El Nuevo Sarape - El Sarape is a tiny place where everyone’s a friend. In fact once, I actually joined somebody else’s Christmas gathering. Not that I was invited, but like I said, it’s tiny — and everyone’s a friend. It’s got this funky Mexican look, with bright orange walls and pictures hung this way and that. And it serves great meals. Their molés are superbly authentic, and the Especialidades de la Casa are excellent.
But try everything.
931 Broad St., Frog Hollow
Hartford, 860-547-1884

Monte Alban Restaurant - With Tex-Mex burrito places pretty common, good Mexican food isn’t hard to find. But truly authentic Mexican — indeed, the genuine Oaxacan dishes Monte Alban prepares from original family recipes — is a rarity. The molé is luscious but not overpowering, with just the right amount of spice. The Tortilla soup and Camarones a la Mexicana are excellent and best enjoyed with a cold cerveza. Sabroso!
531 Farmington Ave., Hartford
860-523-7423

Pho Boston Restaurant - Never mistake the Pho in their name with the word faux, because this little gem features deliciously authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Have the fresh Shrimp Spring Rolls with peanut sauce for your appetizer. And for lunch or dinner, try the Salted Caramelized Shrimp — or the Chicken and Vegetables Sautéed with Curry or Lemongrass Sauce. And order a just-squeezed limeade with fresh strawberries. It’s better than good.
144 Shield St. Plaza, (Shield Street Shopping Plaza), West Hartford
860-953-8678

Tangiers International - A while back, Tangiers relocated — and while it was only a little ways down Farmington Avenue, just over the border in Hartford, its legions of fans worried. Well, we’re glad to report that the only thing that changed was their address, because everything else is as great as ever. At lunchtime, order the Falafel, which is made from a generations-old family recipe. It’s uniquely seasoned and served with tangy, herby tzatziki or tahini. Or try a Chicken Kebab with Tzatziki. The pita bread is baked daily. The hummus is superb. And the service is always friendly. And while you’re there, browse their intriguing selection of imported groceries. Good stuff.
550 Farmington Ave., Hartford
860-233-8168

Primavera Pub - The Primavera Pub is an authentic Portuguese restaurant — no frills, entirely good spirited, and precisely the kind of place where it’s fun to sit at the bar watching a soccer match or a baseball game. Once when I was there, I must have looked lost because an Irish guy ordered all my food for me, and what a meal. More recently, I’ve gotten hooked on the Primavera Mix, featuring shrimp, pork, and steamed clams. But it’s all good. And so are the prices. The wine won’t set you back, either.
283 Newington Ave., Hartford
860-953-7411

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Agave Grill - Winner of the Hartford Courant’s “Best of Hartford Mexican Restaurant for 2024,” Agave is all about enjoying something different. They offer a wonderful selection of Especiales. And from their Antojitos (appetizers) to their Postres (desserts), you can’t miss. The fresh Guacamole is prepared tableside and goes nicely with any Margarita. The Spicy Chorizo Sausage enchilada with pasilla chile sauce is terrific — and order a Mexicali Ensalada to go along. The Fajita Salad — which features mixed greens, tomatoes, rajas, mixed cheeses, guacamole, pico de gallo, and sour cream, all served with chipotle honey mustard dressing — is great and they pair nicely for an awesome meal. But other combinations await and surprise, so try them all. Just be sure to pace yourself. Good food should be savored.
100 Allyn St., Hartford, 860-882-1557

Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ - Everybody’s bullish on Bear’s — pun intended. Especially me. Just bring me some awesome Baby Back Ribs with enough paper napkins to cope, and I’m in my glory. But I’ll take anything, because it’s all fantastic — from the chicken and turkey to the brisket and kielbasa. The Burnt Ends are heaven. And don’t skip dessert. The cheesecake is yummy.
25 Front St., Hartford
860-785-8772

