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50 CT Restaurants and Venues for Holiday Parties 2017

Features Restaurant Best of CT Holiday Catering Events Homepage

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 30, 2017

At exactly 12pm on Thursday November 23, Santa Claus concluded the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and officially ushered in the holiday season! For those looking to throw the ultimate holiday bash, popular Connecticut restaurants and venues can provide fantastic backdrops for the festivities. These places have party spaces and packages that are perfect for your soirees!

Schoolhouse at Cannondale, Wilton: The Schoolhouse in Wilton can help you throw a holiday cocktail party starting at $45 per person. Offerings include Crab Stuffed Mushrooms, Mini Baked Brie, Beef Tenderloin Canape, and more.
Brasitas, Norwalk: Brasitas in Norwalk and Stamford both have private rooms.
Two Roads, Stratford: Two Roads Brewery in Stratford has a private events room that holds 75 seated or 160 standing. You can also schedule private tours for groups larger than 10 and smaller than 20.
Heirloom, New Haven: At Heirloom in New Haven, use their private dining room or The Study at Yale, their penthouse space.
Roger Sherman Inn, New Canaan: The Roger Sherman in has a number of rooms of all different sizes for your private holiday party: The Blue Room (14), the Terrace Room (80), the Hunt Room (30), the Ivy Room (30), the Garden Room (70), the WineRoom (36), and the Porch (70). Reception style can accommodate between 20-200 guests.less

Fall RoadTrip Along I-95: Guide To Eating On Route To CT Casinos

Restaurant Groton New London Waterford East Lyme Best of CT Old Saybrook Branford Madison

Hope Simmons & Elizabeth Georgian October 17, 2017

Inspired by a recent inquiry from a local chef, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite places to take a flavorful break on the way to or from Connecticut’s casinos. No need to gamble on where to stop for a bite; the southern shoreline towns along I-95 dish up some amazing food—from banh mi to seafood, donuts, Greek specialties and more.

Branford

You’ve heard us say it before, but the recommendation bears repeating: look no further than Takumi Sushi, Ramen & Lounge for the finest sushi and ramen around!

Best Desserts in Connecticut: Happy National Dessert Day!

Restaurant Best of CT Dessert Homepage

April Guilbault October 14, 2017

You are going to hate us. But then, after careful consideration, you’re going to really love us. A lot. It’s National Dessert Day and well, we just *had* to gather a deliciously lengthy list of desserts from all over the state. CTBites readers and staff weighed in and we have just the thing to squelch your craving, ease that long day, or just enjoy for the sweet heck of it. We happen to notice, though, there are a lot of bananas and bourbon on this list in all different forms. Is that the magic combination for culinary comfort and delight?? Happy desserting, everyone!
By county…

Guide To Best Tacos in CT: Happy National Taco Day

Restaurant Tacos Mexican Best of CT Delicious Dives Norwalk Hartford Stamford New Haven Bridgeport Homepage

Stephanie Webster October 04, 2017

Here's our list of our favorite Taco Restaurants & Trucks in Connecticut. Feel free to add your favorites to the list below.

Rincon Taqueria (493 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk) From the owners of Bistro du Soleil in SoNo comes a menu that includes Huevas Rancheros, Burritos, Chilaquiles, Tacos, Empanadas, Tamales and a Chicken Quesadilla. All of their dishes pack great flavors. Mix and match the tacos, from Baja fish to pork, empanadas, generous portions. Fresh ingredients and complimentary yellow rice and beans. Pretty small deli-like space and BYOB.

Tacos Mexico (82 Fort Point St., Norwalk) Enchiladas, grilled specialities, lots of shrimp dishes, chipotle chicken tacos and the hot sauce is HOT-consider yourself warned, so you made need an Orange-Ginger Mojito (muy bueno). Plain from the outside, but pleasant inside, and very reasonably priced. Parking can be tricky. http://tacosmexicollc.com

Chango Rosa (1 Union Pl, Hartford ) This fun casual restaurant and cocktail bar serves a fusion of authentic Latin American street foods and the popular smoked meats from Bear's Smokehouse. The menu features foods such as empanadas, enchiladas, arepas, and tacos! The meats are divine. https://changorosa.com/

Foodie Places To Watch Football in Fairfield County CT

Features Best of CT

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson September 19, 2017

It’s time to get out your jerseys… football season is here! Though some may prefer to watch the latest game in the comfort of their own home, many Fairfield County restaurants and bars are serving up NFL-inspired specials that are sure to lure fans from the couch. From reduced price apps to tasty wings to drink specials, here are restaurants and bars where you can catch the latest match-ups.

