15 Best Restaurants in Stratford, CT
Stepping into the culinary landscape of Stratford, Connecticut, feels like stepping into a delicious dream.
The small-town charm seamlessly merges with a surprisingly diverse dining scene, tantalizing the palates of food lovers like myself.
It's the kind town of place where you can savor mouthwatering slices at a laid-back pizzeria one night, and the next, enjoy an exquisite, fine dining experience.
Every visit to a Stratford restaurant feels like a delightful culinary adventure, and the choices are as rich and varied as the town's history itself.
So, why not whet your appetite and join me on this gastronomic tour of the best restaurants in Stratford, Connecticut?
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Stratford, CT 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.
El Cafecito Deli
Ever get that craving for a hearty, steamy burrito, loaded with juicy chicken or succulent beef?
Trust me, the quest for the perfect burrito ends here at El Cafecito Deli.
It's a regular spot for food enthusiasts like me, who appreciate great taste and warm service.
My experience of their chicken and beef burritos was nothing short of heavenly.
Sticky white rice, beans, and the most tender and flavourful chicken all wrapped in a warm grilled tortilla.
The beef was just as enticing with tender pieces of meat, and the best part?
They cater to your preferences!
I'm not a fan of onions or tomatoes, and they made sure my burrito was devoid of those - a clear testament to their excellent customer service.
But wait, there's more!
Have you ever bitten into a Cuban sandwich so delicious that it transcends all your previous experiences?
Well, that's precisely what happened when I tried their Cuban sandwich.
It was an explosion of flavors that still had my mouth watering.
The Tasty Yolk
Ever had one of those brunches that leaves you speechless?
The ones where you can't help but mutter something like "holy s**t!" because the food is so phenomenal?
That's exactly the experience you'll find at The Tasty Yolk.
The restaurant itself has a clean, minimalistic look, the color scheme on point, and visually pleasing to the eye.
I've come to realize that this place isn't just a hit with me; it's a local favorite – there's never a dull moment, with customers flowing in and out consistently.
What I love about The Tasty Yolk is that it caters to all types of brunch-goers.
Whether you're planning to eat in or take out, their service is quick and punctual, and their food - oh, their food - is nothing short of amazing!
Their ingredients are super fresh, and the food comes out piping hot, which I find to be a great touch.
And the best part?
They're happy to customize your order if you're not a fan of a particular ingredient.
As someone with an egg allergy, this flexibility is a godsend for me.
Their menu is an assortment of mouthwatering dishes, but my personal favorites are the Loaded Potato and the SS Cassidy.
The latter is a delightful mix of tender brisket on toasted brioche with pepper onion jam and cheddar.
Add a bit of pickled cabbage to balance the richness of the meat, and you've got yourself a divine meal.
One thing that always amuses me about The Tasty Yolk is their production line.
It's like a well-choreographed dance – they don't miss a beat.
Coupled with their competitive pricing, it's easy to see why this place has become a staple for my Sunday brunches.
The Parlor
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I have an insatiable appetite for a good slice of pizza.
Over the years, I've tried countless pizzerias, and while many have been good, few have managed to capture my heart the way The Parlor has.
It's my go-to spot, whether I'm dining in or taking out.
Speaking of their pizzas, it's always an epicurean delight.
The toppings are generous and fresh, a testament to their commitment to quality.
Every bite is a mouthful of deliciousness, whether you're a meat lover like me or a vegan.
Yes, you read that right.
The Parlor isn't just a traditional pizzeria, they've made it a point to cater to everyone, including those with dietary restrictions.
I remember this one time when I invited a vegan friend to join me for a meal there.
She was skeptical at first, assuming her options would be limited.
But The Parlor proved her wrong.
Not only did they have a vegan pizza, but they also had a full range of vegan selections.
My friend raved about her meal the entire evening, and she wasn’t the only one enjoying their food.
The atmosphere was lively, filled with the sound of satisfied customers and chattering friends and family.
One of the things that sets The Parlor apart is the service.
Whether I'm dining in or picking up an order, they make sure the experience is smooth and enjoyable.
¡Ay Güey! Cafe & Cocina Mexicana
Let me tell you about this hidden gem in our town, ¡Ay Güey!
Cafe & Cocina Mexicana.
One step inside, and you'll be struck by its spacious interior and the charming outdoor section that's perfect for those sunny afternoons.
My friends and I decided to try their nachos with chicken on our first visit.
Boy, were we in for a surprise!
The plate was huge; the chicken was seasoned to perfection and cooked till it was tender and juicy.
It was a feast!
As a salsa verde fan, I was pleasantly surprised by their salsa roja.
