This was a surprisingly good find! One of the best fish & chips I've had! Watch out for that Kool & Deadly, it comes with a whole shot of rum extra in it! Dog friendly, great view of the CT river. Going to be coming back for sure read more

Drift - UK Style Fish & Chips - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

Hi, I was happy to hear back from the restaurant that they decided to refund me for my purchase. I look forward to trying again. There are some things in your video review you wrote up that are not accurate (and some things that you wrote that we're not accurate from my perspectivs) that I would like to have a chance to respond to... Whatever menu I was handed that had the lobster roll description on It did not have a description that included onions. There seem to have been multiple menus the restaurant had that day. When I was outside a server said that she would bring over the lobster menu (this menu was not given to me) when I was reading off of the original menu I was given the lobster roll did not include onion. Honest mistake of wrong menu being given, but it helps for customers to know what ingredients are in things like that when dealing with food sensitivities. The server never checked in to ask how the meal was/if I needed anything. I was a server for over 10 years and I know that's the first things I do after dropping off someone's food to ensure everything is good. There was food left on my plate, fries. Thanks for the refund, and I hope trying another time I will find it to be a better experience! read more

Drift - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

See all

A little hidden gem in Essex but worth the drive. Staff is very welcoming and the wine list is delightful. Started with the Tuna Nachos which were to die for and for the entree I tried the Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich with an order of truffle fries. Everything is amazing and I can't wait to come back again. Unfortunatelyx it's a rainy day but I can absolutely envision a glass of wine on the deck. This place should be on any foodies list. read more

Drift - Hot Honey Chicken Sandwich - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

See all

Everything was fabulous our server the food and the place is overlooking the water what more could you ask for. Although I reviewed before and gave 4 stars seemingly hurt someone's feelings! I tried again it was amazing as it was before. So Stu your place is a must try! So cozy inside outside is outstanding the water views are the best. Thank you . read more

Great lunch spot, beautiful patio, delicious food. Make a reservation if you can, but don't be deterred if you don't have one. read more

Drift - Peach Berry Prosecco salad $19 with salmon +$13 - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

Service was god awful would give a negative rating if I could. Made it awkward picking up food at the bar. Singled me out making it seem like I don't have money for the food I'm ordering to pick up. Food was good. Service could use some work especially. read more

Drift - Tuna - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

I come here often, I bring my grandch. Great food and service! Would definitely recommend going. i enjoyed myself read more

We went to Drift for dinner. We sat outside. The host is very kind and attentive. We were there on Tuesday which is taco night with live music. We ordered fried calamari, smash burger and smash crap cake. It was delicious. Our drink was house margaritas, tequila honey bee(really good), down east cider very refreshing. The marina view with sunset was lovely. It just perfect way to end the evening. read more

We went here for lunch on a Saturday and there was a wait on the back patio. No wait for the indoor seating so we opted for that instead and I'm so glad we did because it was absolutely lovely by the window. No sun and we had a nice view as well. We ordered the UK style fish n chips and I love that it's served inside a brown bag! Their fish was really fresh and the fries were good too. I wanted the lobster roll but it was a bit pricey at $40. That's $10 more than other restaurants. The fish tacos had a pretty presentation and was good too. The addition of the jalapenos was nice. We didn't like the Old Bay macaroni side salad though so don't recommend ordering that. read more

See all

Gorgeous day to have a late lunch in Essex. We decided to try Drift, located in the shipyard in Essex. I'm not sure how long they have been here, but I recall another restaurant in the same location years ago. The location is great, right by the water and the shipyard. We wanted to sit outside on the deck, however they said they were setting up for a large party, so only indoor was available unless we wanted to wait an hour. Actually a table by the window turned out to be a better option than outside in the hot sun. However, we noticed live music on the deck that we couldn't hear - just a limited amount of folks outside could enjoy. Too bad. Inside, it's not too big a place, but clean and tastefully decorated. Our server was a nice young man, but he might have been new & still needed time to learn. Food was delivered very quickly. I had the tuna nachos & my husband had the fish & chips. Tuna nachos were very good, crispy wontons, with little chunks of tuna, small pieces to pineapple, cucumber and avacado. Plenty of food to have as an entree. Fish & chips were really good, not greasy. Served with fries. My drink took a long time to come, fortunately it was very good. I had the tequila honey bee and would order it again. Overall - a nice meal, however, it would have been nice to hear the music too. read more

See all

Great service. Toasty space on a cold winter day. We liked the beers on tap and the amount of lobster on my salad wowed me. The smash burger was also delicious - chargrilled? Yum. My son was happy with the kid's menu options and ate a decent amount of his cheeseburger. He loved seeing all the giant sail boats in the boatyard too. Would definitely come by again if we were in the area read more

