First time going Food and service was awesome Drinks are good but very pricey will definitely be back just won't order more than one drink 15 for a short glass margarita is a lot read more

I recently found this place with a coworker while working in the area. We'd never been to Deep River/Essex so we just picked a place at random and gave it a go. Man were WE pleasantly surprised!! Outside it doesn't have a standout look. Just a darkly painted house with a decent size parking lot. But once you step inside it actually catches you off guard a little! Modern decor, beautifully tiled floors, bright and fresh! We were seated quickly and everything on the menu said "order me!" I got an unsweetened tea that was brewed just right and fresh. I hate skunky tea! We ordered the birria quesadilla to share, my coworker wasn't familiar. One bite and he was HOOKED. The meat was soo flavorful and tender and the SAUCE! Rich, bursting with flavor. I ordered several of the tacos: the scallop, seared tuna, pork carnitas and the Baja fish. Again, flavortown! Fresh, citrusy, creamy, cooked just right and a hint of heat on all of them. My coworker got the beef bbq burrito. Man that thing was stuffed with a crispy shell. Full of meat, rice and beans. He got the red chile sauce on the side but after the birria he just used that b/c he couldn't get enough of it! I thought this place was phenomenal and I've been telling everybody to go! read more

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Our first time at the Essex location of Sayulita, we were not disappointed! Just as good as the original, with basically the same menu. We did have a special buffalo chicken taco, which was fabulous!! It was our first time at Sayulita since giving up alcohol, and I was definitely missing their margaritas. I had a grapefruit Mexican soda, but next time I'll ask if they can make me a yummy mocktail. The restaurant is about double the size of the Glastonbury location, so check it out if you want the best tacos without the long wait!! read more

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We revisited Sayulita in Essex this week and once again left happy! We opted for an early dinner knowing how popular this place gets, especially with their no-reservations policy--which can mean a bit of a wait during peak hours. Fortunately, we were seated quickly. Service was excellent, and the vibrant, modern atmosphere felt trendy yet comfortable. Noise levels were pretty manageable, even as the dining room filled up. I had the buttermilk fried chicken taco, which had great texture and crunch--just a touch more seasoning would've really made it shine. The pork belly taco was melt-in-your-mouth tender with rich flavor, though the celery and apple slaw on top didn't quite hold up--it looked great but lacked the apple part and was dry. Next time, I think I'd try one of the other interesting tacos instead. For my main dish, I had the cilantro pesto chicken burrito with rice and beans--delicious, generously filled, and perfectly seasoned. My girlfriend had the mushroom enchiladas, which were hearty and earthy, though a bit more seasoning could have brought out the full potential of the dish, as it seemed like it was just unseasoned mushrooms in a tortilla. Overall, Sayulita remains a solid choice with consistently good food, friendly service, and a lively vibe. A reservation option would make it even better--but until then, arriving early is the way to go! read more

Joe (server) was amazing! We got to our table and it wobbled. He noticed it and fixed it immediately. Gave us the specials and we were able to order right away. It wasn't very busy when we got here but it definitely built up as we ate. It's a casual place which is very nice. Good for groups and handles children well. Our food took a little time ( which always makes me happy ) as you know it's being cooked. The staff runs like a well oiled machine. The owner was greeting people and enjoying conversations with them. Very nice place with good food. Will be back! Thank you! I had the special taco which was sweet potato with cranberry pico and maple. I also tried the shrimp taco. I don't do spice well and both had spice to them. For people who do eat spice, it's mild. The flavor was there on all of it. My daughter had a chicken quesadilla and she almost finished it. The portion was rather plentiful. read more

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When I saw this restaurant open and everyone was raving about it, I had to try it. I love Mexican food and being from Los Angeles, it's really hard to find it in the Northeast. I wasn't impressed. The tacos were $8ish and if I'm paying that much for ONE taco, it's gotta be the most memorable taco I have ever had. The fish on one taco was dry. The other taco, the fish had no flavor. None of the salsas were spicy or authentic. This is not authentic Mexican. The guac was meh. Just a very mid experience and I mustered a $220 tab for three people. I should've been swept away with flavor. The one good thing were the drinks. I had a couple that tasted great and were well crafted. I feel so bad leaving bad reviews at what could be amazing restaurants. Parking on site and the restaurant itself is super nice on the inside. read more

