Seafood restaurants

Black Seal Seafood Grille

4.3 504 reviews 11:30 AM - 09:00 PM 15 Main St C, Essex, CT 06426, United States

Discover this place

Black Seal Seafood Grille, located on Main Street in Essex, CT, is a hidden gem that captures the hearts of locals and visitors alike. With a cozy atmosphere, it has garnered rave reviews over the years, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts and casual diners. Customers appreciate the quality of the food, highlighting the grilled flavor of the burgers and the delicious quesadillas, which are often described as a perfect choice for lunch.

Not just about the food, the service at Black Seal is consistently lauded for its professionalism and warmth. Reviewers like Mary Fanelli emphasize the friendly staff, creating an inviting environment that enhances the dining experience. Ellen Clark notes its value, calling it a "great alternative" and praising both the reasonable prices and the delightful soups on the menu.

If you're seeking a laid-back yet charming spot that serves up scrumptious dishes, Black Seal Seafood Grille is worth the trip. As Geena Becker mentions, its simplicity in menu items offers a comforting familiarity while ensuring each bite remains succulent and satisfying. Expect a combination of delicious food and wonderful service on your next visit!

Photos

Amenities & More

Service options

Onsite services
Takeout
Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights

Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Serves local specialty

Popular for

Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Dining options

Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities

Bar onsite
Restroom
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere

Casual
Cozy
Historic

Crowd

Groups
Tourists

Note: Amenity details are aggregated from verified visits, the venue's website and Google. They may change without notice. We recommend confirming key details (pet policy, accessibility, reservations) directly with Black Seal Seafood Grille before visiting.

Reviews for Black Seal Seafood Grille

4.3

504 reviews

100%

48%

15%

Review highlights

Based on 504 reviews

Black Seal Seafood Grille in Essex, CT, consistently receives positive feedback for its inviting atmosphere and delicious, well-prepared menu offerings. Diners frequently praise the quality and flavor of their dishes, with particular appreciation for items like the burger and quesadilla. The restaurant’s ambiance is described as cozy and quaint, providing a comfortable setting for both casual lunches and relaxed dining experiences. Service is commonly highlighted as attentive and professional, contributing to an overall enjoyable visit. Additionally, customers note reasonable pricing and a simple, well-curated menu, making Black Seal Seafood Grille a favored local spot and a recommended choice for visitors seeking a pleasant seafood dining experience in the area.

KM P

Jul 08, 2025

We’ve been here dozens of times over 30 years. We just returned from out of state back to CT and live west of Hartford now, but have tripped back down to Essex twice lately. Both times we ended up eating at Black Seal. Both times we had a great lunch. My wife had the Cheese Quesadilla and I had their burger. Awesome grilled flavor. Service is great and the restaurant has a great atmosphere.

Yvonne LaLuna

May 24, 2025

We loved our lunch time meal. My husband ordered the hamburger and I hit the lunch special quesidilla. Food was delicious and the atmosphere was great!!! We will be back in May to eat here again!!!

Ellen Clark

Apr 29, 2025

The Black Seal is the sleeper in town. Love it. Great alternative to the Gris and prices are reasonable too. Nice atmosphere and yummy soups.

Mary Fanelli

Apr 17, 2025

Quaint, the atmosphere what's quiet. The waitress was fantastic, professional and a great personality. The food was fantastic and the price point was right on. I would highly recommend this restaurant when you're in town.

Geena Becker, REALTOR

Apr 12, 2025

Hubby ordered their Burger and it was 5 star since I had to take a bite. I ordered the grill cheese sandwich. Hadn't had one in like 2 years. Succulent! Love the bar and got their before the lunch crowd during the week so it wasn't mobbed. Our definite little 45 min drive to this cozy village spot that serves delicious food and the menu is simple.

Natalie Kravchuk

Apr 05, 2025

Great food, great service, fair prices. Ample street parking, with public lots a short walk nearby. Great people. We've been back twice thos week! Enjoy!

Lissy M

Apr 03, 2025

My friend & I are we’re looking for a place to eat and stumbled upon this jewel. We were a little hesitant but we were hungry! So we went in as soon as we walked in we were greeted. We were then seated quickly. Our waitress was extremely sweet & kind. Our food was sooooo good. Overall we would recommend this place to anyone look for some good food & a good atmosphere. Not to mention all the decorations inside super cute, it has a cozy small town feel. And after you eat and you need all that goodness to settle just a walk in the neighborhood it’s very adorable.

Caitlyn Grad

Mar 26, 2025

Great food! I was in the area and was craving a coastal hot dog. Everything was scrumptious and perfect. Thank you! I would 100% come back & I highly recommend