 580-1900
The building began as a textile mill in the early 1800’s, became a speakeasy in the 1920’s and then transformed into an inn. Located on the Silvermine River Graybarns has been host to Hollywood celebrities such as Elizabeth Taylor, Eddie Fisher and Spencer Tracy. It remains the ideal setting to unite city slickers, international travelers and locals over food, libation and relaxation.
The Courthouse Bar & Grille, Putnam: Former Courthouse
121 Main Street, Putnam, CT (860) 963-0074
Located in the heart of Putnam’s Antique District, the building, built in 1889, was an actual courthouse during the early 1900’s. The menu (hand-carved steaks and seafood) and atmosphere have been designed with a courthouse and antique theme in mind.
Plan B Burger Bar, Simsbury: Former Train Station
4 Railroad Street, Simsbury, CT (860) 658-4477
Built in 1875, this single-story brick building was once the Simsbury Railroad Depot. Since 2006, bringing people together for good beer, cool surroundings and one burger to rule them all.
Engine Room, Mystic: Former Marine Engine Building
14 Holmes Street, Mystic, CT (860) 415-8117
For the 1st half of the 20th century, the site was home to Lathrop Machinists, manufacturing gasoline marine engines. Today the Engine Room features tap craft beers, a large selection of bourbon, craft cocktails and locally sourced American comfort foods.
Foundry Kitchen & Tavern, Sandy Hook: Former General Store
1 Glen Road, Sandy Hook, CT (203) 491-2030
This relaxed, upscale pub is housed in a brick veneer that was home to Newtown’s first general store, opened in 1908. A multi-functional space, the Foundry provides memorable experiences from the events they hold to the local live music they support, to the unique dishes & seasonal cocktails.
Willimantic Brewing Company, Willimantic: Former Post Office
967 Main Street, Willimantic, CT
(860) 423-6777
Serving as an active post office from 1910-1966, this stately building is now home to “Willibrew”. An award-winning restaurant & pub brewery, the Willimantic Brewing Company has been serving their own craft beers and great food since 1997.