Filtering by Tag: Healthy Eats,Comfort Food

Top 5 Spots for BBQ in Connecticut

Features Restaurant BBQ Best of CT Meats Comfort Food Pitmaster Homepage

Erik Ofgang February 20, 2025

I still remember a time when Connecticut was a barbecue desert. Brisket could seem like an exotic item, and getting quality smoked meats usually meant a trip to New York City or further out of state. Those dark ages have, thankfully, long since passed. Today Connecticut is home to many good and several great barbecue destinations that are drawing people from out of state. In the story below, I highlight my five favorites, two of which were also featured in Texas Monthly in a feature about the best Texas barbecue outside of Texas. But before we dig into these picks, I have two caveats. First, though I love what is happening at several barbecue popups — I’m looking at you Broken Symmetry, Rise Doughnuts and Mason Sreet BBQ — this story is focused on establishments with more regular hours. Second, though I’ve tried many barbecue places in the state, I’m always on the lookout for new destinations. So if your favorite spot isn’t here and I’ve never been or you think it’s worthy of a revisit because something improved recently, I’m all ears. Now grab some napkins because we’re getting hands-on with barbecue.

Viral Smoothie Alert: Green & Tonic X Fitness Icon Anna Kaiser sponsored post

Features Healthy Eats Health & Wellness Smoothies

CTbites Team January 13, 2025

This just in from Green & Tonic…

Green & Tonic has announced a collaboration with fitness icon and celebrity trainer Anna Kaiser. The founder of Anna Kaiser Studios who’s known for her revolutionary dance-inspired fitness method, Anna is deepening her Fairfield County roots with the launch of the Anna Kaiser Blue Moves Smoothie—available beginning January 15 at all Green & Tonic locations.

The first 100 customers to purchase the smoothie will get a free week of access to Space With Anna Kaiser, a new app featuring workouts, guided stretches, podcast episodes, and healthy recipes. Green & Tonic will also launch a giveaway where one lucky winner will get a year of access to the Space With Anna Kaiser app and a month of G&T workout meal boxes. Follow G&T on Instagram for updates and more at @greenandtonic

Guide to Juice Bars and Juice Cleanses in Connecticut (2025 Edition)

Features Restaurant Juice Bar Juice Cleanse Healthy Eats healthy Special Dietary Needs Highlight Homepage

Carly Terzigni January 11, 2025

With the start of a new year, many want to incorporate healthy habits into their daily routines, like eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. One way to do so in an ultra-convenient method is by sipping on a cup of delicious fresh-press juice. Rather than go through the hassle of juicing fruits and vegetables yourself, many businesses across Connecticut offer juices that can be prepared and enjoyed in a matter of minutes! Many of these businesses also offer cleanses– multi-day dietary programs aimed at detoxing and reducing inflammation through juice products.

If you’re looking for a juice bar, natural food market, or cafe that offers fresh-pressed juice products, this is the guide for you. This guide is broken up by county so you can quickly locate a business near you that sells an array of juices.

NYC's Renown Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque Opening in Norwalk

Restaurant Norwalk open BBQ Comfort Food South Norwalk

CTbites Team December 15, 2024

Breaking BBQ news from Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque. We’ll bring you more on this exciting opening very soon!

Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque (Mighty Quinn’s), the acclaimed NYC-born restaurant known for its all-natural slow-cooked meats, announced today the grand opening of its new location at The Waypointe in Norwalk (11 Merwin Street). The opening will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Greater Norwalk Chamber and Mayor Harry Rilling on December 18 at 3 p.m., ahead of the grand opening on December 20. As part of the opening celebration, Mighty Quinn’s will donate 10% of all grand opening sales to Norwalk based charity Filling in the Blanks, which works to fight childhood hunger.

For those unfamiliar with Mighty Quinn’s, it was the first authentic barbeque experience in a fast-casual setting after co-founder, Pitmaster, and CT resident, Hugh Mangum smoked brisket and pulled pork out of a mobile smoker hitched to his pickup truck in Williamsburg (Brooklyn). The brand’s process begins with the best, all-natural meats and poultry, seasoned with perfect spice blends and then smoked with wood for many hours until the perfect harmony of smoke, flavor and time emerges.

