Bricco Trattoria - This place is always crowded. But that’s because they feature simple yet artfully prepared Northern Italian fare served in an atmosphere warmed by wooden floors and brick-accented walls — and frankly, it’s all so authentic, it never ceases to impress. Try one of the dozen uniquely different artisan pizzas. The pasta entrées are amazing. And although the menu may change daily, if the Linguini with Jumbo Lump Crab is being served, get it. It’s a delight.
124 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury
860-659-0220

Max Fish - Happy Hour is daily from 3:30 to 6 p.m., so take a seat at the white marble bar or the often crowded raw bar, where the specials go well beyond the drinks to include Buck-a-Shuck clams on the half shell and its special menu. Dining in? Market price seafood, including steamed, baked stuffed, or pan roasted lobsters, comes just the way you like it — our latest favorite being a Paella that not only features chorizo and chicken but shrimp, scallops, calamari, clams and mussels. Prefer a steak? Check out the Chop House entrées. Max Fish never disappoints.
110 Glastonbury Blvd., Glastonbury, 860-652-FISH (860-652-3474)

Spicy Green Bean - Imaginatively decorated — and equally creative in the kitchen, this little place takes pride in exciting the palate. Stopping in for lunch? Try one of their Kitchen Kooky’s (aka sandwiches), such as the Purple Goat — crispy eggplant on grilled herb focaccia, with roasted red pepper, melted goat and provolone cheese, greens, vine tomato, garlic herb ailoli, and balsamic glaze, or the Shroomland Burger — an 8 oz. angus burger with melted swiss, truffle mushrooms, more melted swiss, and truffle mayo. There for dinner? If the specials include the Beef Filet Medallions or the Italian Dream, try either. But whatever they are offering, count on it to be awesome. There’s a full bar and live music Thursdays and Fridays to round things out. And catering is available.
103 New London Tpke., Glastonbury
860-657-3500

2 Hopewell - This charming country bistro — once a general store — serves contemporary American dishes with a decidedly creative flair. White tablecloth presentation can be enjoyed upstairs, along with a menu that changes with the seasons. (The Cioppino with fettuccini, mussels & clams, shrimp, lobster, spicy tomato broth, toast points is worth the trip.) And dessert is hard to pass up. (Treat yourself to the Key Lime Cake!) Downstairs, there’s a cool bar room with good music and good folks. Just right for South Glastonbury.
2 Hopewell Rd., South Glastonbury 860-633-9600

Cotton Hollow Kitchen - Opened by Mark Conley, longtime restaurateur and former managing partner at Max Amore Ristorante and Max Fish in Somerset Square, Cotton Hollow Kitchen is the kind of place where the menu is small enough to permit an ever-changing selection of seasonally and locally sourced contemporary dishes — or in Mark’s words, “really good food that’s innovative and inspired without losing sight of flavor and comfort.” And with his wife, Joanne Tan, born in Singapore, and Executive Chef Niels Van Galen, a frequent visitor to France and Belgium, the influence of many different cultures make every meal at Cotton Hollow Kitchen a delightful little culinary adventure. For lunch or dinner, the Pecan Cruster Rainbow Trout is a great choice. But if something lighter appeals, try a savory burger (including the How Now Non-Cow for vegetarians). And do not leave without sampling the Key Lime Pie or the Crème Brûlée. They are excellent. And there is great entertainment Live@Bar Hollow. Check out the schedule.
840 Main St., South Glastonbury
860-781-8555

J Gilbert’s Wood-Fired Steaks - They describe their fare as honest Midwestern cuisine. But we just call it delicious. Top-of-the-line wood-grilled steaks, their signature offering, have won this place a loyal following — and small wonder. Prime aged cuts of Black Angus come with a choice of sides and extras, like the Poblano Au Gratin Potatoes or Wild Mushrooms with Truffle Butter. The Grilled Vegetable Platter is terrific. They do seafood equally well — the Seared Georges Bank Scallops Sea beyond great. And you’ll find the elegant décor makes it a perfect choice for business and birthday dinners alike.
185 Glastonbury Blvd., Glastonbury
860-659-0409

