The view from the outdoor dining area of a Connecticut restaurant on the Farmington River provides natural entertainment and beauty that can’t be planned or measured, customers say.
There is a friendly bald Eagle swooping through the air at times, people fishing to watch, trout jumping through the water, geese, raccoons, deer, splashes of water water skipping over rocks and even an occasional bear to entertain guests.
“It’s an oasis on the river,” said Phil Barnett, co-owner and co-founder of the Wood-n-Tap local restaurant group.
The group has 10 restaurants in Connecticut, one in Massachusetts, but there’s only one with the breathtaking view and it’s in Farmington.
“It’s a wonderful getaway where you forget about every day life,” Barnett said. “If you look west there’s a bend in the river and you can see the sun set.”
Barnett and his business partner purchased the Farmington spot with the view in mind. During winter the outdoor space is filled with heated igloos that allow diners to enjoy the winter views.
The outdoor area, high in demand this time of year and shaded, seats about 120 guests with three levels: a deck, a patio and the grassy area closest to the river, he said.
Plenty of outdoor seating on the Farmington River makes this Wood-n-Tap restaurant popular.
The restaurant group also has a outdoor dining area at their Enfield location with “beautiful landscaping, flower beds” and live music Thursday-Sunday evenings, Barnett said.
The Farmington restaurant, opened in 2019 is at 1593 Farmington Ave.
A new development in Farmington is that the company now has a machine that pours alcoholic drinks, ice, fruit and all, into clear cans with sealed tabs to go.
They’ve received awards for the outdoor dining site in Farmington.
“It’s got a great feel to it. It’s lively, relaxing,” said Barnett.
“I had an amazing experience at Wood-n-Tap. The building itself is beautiful, and its location right along the Farmington River really sets the tone for a calm and relaxing dining experience. It’s the kind of place where you can sit back and actually enjoy your meal without feeling rushed,” a customer posted as a review.
Both outdoor dining spots have special seasonal menus.
Dining and Cooking