The Mill on the River is a standout American restaurant in South Windsor, CT, offering a dining experience that feels both special and welcoming. Set within a rustic former grist mill, the restaurant blends historic charm with a polished, upscale atmosphere, making it a favorite choice for celebrations, memorable meals, and relaxed gatherings alike.
Guests come here for more than just a table—they come for the feeling of warmth, character, and care that defines every visit. From brunch to dinner, The Mill on the River has built a reputation for serving Continental fare with a thoughtful touch, along with one of the area’s most popular brunch experiences.
What makes this restaurant especially appealing is the range and quality of what it offers. Whether you are stopping in for breakfast, enjoying a leisurely brunch, meeting friends for lunch, or planning a romantic dinner, the menu is designed to fit the moment.
Guests appreciate the fast service, the cozy fireplace, and the impressive selection of beer, cocktails, coffee, dessert, and wine. The restaurant also serves local specialties and offers happy-hour drinks and food, healthy options, private dining, catering, and full table service.
With dine-in, outdoor seating, takeaway, kerbside pickup, delivery, and on-site services available, it provides the flexibility modern diners want while still delivering a refined, personal experience. Its lively yet comfortable setting makes it equally suited to solo dining, quiet evenings, and upbeat celebrations.
Accessibility and convenience are also thoughtfully addressed, helping every guest feel welcome and accommodated. The Mill on the River offers wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, seating, and restrooms, along with Wi-Fi, free Wi-Fi, a bar on site, and restroom facilities for added comfort.
Reservations are accepted and recommended for brunch and dinner, reflecting both the restaurant’s popularity and the value it places on a smooth, well-planned experience. With a strong 4.5-star rating from 2,878 reviews, it is clear that guests consistently leave with a positive impression.
Located at 989 Ellington Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074, The Mill on the River accepts debit cards, credit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making it easy to enjoy a high-quality dining experience from start to finish.
Popular Items
Frequently ordered and highly recommended items at The Mill on the River
Our Story
Welcome to a place where great food meets warm hospitality. We believe dining is more than just a meal - it's an experience to be savored and shared.
Our kitchen is dedicated to creating dishes that bring people together, using recipes that honor tradition while embracing innovation.
Photos
A glimpse of our restaurant experience
Food & Drinks
graham cracker crust, fresh whipped cream
Gluten free & vegan
coffee-soaked lady fingers, marscapone cheese, fresh whipped cream
warm molten chocolate cake, fresh whipped cream
caramel, fresh whipped cream
Romaine, Parmesan crisp, garlic herb croutons, shaved Parmesan, house-made dressing
Iceberg lettuce, crisp bacon, diced tomatoes, Bleu cheese crumbles, buttermilk ranch dressing
toasted baguette, melted Provolone cheese
baby field greens, caramelized pearl onions, tomatoes, crisp polenta croutons, buffalo Mozzarella, roasted garlic, marinated artichoke hearts, garlic-infused aged balsamic vinaigrette
Iceberg & Romaine lettuces, hard-boiled egg, avocado, garbanzo beans, black olives, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, apples, cucumbers, Gorgonzola, fresh lemon juice, herb-infused E.V.O.O.
arugula, red beets, Granny Smith apples, gorgonzola cheese, shaved fennel, candied walnuts, lemon vinaigrette
please ask about our daily selection
frisee & radicchio, lemon remoulade, chive cream sauce
garlic, white wine, butter, & Pernod sauce
pan-fried in a caper and marinara sauce
diced bacon, tri-colored bell peppers, red onions, jalapeno cheddar cheese
oven-baked, beer cheese dipping sauce
rustic-style bread, roasted red peppers, garlic herb aioli, melted Gorgonzola
lemon & caper dipping aioli
with a garlic, white wine, and cream sauce
(price per piece)
spicy eggplant caponata, olives, buffalo Mozzarella, roasted tomatoes & peppers, Tartufo truffle cheese, Prosciutto di Parma, Soppressata, caperberries, tomato & sweet basil bruschettas
please ask about our daily selection
sweet potato puree, balsamic drizzle
Maine lobster meat, shrimp, crabmeat, seaweed salad, remoulade & cocktail sauces
seasonal fruit garnish, candied walnuts, toast points, fig jam
apple curry sauce
sun-dried tomatoes, sauteed spinach, herb Alouette cheese, buffalo Mozzarella, tomato marinara
please ask about our daily selection
chicken, sauteed spinach, caramelized onions, crisp pancetta, shaved Parmesan
P.E.I. mussels, shrimp, New Bedford scallops, spicy tomato sauce, shaved Parmesan, linguine
linguine, jumbo shrimp, garlic butter sauce, diced asparagus spears, red pimentos
broccoli rabe, chicken, caramelized onions, spicy Italian sausage, diced pancetta, tomato and sherry wine sauce
tomato & basil cream sauce
wide ribbon pasta, house-made meat ragout, fresh ricotta cheese
snow peas, shrimp, chicken, baby bok choy, Shiitake mushrooms, spinach, sesame seeds, spicy red bean sauce, sesame seed oil, linguine
bow-tie pasta, tomatoes, diced asparagus, Brie, Maine lobster meat, caramelized pearl onions, vodka cream sauce
melted Gorgonzola, sun-dried cherry sauce, salted baked potato.