Adriatik’s Family Restaurant - Adriatik’s is just the kind of place where there is never a wait, the portions are large, the prices are reasonable, and the food is great. Pasta dishes are a standout — each made to your liking with whatever shape and sauce you prefer, then served with a salad and fresh-baked bread. The Penne Basciola, featuring sausage, fresh mushrooms, and spinach all tossed in a light tomato sauce and topped with Parmesan cheese, is fantastic. The Linguini with Clam Sauce — red or white — is just right. The Veal or Chicken Parmigiana is rich and satisfying. They offer a great selection of tasty Greek dishes. The beer and wine selection is small but nicely inexpensive. And you’ll be glad to know that they offer catering.
30 Welles St., Station 35, Glastonbury
860-633-0599

The Diamond Pub & Grill - This one-of-a-kind sports bar is nothing short of a Glastonbury institution. Featuring plenty of big-screen TVs, a spacious horseshoe bar, and an unusually multi-faceted menu, including entrées like the Kabob Trio — which features chicken, steak, and shrimp skewered with onions, mushrooms, and zucchini and served over rice. They also offer some seriously good comfort food, including great appetizers, fresh soups, juicy burgers, made-to-order sandwiches and paninis, pub-style fish and chips — and one really terrific classic Meatloaf Dinner, complete with gravy, steak fries, veggies, and a side salad. And there are fifteen beers on tap, with plenty more available bottled. Happy Hour is 4 to 6 p.m. Check their web site for the live entertainment schedule. And if you’re into trivia, Tuesday is your night!
195 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury
860-659-2002

Shokudo Sake Bar - This little treasure, nestled in a corner of the Glen Lochen Mall, managed to remain a well-kept secret among the Glastonbury crowd for a while. But the word is out — and Shokudo Sake Bar is in! But then, small wonder. They offer fabulous sushi, sashimi, and other artfully prepared fresh-fish creations too good to miss. A modern, dressed-up dining area and neon-lit sake display provide unexpected ambiance. Eat in, take out, or order delivery within a four-mile radius.
39 New London Tpke. #311, Glastonbury
860-659-2568

Ken’s Corner - This much-loved neighborhood landmark is the place to go for breakfast and brunch, with waffles, pancakes, French toast, omelets, crêpes, and Benedicts the name of the game — and their fresh raspberry and blueberry flapjacks loaded with berries (grown just down the street) amazing. Even the potatoes that go into the home fries are local, making farm-to-table their signature style. And head back for lunch, too, because that’s when the grilled burgers and wraps, clubs, grinders, Reubens, soups, and salads are served, and they don’t get any tastier! Just be sure to bring your glasses and a good appetite because the menu offers not only standard favorites but a whole lot of awesome new creations and seasonal specials you’ll want to know about — and try. This is the kind of place where you don’t want to miss a thing.
30 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury
860-657-9811
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Bin 228 Gastropub - Conveniently located in Glastonbury’s vibrant center, Bin 228 features a classic Vinoteca Toscana — or Northern Italian wine bar — which is the perfect place to gather with friends. Any of their reds by the glass are outstanding, or choose a bottle of Le Volte Super Tuscan. Then whet your appetite with Pork Chive Dumplings or the Grilled Avocado. Salads and flatbreads of all kinds entice, as do the burgers, paninis, and sandwiches. And if you’re having dinner, try the Bourbon BBQ Bacon Meatloaf. It’s superb. You’ll agree with me on everything.
63 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury
860-430-9699

Rooftop 120 - Restaurants, like true love and great art, need a je ne sais quoi that sets them apart. And here, as you might guess from the name, that je ne sais quoi is the outdoor ambiance of the roof, where enjoying a cocktail while dining on something from their jazzy menu of Bar Fare, Shares, Tacos, Flatbreads, Greens, and Mains (try the Mussels Fra Diavolo), is just about as good as it gets. Offering great food, a trendy design, and a four-season patio, Rooftop 120 provides that joie de vivre others can’t match. Très bon.
120 Hebron Ave., Eric Town Square, Glastonbury,
860-430-9989