Arch Street Tavern - This old tavern — with its brick walls, oak furnishings, and polished brass — has long been one of my favorites. The wait staff is terrific. I usually visit the kitchen or talk directly to the owner when I’m ready to order, and you can do the same. Good people, one and all. And good food, too. Very good food. For lunch, ask for the Reuben. It’s their signature sandwich — and melt-in-your-mouth tangy. And try the Buffalo Chicken Salad. (It’s wonderful.) They have live music, too.
85 Arch St, Hartford
860-246-7610

Max Downtown - Self-described as a contemporary “Chop House & Whiskey Bar,” this is the place to go if you closed that big deal. And if someone else closed that big deal, go anyway. You can soothe those frayed sensibilities with a Sangria La Vida Loca. (Hey. We’ve all been there.) Then move on, literally and figuratively, to the luscious Steak Frites for lunch — or the Pan Seared Colossal Shrimp. For dinner, try the Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna. And order dessert. They’re too good to miss.
185 Asylum St., Hartford, 860-522-2530

Salute - Confession: I adore lusty Italian cuisine. And this is where I go for it, because the owners, who created Hot Tomato’s back in the day, have brought the same warm, welcoming spirit here — along with their flair for creating a menu that’s just plain hot stuff. The only issue I have with the place is that when the weather gets hot, the hot crowd moves outside, and I’m left to enjoy my Spicy Fried Calamari, a lovely homemade Meatball Salad with cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, the rich Shrimp Fra Diablo over linguine with a side of grilled asparagus, and a nice glass of Spellbound Petite Sirah (which is always perfect with everything) all alone. But I’m willing to suffer. Very willing.
100 Trumbull St., Hartford
860-899-1350

Feng Chophouse - When Feng Asian Bistro — a favorite of local Sushi lovers — closed in the fall of 2017 for “major renovations,” who would 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 entrees, such as Chilean Sea Bass 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)

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Prai Kitchen - We’ve always loved great Thai food, but from our first visit to Prai, we’ve felt that we were experiencing a new level of creativity and excellence — indeed, a gourmet Thai. In our many trips back, our favorites have included the Duck Tamarind, Prai Chicken Basil, and the Siam Beef. Prai kitchen will prove to be a true find for Thai aficionados — and a real pleasure for those new to the cuisine. Don’t miss it.
23 LaSalle Rd., West Hartford
860-232-1817

Ichiban - Since Korean and Japanese culinary connoisseurs usually head for Ichiban, so do I. Sam, one of the twin brothers who works behind the sushi bar, designs fantastic fresh rolls with just about any ingredients you choose. (Fact is, both Sam and his sushi are very engaging.) And here’s a tip: Korean foods tend to be assertive and spicy, with some dishes — such as Kimchi Geegae, a pickled cabbage stew — for “advanced palates” only. So either stick with what you know or take Sam’s advice. He’s absolutely terrific. And so is the food.
530 Farmington Ave., Hartford
860-236-5599

Pick & Mix- Admit it. On nights when you know cooking isn’t an option but you want something fresh, healthy, and flavorful, good Chinese take-out fills the bill. And Pick & Mix is good Chinese take-out. The concept here is simple: pick your base (sweet potato noodles, white or brown rice), as many vegetables as you’d like (mushrooms, bean sprouts, carrots, cucumber, radish, and so on), add an egg, throw in some protein (beef, chicken, tofu), and finish up with a sauce (hot paste, teriyaki, soy lemon, sesame). The name of this signature Korean dish is Bibimbap. And the result is always delicious.
1234 Farmington Ave., West Hartford, 860-521-1521
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Sweet Chilli Thai Cuisine - You’ll find this worthy little place on Park Road, along with some interesting shops that you might want to visit — including a topsy-turvy rug and vintage furniture store, an antique store, and a classic bookshop. But eat last so you can savor your meal because Sweet Chilli Thai is good Thai, with standards elevated to well above expectations. And they don’t skimp on the portions here, either. My favorites are the Sassy Mango, the Pad Thai, most of the curries, and all of the sautéed dishes. And I always order the Papaya salad because it’s outstanding.
312 Park Rd., West Hartford
860-233-7780  

