In honor of Women’s History Month and in conjunction with our “It’s A Woman’s World” column, we present to you, a Directory highlighting the many talented women in CT’s culinary industry. This Directory for CT’s Chefs, Female Owned Businesses, Restaurants, Products, Farmers, PR Agencies & Instagrammers + is a work in progress. We will continually update the directory, and we hope you will contact us if you are a female in the culinary industry who would like to be included.
How often do you stop to think or inquire about *who* owns the restaurant you frequent, or who invented a product you love or who grew the food on your own table? It’s time to take a closer look, especially when, as you can see from this fabulously inspiring and lengthy list, woman are doing amazing thingsin Connecticut. We are inventing, writing, catering, managing, brainstorming, reviewing…and this is all just within the food industry in this state. We are getting it done, done well, and done in our own creative and vibrant way. New paths are being discovered, new ideas are being birthed. Inquire. Look. Support. Encourage. There’s no limit to what is coming next.
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.
An exceptionally vibrant and passionate pizza culture coupled with the May 2024 designation by the U.S. Congress of New Haven as the “Pizza Capital of the United States” makes creating a list of Connecticut’s best pizza joints a monumental task. By all accounts, there are over 1,200 pizza-making establishments that call the Nutmeg State home, which is the most pizzerias of any state per capita, as well as the most family-owned pizzerias. Pizza here is sacred. Serious. A point of pride. An area of contention. And, most of all, it’s a legacy that began exactly one hundred years ago on Wooster Street in New Haven.
Keeping all of that in mind, we offer this list that we feel represents the approximate top 10%, the very best of the best pizzerias this small but mighty state has to offer. From the legendary coal-fired ovens of New Haven’s famed apizza places to scattered hidden gems to mobile pizza trucks, this list contains “The Pizza State’s” unique takes on America’s beloved dish in multiple places throughout every county (and a bonus surprise entry at the very end!). One is a century old. A few are brand new. Most have been in business for at least a couple of generations. No matter how long they have been serving pies, each is about savoring tradition, history, and that distinct flavor profile that continues to captivate locals and visitors alike.
Connecticut pizza enthusiasts, rejoice! Hit the road, try a slice, and let us know your favorite in the comments.
It’s that time of year, when the CTbites staff temporarily puts down our forks, and contemplates our most memorable annual eats. 2024 saw an explosion of restaurateurs and chefs entering the Connecticut culinary scene, and the CTBites team, alongside some special guest reviewers below, did our best to eat it all. There were some clear standouts, restaurants that you’ll find repeated in the “top eats” lists below, and some hidden gems you should add to your dining dance card.
Inside the newly renovated historic building The Main Bar is the restaurant’s focal point where a horseshoe-shaped bar takes center stage with its saffron-colored backdrop juxtaposed by dark navy walls which boast subtle architectural details that pay homage to the nearby Saugatuck Bridge. During the daytime the tall widows and high ceilings allow the light to flood in. The same room at night embraces a much moodier scene. The space gives off both coastal and industrial vibes which is also carried through the upstairs to the dining room which offers fine dining without formality. The restaurant sets the stage; at its center is the food created and executed by Chef Stephen Lewandowski whose culinary style is best described as modern, elevated American. His layers of flavor and use of sometimes esoteric and unusual ingredients are the result of his over two decades of experience.
One of the many quintessential summer experiences in Connecticut is driving out to your favorite ice cream shop for a frozen treat. Across the state, seasonal ice cream shops are open for the season, and year-round locations ramp up production to make sure everyone’s sweet tooth is satisfied. Whether your dessert of choice is ice cream, gelato, or Italian ice, there are numerous options for you to try. And, thanks to the abundance of dairy farms in the region, there is no shortage of farm-fresh ice cream, either!
This handy guide will help you find ice cream shops that are ready to serve you this summer. Many of these locations have daily specials and rotating flavors, so be sure to visit again to try the latest menu items. This guide has been separated into counties so you can easily find the ice cream shops nearest you. Cheers!
