If you are seeking delicious Italian cuisine in Connecticut, you have many great options. Whether you prefer classic dishes or modern twists, the state offers a variety of restaurants that showcase the rich flavors of Italy.
This guide will help you discover the 10 best Italian restaurants in Connecticut that you won’t want to miss.
From cozy family-run spots to upscale dining experiences, there is something for everyone. These restaurants pride themselves on using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, creating meals that truly celebrate Italian culture.
You will find favorites like pasta, pizza, and seafood, all prepared with care and passion.
1) Salute
Salute is a noted Italian restaurant situated in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. It is known for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional cuisine.
The restaurant focuses on providing a quality dining experience with a menu that highlights classic Italian dishes.
Many visitors enjoy the rose pasta, which features sweet sausage and mushrooms in a light tomato cream sauce. The restaurant also offers family dinner options that are perfect for gatherings or game days.
In addition to its food, Salute has a bar and lounge area that offers a wide selection of wines, draft beers, and cocktails. The staff are dedicated to providing excellent service.
For entertainment, Salute often partners with local events, making it a great place for dinner before or after a show.
Rating: 4.7 (2300 reviews)
Location: 100 Trumbull St, Hartford, CT 06103
Contact: (860) 899-1350
Website: Visit Website
2) Viron Rondo Osteria
Viron Rondo Osteria is a popular spot for Italian cuisine in Cheshire, Connecticut. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for dining with family or friends.
You can enjoy a full lunch menu on weekdays and an extended dinner menu on weekends. The bar stays open late, allowing you to relax with a drink after dinner.
Make sure to call ahead for reservations, especially on weekends when it can get busy. The staff is known for being friendly and attentive.
Whether you’re a fan of classic pasta dishes or modern Italian cuisine, you’ll find a variety of options to choose from here.
Rating: 4.4 (3300 reviews)
Location: 1721 Highland Ave, Cheshire, CT 06410
Contact: (203) 439-2727
Website: Visit Website
3) Pasta Eataliana Trattoria Napoletana
Pasta Eataliana Trattoria Napoletana offers authentic Italian cuisine that highlights the flavors of Naples. With a focus on fresh ingredients, their menu includes Neapolitan-style pizzas, gourmet pastas, and unique antipasto dishes.
You can enjoy a meal in a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects Italian culture.
The chef, Giulio Laurentino, brings ten years of culinary experience from Naples. He is dedicated to crafting dishes that are both hearty and memorable. The restaurant has grown in popularity since it opened in 2020, making it a local favorite.
You can choose to dine indoors or enjoy the outdoor seating option. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday, making it a convenient choice for any occasion.
Rating: 4.8 (393 reviews)
Location: 127 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511
Contact: (203) 745-4750
Website: Visit Website
4) Skappo
Skappo offers a delightful experience rooted in Italian culture. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel at home. It embraces the essence of Italy through its decor and friendly service.
You’ll find a menu filled with traditional Italian dishes made from fresh ingredients. Each dish reflects a passion for flavors and culinary techniques. The wine selection complements the food perfectly, allowing you to enjoy a full dining experience.
The story behind Skappo is unique and rich. It began with a union of a native of Assisi and an American student. This blend of cultures is evident in every aspect of the restaurant.
Visiting Skappo is not just about food; it’s about celebrating life and community. Whether you’re with old friends or making new ones, your time there will be memorable.
Rating: 4.9 (215 reviews)
Location: 59 Crown St, New Haven, CT 06510
Contact: (203) 773-1394
Website: Visit Website
5) Grano Arso
Grano Arso is an Italian restaurant located in Chester, Connecticut. It features a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes you feel at home. Chef Joel and Lani Gargano run the place, focusing on traditional Italian flavors with a seasonal twist.
You will find a menu inspired by local produce and creative recipes. The dishes reflect rustic Italian charm while being elegantly presented. Each plate aims to transport you straight to Italy.
The restaurant also has a well-curated bar. You can enjoy craft cocktails, fine wines, and local beers. Seasonal cocktails add variety, showcasing the best ingredients available.
Grano Arso hosts specials and tasting menus, providing unique dining experiences. This is an ideal spot for a memorable meal with friends or family.
Rating: 4.6 (375 reviews)
Location: 6 Main St, Chester, CT 06412
Contact: (860) 322-3143
Website: Visit Website
6) Treva
Treva gives you a taste of Central and Northern Italian cuisine. The restaurant focuses on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are hand-crafted daily, bringing a unique flavor to your dining experience.
The atmosphere at Treva is warm and inviting. It’s a great place to enjoy a meal, whether you are with family or friends. You can expect attentive service that makes you feel right at home.
Reservations can be made easily through Resy. This helps you secure a table at the ideal time for your visit.
Treva is part of the DORO Restaurant Group, which operates several other eateries in West Hartford. Their commitment to quality and community shines through in every aspect of their restaurants.
Rating: 4.6 (1200 reviews)
Location: 980 Farmington Ave #2102, West Hartford, CT 06107
Contact: (860) 232-0407
Website: Visit Website
7) Materia Ristorante
Materia Ristorante is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. You can expect a mix of classic and modern Italian dishes that highlight fresh ingredients. The menu often changes, reflecting the seasonal offerings available.
