About Elm Café

Elm Café is a welcoming destination in Branford, CT, where quality service, a comfortable atmosphere, and thoughtful hospitality come together to create a memorable café experience. Located at 445 Main St, this local favorite invites guests to settle in and enjoy a space that feels both casual and cozy, with a historic character that adds to its charm. Whether you are stopping by for a relaxed coffee break, meeting friends for drinks, or looking for a dependable spot to unwind, Elm Café offers the kind of setting that makes every visit feel easy and enjoyable. Guests appreciate the café for its fast service and warm, accommodating approach, along with the added convenience of table service and comfortable seating. Outdoor seating gives visitors another way to enjoy their time, especially on pleasant days when a fresh-air meal or drink makes the experience even better. The presence of a bar on site, restroom access, and a broad drink selection—including alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, spirits, and wine—adds to the café’s versatility, making it a great choice for everything from a daytime coffee stop to an evening out. The option to accept reservations also provides added peace of mind for those planning ahead, whether for a casual gathering or a more specific occasion. With a strong customer rating of 4.50 out of 5 based on 92 reviews, Elm Café has earned the trust of locals and visitors alike. Its reputation reflects not only the quality of what it serves, but also the overall experience it delivers: reliable, inviting, and easy to enjoy. If you are looking for a café that combines comfort, convenience, and a polished yet approachable atmosphere, Elm Café is a standout choice in Branford. Call +1 203-488-9206 to learn more or plan your visit.

Last updated: Jul 16, 2026

Customer Reviews

4.50
Based on 92 reviews
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Mike Savino

The Elm is an old time bar..possibly the oldest bar in Branford, 65 yrs old. Locals, tourists, everyone has fun at the Elm. Occasional live music, inexpensive drinks, relaxed setting....maybe historical but wouldn't want it's atmosphere to ever change!!

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M. Véaigh

Voted the best dive bar in CT and it certainly lives up to that. The drinks are cheap and it gets busy because it's the only bar in the area that's open late.

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Sandooly

Casual, friendly, good juke box, owner John is efficient and on top of things to make sure you'll enjoy your experience plus the beer is cold. Remember to look for Tony C. when you go, he'll buy you your first beer !

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clayton morse

One of the oldest bars in Connecticut. Apparently there's a tunnel still running underground from the elm all the way to the train tracks and was used during prohibition and slavery times. Always a good time of you go here onside or outside its small but very cool.

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Ziu Nuiygn

Small dive bar with a lot of heart! Always a friendly crowd and live music Tuesday nights, not sure why they don't have a pool table anymore, but still fun to visit! They do not sell food!

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Chris Savo

I love this place! Small, but great bar staff and friendly patrons give it a warm and inviting feel. Awesome drink prices coupled with plenty of engaging things to do such as pool, darts, bocci and horseshoes makes this local watering hole a winner!

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Shawn D

Absolutely the best dive bar in my area. It actually stays open until 1 am during the week and 2 am on the weekends. The bars in my town used to do this but it is a complete hit or miss now.

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Lucia Pantani

You go there for a drink. Cash like god intended. Booze and beer the way the devil intended. You get what you want and they have what you need.

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Allen Trafny

I Love this place I grow up in bars just like this (Shot & Beer) I moved to Branford about 35 years ago I spotted right way but but stayed way knowing the result, I resultly payed my first visit about a month ago I had my usual two beer and go, but with with in that 20 min of …

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BIG BOB

One of the last neighborhood dive bars Since 1952, Frank Sinatra on the juke box and Crown Royal for the holidays.

People Also Ask

Where is Elm Café located?
Elm Café is located at 445 Main St, Branford, CT 06405, United States, Branford, CT, United States. You can get directions here.
What is Elm Café rated?
Elm Café has a rating of 4.50 out of 5 stars based on 92 customer reviews.
How do I contact Elm Café?
You can reach Elm Café by phone at +1 203-488-9206.
What type of business is Elm Café?
Elm Café is a restaurants business located in Branford, CT. <!-- VOILA_REWRITTEN --> Elm Café is a welcoming destination in Branford, CT, where quality service, a comfortable atmosphere, and thoughtful hospitality come together to create a memorable café experience. Located …