Walrus Alley in Westport Goes Seed Oil Free!

Features Seed Oil Free Westport Fried Chicken Comfort Food News Healthy Eats Southern Food

Lloyd Allen December 13, 2024

Walrus Alley owner Joe Farrell has made the move to exclude all seed oils from his menus and, he’s getting quite the education. Only a week into the experiment he’s learning on the run. The popular Southern food & burger go to in Westport is now cooking with grass fed beef tallow and avocado oil. Yep! And Joe’s committed to staying the course despite the learning curve. Sure, he’s always done that popular fried chicken in tallow, used duck fat too. But it’s the fries they’re fighting with. And he and the crew are fighting a worthy fight.

Walrus Alley uses a special potato for their fries and that’s just the beginning. “Cooking with Tallow & avocado oil is a new experience. We’re starting from scratch,” Joe revealed. “And we are doing this while we are open!”

Hidden Gem: Charcoal Chef in Woodbury - A Throwback to Simpler Times

Restaurant Woodbury Comfort Food Hot Dogs Diner Sandwiches Delicious Dives Burgers

Jeff "jfood" Schlesinger November 20, 2024

One of my favorite shows growing up was The Twilight Zone. Most episodes included Rod Serling’s famous, “Imagine, if you will…” and his describing a “fifth dimension” between reality and imagination. I sometimes think of those days, a simpler time when life moved more slowly, where information was absorbed from the three-dimensional surroundings versus the two-dimensional computer screen, where families viewed eating out as a bonus, not as a plan B because everyone was too tired to cook and when every meal was not measured by its TikTok and Instagram potential. Sometimes a restaurant is a place to bring family, outside the Internet measurements, outside the stars, likes and looks, and just serve simple fare at reasonable prices.

Ted's Steamed Burgers - 60+ Years and Going Strong in Meriden CT

Restaurant Burgers Meriden Old School Comfort Food Lunch

Jeff "jfood" Schlesinger November 13, 2024

Iconic…, best of…, like none other…, you gotta go to. When it comes to the superlatives, Ted’s Restaurant in Meriden has received more than its fair share for its steamed hamburger. Yup, the burgers are steamed. After close to 1,000 Connecticut burger notches on my belt, I almost feel like apologizing for not previously trying this historical Connecticut landmark. The steamed cheeseburger, also referred to as a "steamer" or "cheeseburg,” is believed to have been invented at a restaurant called "Jack's Lunch" in Middletown, Connecticut, in the 1930s. Others dispute this claim, stating that the steamed burger’s origin is none other than Ted’s Restaurant in Meriden. Regardless of its origin, Ted’s has received too many awards to mention, and on a warm, summer afternoon, I decided to visit.

Khemi’s Vegan Cuisine Food Truck: Caribbean Soul and Comfort Food

Restaurant Bridgeport Food Truck Vegan Vegetarian Black Owned Healthy Eats

April Guilbault July 09, 2024

Just feet away from the Sacred Heart Discovery Science Center and Sacred Heart campus itself sits a row of food trucks and a wide shoulder where hungry eaters can park. Among the lineup, one small, silver truck takes its place there year-round, whether in cold, snow, heat or rain. Happily, I ventured to go see about Khemi’s Vegan Cuisine food truck.

Soulber Kitchen & Market Expands from Bowl Delivery Business to Full Service Café in Bethel

Features Interview Restaurant Healthy Eats Interview Bethel Vegan Gluten-Free Openings

Andrew Dominick July 03, 2024

Sara Oberhammer recalls the day she got her driver’s license at 16. The first thing she did was cruise around her hometown of Bethel to apply to jobs in the hospitality industry. She even quit high school softball so she could waitress.

