10 Best Restaurants in CT

Main Curiosities, Top Statistics, Facts, and Interesting Information

• Connecticut is known for its seafood, pizza, and farm-to-table cuisine.
• The state has over 7,000 restaurants, making it a foodie’s paradise.
• Connecticut is home to the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States, the Union Oyster House, which opened in 1826.
• The state’s diverse population has influenced its culinary scene, resulting in a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian.
• Connecticut has a thriving craft beer and wine scene, with many restaurants offering locally sourced beverages.

The Top 10 Restaurants in CT

Here are the top 10 restaurants in Connecticut that offer a culinary experience like no other:

1. The Capital Grille

   Located in Hartford, The Capital Grille is a fine-dining steakhouse that serves up some of the best steaks in the state. Their dry-aged porterhouse and bone-in ribeye are must-tries.

   My personal experience: I went to The Capital Grille for a special occasion and was blown away by the quality of the food and service. The steak was cooked to perfection and melted in my mouth.

2. Max Downtown

   Max Downtown is a contemporary American restaurant located in Hartford that offers a farm-to-table dining experience. Their menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

   My personal experience: I love the ambiance of Max Downtown, and their lobster risotto is one of the best I have ever had.

3. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana

   No list of Connecticut restaurants would be complete without mentioning Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, a legendary pizza joint located in New Haven. Their coal-fired pizzas are the stuff of legends.

   My personal experience: I have been to Frank Pepe’s multiple times, and their white clam pizza is my all-time favorite.

4. Oyster Club

   Located in Mystic, Oyster Club is a seafood restaurant that focuses on sustainable seafood and local ingredients. Their menu changes frequently to reflect what is in season.

   My personal experience: The Oyster Club has amazing views of the Mystic River, and their lobster roll is a must-try.

5. Baingan

   Baingan is a family-owned restaurant located in West Hartford that serves up authentic Indian cuisine. Their butter chicken and biryani are customer favorites.

   My personal experience: Baingan has some of the best Indian food I have ever had, and the service is always top-notch.

6. Arethusa al Tavolo

   Arethusa al Tavolo is an upscale restaurant located in Bantam that serves up contemporary American cuisine. Their menu features dishes made with ingredients from their own dairy farm.

   My personal experience: Arethusa al Tavolo is a bit on the pricey side, but their farm-to-table approach is worth it. Their lamb chops and beet salad are divine.

7. Toro Sushi

   Toro Sushi is a Japanese restaurant located in Newtown that offers some of the best sushi in the state. Their omakase, a chef’s choice tasting menu, is a must-try.

   My personal experience: I am a sushi lover, and Toro Sushi did not disappoint. Their sushi is always fresh and expertly prepared.

8. Barcelona Wine Bar

   Barcelona Wine Bar is a Spanish restaurant with multiple locations throughout the state. Their menu features tapas, paella, and a wide selection of Spanish wines.

   My personal experience: I love the lively atmosphere at Barcelona Wine Bar, and their patatas bravas and sangria are always on point.

9. Little River Restoratives

   Little River Restoratives is a craft cocktail bar located in Hartford that also offers small bites. Their cocktails are made with locally sourced ingredients.

   My personal experience: Little River Restoratives has some of the best cocktails I have ever had, and their cheese and charcuterie boards are a perfect complement.

10. Rizzuto’s Wood-Fired Kitchen & Bar

    Rizzuto’s Wood-Fired Kitchen & Bar is an Italian restaurant with multiple locations throughout the state. Their menu features classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients.

    My personal experience: Rizzuto’s is my go-to spot for Italian food. Their chicken parmesan and meatballs are comfort food at its finest.

FAQs

What type of cuisine is Connecticut known for?

Connecticut is known for its seafood, pizza, and farm-to-table cuisine. The state’s diverse population has influenced its culinary scene, resulting in a range of international cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, and Asian.

What is the oldest restaurant in Connecticut?

The Union Oyster House, located in Boston, is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States, having opened in 1826.

What is farm-to-table dining?

Farm-to-table dining is a culinary movement that emphasizes the use of locally sourced ingredients in restaurants. It aims to promote sustainability, support local farmers, and provide customers with fresher, healthier food options.