Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Middletown

Arethusa has always been a great experience. They sweat the details and operate as if they expect to be a perpetual 5 star restaurant. There are hints of well-considered minutiae everywhere you look. For example, a glass saucer arrived on a desert plate that had a small cutout of tacky shelf liner material. My guest and I were impressed that the shelf liner was there so the saucer wouldn't slide off the plate. Water is offered either carbonated or flat. You will be given complimentary fresh made bread, and probably a shot of cold cucumber soup (or seasonal flavor of their choosing). Flavors are expertly honed and curated. Plates arrive at the table photo-ready and impressively organized. Best to choose not to look at the menu prices, and cost is sort of besides the point here. It is as fancy a dining experience as you will get in the county of Litchfield, CT. Appetizers and entrees have relatively small portion sizes, but each bite is to be savored. The gourmet cheeseboard is a necessity, as is the savory lamb belly, as are the pork dumplings, as is the tuna tartare with homemade potato chips.... I have never had a bad morsel of food here. Staff is beyond attentive; telekinetic is a more apt word. They see and sense exactly when to engage and usually do the right thing at the right time. Bonus: they are also associated with a working dairy farm and make their own ice cream. And it is THAT good.

The whipped ricotta small plate was amazing! Drinks were superb as well. The grits that came with the scallops were flat but the scallops themselves had a very fresh taste.all in all will definitely go back. The sour dough had a great crust on it. The butter was cold wish it was more room temp but I can’t be too picky lol

We dine at Max Foah every year for our Holiday gathering and come back every year because it's so enjoyable, The food, service ambiance all Wonderful !!

Amazing service, great wine list and amazing steak!!

Never been before thought we’d give it a try. Don’t think the reservation was really necessary but the dining area was very clean and welcoming. The server, Lisa, was a super sweet and attentive. Helped make recommendations and substitutions as requested. The food was great. Spinach salad was a nice taste of summer with berries and goat cheese. I had the steak which was cooked as requested. The veggies were were also tender crisp and not covered in oil or butter. Definitely recommend this spot. Lisa was a true delight as a server and we had a great time with her.