Black Bamboo Chinese Restaurant - First of all, forget everything you know about Chinese take-out. We’ve been to “the best” Chinese restaurants in the big Northeast cities, and Black Bamboo is better. If you want to eat in, there’s table space for about 12 people, but nearly all of their business is take-out — which is okay, because the quality of the food is unmatched, the menu abundant with choices, and everything is priced reasonably. Fact is, with food this good it’s all a bargain. So next time you’re driving down Farmington Avenue, don’t think you’re passing just another Chinese takeout place. Stop in at Black Bamboo for the best quality and the best bargain.
844 Farmington Ave., West Hartford
860-236-8888

Somewhere in Bangkok - Somewhere in Bangkok may be new to Avon. But having already built quite a fan base at their Southington location, their reputation has preceded them, and the Avon location of this family-owned Thai restaurant is quickly becoming yet another local favorite. Just reading the menu, with its exotic combination of sweet, sour, hot, salty, and bitter flavors, awakens the taste buds. Because the family grows their own vegetables, including as much as a 1,000 pounds of chili peppers each year, their dishes are made from freshest ingredients possible for the finest tastes possible. And since every savory meal served is made to order, guests with spiciness or ingredient preferences, as well as allergy, gluten-free, or vegetarian/vegan lifestyle-diet requirements, can be easily accommodated — which means that everyone who comes to Somewhere in Bangkok looking for an authentic Thai experience will have the pleasure of enjoying an authentic Thai experience. Start by trying the Chicken Sa-Tay followed by Honey Shrimp. And don’t forget dessert. You’ll see what I mean.
136 Simsbury Rd., B#4, Avon
Riverdale Farms Shopping
860-470-7822

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 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

Siam Glastonbury - Siam’s storefront at Glastonbury’s Fox Run Plaza may be modestly simple. But that front door opens into a cozy little Thai restaurant that’s not only warm and welcoming in the dining room but popular with locals and out-of-towners alike for the culinary artistry that takes place in the kitchen! Serving a wide-ranging and authentically delectable menu of Thai favorites, their appetizers are appetizing indeed, with the Crispy Shrimp Rolls, Grilled Pork Skewers, and Crab Rangoon (my latest obsession!) that are beyond delicious, as are the soups like Tom Yum — a traditional Thai spicy lemongrass soup with mushrooms, scallions, and your choice of shrimp or chicken. They offer no less than nine salads, including a wonderful Duck Salad, with spicy crispy duck, lime juice, apple, pineapple, tomatoes, scallion, red onion and cashew nuts, as well as a host of excellent noodles, fried rice, and curries. And meals like Pad Thai, Emperor Chicken, and their Basil Red Snapper are as tempting as it is tasty. Siam is vegetarian and vegan friendly and offers a nice selection of gluten-free items, Take out or eat in. Either way, prepare to get hooked!
45 Welles St., Glastonbury
860-659-8511

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Arugula Bistro - The warm lighting, brightly colored French artwork, and rustic touches — all delicately whisked with a pinch of panache — give me great pleasure as I sit at my special table near the window. From here, I can observe the couples in the springtime of their lives (and early stages of romance), their eyes fixed on each other until the arrival of their meals interferes, forcing them to actually eat. Ahhhh…young love. But then I am in love, too — with my latest favorite: The Grilled Bistro Sirloin Steak, though I still have strong feelings for the Mediterranean Fish Fry. If you tasted either, you’d understand the attraction.
953 Farmington Ave., West Hartford
860-561-4888

Ávert Brasserie - Hungry for some joie de vivre with your meal? Then come here to what could for all the world be an authentic vintage Parisian brasserie with its sophisticated, modern facade — and a menu that follows suit with traditional French entrées. Order what appeals. Everything is merveilleux, especially their Beef Bourguignon. Allons enfants de la Patrie! This is where it’s happening.
35A LaSalle Rd., West Hartford
860-904-6240