melted Brie & Bleu cheese, Burgundy wine demi-glace, Yukon Gold potato puree
Served with salted baked potato. Choice of one Steak Sauce: Chilled Garlic & Herb Compound Butter, Brandy & Peppercorn Au Poivre, Classic Bearnaise, Mill's Signature Herb Reduction
Served with salted baked potato. Choice of one Steak Sauce: Chilled Garlic & Herb Compound Butter, Brandy & Peppercorn Au Poivre, Classic Bearnaise, Mill's Signature Herb Reduction
roasted vegetable ratatouille, Yukon Gold potato puree, mint and tarragon demi-glace
crisp Parmesan herb crust, German potato salad, frisee, arugula, & sweet roasted red & yellow peppers
Served with salted baked potato. Choice of one Steak Sauce: Chilled Garlic & Herb Compound Butter, Brandy & Peppercorn Au Poivre, Classic Bearnaise, Mill's Signature Herb Reduction
Served with salted baked potato. Choice of one Steak Sauce: Chilled Garlic & Herb Compound Butter, Brandy & Peppercorn Au Poivre, Classic Bearnaise, Mill's Signature Herb Reduction
(per piece)
with sour cream and applesauce
one extra roll and butter
5 small broiled scallops
sauteed wild mushrooms, shallots, Burgundy wine sauce, braised red cabbage, Yukon Gold potato puree
crisp bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, red onion, brioche bun, kosher pickle, zesty coleslaw, french fries
crisp, pan-fried crust, German potato salad, chilled cucumber salad, lingonberries
light lemon, butter, and white wine sauce, roasted seasonal vegetables, rice pilaf
seasonal risotto, wilted spinach, lemon beurre blanc
basmati rice pilaf with tri-colored bell peppers, snow peas, ginger soy sauce, pickled ginger, wasabi
Point Judith clams, broccoli rabe, roasted tomatoes, fingerling potatoes, lemon beurre blanc
Yukon Gold potato puree, honey dijon sauce, zesty coleslaw
Jumbo Gulf shrimp stuffed with classic crabmeat, shrimp and herb breadcrumb stuffing, rice pilaf, zesty coleslaw
shrimp, scallops, sauteed leaf spinach, Mornay sauce, zesty coleslaw, rice pilaf
slow-roasted white beans, escarole, tomatoes, and fingerling potatoes, garlic Panko breadcrumbs, lemon beurre blanc
Yukon Gold potato puree, sauteed spinach, demi-glace
Virginia honey ham & Swiss cheese filling, Mornay sauce, rice pilaf, roasted vegetables
melted Provolone, linguine pasta, house-made marinara sauce
Hear from our valued guests
A beautiful place. We went for Father’s Day’s… to have the brunch… very good price and good menu to choose from… we’ll come back soon…
It's hard to beat this local mainstay for either quality or service. They have a classic American menu with plenty of options, a robust wine list, and they deliver on quality. We had a large table of 10 and decided to get the family-style appetizers, which were delicious! We also each started with a very tasty cocktail. For dinner I had one of the specials, the prime rib, which was cooked perfectly. Absolutely no complaints from anyone on their entrees. Service was impeccable, and we will definitely return next year. Olympic Otter
Tuesday night, my friend treated me to a belated birthday dinner, and it was a wonderful experience from start to finish. We sat outside on the patio, where the weather was absolutely perfect, creating a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere. Our server was exceptional—if I remember correctly, his name was Christos. He didn’t miss a beat and truly made the evening special with his attentive and seamless service. The food was equally impressive. The prime rib was cooked to perfection, and the prix fixe menu was a great option. The drink list was extensive and creative. Although I usually stick with a classic cosmopolitan, I decided to try the fig cosmopolitan, and it was an incredible fusion of flavors. My friend chose a mocktail, and we were both impressed by the wide variety of appealing options on the mocktail menu. I was also very impressed with the maître d’, whom I believe was named Jan. She made a point to visit each table on the patio, a level of attention and hospitality that’s become rare and was greatly appreciated. The cloth tablecloths on the outdoor tables gave the space a charming, upscale feel. Overall, it was a delightful experience, and we will definitely be back.
I had the pleasure of photographing a wedding this past weekend ( 6/13/26 ) at The Mill on The River. The grounds were great for photos. In particular the back patio area worked really well for family photos as it was under the trees and blocking the harsh sun. The Gazebo at night was also a fantastic spot for couples photos. Alexis and all of the staff were really amazing and super helpful throughout the night.