Sakura Garden Japanese Steakhouse - Craving some authentic Asian cuisine? Then come here. There’s an expansive sushi bar area, with a menu both creative and fresh, as well as an extensive selection of maki, nigiri, and an elegant “new-style” sashimi. The spacious hibachi features chefs who turn fresh cuts of meat and seafood into fine art in an elaborate tableside show that tastes more amazing than it looks. The cocktails are lovely to behold — and sip. There’s a nice wine list. And as expected, they offer an impressive assortment of sake.
120 Hebron Ave., Eric Town Square, Glastonbury,
860-430-5600

Thai House Restaurant & Sushi Bar - As culinary options in South Glastonbury have grown, the addition of great Thai food, especially since it includes excellent sushi, is a welcome one. The Thai House Specials — especially the Mango Curry, Avocado Curry, Seafood Amazing, or the Glastonbury Chicken — are delectable. But the menu is expansive and the offerings excellent, so get creative. Ordering from the sushi menu, you can’t go wrong. And in addition to great food, the service is invitingly friendly.
875 Main St., S. Glastonbury,
860-430-9500

Plan b Restaurant - If Plan A involves dining out, then go directly to Plan B — Glastonbury’s Plan b restaurant — where the burgers, bourbon, beer, or whatever are guaranteed to please. The menu is both delish and downright international — their many awesome between-the-bun concoctions including their Philly Steak Burger, the 3 Shrooms Burger, and one named simply Baja. They also offer Big Plates, including Shepherd’s Pie, and Fish & Chips. For a great side, try the Truffle Fries. There are menus for the kids, as well as desserts. And their drink menu is extensive, with over 60 varieties of single-barrel, small-batch, and Kentucky straight bourbons…craft beers on tap with regular specials…and a two-page list of bottles featuring over 50 varieties in order from light to dark (including “brews for two” and “mini kegs.”) Need help deciding? Suggestions are on the house.
120 Hebron Ave., Glastonbury
860-430-9737

Tisumi - Ever notice how some words sound just like that which they describe? You know, like buzz or clank or tweet or achoo! Well, Tisumi Sushi, the signature dish of an elegant little restaurant called Tisumi, strikes me as sounding exactly like what Tisumi Sushi would sound like if it had a sound — all those soft consonants and mellifluous vowels reflecting its sublime freshness, delectable simplicity, and exquisite design. Same with all of the other lusciously named delights they serve, like sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, katsu, pad thai, and Hibachi. But the sound most often heard when someone takes that first bite of any meal at Tisumi is yummmm. Imagine that. Go hear for yourself! Open every day. (Thank goodness.)
2850 Main St., Glastonbury
860-430-2826

First & Last Tavern - Sharing a reputation for excellence with Avon’s First and Last Tavern — both its namesake and an 84-year-old icon in that west-of-the-river town, Glastonbury’s First and Last Tavern has become popular in its own right, despite being relatively new in these parts. So what’s on their menu? Well, according them, something for everyone. And it’s true. For lighter fare, there are salads and starters, along with burgers, paninis, sandwiches, and grinders — but if something more substantial appeals, the Original Tavern Menu of Italian entrées won’t disappoint. After all, the company, as they put it, was founded on meatballs and sauce!. But then, neither will their Expanded Menu, featuring such classics as Scampi, Cioppino, and a Chicken Marengo that transform a boneless breast of chicken into an experience you do not want to miss.
21 Rankin Rd., Glastonbury
860-430-5999

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The Black Seal - The Black Seal is an Essex favorite, serving lunch, dinner, and a terrific Sunday brunch. And while it looks a little like an old ship that’s battled through rough seas, it serves up jolly good chowder, delectably fresh fish, savory salads, and some great hot sandwiches with the steady hand you’d expect from an experienced captain. You’ll find an equally steady flow of jolly good cheer from a bar that’s homeport for boaters and their mates, so stop in. But prepare to linger a while, relaxing over whatever your pleasure might be and listening to good seafaring conversation. It’s that kind of place.
15C Main St., Essex, 860-767-0233