Barcelona Wine Bar & Restaurant - Centuries ago, Andalusian taverns served a tapa — a bit of bread or slice of meat — to cover one’s glass of sherry so that the fruit flies wouldn’t find their way in. Practical. But a handy snack, too. And while Barcelona’s tapas dishes are not designed to protect one’s drink, all are prepared with a beverage in mind: salty chorizo to balance acidity or a fresh and tangy sheep’s cheese to tone down a sweeter varietal. My favorites? An Ensalada Mixta with olives, onions, and tomatoes…Paella Salvaje, with chicken, pork, and chorizo…and a glass of Verdejo. They make me very happy.
971 Farmington Ave., West Hartford
860-218-2100

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse - There is simply nothing like a great steak. And here, they serve great steaks — all prime, all straightforward in presentation, and all perfectly cooked. That said, they also go “Over the Top” and “Beyond Steaks” to provide those with a craving for pork, chicken, and seafood an equally fair shot at an awesome meal, too! The service is professional and high-spirited. The ambience recalls the warmth and clubbiness of the wood-paneled era, minus the pretense. The desserts are wickedly tempting. (Give in. Everyone does.) And there’s a nice big, comfortable bar.
44 S. Main St., West Hartford, 860-676-9463

Restaurant Bricco - Drawing from memories of all the foods and fun at their family’s big Sunday dinners, the Grant brothers (Mike, Tony, and Chef Billy) have made Restaurant Bricco the place to go for “genuine Italian.” From the warmth of its sit-and-stay-awhile atmosphere to the tried-and-true generations-old recipes, everything here is simple and sensational. The menu changes daily, but the appetizer menu includes such treats as a generously sized Antipasto and Aunt Josie’s Meatballs. The fresh, crispy salads are creatively varied. (Try the one featuring warm pistachio-crusted goat cheese.) Wood-fired brick-oven pizzas range from delightfully traditional to wildly imaginative. (The Bianco Pie is amazing.) Pastas like House Made Ravioli promise an authenticity you won’t soon forget. Entrées like the Porcini Dusted Maine Day Boat Scallops and the Pork Chop Milanese are truly special. And never leave without dessert. The Sicilian Cannoli should be considered its own food group.
78 LaSalle Rd., West Hartford, 860-233-0220

Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen - The fourth member of the DORO Restaurant Group — already well known for Treva and Àvert here in West Hartford, as well as Artisanal Burger Company in Manchester — is Zohara, which means brilliant in Hebrew. Offering an innovative Mediterranean- and Israel-inspired menu, everything features wholesome fresh vegetables, grains, fish, and lean meats transformed into mouth-watering meals before your very eyes. Literally. And that’s because it’s kitchen, spacious and bustling, is surrounded by comfortable booth seating, where diners can watch it all happen. Try their Seafood Tagine, the organic Salmon grilled with pomegranate molasses, or their Feast, featuring “a culinary tour” of everything this wonderful place has to offer. Go discover just how zohara this place is!
991 Farmington Ave., West Hartford
860-955-0300

Max Burger - How do you know when a burger is perfect? Some say it’s the quality of the meat…others where it came from…many the way it’s cooked…and still more focus on the bread or toppings. Personally, I think it needs just the right blend of everything, plus a little bit of intrigue — and Max has figured this out. Whatever your criteria for the perfect burger, you’ll find it here. Delicious, unexpected bites result from even the most basic of offerings, like the savory Maple Whiskey Burger. If you’re lucky, their weekday Chalk Board specials will include their Buffalo Chicken Mac & Cheese and a little chicken number called the Spicy Mother Clucker! And they serve top-notch onion rings, big fresh salads, and an extensive selection of beers!
124 LaSalle Rd., West Hartford
860-232-3300

