A far cry from the city-like atmosphere of South Norwalk, Tavern at GrayBarns is located a few miles north within a fancy riverside hotel in a quiet, woodsy corner of town. If a $900-per-night staycation at the inn isn’t in the cards, book a table at the Tavern and request a bar or patio seat with the view of the charming gardens and the pond on the property—it’s the perfect setting for a romantic date or quiet catch up with friends. We always order the crispy fried oyster mushrooms with buttermilk dipping sauce, which are basically a grown up version of chicken nuggets, and the perfectly cooked dry aged ribeye. Pair them with one of the well-curated wines by the glass and enjoy your mini vacation.