Often overlooked because of the raved-about restaurants in nearby New York and Boston, Connecticut boasts its own exciting foodie scene. These tasty restaurants all across the state are must-visits. You'll find something for everyone: omnivores, vegans, meat lovers, and locavores alike!
Paul's Pasta Shop, Groton, CT
Located on the riverfront in Groton, Paul's Pasta Shop boasts freshly made pasta and traditional Italian dishes. With healthy servings in every dish, make sure Paul's Pasta is on your list of essential Italian eateries when you're in Connecticut.
La Belle Aurore, Niantic, CT
Perfect for locavores (those who eat locally-produced foods) and brunch-lovers, La Belle Aurore is a great option for a lazy weekend brunch of stuffed French toast or an egg dish. La Belle Aurore supports local farmers by changing their menu frequently based on what is in-season. You can find La Belle Aurore on the shoreline in Niantic.
The Engine Room, Mystic, CT
The Engine Room, located in the quaint town of Mystic, gets rave reviews online and rightfully so, as they serve delicious food in a great atmosphere. The Dutch apple pancakes are to die for and their customizable Bloody Mary menu is a clever idea.
Viron Rondo Osteria, Cheshire, CT
Located in Cheshire, Viron Rondo Osteria is a highly-rated Italian restaurant with an extensive gluten-free menu. This is a great option for a nice lunch or dinner out. Taste their food for yourself at their location at 1721 Highland Ave.
S&P Oyster Co., Mystic, CT
Located on the beautiful waterfront in Mystic, S&P Oyster Co. is a top choice for seafood. Expect oysters on the half shell, shrimp scampi, scallops, and numerous dishes featuring shellfish.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria, Napoletana, CT
One of the top pizzerias in Connecticut and arguably the very best in the entire country, Pepe's is a New Haven institution that has spread to several other locations including inside the Mohegan Sun Casino. Pepe's was opened by Frank Pepe and his wife in 1925 and the two original pizza recipes are still used today. You can read more about their long history and find their opening hours and menu on their website.
Mecha, South Norwalk, Fairfield, New Haven, CT
Mecha is a unique Asian restaurant, serving international favorites including Vietnamese pho, Japanese ramen, egg rolls, steamed baos, bahn mi, bubble tea, and more. Their menu is mouth-wateringly delicious and gets rave reviews. Mecha can be found in three locations across Connecticut: South Norwalk, Fairfield, and New Haven.
Bloodroot, Bridgeport, CT
Bloodroot advertises itself as a feminist bookstore and restaurant that serves vegan and vegetarian food. This restaurant strives to use organic, seasonal produce and even sells their own vegetarian and vegan cookbooks.
Bar Bouchee, Madison, CT
This French bistro serves special appetizers, hearty main courses, decadent desserts, and unique cocktails in a fine atmosphere reminiscent of Lyon, France. Visit Bar Bouchee for a special French meal by Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Cave.
Louis' Lunch, New Haven, CT
Louis' Lunch in New Haven is considered the birthplace of the hamburger, which was created by the original owner, Louis Lassen, in 1900. Still open today, you can visit Louis' Lunch and order a burger sandwiched between two toasted pieces of white bread along with a handful of sides and sodas.
Bartaco, Stamford, West Hartford, Westport, CT
If you are a fan of Mexican food, try Bartaco in one of its several locations. The taco menu is extensive, expect more than 10 different options for fillings. If you don't want tacos, you can find salads, tamales, soup, and snacks on their menu.
Heirloom Food Company, Danielson, CT
Heirloom has an extensive menu and everything on it can be made gluten-free. They also serve gluten-free and vegan sweets and bread. In addition to a gluten-free and vegan menu, they support local farmers and also aim to serve mostly organic produce. On their menu, you'll find tasty breakfasts, healthy salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Learn more about the farms they support and their menu on their website.
Key Insights at a Glance
- Paul's Pasta Shop: Renowned for its riverfront location and freshly made pasta, serving generous portions of traditional Italian dishes.
- La Belle Aurore: Focuses on locally-produced foods, offering a frequently changing menu ideal for brunch enthusiasts.
- The Engine Room: Known for its Dutch apple pancakes and a customizable Bloody Mary menu in Mystic with a lively atmosphere.
- Viron Rondo Osteria: A top-rated Italian restaurant in Cheshire, noted for its extensive gluten-free options.
- S&P Oyster Co.: Sits on the Mystic waterfront, celebrated for its seafood offerings, including oysters and shellfish dishes.
- Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana: A historic pizzeria since 1925, widely regarded as one of the best in the U.S., known for its original pizza recipes.
- Mecha, South Norwalk, Fairfield: This restaurant has three locations and offers a variety of Asian cuisine, including Vietnamese pho and Japanese ramen.
- Bloodroot: A feminist bookstore and restaurant that provides vegan and vegetarian dishes focused on organic and seasonal produce.
- Bar Bouchee: French bistro serving specialties from Lyon with offerings from appetizers to desserts, curated by Chef de Cuisine Jeffrey Cave.
- Louis' Lunch: Claimed to be the birthplace of the hamburger in 1900, it continues to serve burgers on toasted white bread.
- Bartaco, Stamford, West Hartford: This Mexican restaurant has multiple locations and offers a wide selection of tacos and other dishes, such as salads and tamales.
- Heirloom Food Company: provides a diverse menu with all items available gluten-free. It focuses on local, mostly organic produce.