Vinted Wine Bar & Kitchen - Now here’s a unique kind of place. You can order a bottle at the sommelier’s recommendation — or go by the glass, with 1oz., 3oz., and 6oz. portions available. Indeed, it’s not uncommon to see couples conversing at the sleek marble-top bar over a dozen tasting glasses. And small plates are not only created to complement your choices but listed categorically according to the main ingredient. Try starting with the Asparagus Bagutta. Then give the Confit Duck Wings a go. (Work with the wine or beer or cocktails. Proper pairing, as you know, is key.) And finish with some Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake. It’s awesome.
63 Memorial Rd., Blue Back Square
West Hartford, 860-206-4648

Ruth's Chris Steak House - Maybe the steakhouse trend came. And maybe the steakhouse trend went. But Ruth’s Chris doesn’t care, 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

Treva Restaurant and Bar - Treva’s is where I usually go later in the evening, since the happy hour is always crowded, reservations are a must for prime-time dining, and I never make a reservation. That leaves me a rather small window of opportunity for my lovely repast — but I take full advantage of the opening. Recently, I began with the Chefs’ Calamari Sauté, followed by the Lattuga salad, a favorite with its Bibb lettuce, apple, Gorgonzola, and almonds. For my entrée I made a splendid choice: Pettini scallops with wild mushroom, crispy shallots, and polenta. And since it was late, I just had a nice digestive: Amaro — no ice. I slept well
980 Farmington Ave, West Hartford
860-232-0407

Max’s Oyster Bar - When I’m feeling the need for a little validation, I head over to Max’s Oyster Bar. With its dimly lit urbane atmosphere, high ceilings, big booths, and white-aproned wait staff, it exudes confidence and doesn’t hold back. A half dozen oysters with the recommended wine, Max’s Paella (featuring shrimp, scallops, clams, mussels, Chorizo, calamari chicken, and saffron rice), and a slice key lime pie or Sugar-Dusted Molten Chocolate Truffle Beignets usually send me home optimistic — ready to take on the world. But then, so does everything they serve. Brings me right out of my shell.
964 Farmington Ave., West Hartford
860-236-6299

Doro Marketplace - Well, the Doro Restaurant Group has done it again, opening a fifth little gem you’re really going to love. Inspired by Europe’s traditional cafes and bakeries, Doro Marketplace is the place to go to experience the local community’s best foods and beverages. There’s a great selection of espressos, coffees, draft beverages, and other tasty liquid refreshments…tasty breakfast sandwiches, such as the Smashed Avocado Toast with cherry tomatoes, radishes, and “Everything” bagel spice...unique luncheon sandwiches, like the Pig and Fig, with prosciutto de parma, fig spread, arugula, and provolone on pugliese...soups, salads, bowls, polenta, and Rotisserie Chicken with all sorts of gotta-have sides and sauces. And never leave without a stop at The Bakery, with its freshly baked breads, croissants, stuffed breads, sweetbreads, and rich desserts. Go as you are and stay until you’re full. A great spot.
1253 New Britain Ave., West Hartford
860-310-2181

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Cheesecake Factory - I’m not sure why they call this place a factory. It looks more like the lobby of an international hotel — and the crowd is a lovely palette of global hues. But I go with the flow. Same with the menu. I’ve tried food from all over: Chicken Parmesan — Pizza Style, Korean Fried Chicken, and Jamaican Black Pepper Shrimp, to name a few, and I’m never disappointed. I’m a fan of their Skinny-Licious Beet and Avocado Salad, with Fresh Orange, Arugula and Honey-Yogurt Sauce, and they have a whole host of Skinny-Licious Specialities, as well as a great kids menu. They serve brunch on Saturdays, and Sundays. And no matter what, I LOVE their cheesecakes. All of them, including the Low-Licious Cheesecake, which is Low Carb, No Sugar Added, Gluten Free Cheesecake — and too good to be true, because cheesecake rocks. It just does. Take out and delivery available!
71 Isham Rd., Blue Back Square
West Hartford, 860-233-5588

