THE 202 TAVERN - New Preston, Connecticut

Cesar L.

Tavern 202 is a hidden gem that delivers an exceptional dining experience, blending quality cuisine with a relaxed, yet refined atmosphere. From the moment you step onto the property, you're welcomed by an inviting outdoor setting with a tranquil river, a well-maintained green area, and a volleyball court—creating an atmosphere of leisure and enjoyment.

The culinary offerings are superb, particularly the burgers, which strike the perfect balance between flavor and texture, and the nachos, which showcase an impeccable layering of ingredients that are both fresh and satisfying. Every dish at Tavern 202 is thoughtfully crafted, and the pricing is a pleasant surprise considering the quality.

The use of a smoker for the BBQ ribs adds an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the menu, ensuring that each bite is infused with a delightful smokiness. The commitment to both quality and comfort is evident in every dish, making it easy to see why this restaurant is a repeat destination for so many.

Tavern 202 has mastered the art of creating an unforgettable dining experience in a setting that effortlessly combines casual and sophisticated. A true testament to how great food and ambiance can complement one another seamlessly.

H V.

High hopes due to the amount of stars The 202 Tavern has, but was let down.

Chicken quesadilla was listed for $14. Came out with 4 dinky slices with little to no chicken.

The chicken sandwich had an extremely thinly sliced chicken in it…. That was $15

I ordered the beef brisket which was 29.99. Description says it was juicy and succulent, but it was extremely dry. I had to drink water while eating it, so it could easily go down. The vegetable of the day was spinach but it had slices of bacon in it. I don’t eat pork so that was an issue.

If you have vegetable of the day listed, maybe it should only be vegetable.

Everything was overpriced.
I highly recommend you skip this place and go elsewhere to eat!

Robert B.

Fantastic lunch on 9/21. First time ever and one of the best burgers you can get in the area....hands down. Outside is awesome with the river and sunshine. They were also smoking all kinds of food outside. Just go!

P C.

I just had the absolute best smoked chicken, BBQ, and sides that I’ve had in recent memory.

The smoked chicken was perfectly cooked, moist and juicy inside, crispy skin and wonderful smoky taste. It was also piping hot, as were the amazing baked beans. The slaw was also perfect - not too much mayonnaise , and a light and tasty flavor (I would have added a bit more vinegar) and seasoning - but fresh and really good.

We sat in the bar area, and the customers were happy, friendly, and all enjoying their meals. Our bartender also served as our waiter, and he was extremely friendly, and made certain that we were taken care of and got our food out very quickly and efficiently. He also was very attentive, checked on us several times, and could not have been more pleasant.

Overall - I think I’ve found a new “go to” in the area. This is a place that I could dine in every night. Not pretentious, laid back, friendly, casual, and just flat out exceptional food. This tavern would be great to meet friends, take family, or just stop and have a drink at the bar and a snack.

Tavern 202 also has a great covered outdoor space , and a more private / quiet dining room away from the bar (which was not noisy and overcrowded).

I strongly encourage folks to give this place a try. I’ve driven by many times and never stopped because I thought it was a roadhouse / biker bar / tavern - which is sort of is - but it also has a well crafted menu and a really enticing happy hour menus during the week - which I’m going to check out tomorrow….

Paul S.

We had the mussels and bacon spuds for an appetizer and they were both very good. Had the salmon and it was great. Brownie sundae with strawberry ice cream hit the spot too.

Polly H.

We were at the restaurant on 10/22 for lunch. The service was very slow, ordered drinks took.over 30 minutes to be delivered, ordered an appetizer and meals which also took forever. Never asked if we wanted drink refills. Asked for dessert menu and they never came back. Finally, went to register to pay.

Krg G.

I've been meaning to stop in the 202 Tavern for awhile.I had dinner with my family on Saturday night 10/26.It exceeded my expectations.Everything was excellent.The Servers were very nice and efficient.The Restaurant was very clean.I used to work at a few restaurants in my younger days..I looked into the kitchen..it looked very clean and organized..The restroom was very clean..The staff gave a nice goodbye ...thanks for coming when we left..The food was delicious.they even have Simply Heinz ketchup..a nice touch..small details matter..We had some Wings..a couple of Sandwiches that were great.There are a couple of other fancy restaurants nearby..The Tavern is much better.. Highly recommend

James P.

Great BBQ chicken. Sides were well prepared, not an afterthought. Nice outdoor seating. Friendly staff