Shopping Done - A Cozy Fireside Seat at Chester's Brushmill

Many of Connecticut Shoreline Hot Spot mentions hold fond memories of good times with family and friends but few are as personal and magical as The Brushmill in Chester, Connecticut during the Winter months.

About the Brushmill - it's property and buildings have served numerous functions over the years. In the early 1800s a grist and sawmill to 1859 when it became a manufacturer of carpet sweepers and various kinds of brushes for gun barrels and household radiators. Throughout its history, the Brushmill was virtually self-sufficient. The Pattaconk flowing in the rear powered the mill through hydropower supplied by a large water wheel and an extensive internal belt and pulley system. In fact, each of the pulleys diners see overhead were functioning components of the early electrical system used to both illuminate the factory and power the machinery.

I know The Brushmill as The Chart House working there in the late 70s as a cocktail waitress (I still remember the table numbers downstairs) and it is one of my favorite places in the Winter months.  The Brushmill is just off of Route 9 (exit 6) and as soon as you pull into there parking lot you'll understand my enchantment  seeing the covered wooden walking bridge leading into the restaurant.  The falls which once powered the brush factory often freeze in Winter and with a little snow you're transformed back to the 1800s.

Brushmill's menu hasn't changed much over the years offering a king (28 oz.) and queen (16 oz) cut prime rib as well as various other cuts of beef.  Lobster, shrimp and scallops are on the sea food menu and the menu as a whole can be a bit pricey adding in sides. 

Brushmill reeks of it's history as various brushes are displayed throughout the restaurant.  The taproom is warm and cozy with a fire and stacked stone floor.  It's back room looks directly over the falls as does upstairs dining (I recommend table 14 to 16 if the table numbers are the same).  It's a perfect place to relax in the taproom in front of the fire with a light bite or coffee drink and dessert after Christmas shopping or during the Winter months!