Cora Cora - Occasionally, I get delivery or take-out and watch a movie — and when I do, I enjoy ordering from this wonderful Peruvian restaurant. Of course, dining in at this delightfully welcoming and colorful little spot is even better. But either way, I always opt for the fresh Fish and Shrimp Ceviche, a classic dish of soft fish marinated in lemon and special Peruvian spice sauce and served with red onion, corn, sweet potatoes and boiled potatoes. Then I move on to a classic dish like the Lomo Saltado, featuring stir-fried beef tenderloin. A glass of Chicha Morada followed by wine is perfect. And the desserts are so beautiful, I often hesitate to eat them. But I do.
162 Shield St., West Hartford
860-953-2672

Bombay Olive - While I love the immediate and unwaveringly attentive service here, it’s the Persian/ Indian/ Nepalese cuisine that’s got me hooked. My favorite is the Lamb Kebab Masala that comes with Nepalese fluffy Basmati rice — or the Shrimp Curry, which is awesome. And not only do they deliver. They cater.
450 S. Main St., West Hartford
860-561-3000

Effie's Place - This place is comfort food heaven. There for breakfast? Don’t bother looking at the menu. Just have the Big Breakfast. It has everything you could possibly want and you don’t have to worry about food for the rest of the day. But if lunch rolls around and you’re hungry again, try the Spinach Apple Chicken Salad, a Triple Decker Club, the Homemade Falafel Wrap — or a Mushroom Swiss Burger. My dinner favorites are the Meatloaf (from the Just Like Mom’s section), maybe the Liver and Onions, or the Baked Stuffed Shrimp. And they serve breakfast all day. Bravo!
91 Park Rd., West Hartford
860-233-9653

Fernwood Restaurant - Call it old-fashioned. Or simply retro. Either way, this place serves good food. I always sneak in through the backdoor — which is, for all intents and purposes, the front door anyway. Then I slide into a dimly lit booth at the back of the dark dining room and order the super-cold Stella or house red. And when I’ve had a few minutes to unwind, I have some of their homemade soup, which is always excellent, before moving on to either the Fried Scallops with fries and coleslaw or a nice Rib Eye. And I always order dessert. Just remember: When you leave, go out the back door, the same way you came in — but in the opposite direction.
1113 New Britain Ave., West Hartford
860-233-6662
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Shish Kebab House of Afghanistan - I met Najia on a trip to Kabul — and I still have visions of her selling those beautiful rugs and spices on Chicken Street. Sometimes, I see her radiant smile in the face of one of the young waitresses who offer me a drink at this authentic Afghan restaurant. It’s like déjà vu all over again. Understandably, I always start with the house infused vodka drinks, such as the Persian Princess or Blue Monk. The Baba Ganoush is great. All the Kabobs are worthy. And even though I always seem to find myself missing Najia, this place satisfies my taste buds and soothes my spirit. Simply put, I love the drinks, the food, the people — and occasionally a little Hookah.
36 LaSalle Rd., West Hartford
860-231-8400

Ocho Café Tacos y Tequila - This is the kind of place that makes you smile the second you open the door. That’s partly because everything is so brightly colorful, from the walls and artwork to the tableware. But it’s also because Ocho Café welcomes its guests as family by offering authentic award-winning South of the Border dishes made with the finest ingredients — and their signature Margaritas. The appetizers, soups, and salads are hearty and tantalizing. The dinner menu is extensive, featuring entrées such as a tasty Ultimate Cheese Enchilada Dinner and the savory Shrimp Fajitas. As expected, there’s a wonderfully creative selection of tacos, enchiladas (the Enchiladas Con Mole are awesome), fajitas, and chimichangas guaranteed to satisfy those who savor authentic Mexican cuisine — as well as those just getting acquainted with it. And they also have some seriously amazing desserts. So go! After all, tu estas cordialmente invitado — which means you’re invited!
330 North Main St., Bishops Corner
West Hartford, 860-310-3063

