The Griswold Inn’s GM and Wine Director Retires After 22 Years

The Griswold Inn announces with deep gratitude and mixed emotions the upcoming retirement of General Manager and Wine Director Alan Barone, who will conclude his tenure at the end of this month after 22 years. While May 1st was his last day on site, Barone will continue in an advisory capacity through the month of May to support a smooth transition.

Barone began his journey with The Griswold Inn on February 1, 2003. Throughout his time, he guided the Inn through some of the most challenging periods in recent history, including the post-9/11 economic recovery and the COVID-19 pandemic, all while upholding and enhancing the guest experience.

Under his leadership, the Inn’s wine program flourished. He curated and built an award-winning wine list that has been honored for 16 consecutive years with the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. This recognition, presented to only about 2,150 restaurants globally in 2024 —and just 37 in Connecticut—celebrates a restaurant’s steadfast dedication to providing an exceptional wine selection and service.

“It has been an incredible honor to be part of The Griswold Inn’s story,” said Barone, who plans to remain active in the hospitality industry as a consultant. “This place is more than a restaurant—it’s a community, a tradition, and a family. I’m proud of what we’ve built together and excited to support others in this next chapter.”

“We are so grateful for Alan’s years at the helm - navigating the waters that have come our way, both calm seas and turbulent ones,” says Joan Paul, co-owner of The Griswold Inn. “His passion, leadership, and commitment to excellence have elevated every aspect of our operation. While we will miss his daily presence, we are incredibly grateful for the indelible mark he leaves on our team, our guests, and the community.”

Looking ahead, The Griswold Inn is pleased to announce that Frank Parisi will be stepping in as the new General Manager. Frank’s history with The Gris has been long and varied, having played key roles across many facets of the operation over the years.

Steven Gray started his career at The Griswold Inn in May of 2005 and came back when the Wine Bar & Bistro reopened after Covid in 2022. He will be assuming the role of Wine Director at The Gris, a natural complement to his current leadership at the Wine Bar & Bistro, which he has been running masterfully.

About The Griswold Inn

The Griswold Inn, located in the heart of the historic seaport village of Essex, Connecticut, first opened its doors for business in 1776 promising “First Class Accommodations, Fine Food and Spirits.” Two hundred and forty-nine years later, the Inn still lives up to that promise. In 2025, the Paul Family will celebrate 30 years of owning and operating the iconic piece of our country’s history. The Griswold Inn is at the forefront of historic inns and is one of the most popular destinations in Connecticut. Easily accessible by land and sea, it caters to neighbors, yachtsman and overland travelers from all around the world.

The Griswold Inn, 36 Main Street, Essex, Connecticut, 860.767.1776, griswoldinn.com