Best Restaurants In CT via Thrillist

Restaurant Best of CT Homepage

CTbites Team August 24, 2017

One of our favorite CT food writers, Erik Olfgang, crafted this delicious roundup of the Best Restaurants in CT for Thrillist.

Connecticut is responsible for gifting the world a number of important foods: the hamburger, the lobster roll, and New Haven-style pizza. And while you’ll still find excellent versions of all of these in the Nutmeg State, its dining culture has also expanded well beyond them. Today you’ll find things like slow-smoked barbecue, steaming bowls of pho and ramen, San Diego-style burritos, and sushi made from fish caught in Long Island Sound. With food-friendly cities like New Haven, Westport, and Norwalk, there are countless places to eat in the state -- here’s your guide to the very best.

Crazy Eats: Connecticut's Most Insane Dishes via CT Magazine

Restaurant Best of CT Dessert Homepage Burgers

Connecticut Magazine August 04, 2017

Connecticut did not earn its “land of steady habits” nickname for its cuisine.

The birthplace of the hamburger, the hot lobster roll and clam pizza, the Nutmeg State has long been adventurous when it comes to its cuisine. In this feature we look at unique dishes on Connecticut’s culinary frontier. From unusual ingredients (crocodile and invasive sea creatures) to bizarre flavor combinations (doughnut burgers, anyone?), the instantly Instagram-able dishes in this story have in common only their uncommonness. We can’t say these unusual creations will appeal to all tastes, but we can say each was one we’ll never forget.

Guide To Lobsterbake & Clambake Caterers in Connecticut

Restaurant Catering Entertaining Best of CT Seafood Homepage

Stephanie Webster July 20, 2017

Steamed clams, sweet mussels swimming in flavorful broth, freshly harvested sugar corn, creamy red potatoes, maybe a tangy fruit pie to top it all off and certainly lots and lots of warm, creamery butter. Add to all of these delights, the perfect setting, some decorations and maybe some help along the way serving it up and what do you have? The perfect summer gathering and we at CTBites certainly love those. That said, we have compiled this list of restaurants, shacks, and caterers for all of your seaworthy hankerings. Grab some friends, break out the bibs and the crackers, and drawwwww that butter, baby! Get ready to enjoy summer, New England style~

20 + Kid Friendly Restaurants in Fairfield County CT

Restaurant Kid Friendly Kids Best of CT Westport Norwalk Stamford Milford New Canaan Darien Fairfield

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson July 06, 2017

When The Port opened its doors in Westport recently, crafting a dining experience for all ages was part of the goal. “I’ve always wanted to open a restaurant, a neighborhood spot where locals can enjoy food that is approachable and comfortable,” said owner Sal Augeri. Connecticut is home to an array of esteemed restaurants, but sometimes it’s hard to find a place where kids will also feel at home amid all the gourmet eateries. Fortunately, there are a number of places where adults and children alike can enjoy a delicious meal out. These restaurants offer kid-friendly dishes, atmospheres, and even specials. Did we miss one of your favorite kid-friendly spots? Let us know below.

Connecticut's Best Diners: 22 Great Greasy Spoons

Restaurant Best of CT Comfort Food Delicious Dives Kid Friendly Road Trip Homepage

Connecticut Magazine June 21, 2017

Connecticut Magazine recently rounded up the Best Diners in CT. Here's the list...

