The Settlers Inn - HAWLEY

Settlers Inn has always been one of our favorite places. I proposed to my wife there, and we celebrated our anniversary dinner there just last week. The atmosphere feels like stepping back into a more laid-back time. The dining area is beautifully arranged with its stunning wooden features and what might be original details. And the food—oh my goodness, the food! I have celiac disease, which means I need to eat gluten-free. Their menu clearly marks gluten-free options with a "GF," so I didn't have to worry about anything while enjoying my meal. We savored every bite of our dinners, taking our time to extend the delightful experience. There wasn't a single thing that could have been improved. The drinks were also excellent—not too strong, yet not weak. Overall, Settlers Inn ranks at the top for me, and our most recent dining experience was equally satisfying.

For appetizers, we ordered the creamy corn soup and a melon salad topped with crispy prosciutto. While the soup was decent, it lacked complexity, tasting mainly of broth and corn without much else to offer. On the other hand, I really enjoyed the melon salad, which included fresh arugula, red peppers, balsamic dressing, and crispy prosciutto—the flavors came together nicely. For our entrées, we chose a rib eye and eggplant parmesan. The steak was cooked well and enjoyable; however, the roasted potatoes were overdone, though still edible. The biggest issue arose with the eggplant parmesan. It consisted of three pieces of eggplant, each cut about 1 ½ inches thick, breaded, and deep-fried. There was no sauce, just some melted mozzarella on top. After one bite, I found it nearly inedible. It was greasy, the eggplant was inadequately cooked, and it was so tough that I could barely chew it. I typically don’t send food back, but this dish compelled me to do so. A nearby patron also faced a similar issue with the pork Milanese. It’s such a pity that what could have been an enjoyable meal was overshadowed by poor preparation. Our server was lovely—attentive and professional—and I felt bad for her amidst the situation.

The service we received was excellent! Our server was very attentive, and the timing of the food was spot on. Everything we tried was delicious!

Nice evening, impeccable service always and restaurant is just beautiful! I recommend the fried squash blossom app- really good

The decor is calm and comfortable. The food selection is very seasonal. Quality and look was very good. The wine selection is extensive and a bit pricey.