It was just the right side of spicy and a delightful addition to the nachos.
During my next visit, I tried their quesadilla.
It was toasted perfectly, and unlike other places, it wasn't greasy or soggy at all.
In fact, every dish I've tried at ¡Ay Güey!
has been an absolute hit.
Their chicken quesadilla, grilled chicken, rice, and beans, and the steak tostada are dishes that I highly recommend.
The flavors are fresh, and it's clear that they put their heart into every dish.
One unique aspect of eating at ¡Ay Güey!
is the way they serve their appetizers.
For instance, their Chips and Guacamole are served in a single dish.
It's a fun way to share food but can be a bit difficult if you're in a larger group.
The guacamole and onions/tomato aren't mixed together, which takes a bit of getting used to, but it's a minor thing in the grand scheme of things.
Dal Mare Pizzeria
"If you are like me, a resident who's been around the block a time or two in search of the perfect slice of pizza, your quest is over.
The answer lies in Dal Mare Pizzeria.
Stumbling upon this slice of pizza heaven was, to put it mildly, a delightful surprise.
On one of my recent visits, I succumbed to the irresistible allure of a burrata panini and a slice of their divine cheese pizza.
As if my tastebuds weren't already tantalized enough, I spotted their Sicilian pizza, a round-shaped pie cut into delightful triangles.
Naturally, I had to try it.
The regular slice of pizza was so delicious that it didn't make the journey home.
The flavorful blend of buttery mozzarella, fresh sauce, and a delightfully chewy crust stopped me in my tracks.
It was like I was instantly transported back to the Bronx.
The Sicilian slice was the perfect dish to reheat at home, a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.
Whilst awaiting my Sicilian slice to warm up, I dove into the burrata panini.
To describe it as 'delicious' would be a gross understatement.
Every bite was a symphony of flavor, with burrata cheese, chicken cutlet, prosciutto, arugula, and hot honey nestled between fresh focaccia bread.
My Gyro Turkish Cuisine
It's not every day that you come across a gem like My Gyro Turkish Cuisine.
Right here in Stratford, we locals have a slice of Turkey with the authentic, lip-smacking delicacies this place has to offer.
Let me tell you about my experience.
The moment you walk in, you are met with a wave of warm, inviting aromas that truly whet your appetite.
I remember ordering the large Falafel plate on one of my visits, and boy, was it heavenly!
The taste, the texture, everything about it was simply top-notch, among the best I've had in town.
A visit to My Gyro is not just about the food but also about the exceptional service.
I recall the patience of the man who took our orders, answering all our questions with a genuine smile.
The kitchen, too, is fabulous, churning out these wonderful dishes.
And the best part is, the food is great and fairly priced, giving you the true value of every penny you spend.
Now, I can't stop myself from gushing about my favorites.
The chicken kebabs are a must-try - tender pieces of chicken packed with so much flavor they're to die for.
Their babaganoush, served with warm pita bread, is another delight.
And the perfect end to this gastronomic journey is their in-house baklava.
Vira Deli
Oh boy!
Where do I even start?
My taste buds have been on a thrilling ride ever since I discovered Vira Deli.
Nestled in our little town, this bustling deli has become a staple for my weekly food adventures.
The first thing you notice upon entering is the inviting aroma of grilled meat, it's irresistible.
That said, their steak and cheese sandwich is a must-try.
It is a delicious blend of rich flavors that satisfies the soul.
The steak is cooked to perfection, juicy and seasoned just right.
Pair it with their crispy chicken tenders and fries, and you've got a feast.
Their fries are unlike any other - perfectly golden and crispy.
However, it's not just about the meat.
I was pleasantly surprised by their vegetarian options.
The Falafel, in particular, stood out for me.
It was crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavors that exceeded my expectations.
The prices are reasonable too.
With a variety of delicious options to choose from, Vira Deli caters to all taste buds and budgets.
But let me give you a heads-up; you might want to skip their potato salad.
It was a little disappointing as it's pretty basic with just potatoes and mayo, but it certainly doesn't overshadow their fantastic meat and vegetarian menu.
The service is another reason to love this place.
Delizioso Brick Oven Pizza
When you step into Delizioso Brick Oven Pizza, it's like walking into a warm hug from a beloved Italian grandmother.
This snug little pizzeria is my favorite haunt, a perfect blend of cozy decor and tantalizing aromas wafting from the brick oven.
The service is as great as the food.
On a bustling Friday night, you might expect a little chaos, but you would be wrong.
They even surprised me with a free dessert once, a delightful doughnut that was fried to perfection.
It was a simple gesture but a testament to the kindness and hospitality that's the norm at Delizioso.
The food, oh the food!