What makes a diner a diner? Is it stainless steel? A counter and stools? A building that’s been manufactured in a different location? Breakfast service 24 hours a day? To some devotees of the classic American diner, it is all of these things, and more. We’ve elected to be a bit more inclusive in our requirements. For us, a diner must offer typical American fare at reasonable prices in a comfortable setting, and perhaps most importantly, serve breakfast during all hours of operation. So get ready to hit the road to check out our picks for the best diners in Connecticut. Whether it’s the stellar food, the glistening metal, the glowing neon or the community feel, all have something to offer.

Where To Eat Warm Lobster Rolls In Connecticut, 2017 Edition

Restaurant Seafood Lobster Road Trip Mystic Best of CT New London Noank Milford West Haven Delicious Dives Homepage

CTbites Team June 15, 2017

To celebrate National Lobster day on June 15 — the perfect kickoff to summer — we’ve highlighted our top picks for hot lobster rolls that we’ve tried and tested over the years. The simple yet perfect dish of buttery lobster meat stuffed in a bun is best eaten in its classic presentation — with a side of melted butter, cole slaw and possibly even French fries.

The 2017 edition features all of our past favorites plus new additions from southeastern Connecticut where views of the Long Island Sound enjoyed with your meal add to the summertime ambiance.

Top Ten Burgers In Southwest CT: 2017 Edition

Restaurant Best of CT Comfort Food Stamford Greenwich Westport Norwalk SONO Homepage Burgers

Lou Gorfain June 11, 2017

2017 was a good year for burger lovers in Southwest CT. A closing (Fleisher's Craft Kitchen) and a fire (The National) have sadly removed two of 2016’s winning burgers from contention in our 2017 edition of Top Ten Burgers in Southwest CT. Nonetheless, the local burger scene remains vibrant, inventive, and ever evolving. So we happily welcome three new, mouthwatering iterations to our 2017 Top Ten Burgers list.

We sampled over 75 burgers to arrive at this list. Our rankings this year are focused exclusively on the sandwich and its ingredients alone, not the accompanying sides.

Herewith, the Winners….

CT Guide to Outdoor Dining (2017): 80+ Restaurants for Summer

Restaurant Outdoor Dining Best of CT Westport Norwalk Stamford New Canaan Darien Fairfield New Haven Milford Ridgefield Homepage

April Guilbault May 16, 2017

“What’s the secret ingredient?”, you ask. Well, it’s…Air.

The winter-that-wasn’t (save for one last see-I-told-you-so storm) is now officially behind us and folks everywhere are throwing open the windows and enjoying the sight of lush green grass and a continual parade of Spring flowers. Out come the patio chairs! Behold the grill! Phew, we have missed you. Let’s all enjoy this week of Connecticut Spring before it leaps to 90 degrees, shall we?

In the event that you have neither of these aforementioned outdoor items, you can hightail it to any one of these delightful establishments to dine alfresco. Doesn’t a little fresh air always put a pep in your step? And, in this case, a little sunshine on your biscuits. Head outdoors to dine and enjoy!

If we missed an outdoor venue that you frequent, please share your find below.

The 10 Best Mexican Restaurants in Connecticut via Best Things Connecticut

Restaurant Mexican Best of CT Homepage

CTbites Team May 09, 2017

The web site "Best Things Connecticut" published this list of 10 Best Mexican Restaurants in CT. We were pleased to see a few CTbites favorites on this list. Check it out and tell us what you think? What's missing? Anything you would leave off this Top 10 list?

1. Joy’s Restaurant, Norwich, CT

Joy’s Mexican food is impressive, hearty, and flavorful. The menu is packed with traditional favorites like fajitas, enchiladas, and tortas, but the stand out is really their tamales. The tamales are perfectly cooked, savory, and super affordable at under $3 each. Joy’s also serves breakfast, typical American dishes such as sandwiches, burgers, and salad, and more. Do be sure to dine at Joy’s Restaurant.

Guide To Great Mother's Day Restaurants In CT

Restaurant Best of CT Brunch Holiday Events Breakfast

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson May 02, 2017

Sunday May 14 is all about Mom! Connecticut restaurants are helping us celebrate the mothers in our lives with prix fixe menus, special a la carte items, buffets, and more. Here are over 25 great restaurants serving Mother’s Day meals.