Warmer weather means it’s time to bring the dinner table outdoors! Dining al fresco is a hallmark of the summer season, and nothing gets better than views of the water while you sip on a refreshing beverage or chow down on your favorite dish. Across the state you’ll find restaurants that offer waterfront dining, and what better time to explore Connecticut and experience these water views for yourself than right now?
It’s not just the shoreline where you’ll find restaurants with picturesque waterfront views. Connecticut has its fair share of rivers, many of which are home to more great picks for lunch or dinner this summer. With that in mind, here’s this year’s guide to the best waterfront dining options in the state! To help you locate your next meal out, we’ve broken this guide up by county.
Warm weather is back, which means it’s officially food truck season! Food trucks have enjoyed a growing trend in recent years that allows fully mobile, restaurant-quality food to come right to your doorstep in the form of private events. Or, simply stop by your local farmers market or street fair to find them lined up, ready to serve! No matter what kind of cuisine you enjoy, there is probably a food truck out there in Connecticut that has exactly what you’re craving.
Since Food Trucks are mobile and can pop up in different towns around Connecticut, this guide is separated into food categories such as pizza, tacos, ice cream, seafood, etc. Simply scroll down to whatever you’re in the mood for and discover some of the great food trucks the state has to offer.
Keep your eyes peeled for a separate Cocktails & Beer Food Truck guide coming soon!
It’s that time of year, when the CTbites staff temporarily puts down our forks, and contemplates our most memorable annual eats. 2023 saw an explosion of restaurateurs and chefs entering the Connecticut culinary scene, and the CTBites team, alongside some special guest reviewers below, did our best to eat it all. There were some clear standouts, restaurants that you’ll find repeated in the “top eats” lists below, and some hidden gems you should add to your dining dance card.
“I could go for a coffee right now.” “Where’s the nearest coffee place?” If we had a nickel for every time we heard or uttered those words, right? Happily, there’s a coffee house or roastery just about around every corner these days, but some of them rise above with their drinks, their blends, their hospitality. Hence, we have filled our cups to the brim with delicious offerings for you and this list is broken down by County so that you can get to that cup quicker! Sip alone, brew, sip with a friend-life is good.
The concept of Happy Hour was first used in the U.S. as early as 1913 by Naval units engaging in social parties with movies, dancing, and boxing, referred to as “happy hours.” After the era of prohibition ended, Happy Hour evolved more into what we know it today, as a sort of cocktail hour at bars.
These days, Happy Hour is a common practice among bars and restaurants, offering reduced prices on drinks and bar food, but also allowing eateries to create unique “happy hour” menus. Restaurants all over Connecticut have Happy Hour deals you can take advantage of throughout the week, giving you a chance to save on your next bar tab. Because the list of restaurants that offer Happy Hour is so extensive, we organized the list into counties so you can more easily search for businesses in your local area.
Whether it’s the dog days of summer or life just has you too busy to be bothered with cooking, some of the simplest, and often the most delicious meals, come in bowls. Chock full of healthy and delicious ingredients like grains, veggies, meats and fish or brimming with fresh fruits and icy smoothy-ness, bowls in all shapes and sizes make eating fun. They are convenient, interesting and delicious-what a trifecta! Here are some of our favorite bowls in Connecticut. Go build one for yourself!
Lori-Ann Marchese is the Head Trainer of Body Construct and a licensed nutritionist.
Who doesn’t enjoy a nice romantic dinner night with your loved one seaside! Connecticut has one of the most beautiful Seafood Seaview restaurants in New England!
Lori-Ann Marchese - certified dietician and owner of Body Construct Fitness has brought you some of her most favorite and unique Top 8 waterfront dining restaurants.
With a healthy conscious mind when choosing their food items, we can assure you a romantic, seaview night out with your partner that will still align with your nutrition goals.
The iconic Greenwich restaurant known for its exceptional cuisine and timeless charm, is commemorating its 20th Anniversary this year, marking two decades of culinary excellence and cherished memories.
