The Owl Wine & Food Bar

New Preston is one of those tiny hamlets that time could simply have left behind. Instead it has constantly reinvented itself, making itself the location for chic shops that offer contemporary and antique goods, all displayed in a tasteful fashion.

Browsing through shops can be taxing, however, and, for many, The Owl Wine and Food Bar is the perfect oasis following a shopping excursion or for an after-work respite. Located at 18 East Shore Road in the space formerly occupied by Olivia Café, the wine bar seats 20 inside and another 20 on the patio during warmer months. It rapidly became a favorite with visitors and locals alike.

A 2019 upgrade of the premises created an environment that is both intimate and inviting. John Bourdeau of Woodbury, a veteran of the food industry, offers more than 20 wines of varying types—white, red, rosé and sparkling— and a tempting list of specialty drinks.

The wines are complemented by a menu of starters, salads, “shares,” pizzas (both white and red) house-made and local desserts. Wines start at $12 a glass ($42 a bottle) and range up to $110 for a bottle of Taittinger Brut Champagne.

Food starts at $6 for spiced nuts or citrus rosemary olives and tops out at $22 for a shrimp pizza.

It is a walk-in establishment only and is open Thursday and Friday, 4-10 PM; Saturday and Sunday; 1 to 10 pm; 860-619-0585 or click on the link below.