The best places to eat in southern New Haven County
No matter what you’re feeling, I promise I’ve got someplace tasty for you to try!
New Haven county offers plenty of award winning restaurant, quaint diners, and cozy cafés. Here are just a few that are definitely worth trying out:
Richard’s Corner Gourmet Deli, Hamden, CT
The sandwiches are delicious and the employees work well together and are always very outgoing. It is a family business that holds “regulars” in a very high regard. My personal favorites are the chicken cutlet sandwich and the pulled pork sandwich!
Claire’s Corner Copia, New Haven, CT
Bordering Yale University, Claire’s is a campus favorite. While the focus is on vegetarian, vegan, and organic food options, don’t let that fool you, everything is delicious!
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G Cafe, New Haven, CT
At G Cafe, bread is the main attraction. Their selection of 16 different types of bread, baked fresh daily, can be ordered ahead of time for pickup. The cafe also features tartines and specialty sandwiches that highlight their famous breads. My favorite? Avocado on toast with a poached egg and bacon on top.
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Perk on Church, Guilford, CT
They have a large selection of crepes, both sweet and savory to match whatever you’re feeling. The menu extends far beyond that, however, and includes soups, salads, and dinner entrees. Overall, it’s a great place to meet your friends for brunch.
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Louis Lunch, New Haven, CT
The suspected birthplace of the hamburger, Louis’ menu consists of just that. A beef patty cooked to order in the original cast-iron grills that date back to 1898 when the joint first opened. The burgers are served on toast just like back in the day, and don’t you dare ask for ketchup. The only acceptable condiments at Louis’ are cheese, tomato, and onion.
The Pantry, New Haven, CT
An unbelievably fantastic breakfast place. Without a doubt, the best dish is the Cinnamon roll pancakes. You’ll honestly feel like you’ve died and gone to heaven. Lines form out the door every weekend at this tiny little place off State Street. Disclaimer: The Pantry is cash only so come prepared!
Colony Grill, Milford, CT
The menu here is very simple; it’s pizza. Pick a twelve inch pie. Colony has a solid selection of toppings featuring their signature hot oil. Additionally, they’ve got breakfast pizzas served from 11:30am until 3pm on their outdoor patio.
Village Bistro, Milford, CT
Formally Village Bagel, Village Bistro has expanded to feature more than just deli sandwiches. They now feature a variety of Spanish tapas, hot and cold, along with a full bar for happy hour.
MoMo Sushi, Milford, CT
Extremely fresh fish and a wide variety of rolls and combinations to fit every palate. Very welcoming staff! We come so often, they know us by name!
Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, New Haven, CT
A staple of New Haven and arguably the best pizza joint in the United States. Their white clam pizza has been their most popular pie since opening in 1925.
Taste of Thai, Milford, CT
Very good traditional Thai food at reasonable prices. They’ve got a quiet atmosphere for dining in, and they offer take out!
Cafe Amici, Hamden, CT
Established in 2007, Cafe Amici is another family owned cafe offering homemade pastas and seafood dishes with outdoor seating.
Olea, New Haven, CT
My favorite restaurant in New Haven serves a fuse of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Their style is elegant and the food is superb. Perfect for a birthday or graduation celebration! I promise, they won’t disappoint.
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Ibiza Tapas, Hamden, CT
We’ve known the owner here since she started with Ibiza in New Haven, and her food continues to wow. The paella is arguably their best dish, and the seafood is incredibly fresh.
L’Orcio, New Haven, CT
While efficient service isn’t their strong suit, their garden patio seating compliments the homemade pasta dishes.
Union League Cafe, New Haven, CT
Located in the former home of Roger Sherman, New Haven’s first mayor, The Union League Cafe is the place to go to if you’re looking for high end French dining in the heart of New Haven. The staff is always prompt and courteous, and the food is outstanding.
Barcelona, New Haven, CT
Despite its plain exterior, Barcelona has a fun and lively atmosphere and service is always excellent. They bring flavors from Spain and channel them into all their tapas and entree dishes.
Bistro Basque, Milford, CT
Unique take on authentic Spanish food located in downtown Milford with a busy, yet cozy atmosphere. The cuisine includes flavors from the South of France and the Basque country of Spain. Bistro Basque also features a garden patio, open during the summer months.
Heriloom, New Haven, CT
Heirloom is located in the lobby of a hotel on Chapel Street, The Study at Yale. While most hotel restaurants can disappoint, Heirloom does not. It features a farm-to-table menu in a modern ambience.
Ola Restaurant, Orange, CT
Guatemalan owners create a fusion of Mexican and Caribbean foods. A favorite in my family, Ola offers a very vibrant atmosphere and superb service.
Now, I ask you to venture out and about New Haven and try any one of these fabulous establishments!