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Best Restaurants in Connecticut 2022

Looking for the best restaurants in Connecticut? There are so many great spots to choose from, so we turned to the Connecticut Restaurant Association for the 2022 winners and nominees of its annual CRAzies Awards. The awards consider hundreds of contenders, select a short list of nominee finalists, and finally, award winners for the best restaurants in each region. In addition to naming the best restaurants, the awards recognize best chefs, best bartenders, best servers, and beyond.

The Connecticut Restaurant Association hosted more than 1,100 guests at Foxwoods Resort Casino to celebrate the restaurant industry. In addition to the record attendance, the association enhanced the event by adding a new nominating panel made up of media writers and influencers who, along with more than 11,000 online public votes, collectively helped the CRA hand out sixteen different coveted awards. Hope you’ve brought your appetite!

 

Max Downtown

Situated as the centerpiece of Hartford’s downtown business center, Max Downtown offers a trend-setting atmosphere for more than 300 patrons daily. Internationally inspired dishes and other regional and traditional fare create a menu unlike any other in Connecticut.

 

Coracora

Experience the flavor of traditional Peruvian eats in an authentic family-run destination. With all dishes made in-house and without artificial preservatives, Coracora is devoted to high-quality ingredients; a warm and welcoming family-like experience; and top-notch customer service.

 

Arugula Bistro

In this intimate white tablecloth bistro, sample a diverse menu with many vegetarian options, exquisite cocktails and wine. From land to sea, the flavors take your tastebuds on a journey and offer plenty of fresh, crisp textures alongside warming comfort foods.

 

Elm Restaurant

In the heart of New Canaan, experience a charming neighborhood restaurant, serving seasonal American dishes inspired by elm’s farmers and fishmongers, and on occasion, far away places.

 

Tony’s at the J House, Greenwich

Inside Greenwich's J House boutique hotel, find an upscale Italian Steakhouse & Bar dining experience, complete with a picture-perfect garden setting.

Swyft

Swyft is a modern tavern in a historical setting, serving wood-fired, farm-driven pizzas, shareable small plates, an extensive drink menu, and seasonal entrees that aim to both comfort and inspire.

 

Union League Café

At Union League, old-world charm meets the new. Always using the best ingredients of the moment, the cafe's food combines French classical traditions and local ingredients with a more contemporary approach to flavors and dishes.

 

The Essex

Passion, love and innovation fuel this locally sourced menu. At The Essex, experience Modern American cuisine that draws inspiration from the land, sea, and deep heritage of the Connecticut River Valley, alongside a legion of international flavors.

 

Strega, Milford

Enjoy Strega, an authentic Italian restaurant, pizzeria and bar set on a lively corner in the heart of downtown Milford. Expect deep history to be infused in every bite for an authentic Italian dining experience.

Oyster Club

Located right in historic downtown Mystic, this spot pairs local ingredients from land and sea with a charming seaside ambiance. Oyster Club believes their food has a story and through a partnership with local Stone Acres Farm, strives to tell that story from seed to harvest, bringing creativity and vision to every meal.

 

Stone Row Kitchen + Bar

Stone Row Kitchen + Bar offers a great space including a patio level dedicated to "boozing and schmoozing." The menu features homegrown food and the restaurant works closely with regional farmers, foragers, and fishers.

 

TAO Asian Bistro & Lounge

This Insta-worthy hot spot offers a distinctive culinary experience in a sensational setting. Guests can choose from a selection of Asian-inspired specialties, focusing on delicious Chinese, Japanese, and Thai techniques and ingredients. When you've finished dining, head to the casino for plenty more fun!

 

Good Old Days Pizza

At this new spot, you'll find strictly salads and pizzas — but expect them to be top-notch. Try killer square and thin & crispy style pies with an exquisite bar program to boot. All in a vintage 70's/80's dungeon basement.

 

Restaurant L'Ostal, Darien

L’Ostal is a Provencal restaurant rooted in history and tradition celebrating the cuisines of Southern France and its boundaries.

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