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We tried this again, and acoustical panels were put up on the ceiling helping a lot with the noise. All of the food was amazing! The rice bowl, beef burrito, steak salad, birria(not sure spelling)... no complaints. Margaritas are excellent! Service was excellent. Decor is beautiful and everything is clean. So glad we came back. Can't wait to go again! read more

Sayulita - Birria and Short Rib taco. Delish - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

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"GUACAMOLE CLASSICO & SALSA avocado, cilantro, lime, tomato, garlic, onion, pepitas, cotija, fried plantains 13 ADD SAYULITA QUESO 5" Where does this say it's all tortilla chips and a macro sliver of a plantain as a garnish? They even mention a freakin lime, but can't let us know exactly what we will be using to dip into everything? I've never been to a Mexican restaurant where tortillas didn't land on the table gratuitously. Place is too loud even on a Sunday afternoon. Must say they serve yummy queso. Nothing on the food menu is authentic, and it's way overpriced. Sorry to say this location won't be open much longer and the building is essentially cursed as an eatery. read more

Full disclosure: we stopped here with apprehension as we have heard some undesirable feedback here and there about the Essex location. We are big Glastonbury fans, so we went in with reserved expectations. We were seated immediately which is super nice as there is usually - aka always- a wait in Glastonbury - which again - well worth the wait but it was nice to just walk in and get a table. Our server came over right away to get our drink orders. We both got margaritas- because duh.... And they were incredible. Pure perfection actually. I had the Passionfruit special and it sure did hit the spot. We ordered the chips with salsa, guac and queso. Chips were warm and salty. I don't really care for the salsa but it was good - just not my preferred style. The guac and queso were a hit with everyone. The true test was my chile relleno entree. I get it every single time in Glastonbury. It's my favorite. I can honestly say that the entree today was better than any time I've had it in Glastonbury. It was a home run. I have sometimes gotten it when it was only lukewarm in the middle. Today it was spot on and completely melty gooey goodness all the way through. My only "negative" feedback was we were looking for a server for a period of time right after our meals came because we wanted some hot sauce and another cocktail. It wasn't excessive, but definitely a bit of a gap. I don't know why there are rumors that this place isn't as good as Glastonbury. Would definitely go back! read more

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Sayulita in Centerbrook, Connecticut, fits neatly into the new wave of trendy "Mexican fusion" restaurants -- the kind that serve up Korean beef tacos and fried chicken with lime crema instead of traditional carne asada or al pastor. It's a stylish place, clearly aiming for that global-fusion vibe, but it's not what I'd call a true Mexican experience. For me, the real test begins before the entrée -- with the chips and salsa. If those don't hit the table right after you sit down, alongside a glass of water, I start to worry. At Sayulita, you'll have to order your chips and salsa, and at $9 for a "salsa flight," the expectation is high. The four salsas we received were colorful and well-presented, but none packed that signature punch or heat that makes good salsa memorable. Overall, the food was fine -- flavorful, nicely plated, but not the kind of meal that leaves you craving another visit next week. If you're drawn to fusion cuisine with a Mexican accent, this might be your kind of spot. But if you're searching for authentic Mexican comfort food and a bottomless basket of warm chips, you might leave wishing you'd gone somewhere a bit more traditional. read more

Best Mexican in CT in my opinion! The day I went there wasn't their best performance with the steak and suadero tacos (I've been multiple times to their other location) as they were just a little overcooked but the tacos were still delicious! And it's a simple thing but they have one of the best chip baskets I've ever had too, the guac is delicious and the salsa is good too. My family who was with me said the queso is incredible too I'm just not a big cheese guy. Their churros while slightly darker than I prefer are yummy too, they give you caramel, chocolate sauce and ice cream that go great with it. read more

Sayulita - Saudero Taco, Scallop Taco, and Carne Asada Taco - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

Had the burria quesadilla, ribs and dual enchiladas. Amazing. Nicole was a delight, chatting and wishing good tidings for Fathers Day. Highly recommend!!!! read more

This Centerbrook (Essex) location is good but not great. The taco was good; the tamale was very blah, not worth having. Service was fine. Superb margaritas. So ok overall. read more

Being a regular at the gbury location ofc I had to try their new location out and it did not disappoint!! Chef Neski is carrying on the legacy w great and unique specials limited to this location only. We came in w a very large group and they accommodated us well on the patio area - this location is much larger than their other! Bar tenders and servers were exceptional as always. It was also nice seeing familiar faces in the building that I might expect to see only at the Glastonbury restaurant. I had tacos and like always they hit the spot. Margs are some of the best hands down !! If you're in the area and never been what are you waiting for ?? read more

