16 Best Restaurants in Manchester, CT

Blake Walsh

Jul 23, 2023 • 15 min read

Fear not, fellow food lovers, as I've ventured through the lively streets, indulged in the local flavors, and collected my insights on the top dining destinations in Manchester.

Buckle up and prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey through some of the best restaurants in Manchester, Connecticut.

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How this article was written: Our team first analyzed the scores and feedback across major platforms like Google Maps, Yelp, and Trip Advisor, considering not only the ratings but also the consistency of positive feedback. Following this, we conducted interviews with over 30 local residents who have been to these restaurants to gather authentic, first-hand experiences. You can read more about our research process here.

While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Manchester that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.

The Bistro

One of the most delightful experiences I've had recently has been at The Bistro – Eat. Drink. Connect.® located at the Courtyard Hartford Manchester.

It has quickly become my go-to for a satisfying meal or a relaxing drink after a long day.

The modern yet cozy ambiance provides an inviting setting for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner.

Another highlight of The Bistro is the menu.

They serve various delectable dishes, each with unique flavors, and they cater to different dietary preferences.

I have tried several items, and each has exceeded my expectations.

Whether it's a mouthwatering steak for dinner or a healthy salad for lunch, you can always count on The Bistro to offer a delicious and satisfying meal.

In addition to the food, The Bistro also boasts an impressive bar.

They offer a diverse selection of spirits, cocktails, and wines.

Whether you're a fan of a classic Old Fashioned or prefer a refreshing mojito, The Bistro has something for everyone's taste.

If you're in the area and looking for a delightful dining experience, I'd have to say, The Bistro – Eat. Drink. Connect. ® at Courtyard Hartford Manchester would be my top recommendation.

You can find more details about the restaurant here.

October Kitchen

I can't even begin to express how much of a lifesaver October Kitchen has been for me and my family.

It all started when I was going through a tough time, and my sister gifted me a gift card from October Kitchen.

The nourishing, mouthwatering meals that they delivered touched not just my taste buds but my heart as well.

Now, it's my go-to place whenever I foresee a hectic week.

A simple order on Sunday evening ensures that my family has a variety of delectable meals waiting for us, all for a very reasonable price.

I usually opt for meal bundles of 10.

The portion sizes are generous, the meals delicious, and they have a fresh taste regardless of whether they're pre-frozen or not.

As a seafood lover, I can't resist their seafood meals.

Simultaneously, my family goes for classic comfort meals like pot roast and lasagne.

The fantastic part is that I have many excellent options, even with my gluten- and dairy-free diet.

Their website is so user-friendly every diet need is clearly labeled, making it easy for me to choose my meals.

All in all, October Kitchen has been a blessing in my life.

They've allowed me to avoid fast food while enjoying quick, easy, and comforting meals.

It's truly a complete package!

Hungry Pot BBQ & Hot Pot

I recently enjoyed dining at the Hungry Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot, a delightful new eatery in town that serves authentic Korean cuisine.

So, I stopped by on their opening day and enjoyed their main attraction, which is, no doubt, the food.

I tried both the hotpot and the bbq, but the bbq was my standout winner.

The delicious flavors reminded me of the authentic Korean bbq places I've tried.

In my opinion, this place offers a quality experience for a very reasonable price.

One unique feature that caught my attention at Hungry Pot was their fruit bar - a refreshing sight!

They offer a variety of fruits to cleanse your palate after a hearty meal.

I'm already looking forward to my next visit.

You can check out their menu and plan your visit on their website, hungrypotusa.com.

The Firestone Art Studio + Cafe

I love spending my weekends exploring the creative spaces around my town, and The Firestone Art Studio + Cafe is one of my favorites.

I walked in one day with a couple of friends, and it immediately stole our hearts with its positive and chill vibe.

The staff is super friendly and always makes us feel welcome.

They offer a variety of pottery and painting options, and you can see something for everyone.

I've tried my hand at pottery a few times, and let me tell you, if you've never tried it, it's an incredibly relaxing and fun activity.

But what makes The Firestone even more impressive is their cafe.

It’s always a delight to chill there after a session of creativity.

Their menu is quite diverse, and everything they serve is delicious.

I remember the first time I tried their summer blueberry lemonade; it was refreshing and tasted like a summer day.

And I've heard great things about their turkey sandwich too.

The Firestone is not just a cafe or an art studio. It’s a combination of both that makes it a unique place.

I can't wait to go back and try something new!

Chez Ben Diner

There's something about the Chez Ben Diner that takes me back to my youth's classic, no-frills breakfast joints.

This restaurant has an honest simplicity, a down-to-earth quality that mirrors the hearty, comfort food they serve.

For starters, their omelets are a thing of wonder.

Fluffy, generously stuffed, and cooked to perfection, they are a must-try.

