21 Best Restaurants in West Hartford, CT
This article was written by local contributor Alexa Turner & edited by the Travel Lens team.
Welcome to the charming town of West Hartford, Connecticut!
As someone who has called this town home for quite some time, I can assure you that we have an incredible food scene just waiting for you to explore.
From cozy cafes to upscale bistros, we have a little bit of everything to satisfy your cravings.
Over the years, I've had the pleasure of dining at some of our finest establishments, and in this article, I'm excited to share my personal favorites.
So, grab your appetite and join me on a culinary journey through the best restaurants in West Hartford, Connecticut.
Poke City
As someone who lives near Poke City, I can't help but rave about this gem of a restaurant!
Whenever I'm in the mood for sushi, this is my go-to spot.
The employees here are always so polite, welcoming, and attentive - they really go above and beyond to make every visit special.
I've been to Poke City multiple times with my friends, and every time we have a fantastic experience.
The customer service is top-notch, and the food is always so delicious.
As a college student, I find the prices to be reasonable, and I'm always impressed with the generous portion sizes they offer.
The fish is fresh and tasty, and I often find myself taking leftovers home because I can't finish it all in one sitting!
One of my favorite things about this place is that it's locally owned and operated by a lovely couple who are always present, making sure everything runs smoothly.
I'm a huge fan of their sushi burrito and boba tea offerings.
Plus, they have plenty of gluten-free sauce options, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions like celiac disease.
Pick & Mix
I finally decided to try out Pick & Mix in West Hartford, as I'd heard quite a lot about it from friends and online reviews.
I was definitely not disappointed!
The place itself is located in a strip mall, but once you get inside, the dining area is cozy and well-maintained.
One of the best things about this Korean restaurant is their design-your-own bibimbap bowls.
I opted for a bowl with tofu, while my partner chose beef.
Both turned out to be incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
New Park Brewing
One of my favorite spots to hang out with friends in the area is New Park Brewing.
I remember this one particular night we went there, and it was just perfect.
The outdoor patio seating was plentiful, and the taproom had a fantastic ambiance.
We couldn't resist the wood-fired pizza, which was simply divine.
Since that night, I've been back several times and even attended a bridal shower held in their Barrel Room.
The event was well-coordinated, and the food and drinks were superb.
Shu Restaurant
As someone who loves exploring the local culinary scene, I had to visit Shu Restaurant after hearing rave reviews from fellow foodies.
Nestled in the corner of a plaza next to A Dong Market, this informal Chinese eatery has an old-world ambiance and offers select Sichuan dishes, along with wine and beer.
You can check out their menu here.
From the moment I walked in, I was impressed with the decor and attentive service.
The restaurant was clean and inviting, with a wide range of dishes to choose from.
Every dish I ordered was an authentic and flavorful taste of Sichuan cuisine.
One of my favorites was the Szechuan Style Rice Bean Jelly Noodle, which was simply divine!
For those who aren't fans of spicy food, don't worry.
Shu Restaurant offers a variety of spice levels to cater to everyone's taste buds.
I've also noticed that they accommodate all dietary restrictions, making it a great place for families.
Zephyr's Street Pizza
Oh, how I love visiting Zephyr's Street Pizza!
This place has quickly become my go-to spot for fantastic pizza in West Hartford.
I was searching for a great pizza place since moving to the area, and I'm thrilled that I discovered Zephyr's.
The Meat Sweats Pizza is just mind-blowingly delicious, and it never disappoints.
My kids adore the Pepperoni, and even my partner, who's usually very picky about pizzas, was blown away by the taste.
Plus, the atmosphere at Zephyr's is always fantastic - great music and that soft-serve ice cream option are just the cherry on top.
Nummy
I have been to Nummy a couple of times now, and I must say, their food is pretty amazing.
I particularly love their fried buns with condensed milk – they're an absolute delight!
My partner tried their mega hot pot and raved about it, while I opted for the eel rice bowl.
The portion was generous, but considering the price point, I expected nothing less.
I can't deny the quality of their dishes.
Their udon noodles are flavorful, with the perfect noodle texture, and their black sesame sticky rice balls are a melt-in-your-mouth dessert that I would definitely order again.
It's evident that this small business has its regulars, and I can see myself going back to satisfy my noodle cravings.
Song Restaurant
One of my favorite places to grab a bite in West Hartford is Song Restaurant.
This small eatery offers some of the best street food-inspired dishes at reasonable prices.
Whenever I visit, I make sure to order their signature soup dumplings and Dan Dan noodles - they never fail to hit the spot.
If you're in the mood for more variety, the shrimp and pork soup dumpling, Chengdu Wonton, and sliced braised beef pancake roll are also highly recommended.
The restaurant itself has a pleasant ambiance with tasteful decor, and it's always clean and welcoming.
Even though they only serve beer and wine, their Shirley Temple is a delightful non-alcoholic alternative.
What I love most about Song Restaurant is its convenient location in a charming neighborhood, making it easy to find parking and take a stroll around the nearby shops after a satisfying meal.