See all

We went this weekend with a party of 6. Although we made reservations for outside seating a week in advance, when we got there they could not accommodate outside seating. Hence we sat inside. After ordering drinks , which we're just ok , we order various entrees. Most of our group were looking forward to the fish and chips based on last reviews . For whatever it's worth, the fish was soggy and batter greasy. I believe it was due to old oil. I'm thinking it was Sunday the end of the weekend and they had not changed out the oil. Therefore, I could only give this spot a 2.5/3 star. There are better options out there.. read more

We arrived w a large group and they quickly accommodated us on the patio (nice view btw). LOVE the menu - so many fun apps, plates, and drinks. Would come back just to revisit the options. This was more of a layover for us on the way to another restaurant but I'm glad we stopped. I had the lobster bisque and for $18 I expected a "fancier" presentation but it tasted good and had huge chunks of lobster in it (seriously I must have had two entire claws in there). I tried some of a friend's fish tacos and they were delicious. Servers and staff were super friendly and made us feel welcome. There was however a lot of confusion w the bill at the end due to how it was broken up but I feel like this is the norm w large parties unfortunately. Parking is...interesting. Sort of a free for all. Also not very low car friendly with multiple extreme speed bumps but we made it in and out unscathed. read more

See all

Food was fine. Nothing g special to note in the 4 different choices at our table. Nothing memorable to report. The manger was circulating and noted we were in need of another round of drinks ( alcoholic and non- alcoholic) and graciously went to find our server. Just standard but we'd come back. read more

Came here with a group of people wanted something not to far of a drive with a water view. Drift is located near a marina right near the water on a section of the CT river called the north cove. Great Atmosphere, Live Music, Exterior and Interior seating. Menu changes often. Awesome burgers, fish and chips. Don't miss on the smoked salmon dip. Everybody dug into that so quick. I couldn't even get a picture. The tuna nachos were loaded. The cold lobster roll and scallop roll were served on a brioche roll. I preferred the lobster roll over the scallop roll. Don't miss out on those burgers though it was absolutely delicious. Staff is great and if it's nice out sit out on that patio and watch the boats go by and soak up some rays. read more

See all

Came for lunch a group of 4. We ordered the poke bowl, the cold lobster roll, salt and pepper calamari, seafood ceviche, salad with grilled chicken. The menu had nice selection of dishes. The lobster roll was my favorite, nice amount of lobster meat and very yummy. Overall the food was delicious, our server was awesome, and the view was great. We sat outside. Def worth checking it out. Kudos to the chef. read more

See all

My family and I had lunch here - I ordered the hot lobster roll (double the meat, obviously). Everyone was happy with their meals. We were seated on the deck which was great & the service was friendly. Can't wait to come back! read more

We really wanted lobster rolls in Essex. Flavorful lobster with plenty of meat. My wife got hers hot and I got the cold lobster salad roll. Both were amazing. Service was exceptional. We ate on the deck with views of the boats and water. read more

Great food, nice outdoor seating. Drinks were good too! Service was a little lacking but the food and drinks made up for it! read more

See all

Excellent spot! We stopped in for lunch on a rainy day and had an awesome meal. The place was pretty empty since we were off season in the winter, and we were seated immediately by a very nice server. It's a nice, small spot on the water. We ordered the fish and chips, lobster roll and a kids burger. Each dish was better than the last. The fish and chips were phenomenal, not too oily, perfectly fried. Just excellent and huge portions. The lobster roll was similarly fantastic, and I snuck a bite of my kid's burger and it was very good. I'd come back just for the burger. Definitely recommended, I'd drive an hour back to Essex just for lunch here again. read more

Drift - Fish and chips - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

A great spot in downtown Essex for food, drinks, and the view. The service is fast and the owner even came to check on us to see if there's anything else they can do to make it a great experience. There are fun seasonal cocktails as well as a standard list. The food is great as well only wish they had more vegetarian options but the veggie burger was homemade and great. I'd absolutely return again and recommend anyone visiting to sit outside if possible. read more

Drift - Veggie burger - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

See all

We had a wonderful first visit to Drift for lunch. The inside looked beautiful and comfortable, but we chose to sit outside to really enjoy the view of the marina and river. We were able to stay cool and comfortable in the shade of the umbrella. Service was friendly and efficient, and they were attentive to allergy concerns, which is really important to me. Finally, the food was outstanding. I had the fish and chips which was piping hot, crispy, and delicious. The old bay tartar sauce was one of the best tartar sauces I've ever had. My dining companion ordered a special burger (I think it was called "the driftwreck") that came with two huge lobster claws on top and lobster bisque to pour over it. He was very happy with his choice and said it was delicious and unique. We will definitely return! read more

Drift - UK fish and chips and the Driftwreck burger with lobster - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