To say this place is amazing, breathtaking, and the definition of home is an understatement. First time coming here and I will DEFINITELY be back thanks to Monica and all the staff. She was very attentive and informative and was able to help me make a decision on what I wanted with ease! She took her time and didnt make us feel rushed as we explored the menu since it was our first time. She started us off with some refreshing water and then brought us the Piña colada mocktails we ordered which were full of flavor but small for the price. There was so much delicious food to choose from, to start we got the Mussels and they were super tender with a decadent creamy white sauce and fresh Parmasean cheese. For Entree I got the Pan-seared Chilean Sea Bass and I fell in love! First time trying bass and it was amazing. It had a delicious crust but it was super buttery, soft and tender and the sides it came with was the perfect combo along with 4 perfectly cooked clams! My husband got the Pecan Crusted Atlantic Ocean Salmon and it came with potato puree and coleslaw that was to die for! For dessert we got the Vanilla Bean Creme Brulee and everything was well complimented! The atmosphere was warm (we sat at the table across the fireplace!) Beautiful decor and you can hear the river as it runs by the restaurant so its definitely soothing. While we enjoyed the food, the restaurant manager went to every table checking in on everyone which was so nice to see and made us feel welcomed and taken care of. I can only speak highly of this place that was super impromptu, I just moved to Connecticut and was looking for somewhere good to eat after a long day of work and this experience was definitely well worth the last hour I had in me of my day that I usually spend at home scrolling on my phone lol.
Hands down one of my favorite restaurants within the area. The atmosphere is extremely solid, food was pretty much perfect, and overall great service from the staff working there. Definitely will be returning to this restaurant within the next few weeks. It's restaurants like these that reminded me just how good New England is when it comes to seafood, and just restaurants in general. Highly recommend, cuz I will be highly recommending myself to go back!
This establishment is so beautiful to enjoy an evening out with a loved one or just lunch with friends. Very nice atmosphere and delicious food. Our last visit was celebrating my sister’s 50th birthday. We had a great evening to include great hospitality, food, drinks and ambiance.
We came here for our anniversary. The service was great. Our server was so nice and attentive despite the restaurant being totally packed. I loved the complimentary bread with the butter. So good. We got some drinks and those were good too. For our appetizer we shared a pretzel, it was delicious. For entrees, I had shrimp scampi and he had vodka pasta. My shrimp scampi was soo good. This place did it right. I had some bites of my boyfriend’s vodka pasta and it was great. So flavorful! He enjoyed it. Overall, amazing dining experience. I would love to come here again. Definitely get reservations, we had to park across the street because of how packed it was. We had reservations but I can’t imagine what the wait time would be if we didn’t have one.
Everything about this restaurant deserves five stars. The service and food was outstanding of this world food. Shrimp scampi was to die for and the deserts were one of the best I’ve ever had. It may have been the best meal I’ve ever had. You MUST try the calamari it is so fresh and flavorful! Drinks are great too and I like that they have mocktails on the menu.
Quite the fancy spot with gorgeous views of the water. Great food and drink menu with many fun mocktail options. We enjoyed the calamari, vegetable ravioli, and salads. Dessert didn't disappoint either, the basque cheesecake and banana walnut cake were delicious! Plenty of parking and tons of tables inside and outside, can imagine on a warm day sitting outside is lovely. We made a reservation so getting seated was quick and simple. Thanks for a lovely meal!
Common questions about The Mill on the River
The Mill on the River is located at 989 Ellington Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074, United States, South Windsor, CT, United States.
You can reach The Mill on the River by calling +1 860-289-7929.
The Mill on the River has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 2878 customer reviews.
The Mill on the River features the following accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park, Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, Wheelchair-accessible toilet.
The Mill on the River features the following service options: Outdoor seating, Kerbside pickup, Delivery, On-site services, Takeaway, Dine-in.
The Mill on the River features the following highlights: Fast service, Fireplace, Great beer selection, Great cocktails, Great coffee, Great dessert, Great wine list, Serves local specialty.
The Mill on the River features the following popular for: Lunch, Dinner, Solo dining.
The Mill on the River features the following offerings: Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Happy-hour drinks, Happy-hour food, Healthy options, Private dining room, Small plates, Spirits, Vegan options, Vegetarian options, Wine.
The Mill on the River features the following dining options: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Catering, Dessert, Seating, Table service.
The Mill on the River features the following amenities: Bar on site, Restroom, Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi.
The Mill on the River features the following atmosphere: Cozy, Historic, Lively, Quiet, Romantic, Trendy, Upmarket.
The Mill on the River features the following crowd: Family friendly, Groups, Tourists.
The Mill on the River features the following planning: Brunch reservations recommended, Dinner reservations recommended, Accepts reservations.
The Mill on the River features the following payments: Debit cards, NFC mobile payments, Credit cards.
The Mill on the River features the following children: Has changing table(s), High chairs, Kids' menu.
The Mill on the River features the following parking: Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Plenty of parking.
Business Features
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