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
I had the pleasure of celebrating my fiancé's birthday at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar in West Hartford, and I couldn't have asked for a better dining experience.
As soon as we arrived, we were immediately seated at a table that was already set with a birthday card, which was a nice touch.
They made sure we had everything we needed, and we never felt rushed.
In fact, we enjoyed a three-course meal in less than two hours.
The food itself was exquisite - the steaks were dry-aged perfectly, and the side dishes were prepared with care and precision.
We also had the ahi tuna appetizer, which was absolutely delicious.
Restaurant Bricco
As a fan of Italian cuisine, I have been to Restaurant Bricco several times, and I must say, it never disappoints.
Every time I visit this charming spot, it feels like a little slice of Italy right in my hometown.
My favorite part about this restaurant is the ever-changing menu, which is printed daily based on the chef's choice.
This ensures that the dishes are always fresh and seasonal, making for an exciting dining experience each time.
They are friendly, personable, and always have a great sense of humor, making sure that each guest feels welcomed and relaxed.
The outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal in the warmer months, and I just love their fried calamari, ravioli, and Buffalo four-cheese pizza.
These dishes are so innovative and full of flavor, and I can't wait to go back to try their penne vodka next time.
The ambiance at Restaurant Bricco is simply fantastic, making it a popular destination for locals like myself and visitors alike.
Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen
One of my favorite places to dine in the area has always been Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen.
The sleek, modern space and the central open kitchen never fail to impress me and my friends.
The food is simply awesome, and the service is always top-notch.
I just love their perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts and moist pita bread.
The lamb in the meatballs is amazing, and I can't get enough of the stuffed chicken shawarma.
The cleanliness and well-stocked bathroom always make me feel comfortable and at ease.
Zohara is definitely my go-to place when I'm craving some upscale Mediterranean fare and craft cocktails.
The outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying a warm evening, and the variety of dishes caters to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Zaytoon's Bistro
One of my favorite places to dine in town is Zaytoon's Bistro.
It's a gem that offers the best Lebanese cuisine I've ever tasted.
As a Turkish coffee lover, I was delighted when he provided complimentary coffee paired with baklava.
It was so scrumptious!
The food at Zaytoon's Bistro is always fresh, full of flavor, and the portions are generous.
It was all so good, and she was a pleasure to talk to in general.
And let me tell you about the desserts - they are to die for!
The kunefe had me floored, so make sure you save room for dessert.
Pho 135
I've become a regular at Pho 135.
It's my go-to place for meeting up with friends for lunch or grabbing a comforting bowl of pho after a long day.
I must say the food here is always absolutely wonderful, and the service is consistently on point.
One thing that I find quite interesting about Pho 135 is their wall of fame challenge, where you have to eat an enormous bowl of pho within a certain amount of time.
Although I haven't gathered the courage to try it myself, it's always fun to see others attempt it.
Personally, I can never resist ordering their delicious spring rolls, and their shaking beef is another must-try dish.
What sets Pho 135 apart from the rest is their commitment to using fresh ingredients and homestyle recipes.
Their steaming hot broth is packed with flavor, and their noodles are incredibly chewy and tasty.
The vegetables are always fragrant and crispy, and they pay close attention to detail when taking your order.
I often ask for a side of chili oil to add a little extra kick to my pho.
Another great thing about this place is that their broth is so good it doesn't even need any seasoning.
The noodles are always cooked well, and the meat is tender.
I highly recommend trying the oxtail.
And if you're a fan of Vietnamese coffee, theirs is quite decent.
Flora
One of my favorite spots in town has to be Flora.
The warm and earthy vibe of this restaurant always makes me feel right at home.
Whenever I go there, I know I'm in for a treat with their delicious plant-based menu and refreshing cocktails.
Their juice bar is pretty amazing too!
And speaking of dining, I must say that their food is nothing short of exceptional.
Their vegan shrimp, gnocchi, and Mac and cheese are to die for and don't even get me started on the appetizers like the fried heart of palm.
Trust me when I say Flora never disappoints.
Apart from the mouthwatering food, the ambiance at Flora is truly something special.
I love to sit at a high top by the window, watching people pass by as I sip on my cocktail.
The restaurant is located on the second floor, offering an amazing view of the street below, making the whole experience even more enjoyable.
Bert's Pizzeria and Mexican Cuisine
I recently visited Bert's Pizzeria and Mexican Cuisine with my family, and I must say, it was a delightful experience.
My dad, who is usually quite picky about his food, was thrilled with the lasagna he ordered, along with a side of sausage and their delicious sauce.
As for myself, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they offer gluten-free pizza options.
I ordered one with eggplant, ricotta cheese, broccoli, and olives, and it was just perfect - finally, a gluten-free pizza that was a normal size!
At a previous event, the Hartford Food Festival, I had already encountered Bert's Pizzeria and their amazing Italian pizza.
The wait in line was well worth it once I got my hands on their cheesy, rich pizza with great pepperoni.