In February of 2024, just a mere three-minute walk away from where she got her foot in door at Greenwood’s Grille & Ale House, Oberhammer, who’s mostly been a bartender later in her restaurant career, now has a spot of her very own. And it has nothing to do with mixing cocktails, pouring drafts, or serving pub food.

Tucker’s Pie Co. Launches, Serving British Meat Pies To Fairfield County

Features British Cuisine Comfort Food Local Vendor Snacks Opening

David Sabino June 07, 2024

Wondering where to find that perfect British meat pie? A New local startup, Tucker’s Pie Co., has you covered. Currently delivering made-to-order pies across Fairfield County and founded on the belief that “there’s nothing quite like a homemade pie,” Tucker’s Pie Co. seeks to bring this iconic British staple to the United States and honor a mother's legacy. The man behind the meat pies is Derek Blaquiere. Derek grew up just outside London and, starting at the age of ten, was in the kitchen helping his mother with her catering business. Together, the two prepared food for large weddings and corporate events. “It was a baptism by fire,” Derek remarked. “There were no commercial kitchens at the time, so we were at home cooking practically 24/7.”

SoulFully Vegan in Berlin: PB&J Burger, Vegan Chili Fries & More!

Restaurant Vegan Vegetarian Berlin Food Truck Healthy Eats Burgers Hot Dogs Homepage

April Guilbault April 15, 2024

You’re vegan. Or you’re not. You’re trying to eat healthier, or well, maybe you’re not, but however you slice it, you’re missing or craving a good burger. So how about a burger that has no meat, but has peanut butter, jelly, and jalapenos?…stick with us here…

SoulFully Vegan in Berlin, is pretty much smack in the middle of CT, with Rt.9, I-91, I-691, and the Berlin Turnpike running through it. Long story short, you can reach Berlin easily as you find yourself criss-crossing the state. Berlin now also has the distinction of being the site of the vegan brick and mortar eatery that will have you rethinking your next fast food craving.

Allison and Calvin Vaughan are the dynamic duo behind SoulFully Vegan. Their new eating adventure began not that long ago in 2019 when a call to action was needed after an eye-opening health diagnosis for Calvin. What followed for this couple was a slew of analysis of their current eating situation, followed by investigation and education on how to eat healthier, and an impactful viewing of the documentary “What the Health?” (currently on Netflix). They knew they wanted and needed to eat healthier but finding food that satisfied their cravings was a search that was coming up empty.

Guide To Connecticut's Best Fried Chicken & Hot Chicken Sandwiches

Restaurant Highlight Fried Chicken Sandwich Fried Chicken Comfort Food Guide Homepage

Carissa Duhamel March 17, 2024

Demand for fried and hot chicken sandwiches has spread across the country – and the state – like wildfire. The perfect accompaniment to an icy beer or fatty-sweet milkshake, these spicy, juicy, crispy handheld bites are equally delicious and addictive. Whether you have a penchant for a Nashville hot, buffalo sauce smothered, Sriracha drenched, or buttermilk classic version, Connecticut has a chicken spot to get your fix.

My Favorite Dish: Sitting Duck Tavern Burger - New Go-To Joint in Oxford

Features Restaurant Burgers Oxford Favorite Dish Lunch Comfort Food

Jeff "jfood" Schlesinger February 22, 2024

Cheeseburger, cheeseburger, Pepsi, Pepsi.

What is the fascination with cooked ground meat placed between a couple of slices of bread? From Germany to Ohio to New Haven, the simple ground beef sandwich has exploded from its plebian beginnings to a cult following, with the USDA estimating that Americans consume 50,000,000,000 (that’s 50 billion) burgers per year.

And the burger ain’t what it used to be over 150 years ago; you can now grill it...fry it…smoke it…griddle it…steam it…smash it? One type of meat…two…three…four? Loose grind, course grind? Mustard, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, cheese, bacon, pickles, avocado, onions…on and on? If you do the math there are thousands of combinations. And then the doneness decision on rare, medium-rare, medium and don’t get me started.

