Best Restaurants in Connecticut 2026 by Chef Ashley Flagg
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Welcome to the ultimate insider's guide to Connecticut’s vibrant culinary scene. When looking for the absolute best places to eat, the most reliable recommendations come straight from the kitchen. This curated list cuts through the noise of crowdsourced reviews to bring you real, expert-vetted dining spots across CT. Whether you are hunting for the ultimate brick-oven pizza in West Hartford, a critically acclaimed cocktail program in Mystic, or a hidden gem mom-and-pop eatery, this lightning-round guide highlights the exact establishments local culinary pros frequent on their days off. Experience the state’s food scene like a true industry insider.
About this guide
If you only have time for three stops, make it these highly consistent, standout culinary experiences. Crazies chef of the Year Ashley Flagg's top picks in CT.
Restaurants in this guide
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Coracora - Flagship location
Coracora offers a refined and authentic Peruvian dining experience, featuring traditional dishes like ceviches, lomo saltado, aji de gallina, and various seafood and meat preparations, all crafted with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.
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Restaurant Bricco
Modern Italian cuisine featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients, wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, seafood, and meat dishes, complemented by an extensive wine list and full bar.
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Taqueria La Grande (West Hartford)
Authentic Mexican taqueria offering a variety of tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and other traditional dishes.
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Zephyr's Street Pizza
Specializes in New Haven-style (apizza) thin-crust pizzas, offering both classic and creative topping combinations, alongside salads and a selection of appetizers.
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Shady Glen Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor
Shady Glen is famous for its classic American diner fare, including unique cheeseburgers with crispy cheese skirts, hot dogs, sandwiches, and a wide selection of homemade ice cream, sundaes, and milkshakes.
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GoldBurgers
GoldBurgers specializes in gourmet burgers, hot dogs, and creative sandwiches, complemented by a variety of fries and milkshakes.
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Tavern on State
Tavern on State offers a seasonally-driven, modern American menu with an emphasis on small plates and expertly crafted entrees, using fresh and often locally-sourced ingredients.
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The Port of Call
A classic American and seafood restaurant offering a variety of dishes including fresh seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and salads in a casual setting.
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Abbott's Lobster In the Rough (Noank)
Abbott's Lobster In the Rough is a classic New England seafood shack known for its fresh steamed lobsters, lobster rolls, clam bakes, and other casual seafood fare served in a relaxed, outdoor, waterfront setting.
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Bill's Seafood Restaurant
Bill's Seafood Restaurant offers classic New England seafood dishes, including fried clams, lobster rolls, fresh fish, and clam chowder, served in a casual, waterfront setting.
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The Place Restaurant
A unique outdoor restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, especially clams and lobsters, cooked over an open fire. Guests can also bring their own food to be cooked on the grill.
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The Upstate Lounge & Cafe
A casual cafe and lounge offering American comfort food, sandwiches, salads, and coffee drinks. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Shu Restaurant
Shu Restaurant specializes in authentic Szechuan cuisine, offering a wide range of dishes known for their bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors. Signature items include Dan Dan Noodles, Mapo Tofu, and Cumin Lamb.
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Tangiers International LLC
Tangiers International LLC is a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern market and deli offering a wide selection of groceries, fresh produce, and prepared foods. The deli features items such as hummus, falafel, kebabs, salads, and pastries, catering to a diverse palate with many vegetarian and vegan options.