12 Best Restaurants in Connecticut!

Often overlooked because of the raved-about restaurants in nearby New York and Boston, Connecticut boasts its own exciting foodie scene. These 12 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.

Best Places To Go Near You
999 W Main St, Meriden, CT
Castle Craig Tower is a stone observation tower atop East Peak in Meriden.  The tower, which was dedicated on October 29, 1900, was given to t... Read More
984 North Colony Road, Wallingford, CT
Looking for somewhere unique for your product launch? Need a little team building for your department? Have a milestone birthday party you'll never... Read More
1476 Highland Avenue, Cheshire, CT
Ballooning made possible man's first flight over 120 years before the Wright Brothers flew. The first manned hot-air balloon was built by the Montg... Read More
1188 Highland Avenue, Route 10, Cheshire, CT
The BARKER MUSEUM houses one of the country's largest collections of character toys & artifacts, spanning fifteen decades of American history. ... Read More
191 Farmington Avenue, Kensington, CT
The New Britain Youth Museum at Hungerford Park is a non-profit educational institutions dedicated to enhancing the learning environment for childr... Read More
340 Quinnipiac Street, Wallingford, CT
FOR 20 YEARS, Prime Climb has been home to people who enjoy the fun and fitness benefits of rock climbing year-round. Experienced climbers get to h... Read More
125 Jude Lane, Southington, CT
Golf Quest is a Family Sports Center with affordable fun for the whole family! Our practice facility features a 72 tee all-weather driving range, s... Read More
520 South Main Street, Cheshire, CT
The Cheshire Skate Park is an unmonitored recreational facility. All users will be participating at their own risk. Protective equipment including ... Read More
56 Lexington Street, New Britain, CT
About the New Britain Museum of American ArtThe New Britain Museum of American Art's founding in 1903 entitles the institution to be designated the... Read More
Show More
Get Connected
Select a Connecticut town to find
the Best Things-To-Do and Places To Go around you