The Griswold Inn - Referred to by locals and those in the know as simply The Gris, this is one of very few colonial New England restaurants that has succeeded in remaining not only relevant but unfailingly popular. The dimly lit tavern, with its good old-time music, and the period dining room bring you back to the days of river captains and deep-water schooners. Classic Gris entrées include a superb Faroe Island Salmon and their Signature Roasted Prime Ribs of Beef. Seasonal entrées like the Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Summer Salad, and excellent. And the Sunday Hunt Breakfast is legendary.
36 Main St., Essex, 860-767-1776

Gelston House - Come by land, river, or sea — but come, because the stately Victorian Gelston House, set next to the Goodspeed Opera House just above the river in East Haddam village, is a shoreline tradition. The restaurant menus and all of its dining spaces have been polished up, bringing back the elegance and joie de vivre of its glory days, while the casual al fresco dining option is decidedly popular in season. Regular entrées, like the Shrimp Scampi, Cavatappi, and their intriguing Parmesan Encrusted Cod, are impressive. And for those feeling a bit more casual, their lighter fare, including salads, tacos, burgers, and sandwiches, is ideal. This is a lovely spot!
8 Main St., East Haddam, 860-873-1411

Copper Beech Inn - Elegant, inside and out, Copper Beech Inn — once the haunt of Connecticut’s power brokers — has undergone numerous transitions over the years. Now under new ownership and featuring both a new look and a new menu, guests can savor superb seasonal entrees and upscale ambience in the main dining room or more casual fare in the beautiful Oak Room. But it’s all good because it’s all excellent. An exceptional experience.
46 Main St., Ivoryton
860-767-0330

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Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse - Maybe the steakhouse trend came. And maybe the steakhouse trend went. But Ruth’s Chris doesn’t care, because it’s definitely here to stay — and that’s because their signature prime beef is legendary, as are their perfectly cooked rib eyes, their tender Porterhouse for two, or their “full-bodied” New York Strip. Fact is, everyone knows that when it comes to beef, Ruth’s Chris does it best. Just follow the sizzle.
2513 Berlin Tpke., Newington
860-666-2202

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Feng Chophouse - When Feng Asian Bistro — a favorite of local sushi lovers — closed in the fall of 2017 for “major renovations,” who could have guessed that an elegantly updated bar and cocktail area, its new wine room, a private dining space featuring conference-level conveniences, and the introduction of windows offering superb streetscape views would not be the only changes — or the best. Finally realizing his longtime dream, owner John Chen added a room lined with bricks of Himalayan sea salt for dry-aging steaks and fish, a process that makes the finest cuts of beef even more tender and flavorful while giving exceptional edamame sushi a uniquely savory umami flavor. And so, Feng Asian Bistro reopened as Feng Chophouse, where a deliciously reimagined menu of sushi and steak, plus many other entrées, such as Chilean Seabass or a 24 oz Dry Aged Porterhouse, make ordering even more difficult than before. Fortunately, Feng Chophouse serves nothing but the best, so order with confidence. Of course, you’ll want to return so you can try everything. But then it’s good to have a goal.
93 Asylum St., Hartford
860-549-FENG (860-549-3364)

Fornarelli's Ristorante & Bar - No matter where you’re coming from, a trip to Downtown Hartford to dine at Fornarelli’s Ristorante is a must! Owner John Fornarelli, who was born and raised in Bari, Italy, opened this extraordinary restaurant in 2019, featuring his mother’s authentic Italian recipes. Vito — his son and her grandson — has now joined the family business as manager and co-owner, and together they are proud to ensure that everything, including the pasta, is house-made and fresh to order. For appetizers, the Fried Calamari and Eggplant Rollintini are not to be missed. For entrees, you can’t beat Giovanni’s Special Pastas — but both the Lemon Chicken and the Veal Saltimboca are awesome, and the Frutti di Mare, featuring lobster, scallops, and clams over linguine, is superb. Oh, and do not leave without trying the Tiramisu. In fact, plan to try everything — over time, of course. Because for those of us who have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed the best food Italy has to offer in Italy, a visit to Fornarelli’s tastes like a trip across the ocean. Apprezzare!
283 Asylum St., Hartford
860-244-2016

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