Located at the Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel and founded in 2003, L’escale boasts an award-winning menu and extraordinary wine program. The restaurant’s stunning setting, décor and cuisine instantly transport you to the Cote d’Azur, if only temporarily (and without the need to step on a plane!) The picturesque setting conjures images of an Auguste Renoir painting of diners lunching au dehors,en plain air, and Edith Piaf serenading in the distance. The restaurant sits above the docks on the harbor with the stunning picnic boats and yachts below. L’escale represents a quiet, understated luxury, and whether it’s caviar or a juicy burger you’re craving, you’ll find these items and many more on the menu.
Waterfront. Dockside. Don’t those words just bring a smile to your face? Whether you are traveling by boat to go for a summer Sunday lunch or just wanting to enjoy your dinner with a beautiful view of the water, these restaurants will fit the bill for your summer enjoyment. And how is it exactly that everything tastes better when you are near the water?
Ice cream on a hot day. Ice cream on a rainy day. Ice cream for dinner or to delight a toddler. Ice cream just because. It’s summer and all of these reasons are 100% legit. Hell, any time of the year they are, right? Connecticut currently ranks #15 in the US for the most ice cream consumed (zippia.com) nationally. However, NY, NJ, VT, and RI eat more…guess this list is just what we need to show them what us Nutmeggers are made of. Or at least, what we enjoy on a hot summer afternoon. Grab a cone, enjoy the drips, and have a summer piled high with the creamy, dreamy stuff. One more thing: for your ease of finding these sweet establishments, we have broken the list down by counties in CT!
There’s a lot to celebrate at Rive Bistro in Westport. Owner Eric Sierra is thrilled to be celebrating the restaurant’s 10th Anniversary. In addition to this great achievement, Sierra who is stepping away from the kitchen recently brought Chef Roland Olah on to take the helm. After having won a green card in the lottery, Olah left his homeland of Hungary in 2009, along with his position of Executive Chef at the renown Café Erté, to take a chance and pursue a dream in the states. Knowing that he could always return home, he and his wife along with their then young daughter began anew in New York City under the tutelage of Chef Daniel Boulud. Olah would then move to Connecticut to plant some roots. He served as Executive Chef at Martel in Fairfield as well as the now shuttered and well received Brasserie Bruxelles in SONO.
We are all rolling, rolling, rolling into the summer months-Yay! Between parties, vacations, and just plain ol’ exploring, the warm and sunny months have us on the move. And what better info to have in your back pocket than plans for where to eat-trucks offering food of all kinds, whether you’re stopping mid-trip or renting for your next party! We have broken down this behemoth of a list by categories so you can high-tail it to the foods that interest you: Pizza, Tacos/Mexican, BBQ, Ethnic, Lobster & Seafood, All-American, Plant-Based/Alternative Diet, Ice Cream & Sweets, Cocktails & Beer and Coffee & Tea. Happy summer, everyone, roll on!
Warmer weather has finally arrived, meaning it is time to head outside and enjoy the many waterfront restaurants and bars the state of Connecticut offers. Whether you are craving a tasty seafood dinner or a refreshing cocktail, the state is filled with excellent restaurants with top-notch views of the water. Simply put, nothing says “summer” like waterfront dining, which is why we are back this year with a comprehensive guide to read through and decide where to grab lunch or dinner.
For your convenience, we have broken the guide up into counties so you can easily find exactly what you are looking for, whether you want to dine somewhere local or try someplace new! And keep in mind, we are not just talking about Long Island Sound – Connecticut has several riverfront restaurants as well with equally beautiful views and delicious food, so we have those included here as well.
Who doesn’t enjoy a cookie? Decadently giant or sublimely bite-sized, spanning traditional flavors of sugar, Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter or new-fangled recipes that include everything but the kitchen sink. Sweet, sweeter, sweetest. Then there’s the Great Debate: chewy or crispy? Where do you land? Are you a dunker, a nibbler, or a late-night snacker? Cookies are the universal dessert and knowing where to get good ones makes life all the sweeter. Dunk away…
Enjoy our sweet GUIDE TO THE BEST COOKIES IN CONNECTICUT.