Years ago, I ate close to 150 burgers a year in pursuit of the best in CT. Now I am a little wiser, I look for the needle in the haystack, the place where you can go with friends and enjoy a consistent and delicious burger. And the place that has delivered the consistency of the medium-rare bacon cheeseburger can be found in none other than The Sitting Duck Tavern in the Quarry Walk in Oxford (there are two other locations in Stratford and Trumbull). Each time I visit, it is a mouth-watering delight.

Zesto Market & Juicery in Newtown: Vegan, Organic, Locally Sourced & Delicious

Ingredients Interview Restaurant Vegan Newtown Smoothies Healthy Eats healthy Health & Wellness

April Guilbault February 21, 2024

We’ve all walked into rooms that hum with energy. That special kind of vibrancy you can feel in the air, or in the spirit that pours from the people in your midst. In my recent travels, this inspiring energy was felt within the space that is Zesto Market & Juicery in Newtown.

Zesto Market & Juicery is, with its colorful logo and window art, a small establishment that one could easily pass in their daily rounds as it sits on a fairly busy street. I, myself, whizzed by it on my first trip there. However, one should take note of this establishment because it is dishing out huge helpings of good vibes in the form of healthful food and wellness knowledge. Great vibes, actually. These folks are buzzing with enthusiasm about eating clean, nourishing food and they are excited to share it with the community.

50+ Sports Bars, Restaurants, Caterers, BBQ Joints & Pizzerias With Specials for Super Bowl LVIII

Features Super Bowl Catering Comfort Food Homepage

Carly Terzigni January 31, 2024

Super Bowl LVIII is just around the corner! This year the Kansas City Chiefs take on the San Francisco 49ers at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Of course, that’s all secondary information – no matter who is playing or where the Super Bowl is taking place, the most important part of the day is the food!

Restaurants across Connecticut have been preparing their menu specials for Super Bowl Sunday, including exclusive promos on wings, pizza, nachos, ribs, beer, sliders, subs…you get the picture! If your idea of the perfect Super Bowl is at a lively sports bar surrounded by the biggest fans in the state, this list will give you plenty of options of where to go park you and your closest friends just in time for kickoff. If you’re staying at home, keep reading as well – a ton of restaurants and catering companies have platters and meal combos available for pickup and delivery! As is the case every year, the Super Bowl is a big day for pre-orders. If you see your favorite business on this list, be sure to get your orders in quickly!

Haven Hot Chicken Announces Openings in Downtown Fairfield & Oxford CT

Features Restaurant Fairfield Fried Chicken Sandwich Fried Chicken Fast Casual Take Out Comfort Food Lunch

CTbites Team January 31, 2024

When I asked the Haven Hot Chicken team how long it took them to arrive at this just about perfect combination of crispy, juicy and flavorful chicken, they laughed and said they have been recipe testing for over a year. Their tagline is “CRISPY CRUNCHY JUICY SPICY DELICIOUS,” and I’m gonna say “nailed it.” You can truly taste the time and commitment to research in every item on this takeout/delivery menu.

Both locations will feature the brand’s signature menu of crispy, crunchy, juicy, spicy, delicious chicken and vegetarian options ranging from Country (not spicy) to Haven (extremely spicy), including the epic and signature “THE Sandwich,” as well as other featured mains, classic sides and seasonal limited-time offerings.

Haven Hot Chicken Opening Middletown CT Location January 27th

Restaurant Midddletown Fried Chicken Sandwich Fried Chicken Comfort Food Opening Lunch Fast Casual Sandwiches

CTbites Team January 18, 2024

Haven Hot Chicken, which brings Nashville Hot Chicken and “Not Chicken” to the area as one of the first fully dedicated Nashville Hot Chicken concepts in New England, today announced that it will be opening its sixth location - in Middletown, Connecticut on Saturday, January 27th. Located at 524 Main Street, the 1800 square foot location will feature the brand’s signature menu of crispy, crunchy, juicy, spicy, delicious chicken and vegetarian options ranging from Country (not spicy) to Haven (extremely spicy), including the epic and signature “THE Sandwich,” as well as other featured mains, classic sides and seasonal limited-time offerings. The brand also operates locations in New Haven, Orange, Norwalk, North Haven and Storrs.