The pancakes and home fries are no slouch, making up a breakfast feast that can easily power you through the day.

However, the real star of the show here is the breakfast poutine.

Now, I know what you're thinking.

Breakfast poutine?

Trust me, I had my doubts too, but one bite, and I was hooked.

The combination of eggs, cheese curds, gravy, and home fries is a hearty explosion of flavors, unlike anything you've had before.

And if you're feeling particularly indulgent, I highly recommend their stuffed French toast.

All in all, Chez Ben Diner is a beloved local spot that offers a solid, satisfying meal at very reasonable prices.

A visit here is more than just a meal. It’s a trip down memory lane.

So, whether you're just passing through or looking for a new breakfast joint, try Chez Ben Diner.

The Fresh Monkee - Manchester

As an avid fan of protein shakes, I've been a regular at The Fresh Monkee in various locations.

However, my experience at the Manchester location has been quite mixed.

I'll start with the positive first - their drinks are simply delicious.

Especially their chunky monkey shake, which has become my go-to choice.

The shop is always clean and welcoming, which is a huge plus.

And it's not just for us humans. They even have a special drink for our furry friends, which I find adorable.

One of my favorite drinks is the dark chocolate truffle with added Nutella.

My love for The Fresh Monkee and their delightful drinks will keep me coming back for more.

Hartford Road Pizza

You know, there's something special about finding that perfect slice of pizza.

And let me tell you, I've found mine at Hartford Road Pizza.

This family-owned pizza parlor has the best pizza I've ever tasted, from New Haven to Massachusetts.

And believe me. I've tried them all.

The first time I grabbed takeout from here was on a Wednesday, and I was hooked.

Their crust is something to marvel at - crispy, puffy, and flavorful.

It's a Greek-style pizza, which feels like a classic Italian grandma dish.

And the sauce?

It's homemade, rich, and reminds me of a lasagna sauce a bit.

Top it off with plenty of mozzarella and generous toppings; you've got the perfect pizza.

As an ardent vegan, it's hard to find a place to satisfy my pizza cravings without compromising the flavor.

Hartford Road Pizza hits the spot for me.

They don't skimp on veggies at all; every bite is super delicious.

Also, the bread is well done and not doughy like some Sicilian pizzas can be.

Plus, the cheese - it's an old-school Italian cheese that's not greasy at all.

But the clean draft lines and the choices they do have - Ten Penny Brewing’s Penny Weisse and Sam Adam's Boston lager - complement the food.

The warm, cozy atmosphere of the place adds to the overall experience.

Stop in, say hello, and get treated like family.

Trust me, once you've tried Hartford Road Pizza, you wouldn't want to go anywhere else.

I know I'll be back soon!

You'll see me there, enjoying my favorite pizza and saying cheers with a cold beer.

Machu Picchu Restaurant

I can't help but share my experience with this fantastic Peruvian eatery in town, the Machu Picchu Restaurant.

You must visit this restaurant if you're a fan of rich and diverse flavors.

My favorite at Machu Picchu Restaurant is the Chaufa; it comes in chicken, beef, mixed, and seafood.

Let me tell you. They are all mind-blowing.

The green sauce that comes with it is something I crave to put on every meal!

This one time, my mom and I decided to stop by this place after spending the day exploring the local Main Street.

We were looking for a quick bite but had the most delightful meal.

The food's freshness and excellent customer service made our day.

The place has become our favorite spot in Manchester, and we are always excited to return.

I also remember this other time when I placed a large order for a gathering.

Erica, the staff member who helped me with the order, was patient and professional.

The best part?

The food was ready exactly when she promised it would be.

The service never ceases to impress me.

The portions are always generous, and everything tastes so fresh!

I would recommend this place without a second thought - the Machu Picchu Restaurant is truly a gem in our city.

Teriyaki Box

When it comes to sushi, it's all about freshness.

And, I must say, Teriyaki Box truly understands that.

The first thing you notice when you enter the restaurant is no fishy smell.

It's clean and odor-free, indicating the fresh fish they serve.

One bite of their sushi, and you can taste the freshness. It's unlike anything else.

I've always been a big fan of 'All you can eat' deals, and Teriyaki Box offers just that.

It's a sushi lover's paradise, with a wide variety of sushi.

From the ocean roll to the spicy one, each roll is crafted meticulously and tastes fantastic.

And, let me tell you, their spicy tuna roll is a definite crowd-pleaser.

The ambiance is comfortable, making it a perfect spot for a date night and a get-together with friends.

If you're a sushi enthusiast like me, Teriyaki Box is a place you can't miss out on.

Eastern Pizza Co.

Having lived here for a while now, nothing excites me more than trying out new culinary experiences in the local area.

Enter Eastern Pizza Co., a unique fusion of Indian spices and traditional pizza.

The crust is naan based, thin yet crunchy, making it quite a delightful twist to the usual pizza dough.