Sayulita - Tacos are large and flavorful - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

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Cold food, expensive. Service is decent. Single bartender does a good job trying to keep up. Food should never have left the kitchen like it did. No quality control. read more

Came here for lunch and enjoyed our experience. To start off, the chips and guac were really good! The servings for the main dishes were also really generous. We had the steak fajitas and enchiladas duo. The place was also nicely decorated and clean. read more

Sayulita - Enchilada duo - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

Been many times. Food is awesome and bartenders pour well!! Always great and Korean rib tacos are unbelievable

I recommend the Sayulita Old Fashioned. The chips, salsa and queso was amazing. Friendly service . Cozy with the fireplace going . read more

This has been on our must try list for a while. Have heard amazing things about this restaurant in both Glastonbury and Essex. Started off with margaritas which were excellent. Must try if you visit either location. The margaritas also were very reasonable as far as cost as well. Places in West Hartford will charge $17-$18 for same drink here it's only $12-$13. As far as the food goes I would say slightly above average. I was expecting best Mexican in the area but that did not live up to the hype. Tried the tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. We had a large group. Everyone was satisfied but we all agreed wasn't best we have had in CT. It's VERY good though. I also wouldn't say we were disappointed. Staff is friendly however our server only came over a few times asking for refills on drinks. Hostess was very friendly and it's very clean on inside. I would say if you like Mexican it's a must try just for the margarita alone and I think you will enjoy the Mexican food. read more

I've been here twice in the food is consistent and exceptional with very good flavor and taste. Everything I ordered is always well balanced, well presented and very tasty. The staff has always been pleasant, the environment always very clean rather than having "volumes of food" I am more interested in "layers of flavor"... in fact what I've had there, they seem to be on point. read more

Best Mexican food on the shoreline! We went to the ESSEX Location. Interesting menu, great service, good food! read more

Sayulita - Hanger Steak with Yucca hash and Brussel sprouts! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

While the food is good this place has a very poor reservation policy that does not work on busy nights. Plan for very long ( over an hour) and unpredictable wait times. read more

First visit here and very impressed. We needed a really good taco spot in this area and this place fits! Food was amazing- cant wait to come back! read more

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Really good spot. Food is reasonably priced, service is on par, and the environment is enjyable. Only negative is they don't take reservatations, but it always seems as though we can get a table without a terrible wait. Try it out, you won't be dissapointed! read more

This was not an OMG experience, it was an OMFG experience! Coming from California, I was quite skeptical about having "Mexican" food out east as every other experience was a big let down in the sense that Mexican food on the east coast is not authentic (in my opinion). Sauces, ingredients tend to be gringo'd on the east coast. And, while the dishes we had at Sayulita were also not "authentic" Mexican, we were still blown away by the quality, the presentation, and the taste of each dish. Even the service was great and our waitress was so incredibly cute too! If there was ever a restaurant you would say you would move because of the food, this may it! read more

From the ambience, service received to appetizer and, main meal everything was a delight. I will go again just to try the delicious food i have seen served to others. The 3 tacos I had were a delight: pulpo, faroe Island salmon and pork belly Love this restaurant read more

The fact that they don't take reservations is annoying. When you get seated, service is generally slow. These realities are tolerable when the food is exceptional l. Usually it is. Last night, it was not. Food was cold, tortillas were crumbling after a bite. The first bite was 80 minutes after I walked in the door. Extremely disappointing. read more

Excellent, tasty Mexican modern cuisine. The place is hopping. The service is superb. What more can you ask 4!!??

Loved this place, great food, attentive service, great beer choices! Loved the ambiance around the bar

The food was delicious and service was great. It was nice inside, but the acoustics were strange? It was very loud and I could hardly hear my boyfriend right across the table from me but I could clearly hear the man across the room, facing away from me towards the wall. Not sure if that can be helped ‍ We will definitely go back, hopefully there will be outdoor seating as it warms up outside. read more

They just couldn't get anything right. What a disappointment after years of great meals in South Glastonbury this recent expansion does not measure up. The food was off the service almost non existent and I will say it was a pretty space, but I didn't visit for atmosphere, I was hungry. Off to South Glastonbury we go! read more