It was a very good Italian pizza, not much different than other top-notch ones, but I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a tasty slice.
Lastly, I decided to try something new during my recent visit - the Grandma Sicilian Pizza with mozzarella and ricotta cheese.
It also came with sauce, parmesan cheese, herbs, garlic, and olive oil.
I was thoroughly impressed!
The crust was delightfully chewy, and the toppings were perfectly balanced.
Best of all, it arrived fresh and piping hot.
Park Lane Pizza
I have been going to Park Lane Pizza for over 20 years.
Just a few weeks ago, I ordered two ham grinders and enjoyed them.
I visit Park Lane Pizza at least twice a week and couldn't stop thinking about their amazing flavors.
This classic pizza place also has a warm service that keeps people coming back.
BIRDCODE Hot Chicken
Let me tell you about my favorite spot for hot chicken sandwiches: BIRDCODE Hot Chicken.
It's honestly one of the best I've ever had, especially around here.
The chicken breast is thick, crispy, and really juicy.
I usually get it medium, which has a nice kick without being too overwhelming for those with a lower heat tolerance.
If you love spicy food, though, I recommend trying the hot option.
Now, if you're up for a challenge, their highest spice level is sure to leave a slow burn in your mouth.
I eat spicy food daily, and the codebreaker still has a lingering effect on me.
Not only are their sandwiches amazing, but their nuggets and banana pudding are also delicious.
My brother usually gets the nuggets, and I can't resist the pudding – even when I'm in the car!
Their ranch is amazing, and for soda drinkers, they offer Hosmer soda.
The service is always excellent, and the restaurant is clean.
Shish Kebab House of Afghanistan
As a fan of Middle Eastern cuisine, I decided to give Shish Kebab House of Afghanistan a visit.
From the moment I walked in, I knew this place was different.
The traditional Afghan restaurant is adorned with oriental rugs and offers live folk music, which immediately sets a cozy and warm atmosphere.
I enjoyed a cocktail while perusing the menu, and the drink itself was quite good.
The items on the menu were absolutely delicious.
As for the kebabs, I found them to be tender and flavorful.
Rockledge Grille
Recently, I attended a special event at Rockledge Grille and discovered a new gem in the city.
The first thing that caught my eye was the stunning view from the upper-level outer patio.
It was so refreshing to find such a scenic spot amidst a busy city center.
I can see the venue being perfect for smaller gatherings.
The party tray food offered during the event was fair, and I could tell that the bar was well-stocked for anyone who wanted to enjoy a drink.
I also appreciated the ample parking available.
A few days later, I decided to give Rockledge Grille another try and went with a few friends to hit a bucket of balls at the golf course.
We then headed to the grille for happy hour.
I must say, the food and service were exceptional.
Our dishes came out quickly, and everything was cooked to perfection.
It turned out to be a very fun and enjoyable experience.
Other Restaurants Nearby
King & I
My friends and I absolutely love dining at King & I Thai Restaurant here in Hartford.
Not only does this charming, modest small house serve up some of the best Thai food in the area, but the atmosphere is also cozy and welcoming.
From their homemade sauces to the amazing salad with ginger and garlic sauce, I've never been disappointed with a meal here.
One of the things that stands out is how fresh the food is and the clean establishment.
The service is quick, which I appreciate, especially on busy nights.
Some of my favorite dishes to order are the steamed chicken dumplings, pineapple fried rice with duck, and the delicious beef panang curry.
And don't forget to try their strong and sweet Thai tea.
The snapper is also a must-try!
Han Hot Pot House
Oh, I just love going to Han Hot Pot House!
It's a chic, low-lit Chinese restaurant that specializes in mini and traditional tabletop hot pots.
I went there last week with my friends, and we had a great time trying out different food items and combinations.
You can check their website here to explore their menu.
I was impressed with the variety they offer, especially their Tom Yum soup base.
One thing I particularly love about Han Hot Pot House is their sauce bar.
There are so many options to choose from, and it's kept very clean.
They also have an online ordering system through QR codes on the tables, which comes in handy since they can get pretty busy at times.
Ichiban Japanese & Korean
I absolutely love dining at Ichiban Japanese & Korean - it's one of my go-to places whenever I crave authentic Korean and Japanese flavors.
Their menu is extensive, featuring delicious hot pots, bento boxes, and so much more.
I've been here several times and have never been disappointed with their offerings.
My favorite part of the meal is when they serve the small complimentary appetizers, which I believe are called banchan.
These little dishes are a treat to the taste buds and set the tone for the rest of the meal.
I've tried their Jampong, Chapchae, and seafood fried noodles, and they were all exceptional and well worth the price.
I also highly recommend their kalbi and kimchi jjigae, which are incredibly tender and tasty.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a popular spot for business meetings or just a casual lunch.
Final Thoughts
I can say from my own experience that West Hartford truly has an amazing and diverse food scene.
Whether you're craving sushi, pizza, or a delicious steak, West Hartford has got you covered.
Make sure to explore this vibrant culinary town and treat your taste buds to some unforgettable meals.
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