Enchanting outdoor dining will soon be open at two Connecticut locations. It is dubbed as in the midst of a “winter wonderland” of twinkling evergreens, light up snowmen, spiral trees, and light-up deer at restaurants. Each experience will take place in a private igloo where guests can change the ambiance and vibe by adjusting the lighting, the heat, stream their own music, and order decorations special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries. The igloo dining started at Wood-n-Tap in Farmington during COVID as a prevention measure, but became so popular that the restaurant not only kept them, but have now expanded and enhanced the experience. This year, the casual restaurant chain noted for their quality food has taken it to a new level. They’ve added igloos to their Enfield location as well The “wonderland” concept at both restaurants is new too. “Elevating the whole experience is the focus this year both inside and outside,” said Lindsay Carter, the restaurant chain’s director of marketing. “They’re going to get that warm winter wonderland feel. You are in a forest with twinkling lights. I think it will look gorgeous in the snow.” She said this year they’ve added more lighting options for inside the igloos, as well as special occasion enhancements such as light up signs, cards and table cloths. The dining experience also comes with the regular menu as well as one of “elevated” fare that includes crab meat stuffed mushrooms, prime rib, lobster ravioli, surf and turf and more. Phil Barnett, co-CEO of the chain that has 11 restaurants, said the Farmington location was a natural for the igloos because of the river views: eagles, hawks, fishermen and said to feel and look like Alaska in winter. The igloos have been so successful they purchased igloos for Enfield this year because the location has an 8, 000-square-foot patio and level ground. Since that spot doesn’t have the amazing river view, there will be more wonderland aspects. Each restaurant has six igloos and they are rented for $25-$35, refundable within 24 hours of a reservation. They book weeks ahead sometimes months ahead on weekends, so reservations are recommended, Barnett said. This year, “We put a little more love into them,” Barnett said. Barnett said it’s a “custom” experience and what he loves about it is having that private space, but being able to others enjoying themselves nearby in their own igloos. “It’s a nice little oasis,” Barnett said. The Farmington restaurant, which opened in 2019 at 1593 Farmington Ave., has a different look outdoors than all the others because of its location on the river. The Farmington restaurant began igloo dining Nov. 17. Enfield is located at 55B Palomba Drive and will begin Nov. 24.
https://www.courant.com/2025/11/21/ct-restaurant-brings-outdoor-dining-in-new-winter-wonderland-setting-goal-is-oasis-experience/
CT restaurant brings outdoor dining in new winter ‘wonderland’ setting. Goal is ‘oasis’ experience