We went for a special occasion and while there are many things to like, I don't think I'll be back. We arrived early knowing we'd likely have to wait for a table (for two) given they don't take reservations. We were prepared and more than happy to get a drink from the bar while we waited. But given the early hour (five o'clock), I was shocked at how loud and crowded the place already was. There was a line to get drinks, no spots at the bar, but thankfully an attentive bartender saw us and slipped us a drinks menu. The drinks were fine-they have a nice assortment of margaritas and specialty drinks. They're not particularly strong but consistently made well. Once seated, we ordered a salsa flight and I was a little disappointed. The chips were fresh, but the salsas themselves were not particularly tasty. We attempted to order entrees but had to get creative-several of the menu items (burritos, for example) are premade and ingredients cannot be altered. We are not terribly fussy eaters, but were bummed that simple requests could not be entertained. That said, I quite enjoyed my enchiladas and my husband was fine with his steak. His sides arrived hot but he said his steak was cool-cooked to his liking but not actually warm. A second round of drinks did not arrive until we were mostly done with our entrees which was disappointing. So to recap: food was generally good, prices are decent, but it's super loud and not great for conversation. Tables are pretty close together. More affordable than Los Charros was and not quite the same (which is fine! But I was expecting something else). Also note the chairs in the dining room are not particularly comfortable. We saw several couples arguing over who was going to sit in the banquet vs. chair, us included. I don't think the chairs would be appealing to larger folks-just something to note. Accessibility matters! read more

We are locals and heard the hype throughout the summer, but after a few failed attempts with their reservation-less system gave up until a late December Sunday when we finally walked in with no waiting. Decor is cheap, e.g., DIY metal cushionless stools you can purchase at Walmart with hard tiles, and little decor. The din is loud enough to make you imagine what your date is saying to you. These aspects warrant a rating of 2. What pulled up the score to a 4 is the food! It's really Mexican eclectic. Interesting taco options, fajitas with perfect al dente sautéed veggies. Great spicy and classic margaritas, too. We'll keep this on our takeout list until they invest a little more in the dining experience. read more

Tried this new Essex location today after being a long time fan of the Glastonbury location! Sayulita Glastonbury has always been my boyfriend and I's absolute favorite restaurant in CT and we are pleased to report that the Essex location is absolutely at the same level. Tried the strawberry margarita special (excellent) and used my favorite True Blue margarita to compare quality between the two locations- zero difference. The Korean short rib, seared tuna, and brussel sprouts tacos we had were excellent quality; the kitchen staff was clearly trained well. Awesome server experience too (shout-out to our friendly, knowledgeable server, Nicholas M!). Thanks so much to the owners for opening a second location a little closer to us! read more

Sayulita - strawberry margarita special - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Essex, Connecticut

Great food, atmosphere and service. We sat at a high top table in the bar area. Great menu, delicious drink options. Server named AZ was outstanding! I highly recommend! read more

I have always been a huge fan of the location in Glastonbury, so you can imagine my excitement to get a location closer to home. Its location also where another great taco and margarita spot called home for years (Los Charros). The menu is similar (perhaps even exactly) to that of the original location, so same delicious, creative, gourmet tacos and margs, just a new location. Most of their seating is inside, but there are a few tables on a porch on the side. Definitely, recommend a reservation for a large party. You can even have some beers and apps just up the road at Surf Ridge Brewery. I really hope this place sticks around for a bit! I was so sad when Los Charros moved. This is a more than adequate replacement though. read more

food-excellent service-excellent ambiance-so noisy I couldn't hear my wife across the table otherwise five stars. read more

Highly recommend coming here and starting off with the chips & quac with salsa. Once you have that you'll be in the right state of mind to continue the night with some tacos, there's a lot of options and you really can't go wrong! Drinks are superb as well! Cool vibes as well, definitely worth a visit!! read more

The two stars are for the food because it's incredible, but we had the worst service. We waited 40 minutes for a table at 5pm for 2 people plus a baby and then we weren't even greeted by any member of the wait staff once we were seated for 23 minutes until one of the sweet ladies bussing tables said something to the manager. Super disappointing experience this time around. read more

We've eaten quite a few times at the Glastonbury location. That location is a very quaint, small dining area, quiet, good food. The ESSEX location is a completely different story. It was noisy, the chairs were very uncomfortable and the tables not adequate. The food was excellent, authentic, and reasonably priced, but we found the drinks very watery and a bit of a disappointment. The noise level was off the charts! So while the food was memorable, the ambience leaves much to be desired. I would describe it as eating dinner in a cacophony. Service was very good. We will return for the food with the hope that they upgrade their seating and do something to mitigate the noise. read more