Saybrook Fish House - Anchored at the junction of Routes 44, 179, and 202 in Canton, Saybrook Fish House is an excellent fish house, featuring all the best seafood that’s easy to crave — and hard to find, including Fish and Chips, crispy and hot. Some of the most amazing shrimp cocktail that you will ever enjoy. Authentic chowders, both fish and clam. Whole belly fried clams. Amazing sea scallops fresh from New Bedford, MA. Mussels, sole, scrod, and salmon. Crab cakes, baked stuffed shrimp, lobsters. And yes, for the folks they call Fish Frowners, there’s pasta, chicken, and some excellent steaks. Need a taste of summer-by-the-sea right now? Make this your destination.
460 Albany Tpke., Canton
860-693-0034

Andy’s Italian Kitchen - First opened in West Hartford in 1975 by Andy and Grace DelSanto, Andy’s Kitchen has since settled into the heart of Simsbury, where, under the watchful eye of Andy DelSanto, Jr. and his son, it has become a local favorite. But then that’s no surprise. The recipes used aren’t simply authentic but were passed down from the grandparents to the parents — and from the parents to Andy, Jr. And what a menu they offer. It begins with drinks and appetizers, moves on to the salads, soups, sandwiches, grinders, calzones, pizzas (including build-your-own versions), the Italian classics everyone craves (their pastas are superb), includes house specials you won’t want to miss (be sure to try the Chicken Marsala), great sides, and a kids menu. But the best is yet to come, with luscious desserts that taste every bit as divine as they look. (The Cannoli are really something.) Plus a great selection of gelato flavors are available at their gelato bar. And not only does Andy’s Italian Kitchen cater but they also offer complete family meals you can take home and savor with your shoes off! If you haven’t been, go. You’ll see.
926 Hopmeadow St., Simsbury
860-676-0800

Villa Mulino - Conveniently located in Avon, Villa Mulino is an easy ride from anywhere in the Farmington Valley — and, offering casual fine dining at its best through a contemporary reinterpretation of classic Italian dishes, it is well worth the trip. Featuring a scratch kitchen, the menu includes appetizers both unusual and delectable, such as Beef Carpaccio, prepared with shallots, cremini mushroom, pine nuts, shiso aioli, and shaved Black Truffles…creative salads, like the La Bufala, with arugula, mozzarella di bufala, prosciutto di parma, pistachio, and local alba honey…extraordinary fresh pastas, including the Mushroom Mafaldine, featuring wild mushrooms, truffles, pine nuts, garlic, and heavy cream…entrees such as the Filet Mignon with braised beets, parsnip purée, and sautéed oyster mushrooms and Seared Scallops cooked with risotto nero, crispy prosciutto, and celeriac. Craft cocktails and an extensive wine list complete the experience. Described as “the latest culinary destination at Riverdale Farms Shopping,” Villa Mulino may be new to the area, but its chefs and waitstaff demonstrate a relaxed yet worldly approach to dining that you do not want to miss.
136 Simsbury Rd., (Riverdale Farms Shopping), Avon
860-507-7117

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Harry's Bishops Corner - Go on a Tuesday night around 7:30 when there’s no line. Order a bottle of affordably priced Cabernet. Have a glass before you order. And don’t look at the whole menu. Just order one of the 3 specials, which usually feature local produce. Sip the wine. Eat slowly, savoring each bite. And don’t ever forget the complimentary lemon ice. It’s really good. Just remember to give the kitchen a round of applause. I always do.
732 North Main St., West Hartford
860-236-0400

Luna Pizza - Pizza and kids are only as good as their makings. You know — good ingredients make good results, better ingredients make better results, and so on and so forth. Kids vary, so who knows. But I can promise that at Luna, they use excellent ingredients, so they have excellent pizza — and they have for years. Enough said.
999 Farmington Ave., West Hartford, 860-233-1625
181 Main St., Wethersfield, 860-785-8948

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