Last Tuesday I was invited for dinner at
Vyne Restaurant in Middlebury, CT. I had never been before, as living on the shoreline means I don't often venture towards the center of the state - I know it's silly and clearly I'm missing out on a lot after being completely impressed by Vyne.
I didn't know much about the restaurant aside from my quick perusal of the menu before sending my response to the invitation, but I planned on leaving early and hoping I could find a cute spot for outfit photos before dinner. Little did I know the grounds outside of the restaurant were stunning; stone steps, archways, gardens, and a waterfall spanning the length of the entire outdoor seating area. The heat from earlier in the day had tapered off and no one would dare to eat dinner outside, so I had the whole space to myself while I snapped away with my tripod.
When it was time to head in, I was lead through the main dining room to the lounge area with the bar, which apparently a lot of people miss and don't even realize there is a bar! I started out with a cucumber gin martini which was as strong as it sounds and very tasty. Sadly I knew at some point I'd have to drive myself home, so I didn't give any other cocktails a try.
As for the food, an impressive tasting menu with two to three dishes from each course was served. The dishes were unique and delicious. Creamy burrata mingled with grilled peaches and balsamic vinegar, lamp lolly pops were served with pesto sauce (I had to use a piece of bread to mop of every last bit of the pesto), the wedge salad was based on a recipe from the owners grandfather, and I just about devoured the seared tenderloin and wild mushroom risotto.
After a delightful meal, we toured the building, which houses an enormous gift shop on the first floor and a banquet hall for weddings and parties up to 200 guests on the third.
If you are in Connecticut, Vyne is not to be missed!