Bernard’s, Ridgefield will offer Mother's Day brunch and dinner. Brunch runs from 11:00am-12:30pm and costs $55 for adults and $35 for kids. Dinner runs from 1:30-6:30pm and costs $85 for adults and $45 for kids.Harbor Lights, Norwalk
The Cottage, Westport: Chef Brian Lewis's The Cottage, located at 256 Post Road East in Westport, will be offering a prix-fixe menu from 11am-7pm. $45 per guest; children’s menu available, 11:00am - 7:00pm.
L'Escale, Greenwich will be serving a brunch buffet from 11-4 pm on May 14th. $80 for adults and $25 fFor children under 12. They will also feature outdoor lounges for lingering with family before or after dining.

Embody Fitness Gourmet Opens New Location in Darien

Restaurant Darien healthy Juice Bar Juice Cleanse Take Out

Stephanie Webster April 07, 2017

After nine years, EMBODY FITNESS GOURMET has a new location in Darien, at the Palmer’s Market Shopping Center (380 Heights Road). This is one of three Embody grab-n-go healthy organic locations; the others residing in New Canaan and Westport.

Embody is our go-to spot for protein shakes, juices, and salads. In Darien, they have also started serving Intelligentsia coffee--one of the top coffee roasters in the country. Embody's menu embraces all forms of lean proteins and nutrient dense vegetables and fruits in their menu creations, many of which pair well together allowing customers to mix and match items for an entire day's worth of nutrition. My personal favorite...The Almond Buzz, a perfect combination of almond butter, almond milk, bananas, cacao and protein powder.

25 Epic Desserts to Eat in Fairfield County Before You Die via Spoon University

Restaurant Dessert Best of CT Kid Friendly Homepage

CTbites Team March 23, 2017

Our friends over at Spoon University published this super sweet article. In case you missed it, this is a solid Fairfield County dessert roundup. NOTE: Vespa is Westport has since closed, so cross that chocolate layer cake off the list.

People often associate good food with big cities like New York or LA. The truth is good food is everywhere - you just have to know where to look for it. Even Fairfield County which is made up of 24 small Connecticut cities and towns, boasts some incredible food. Here's a list of the most epic desserts in Fairfield County.

1. Mint Chocolate Chip Cupcake at Cake Box

Top 20 Chicken Parm Sandwich in CT: Vote For Your Favorite!

Restaurant Italian Lunch Comfort Food Best of CT

Stephanie Webster March 14, 2017

CTbites was recently asked to join forces with USA Today, The Food Channel, and Sandwich America, to create a list of The Best Chicken Parm Sandwiches in CT. The following article represents the top 20 sandwiches in our fair state, including: Gaetano's, Amore Cucina in Stamford, Aniello's in East Haven, Lucy D's in Stratford, Tutti's in Westport and sixteen more. USA Today Best10 asks readers to vote for YOUR favorite from our list. Go forth and VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE.

The 10 Most Highly Rated Restaurants In CT via OnlyInYourState.com

Restaurant Best of CT Homepage

CTbites Team March 08, 2017

In case you missed this article last week, this is in from OnlyInYourState.com.

Connecticut has great dining options all across the state, but some stand out among the rest. To find the most highly rated restaurants around, we turned to Zagat, Connecticut Magazine and Yelp to help us hone in on places that were offering the best overall experience in food, service and location. Get ready for a magical dining experience, because these places are pretty awesome.

Check out the list of highly rated restaurants:

Constitution State Staples: Connecticut's Most-Classic Dishes via Food Network

Restaurant Best of CT Comfort Food New Haven Norwalk

Amy Kundrat March 06, 2017

The Food Network sent CTbites' Amy Kundrat on a mission to select the quintessential dishes throughout the state of CT. Here are her picks for classic CT eats.

Though its New York neighbor gets more culinary street cred, Connecticut is a hotbed of local flavors, including a local take on the lobster roll, collegiate-level ice cream and coal-fired, clam-topped pizzas that lure fans from around the world to the Nutmeg State.