Charcoal Chef, nestled at 670 Main St N in Woodbury, CT, is a vibrant testament to timeless American dining. This cozy restaurant brings back the nostalgia of the 1960s while adapting to contemporary tastes, as highlighted in numerous reviews by satisfied patrons.
Customers rave about Charcoal Chef's juicy steaks and mouthwatering burgers, making it a go-to spot for both breakfast and dinner. Ted G fondly recalls the restaurant's rich history while noting improvements like the acceptance of card payments, ensuring convenient access for all. Similarly, Sharon Dest praises the "best steaks, burgers, and drinks in town" delivered with impeccable service from friendly waitresses.
Anna Lepeley reflects on the charm of the classic menu, where even adventurous eaters find joy in dishes like Cornish hen, alongside perfectly crafted drinks like their renowned Shirley Temple. Meanwhile, Libby Fulkerson appreciates the evolution of the menu with exciting specials and strong cocktails, proving that tradition and innovation thrive together at Charcoal Chef.
For food lovers and nostalgia seekers, Charcoal Chef remains a cherished destination, inviting guests to relish its classic dishes while creating new memories. This restaurant isn’t just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience that beckons you to return.
Amenities and More
From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Takeaway
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Fast service
Great beer selection
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great dessert
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Food
Quick bite
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Parking
Photos
Reviews For Charcoal Chef
Ted G
Jun 24,2025
I haven't been here in years, mostly because they used to have a cash only policy and I haven't carried cash in years. Food was every bit as good as I remember as was the service. The restaurant has not aged one bit, it's like walking into the actual 1960s and not in a reproduction way. Now that I know they take cards I will be stopping in more often.
Sharon Dest
Jun 10,2025
The best steaks, burgers and drinks in town. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Friendly waitresses and cozy atmosphere. #steak #seafood #breakfast #lunch #dinner #bar #drinks #woodburyct @connecticut_wonders
Anna Lepeley
May 17,2025
Delicious, classic menu. Cozy restaurant with friendly staff. I took my gf here. She has lived a long life of eating chicken hearts, chicken feet, and gizzards and, now, I want her to enjoy the finer things in life. Today, she learned what a cornish hen is and she enjoyed it with ketchup. Charcoal chef makes one of the best shirley temples, baked potatoes, and more. This place is a time capsule and I can’t wait to go back. If anyone knows how I can buy the dracula mansion across the street, let me know.
Libby Fulkerson
May 9,2025
My grandparents started going to the “chef” in the 50s and my family have been loyal customers ever since! In the past couple years there have been huge improvements, the food is consistently much better, they’ve have made some good menu upgrades and now have exciting specials! Best part has to be the strong cocktails!
Benjamin Paradise
Apr 30,2025
My grandmother brought my brother and I here when we were kids. Still the best chicken in a basket, I'm glad they're still open.
Kitten Cuddles (Sam D.)
Apr 21,2025
I’ve been coming here ever since I was a little kid and I still love it just the same! The atmosphere is so cozy, like many other reviewers said it feels like you are eating in your grandparents house. Also the fried chicken basket is always a must!
Joseph Cayer
Apr 21,2025
I got the Christine. My wife got a patty melt. The Christine was cooked to perfection. So much flavor. I highly recommend it. My wife is so happy. The wait staff was sweet as well.
Lori McGinley
Mar 15,2025
Love this place. Interesting menu. Lunch was wonderful. Love the atmosphere! Brought a friend who was wishing they would open a sister restaurant near her. Definitely making this a regular stop.
Reviews For Charcoal Chef