My usual order is the White Pizza with crispy bacon.
The quality of the crust, dough, and sauce is unmatched.
But I also like to mix things up, creating my own pizza with a medley of fresh toppings like mushrooms, spinach, and hot oil.
If you're feeling adventurous, don't miss out on their brussel sprout appetizer, a dish so scrumptious that it could easily convert any sprout skeptic.
I've seen Delizioso grow, finding its foothold in our community.
True, they offer a wide array of dishes which might seem overwhelming, but trust me, everything I've tried so far has been delightful.
Paradise Pizza Restaurant
"Thank God it's Thursday!"
That's my usual cheer whenever the week's stress takes its toll on me.
My favorite place to unwind?
Paradise Pizza Restaurant in our quaint town of Stratford.
I remember last Thursday night, it was a particularly grueling week, and all I needed was a place to relax.
The two amazing women behind the bar served with such an infectious enthusiasm that immediately lifted my spirit.
Their friendly and humorous nature made the evening entertaining, to say the least.
Not to mention the super tasty salt and pepper wings and Greek pizza they served; it was a delicious treat!
Paradise Pizza prides itself on authenticity and quality, and it shows in their delicious Greek pizza, which is undeniably the best in the area.
But it's not only the pizza that makes this place stand out; the extensive menu of Italian and Greek fare is equally impressive.
I often find myself lost in their wide selection of salads, apps, and entrees.
The atmosphere is always electric, especially during a sporting event.
Just imagine enjoying your favorite pizza with a cold draft beer while cheering for your favorite team amidst the lively crowd.
It doesn't get any better than that!
When it comes to pizza, Paradise never disappoints.
The cheese pizza with extra sauce, fresh garlic, and olives is simply divine.
And if you want something unique, try Andy’s Cheeseburger pizza.
It's a small yet fulfilling treat that tastes like a Big Mac in the best way possible.
House of Flavorz
Ever been on a culinary journey that transports you to another world?
Well, I had the pleasure of experiencing just that when I visited House of Flavorz.
The first thing that hits you as you walk through the door is the inviting aroma of the kitchen, a wonderful preview of the deliciousness that awaits you.
On my multiple visits to this neighborhood eatery, I've had the chance to sample a variety of dishes.
From the crunchy Birria tacos that send your taste buds on a Mexican extravaganza to the southern comfort of collard greens and Mac and cheese, every bite is an exploration of flavors.
However, I must confess that my experiences here haven't always been perfect.
I once found a piece of metal in my fried fish, and another time, my candy yams were undercooked.
I also had an issue with my order once when my tacos didn't come with the requested pico de gallo and avocado.
This, coupled with the delightful food, makes it a place that I still enjoy visiting.
TD Vietnam Palace
You know those hidden gems you stumble upon and then can't imagine your life without?
TD Vietnam Palace is that for me.
It's this family-owned Vietnamese restaurant tucked away in our town that delivers standard Vietnamese meals with a mellow ambiance.
They're always ready to recommend their best dishes, ensuring your dining experience is nothing short of excellent.
You can tell every dish is prepared with utmost care.
Their Pork/Shrimp Summer Roll and Beef Pho are some of my all-time favorites.
The flavors are authentic, rich, and simply irresistible.
Their Pineapple fried rice and homemade coffee mousse cake are a special treat, worth every penny of the most expensive $15:50 price tag on the menu.
And let's not forget the Jasmine tea served in the stay-hot pot; it adds such a classy touch to the whole experience.
Now, as someone with kids, I appreciate that TD Vietnam Palace has something to offer for everyone.
My children absolutely adore the fried tofu, seafood spring roll, and noodle salad.
They even have large booths to seat groups of six, perfect for family outings or social get-togethers.
The restaurant is immaculately clean and beautifully decorated and offers a fun and quirky touch - a train connecting to the restaurant.
It's these little things that make the place so endearing.
TD Vietnam Palace provides not just amazing food but a whole dining experience that leaves you feeling well taken care of.
House of Pho
"Good food is good mood" - that's an adage I've always lived by.
And when it comes to good food, House of Pho never disappoints.
Located in the heart of our town, this restaurant is more than just an eatery - it's a slice of Vietnamese culture right here in our hometown.
From the moment you step into the House of Pho, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
It's a place that feels like home, filled with the tantalizing aroma of authentic Vietnamese dishes.
I've had the pleasure of dining here multiple times, and each visit has been a treat to the senses.
His generosity is evident not just in his cordial nature but also in the portions of food served.
I highly recommend the marinated fried chicken with rice - a dish that has a special place in my heart and my stomach.