Chef David Distasi leads the kitchen. His dedication to quality has earned the restaurant several awards, including notable titles from the Connecticut Restaurant Association. This recognition speaks to the exceptional dining experience you can expect.
The restaurant is also recognized for its romantic setting, making it an ideal spot for special occasions. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or just enjoying a night out, the ambiance adds to your dining experience.
With a commitment to customer satisfaction, you can find both friendly service and delicious food here. Many guests rave about the attentive staff and the care put into each dish.
Rating: 4.7 (134 reviews)
Location: 637 Bantam Rd, Bantam, CT 06750
Contact: (860) 567-3326
Website: Visit Website
8) Restaurant Bricco
Restaurant Bricco brings authentic Italian cuisine to West Hartford. The menu features a mix of traditional dishes and creative options. You can enjoy everything from house-made ricotta to wood-fired pizzas.
Their focus is on using fresh, seasonal ingredients. You will find classics alongside innovative culinary twists. This balance makes every visit a delightful experience.
Don’t miss out on the hand-crafted cocktails, especially during Sunday Brunch. The atmosphere is vibrant, making it a great spot for gatherings with friends or family.
For a true taste of Italy without leaving Connecticut, Restaurant Bricco is an excellent choice.
Rating: 4.6 (1200 reviews)
Location: 78 LaSalle Rd, West Hartford, CT 06107
Contact: (860) 233-0220
Website: Visit Website
9) Tony D’s
Tony D’s is a well-loved Italian restaurant located in downtown New London. It has been a favorite since it opened in 1999. The restaurant offers a classic Italian menu that appeals to various diners, including couples and families.
The owner, Tony D’Angelo, has created a warm, rustic atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for any occasion. You can enjoy traditional Italian dishes, made with fresh ingredients that highlight the flavors of Italy.
Next to the restaurant, there is a pasta shop where you can buy fresh pasta and other Italian specialties. This adds to the experience and gives you a chance to take a taste of Tony D’s home.
You are encouraged to reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends, when it tends to be busier. The welcoming vibe and excellent food keep customers coming back.
Rating: 4.6 (939 reviews)
Location: 92 Huntington St, New London, CT 06320
Contact: (860) 443-9900
Website: Visit Website
10) Paul’s Pasta Shop
Paul’s Pasta Shop has been a favorite in Groton since 1988. They specialize in fresh pasta made daily using high-quality ingredients. The warm and family-friendly atmosphere welcomes you for a hearty meal.
You can enjoy a variety of delicious homemade dishes. Their commitment to quality has earned them multiple awards for being the best Italian restaurant and best value in the area.
Located on Thames Street, the restaurant overlooks the beautiful Thames River. This creates a lovely setting for lunch or dinner.
Paul’s Pasta Shop also offers takeout. You can bring home freshly made pasta and a sauce to enjoy later.
Rating: 4.7 (2300 reviews)
Location: 223 Thames St, Groton, CT 06340
Contact: (860) 445-5276
Website: Visit Website
History of Italian Cuisine
Italian cuisine has deep roots that go back thousands of years. It began with the ancient Romans, who had a diet based on grains, vegetables, and meats.
With the fall of the Roman Empire, the cuisine evolved, influenced by various cultures like the Greeks and Arabs.
During the Middle Ages, new ingredients, such as spices and sugar, started to appear. The Renaissance brought a focus on presentation and refinement.
Italian culinary traditions continued to grow, with each region adding its own flavors and techniques. By the 19th century, Italian food spread worldwide, thanks to immigrants. Today, it is loved everywhere for its taste and variety.
Regional Specialties
Each region in Italy has its own specialties, based on local ingredients and traditions.
For example, Northern Italy is known for creamy risottos, polenta, and rich sauces. The colder climate supports hearty dishes.
In Central Italy, you’ll find dishes based on tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh herbs. This area is famous for its pasta and rustic flavors.
Southern Italy offers lighter meals with seafood, fresh vegetables, and citrus. The Mediterranean influence shines through in many recipes.
Unique regional dishes include:
- Pesto from Liguria
- Osso Buco from Milan
- Arancini from Sicily
These flavors and dishes are vital to the culture and identity of Italian cuisine.
Signature Italian Dishes
Italian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and fresh ingredients. When dining at an Italian restaurant, you encounter a variety of signature dishes that are a must-try.
Popular Appetizers
Italian appetizers, or “antipasti,” set the stage for your meal.
Many places offer Bruschetta, which consists of grilled bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil. This dish is both fresh and flavorful.
Another favorite is Caprese Salad. It features slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious balance of taste and texture.
Arancini is another popular choice. These are fried rice balls stuffed with mozzarella and served with marinara sauce. The crispy outside and gooey cheese inside make for a delightful starter.
Classic Pasta Options
Pasta dishes are at the heart of Italian dining.
One classic is Spaghetti Carbonara. This dish includes spaghetti tossed in a creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and pancetta. The smooth, savory flavor is comforting and satisfying.
Lasagna is another timeless favorite. Layers of pasta, meat, cheese, and sauce bake together to create a hearty dish. The gooey cheese and rich meat sauce provide a filling option for anyone craving comfort food.
Fettuccine Alfredo stands out as well. Made with fettuccine pasta and a buttery cream sauce, it’s rich and indulgent. Many enjoy adding chicken or shrimp for extra protein.