See all

Overall very pleased with my experience. Had great service, the ambiance was great, right near the water. Food was yummy as well. I got the hot lobster roll, the brioche bun was a bit thick and overwhelmed the dish, but otherwise good. read more

See all

Our first and last visit to Drift. Menu was unimpressive. It was basically four dishes with multiple variations on each. They had a large party of about 20 seated in the main dining room in the middle of the room. We should have known when they initially told us it would be a 20 minute wait and then sat us in there 2 minutes later that there was a reason. The acoustics were terrible. Because of the large party we were unable to talk during our meal. Like at all. We could not hear each other. The food was fine enough, but nothing I'd seek out again. The room was tight, so as the large party stood up to say their goodbyes, we literally ended up with a man's butt over our food. We paid our tab and left. Never considered dessert or a second cocktail because you couldn't pay me to stay a minute longer. In fact, I needed the restroom but there was a line, so I said forget it and we left. read more

Tuna nachos are AMAZING. best I've ever had. Great service, views, and location in Essex. Prices are average for the high quality of food & waterfront location. The lobster menu is awesome. Pricy but as mentioned, nothing out of the ordinary. Would go here on a date night, or bring your friends for appetizers and drinks! read more

What a welcome addition to the Essex food scene! Great cozy bar, beautiful outdoor seating, excellent menu( try the smash burger with Drift sauce) The owners are fantastic and very hands on. They do a lot of fun events. We just their Kentucky Derby event. Well done guys we are looking forward to being here regularly read more

Fabulous Food, Service, Happy Hour and view of the Marina Love everything about this restaurant. The menu varies by season! But the staples are the lobster roll and smash burger and fish and chips which are all great! Try the Bong Water Drink with Mezcal or the Campfire bourbon smash! The restaurant is open year round, it is located in the Dauntless shipyard and Marina. Make a reservation in the summer for the deck that looks over the Dauntless and Essex Island Marinas. You'll feel like you are on vacation! The staff and owners and kitchen staff really care! If you have an allergy or other dining request they are great at guiding you!! Their shrimp and grits is Gluten Free! Great place to go when you're going on the Essex Steam Train for Polar express or Thomas the train or leaf peeping or just browsing the shops in Essex! Great for couples, families or groups of friends. Deck is dog friendly! read more

See all

Called ahead for a reservation for a 8pm dinner . Was told on the phone reservation is not needed to sit out side . Arrived at 7:50 pm and met by Connor and asked to sit outside. Was told no open tables outside . That the open tables are reserved. We were stuck in a corner where the night progressed and thoses open tables were never sat . I will never ever set into this shit hole restaurant ever again . Fool me once , I will never return. Been coming here since it opened and talked numerous times with one of the owners. You do not disrespect customers by lying to them. Stay away from this cesspool of lies and deceet . read more

We have visited this restaurant twice so far and we have been very pleased with the food each time. We were lucky enough to sit outside for lunch the first time which was beautiful. The outdoor dining area is comfortable with pretty views of the marina and water. Our second visit was at night and it was a little chilly so we opted to stay cozy inside. Very tasteful decor and plenty of seating. We were with our kids so we were in the main dining area. If we were sans kids, we would definitely opt to sit at the bar. The food was excellent both times. Our favorites were the hot lobster roll, the fish dip and the calamari. The burger was delicious and seems like their take on an elevated Big Mac. The fish sandwich was excellent but I wish there was a non fried option. I will say it was remarkably light though. Cocktails were great too! The only teeny "negative" feedback I would give is that the server we had outside was not very attentive and we waited a long time before our order was taken and then for our drinks. She did not check in so we were looking for her often, but perhaps they were understaffed that day. Our server inside was much better and we had a great experience with her. This is a favorite find for us. Looking forward to seeing their fall and winter specials. P.S. they have a kids menu too which was an added bonus. read more

See all

Amazing food, service and vibes! If I could give more stars, I would. 10/10 recommend

Don't miss this restaurant such a beautiful welcome coming from The Polar Express Christmas event with my grandchildren. Thank you for ending our most memorable evening with joy great food atmosphere and exceptional service from Rye NY we will be back! read more

Hidden gem on the water. Lovely setting amongst a boatyard with gorgeous tall sail boats all over and cozy ambiance outside and in. They have igloos on the deck for winter but the inside is lovely as well. The service was very good albeit getting drinks from the bar was a bit slow. Worth it though because they were all very good! We tried the salt & vinegar calamari which was the most tender we have ever had. The crab cake smash, filet of fish, and ahi tuna salads were all amazing as well. Will definitely return. read more