Jayy’s Little Red Trailer: Elevated Mobile Comfort Food For Your Next Event

Restaurant Food Truck Comfort Food Caterer Catering Sandwiches Tacos

Hannah Goodman January 18, 2024

I was recently lucky enough to find myself in the small town of East Hampton, CT on the day of their annual Harvest Stroll. While there were supposed to be several food offerings at this annual event, the rain kept most of them away. Thankfully for me and my fellow rainy (and hangry) day adventurers, Jayy’s Little Red Trailer was not afraid to get wet…and seriously flavorful!

Offering strictly comfort food, Chef Jayy Riera and her wife Tamara Riera have been running this food truck for a little over a year. The pair travel all over Connecticut to cater weddings, birthday bashes, office parties, apple orchards, and even ski resorts. Notably, Jayy and her crew catered a few healthcare facilities this past spring during National Nurses Week. Jayy and Tamara definitely stay busy as they travel around and cook for the people of Connecticut, so I asked them what their favorite experience has been thus far and they both had the same answer: they get to meet and interact with all types of people and the food they serve is so different from what customers are used to getting from food trucks. Jayy’s excitement and her love of cooking exudes from her food and her presence. While I was secretly hoping to try everything on the menu, I did not want to appear too…gluttonous? She insisted that try everything, and she’s the boss so I was in no position to break the rules.

45 Spots for Healthy Eating in Connecticut: Restaurants, Juice Bars, Meal Delivery & Wellness

Features Restaurant Healthy Eats healthy Juice Bar Organic Acai Bowl Smoothies Vegan Vegetarian Special Dietary Needs Homepage

Hannah Goodman January 13, 2024

Well, well, well, if it isn’t 2024, the dreaded new year. From the Halloween candy and Thanksgiving pies, to the Christmas cookies and unlimited New Year’s bubbly, I think it’s safe to say we are ready to start anew (I will also be buying a new scale because mine is clearly broken). Now it’s time for us to follow through with those dreaded resolutions. Whether you want to eat better, drink less alcohol, consume more sustainable foods, or treat the mind and spirit, this should be your go-to list. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of committing to goals that are almost impossible to stick with. However, with this caliber of options listed below, there is no goal that cannot be accomplished, and that is coming from me, a true pessimist. Let’s march into February excited about how far we have come with our resolutions, because being healthy does not mean forfeiting fun and creativity. C’mon now, say it with me!

Here are 45 spots for HEALTHY EATING and wellness in Connecticut.

Green & Tonic Announces Opening in Darien CT January 2nd

Restaurant Features Opening Darien Plant Based Health & Wellness Healthy Eats Smoothies Acai Bowl Sandwich Lunch Breakfast

CTbites Team December 28, 2023

Green & Tonic is thrilled to announce the grand opening of their brand-new location in Darien!

The plant-based fast casual concept can't wait for you to step foot into their new fresh, vibrant space in the Corbin District and experience all the goodness they have to offer.

Grand opening day is on Tuesday January 2nd 2024. The excitement includes:

Free small lattes, free cold pressed juices and BOGO sales (on select juices) special giveaway entry w/ purchase to an epic prize (free year of G&T coffee!) and Free Kaia Yoga Class Passes for everyone who stops by on this special day ($20 value!)

Can't make it to opening day. No worries! Open 7 days a week: Dine in, Pick Up or Delivery is always available. Green & Tonic is a plant-based eatery serving delicious, good-for-you food and drinks! Think salads, warm bowls, seasonal soups, breakfast sandwiches, cold-pressed juices, smoothies & açaí bowls. They've recreated popular coffee chain drinks like the cookie butter latte and peppermint mocha latte to be made with no added sugar and no additives.