One of our favorite stops when in Middletown! (just finding out it is haunted through this description, really does not feel that haunted!!) AMAZING food and staff. Unique atmosphere. Our wedding planners say they have a great brunch!

Back in the 1850s, this building, on a residential street in Middletown, Connecticut, was home to the Pameacha Jail. But for many years now, it has hosted restaurants, most recently Harrie's Jailhouse, an upscale sandwich shop and cocktail bar that is leaning way into the spooky vibes not only of its dark history, but also of the spirits that supposedly haunt the venue.

A decade ago, the location was even featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters, and the owners say they have noticed the occasional odd occurrence on the premises.

Eli Cannons Tap room is Connecticut’s innovator of the modern ‘beer bar’. We insisted on only serving micro brewed beers and non-main stream imports. With over 35 rotational beers on tap from local breweries there is always something new to try. Eli Cannons is a staple in the community not only because of the vibes our tap room gives both inside and out but, we are also a large part of our towns Christmas celebration for families, we are the “Cheers” of all bars with our over 320 yearly mug club members, we work closely with neighboring businesses and use local ingredients and as much as possible. At Eli’s you will always recognize a face as our staff are “family” and take the time to get to know our customers. When you walk through those doors you become part of the family too!

New York-style, thin-crust pizza & other housemade Italian food in a modern steel-&-wood eatery.

Emily used to row/coach at many regattas at this course/park such as Emerson's Regatta!

In their wildest dreams, colonial farmer John Lyman and his wife, Hope, could not have envisioned the complex and diverse enterprise that would evolve from their purchase in 1741 of a 37-acre parcel of land in what is now Middlefield. Now covering more than 1,100 acres of scenic farmland, Lyman Orchards is one of the most popular family attractions in New England. Through a history spanning ten generations, the Lyman family heritage was founded upon a commitment to preserve their land for future generations, using a combination of determination, innovation, and adaptation – attributes that hold true today.

Even after 275 years, Lyman Orchards continues to evolve while maintaining its steadfast commitment to preserving the land for future generations. Today, members of the 8th and 9th generations of the family are directly involved in the business. Like their ancestors before them, preservation of the land remains central to their heritage, and the family continues to be innovative in its ways of upholding their traditions.

One of Portland’s oldest and most successful businessmen was Mr. James Laverty. In April 1854, he established the town’s largest store of its time at 188 Main Street. Laverty’s shop was filled with a wide variety of inventory, and he was known to sell “everything from a needle to an anchor.”

On June 4, 1884, Laverty’s property was destroyed by the largest fire in the history of Portland. Rather than let this terrible tragedy end his career and business, Laverty's entrepreneurial spirit kicked in and he worked quickly to reopen his store. According to historical records, “the fire occurred on a Thursday, and by Saturday, business resumed in a temporary building on the same site which had risen Phoenix-like from the ashes of the old.” Laverty’s store was officially reopened in the newly constructed brick building in November 1884. The lower floor and cellar was also used for “an extensive fine wine and liquor wholesale and retail” business.

Mr. Laverty’s “hard work, perseverance and strict integrity” afforded him a great deal of success and provided a great service and contribution to the town of Portland. Our menu cover pays tribute to Mr. Laverty with a vintage picture of the building where our family now operates The Portland Ale House. We will work hard to continue this legacy of service and engagement and look forward to being a part of this great community for many years to come!

Our go to spot when cheers-ing to big wedding milestones when meeting with CT wedding group!

This brewery is located in a warehouse along with Forest City and Spoke and Spy Cider Works. Also included in this list :)

This brewery is located in a warehouse along with Stubborn Beauty and Spoke and Spy Cider Works. Also included in this list :)

This cidery is located in a warehouse along with Forest City and Stubborn Beauty. Also included in this list :)