See all

Perfect trifecta!!! Food: 5 star Service: 5 star Location: 5 star Started with the Delicata Squash "Donut Rings" which are sure to be copied by other restaurants. My husband couldn't resist the St. Patty's Day special --the Corned Beef Reuben -- and it was the BEST Reuben he's ever eaten. He was practically in happy tears! I got the fish sandwich, perfect British-style batter with sweet tender fish inside. The weak link were the fries; wish they were hand cut or sweet potato but they were unexpectedly bland. Got the cheesecake special for dessert and it was sooooooo good. We could see Chef making the whipped cream for the cheesecake from where we were sitting and omg, I could've eaten a bowl of just that and been happy. Highly recommend Drift!!! We'll definitely be back!! read more

Drift - Corned beef cooking for 10 hours before serving made it juicy and beyond delicious. - Seafood Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

See all

I had lunch at Drift with my husband and two friends when we were in the area about two weeks ago. We sat outside on their deck, which has tables with umbrellas for shade and a view. (Inside was cute, too, but we definitely wanted to be outside!) They were busy, and I can see why. Their menu is fun and interesting, and their seafood is fresh. We shared a bunch of dishes: tuna nachos (crispy wontons, tuna, pineapple, avocado, scallions, sesame seeds, kimchi, wakame, and spicy mayo); shrimp ceviche (pineapple, lime, shrimp, served with housemade chips); hot lobster roll; lobster rangoon; watermelon refresher (watermelon with olive oil, sea salt, micro basil, and lime); and a salad (with pickled blueberries, goat cheese, and more). The food was good overall. Definitely fun! They also have a great bar menu. I had a coconut water mojito, which was light and refreshing - perfect for a hot day. The service was great, and the atmosphere was wonderful - everything I wanted from a lunch on the water before we drove into New Haven! I would happily return! read more

See all

I couldn't have asked for a better birthday dinner spot. Wow. Truly one of the best meals I've had and one of my favorite new places in CT! We arrived and were greeted by several friendly hostesses. We were seated pretty quickly and had a lovely table inside. My husband and I tried two of the cocktails (Bong Water and Tequila Honey Bee) and both were phenomenal. We split the tuna nachos and they were so fresh and flavorful! I loved all of the accompaniments on them. We also ordered a clam chowder and I can honestly say it is the best I have EVER had. For our mains, my husband got the Bun Voyage which was incredibly fresh and healthy and delicious. I had the prosecco salad topped with a crab cake. Wow wow wow!! It was so clear the chef knows good ingredients and the most perfect preparation of each. Even my son's buttered noodles were so obviously house made fresh and top notch I couldn't stop eating off of his plate! For dessert we tried the key lime pie and cappuccino mousse and both were to die for. We already can't wait to come back!!! Thank you for such an amazing experience all around! read more

I have dined here a couple of times and I really appreciate their creativity with the menu. Also the staff and views are awesome!

Ambiance is great in the Marina great views. Service was awesome Food not even close to good and so overpriced. It's like because they have a good Location they get a pass in quality of Food. 28 for shrimp ceviche that was flat and like 3 oz maybe if shrimp for Lunch read more

Can't beat the view or the ambience. Service is always exceptional with wait staff knowing exactly when to check in on the table, without being overbearing We were there Friday night for dinner and I had the surf and turf burger, which was a smash burger with a crabcake on top (which I've enjoyed before.) the one thing that is important to both of us is consistency. If we go to a restaurant and know we're going to get a consistently good meal, then that makes us very comfortable. It didn't happen with Drift. Had a selection that I know I've liked before I expected it to be just as tasty and this one was poorly done. I had to scrape off the crabcake and I just picked at the burger - meh, but I must say the bun with the mayo dressing on it was quite delicious. The fries were very decent too. read more

I have a lot of burgers when I go out. They are usually adequate or even not bad. Drift's burger was good bordering on great. Two smashed, the right amount of onion, house sauce that was very tasty. My companions had the veggie tempura (reportedly good), another had the calamari and it was thoroughly consumed and enjoyed. Finally a crab cake smash. This too was well made. The fries were nothing out of the ordinary. (IMHO, New England restaurants should serve crinkle cut fries, but few people agree with me, obviously.) The restaurant is located at the back of a marina. The view of the CT river is nice. There is outside seating. They don't take reservations for a party fewer than six people. It is a 5 min walk northwest from the CT River Museum (also worth a visit) . Main Street to Ferry Street to Pratt.. The restaurant is small, I'd plan to wait for a table. The TUE in Aug we'd visited required no wait. The owner was present and very nice. read more

We really enjoyed our lunch at Drift. I ordered the Crab Cake smash which was delicious and very fresh. My husband had the Morton burger which he said was excellent. We sat outside on a lovely deck with views of the water, very relaxing. Our server, Josh was very friendly and attentive. The owner was also very nice and came over to check on us and also thanked us for choosing to have lunch there. It's the little things that make all the difference. We will definitely be back. read more

See all