It is a delectable delight, a true testament to the freshness and cleanliness of the ingredients used.
The restaurant's pho is a must-try!
Named the 'Pho Basic', this dish is a heartwarming bowl of flavorful broth, which, in my opinion, is the best in town.
Another standout is their unique take on edamame, sautéed with crispy garlic and chili oil.
Each bite dances with flavors on your palate, making you want more.
As for the lunch specials - they're a steal!
A complete meal - appetizer, entrée, and a drink - all for just $18.10.
My favorite is pairing the lunch special with the Vietnamese iced coffee, a beverage that packs a punch.
Oar & Oak
Whenever I'm in need of a culinary retreat, Oar & Oak is my go-to spot.
You ask why?
Well, let's just say it's more than just a restaurant.
I'm going to walk you through not just a meal but an entire experience I've had here, and you'll get the gist.
It was a usual Friday evening, and I was in the mood for something hearty, comforting, and of course, gluten-free.
The '63 Stingray grilled chicken sandwich on a gluten-free roll was my pick for the day.
It was topped with a unique onion jam and aioli; the flavors were so fantastic they made my taste buds dance with joy.
The buffalo wings served here are not your average wings.
They were the crispiest, meatiest ones I’ve ever had, hands down the best in town.
Then came the side dishes, ah!
The brussels sprouts were phenomenal in both quality and price.
They have a knack for turning something so simple into a dish that's simply irresistible.
However, I must admit their croquettes were a bit on the pricier side.
Six little pieces for 12 bucks might not seem much, but trust me; they’re worth every penny.
Now, the main course; on this particular day, I opted for the Crispy Duck Confit and the Steak Marsala garnished with crispy potatoes and brussels sprouts.
Just imagine a dive bar with fine dining; that's exactly how it felt.
The brussels sprouts were to die for, and the steak marsala sauce, oh boy, it was so delicious I asked for an extra bowl.
One thing that set me off was when I got quail eggs instead of duck eggs on my burger.
Despite the mix-up, the burger was fabulous.
I guess sometimes it's these little surprises that make the dining experience more interesting.
Other Restaurants Nearby
Trattoria 'A Vucchella & Wood Oven Pizza (Bridgeport)
I still remember the first time I walked into Trattoria 'A Vucchella & Wood Oven Pizza; it felt like I'd been transported straight to Italy.
The rustic-chic interiors of the restaurant, accentuated by vibrant art and vintage photographs, give it a modern yet intimate feel.
On busy Friday nights, the streets outside the restaurant are bustling, but there's a parking garage conveniently located next door.
With the warmth radiating from the wood oven and the aroma of classic Italian cuisine wafting through the air, the restaurant has an undeniable charm.
Their menu is a delight for any food lover.
You start with bread served with extra virgin olive oil, and the selection of pasta dishes is just sublime.
I've tried a few of them, and each one was better than the one before.
The lasagna, gnocchi, risotto, and Margherita pizza are all cooked to perfection.
But the real treat is their homemade tiramisu.
Rich, creamy, and decadent, it's to die for!
If you're not a fan of tiramisu, their light strawberry gelato is a great alternative to end your meal on a sweet note.
I also highly recommend their brick oven pizza and meatballs - they're some of the best I've had.
CJs Jerk Center Jamaican Restaurant (Bridgeport)
Let me tell you, every time I've set foot in CJs Jerk Center Jamaican Restaurant, I've never been disappointed.
The food is always fresh, authentic, and packed with flavor.
The oxtails, I must say, are particularly exceptional.
They're so tender and succulent that they quite simply melt in your mouth.
And the portion size?
More than enough to sate even the hungriest of appetites.
Not only is the food top-notch, but CJ himself is an absolute gem.
He's always there, flashing his signature smile while working tirelessly to ensure his customers are happy.
It's not just a restaurant to him, it's a labor of love, and that shines through in every dish that he prepares.
If oxtails aren't your thing, don't worry, there's a plethora of other options to satisfy your tastebuds.
My personal favorites include the white rice with cabbage and the beef and veggie patties.
And if you happen to be there on a day when they have fried chicken (breast only), don't pass it up.
It's divine.
The most popular dish, however, is the jerk chicken.
It's so good that it's become something of a local legend.
Trust me, if you're craving jerk, this is the place to be.
Final Thoughts
Stratford, Connecticut, offers an incredible range of dining options to cater to various tastes and preferences.
From the authentic Mexican cuisine at ¡Ay Güey! Cafe & Cocina Mexicana to the mouthwatering Turkish dishes at My Gyro, there's always a new culinary adventure to embark on in this town.
Each visit to these restaurants is akin to a mini vacation, a delightful escape from the usual.
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