The Indian spices in every bite are an irresistible treat for the taste buds.

I went ahead and tried their Chicken Fajita pizza, and boy, it was a hearty meal!

Bursting with flavors, it was a savory, spicy medley and tangy kick that left me wanting more.

The pizza may appear small, but trust me; it's pretty filling due to its generous cheese.

Despite these fascinating fusion experiences, not all were perfect.

So, if you enjoy a culinary adventure like me, Eastern Pizza Co. is worth a try.

Steve's Bagels

Just down the road at 150 Center St, you'll find a humble little joint called Steve's Bagels.

I'm not one for exaggeration, but I'll tell you this place whips up some of the best bagel sandwiches I've ever tasted.

I became a regular here because of their sheer variety of flavors.

Whether you're a classic cream cheese and lox fan or looking to elevate your breakfast with a sandwich, Steve's has got you covered.

I recommend the Spud on a jalapeño cheddar bagel or the Marlon on an Asiago pesto bagel.

The bagels always taste fresh and flavorful, the bacon is crispy, and the sandwiches are filling enough to start your day right.

The prices are also reasonable, considering the sandwiches' size and quality.

Steve's Bagels never disappoints regarding their food and service.

I hope I can comfortably sit inside next time I visit and savor my meal.

Maggie McFly's

I've been living in Manchester for a while now, and I've visited many restaurants, but one that stands out is Maggie McFly's.

This spacious bistro's modern vibe has quickly become one of my favorite spots.

You'll love the lively bar scene, the wide range of American food, and a diverse selection of craft beers on tap.

One of the things I like about Maggie's is their commitment to healthier options.

Their farm-to-table approach makes the food slightly pricier, but it's worth it.

Plus, they cater to different dietary preferences with vegan and gluten-free options.

The Buffalo Tots are a must-try! Their food choices are varied and can cater to everyone's taste.

I’d heartily recommend Maggie Mcfly's for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu.

Woodbridge Pizza Manchester

Living in this town for years, I've seen many pizza places come and go.

But the one that's managed to maintain its excellent quality throughout the years is Woodbridge Pizza Manchester.

This pizza parlor has remained unassuming, maintaining its classic charm while dishing out top-notch pies.

The first time I visited Woodbridge, I was blown away by the authentic Italian flavors.

Their pizzas are a savory feast of well-seasoned sauce, just the right amount of cheese, and generous toppings.

What's unique about them is the way they cook their pizzas in a proper oven that runs close to 1000°.

This gives the crust a thin, leathery texture with a slight crunch, and the toppings and crust edges a light singe.

The taste is simply stunning.

Not just pizzas, their traditional Italian menu is also worth exploring.

The chicken cordon bleu pizza, in particular, is one of my favorites.

It's larger than a small pizza you'd get at other places, makes a hearty meal, and tastes great even when reheated!

Woodbridge Pizza Manchester remains my go-to place for a satisfying Italian feast.

Guntur Mirchi

One of my culinary delights in the town is undoubtedly Guntur Mirchi, an Indian restaurant that serves authentic dishes.

I constantly find myself gravitating toward their flavorsome offerings.

Yes, I've had my fair share of Indian food, but something about Guntur Mirchi reels me in.

Their South Indian Dosa and Hakka-style dishes, for instance, are mouthwateringly good.

It's why Guntur Mirchi is one of the best places for Indian food in town.

Randy's Wooster Street Pizza

Living in the area, Randy's Wooster Street Pizza is my go-to for a casual dinner out.

This local pizza joint is known for its creative pizza toppings and the option for gluten-free pies.

Their buffalo wings and wicked sticks are amazing.

And the pizza? Delicious!

You get substantial food for what you pay; the flavor is always spot-on.

I also indulged in their 'all you can eat' deal on Wednesday.

For $13 per person, you get unlimited fried wings in any flavor and cheese or pepperoni pizza.

So if you're in town and craving some good grub, I suggest trying Randy's Wooster Street Pizza.

Just keep in mind it's all about choosing the right dish.

EA Teriyaki

I have been to EA Teriyaki a couple of times, and it's a pretty adequate place for a quick bite, especially if you're around Buckland Hills Mall.

This place reminds me of the former restaurant that used to be there in terms of ambiance and menu.

I particularly remember their steak and shrimp.

They were well done, and the teriyaki sauce complemented the flavors beautifully.

And they make a mean chicken teriyaki when all is said and done.

It's a hearty portion and makes for a delicious quick meal, especially if you're shopping in the mall.

I would definitely recommend giving their free sample a try if you're passing by.

Final Thoughts

Manchester is a culinary gem where you can find a variety of delicious cuisines.

The town boasts a variety of eateries that cater to different tastes and preferences, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

A tour around Manchester is a journey of the senses; each stop is a delightful reminder of the town's rich and diverse food scene.

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