Grab a blanket and a basket full of goodies and head outdoors for a picnic beside the Shepaug River, Lake Waramaug or New Preston Falls. Take in Washington’s natural beauty while enjoying a leisurely meal alfresco from The Pantry or The Smithy at 9 Main. Add some goodies to your basket from the historic Washington Food Market or stop by the bustling Saturday Washington Farmers Market.
Taste of Washington

Different culinary traditions, flavors from around the world, and local ingredients all combine to make Washington’s food scene unrivaled in Connecticut. The town has a wide array of restaurants, taverns, cafes, and gourmet shops that will entice your palate. Whether you are looking for an upscale dining experience or a more causal outing with friends, Washington’s food scene will surely satisfy your inner gourmand.
For a special evening
Enjoy an elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and seasonal dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients at the Mayflower Dining Room. Set within the Mayflower Inn & Spa, the Dining Room is a sophisticated restaurant that serves contemporary American cuisine.
Community Table is another dining favorite in Washington. Their mission is to sustainably prepare the highest quality, locally grown, and procured ingredients served in a casual, vibrant atmosphere. Their menu is always changing and features the tastes and flavors of each season.
Cozy New England taverns
For traditional pub food with a modern twist, be sure to stop by the popular The White Horse Country Pub. With rare and quirky antiques decorating every wall, this eclectic New Preston restaurant prides itself on being a classic English pub with an American accent. Their menu is award winning and will surely delight any palate. Washington’s G.W. Tavern is an ideal venue for quintessential New England fare enveloped in a cozy tavern setting. Using locally source ingredients, the G.W.s menu features traditional pub fare with great ambiance and a roaring fireplace.
Uncork & savor
Unwind and enjoy a soothing glass of wine and live music at Washington’s Owl Wine Bar, a perfect setting to spend an evening after a day of adventure. Or savor the ambiance and casual menu at the Mayflower Tap Room. For an authentic vineyard experience, don’t miss the lovely Hopkins Vineyard, overlooking Lake Waramaug. Take a tour of the vineyard and then enjoy a tasting of their award-winning wines.

Dine alfresco

Life is sweet
Who doesn’t love ice cream? A visit to one of Washington’s quaint ice cream counters is a must. Whether you are looking for a mid-afternoon snack or just a way to beat the heat, both Marty’s Café and The PO Cafe will scoop out your favorite flavor. For the candy lover, New Preston’s Sweeets is not to be missed. With shelves lined with retro candy as well as fine chocolates from around the world, Sweeets is a destination in itself. Yum!