Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in New Haven, Connecticut, United States
1. Clam Pie at Sally's Apizza
A classic New Haven-style thin-crust pizza loaded with clams and garlic.
- Local Ingredients: Uses fresh, local clams and ingredients.
- Iconic Establishment: A staple of New Haven pizza culture since 1938.
- Unique Style: Distinctive thin-crust style not found elsewhere.
2. White Clam Sauce Pasta at Pepe's
Pasta smothered in a rich, creamy white clam sauce.
- Traditional Recipe: Authentic New Haven-style white clam sauce recipe.
- Fresh Clams: Uses only the freshest, locally sourced clams.
- Iconic Competitor: Competing with Sally's for the title of 'best clam pie' in New Haven.
3. Frank Pepe's Tomato Pie
Thin-crust pizza topped with fresh tomatoes and cheese.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses just four simple ingredients: tomatoes, cheese, olive oil, and basil.
- Historic Significance: One of the earliest pizzerias in America, dating back to 1925.
- Signature Dish: Considered a classic among New Haven's many pizza offerings.
4. Louis' Lunch Hamburger
A simple hamburger served between two slices of white bread.
- Historic First: The first-ever restaurant to serve the hamburger.
- Original Recipe: Serves the same recipe since its inception in 1900.
- Single-Item Menu: Only serves hamburgers, with no other items on the menu.
5. Ives Steak House Steak
Grilled to perfection, Ives' steaks are a staple in New Haven.
- Quality Meat: Uses only USDA Prime beef for their steaks.
- Steakhouse History: One of the oldest continuously operating steakhouses in the U.S.
- Classic Ambiance: Dining in a historic, elegant setting reminiscent of the 1930s.
6. Mexican-style Pupusas at Elm City Pop
Traditional Central American dish made with corn masa filled with cheese or meat.
- Authentic Cuisine: Offers authentic, homemade pupusas.
- Social Enterprise: A social enterprise providing job opportunities for new Americans.
- Fresh Masa: Makes their own fresh masa daily.
7. New Haven-style Hot Dog at Cafe New Haven
A hot dog with onions, mustard, and celery salt served on a steamed bun.
- Iconic Topping: Unique combination of toppings that set it apart.
- Local Favorite: A beloved snack among locals and visitors alike.
- Cafe History: Serving the hot dog since 1928.
8. Chicken Carbonara at Zaza's in the Owl Shop
A twist on the classic carbonara with grilled chicken instead of bacon.
- Unique Spin: Substitutes grilled chicken for traditional bacon.
- Craft Beer Selection: Offers an extensive selection of craft beers to pair with your meal.
- Historic Setting: Located in a beautifully restored, historic building.
9. Pho Ga at Pho 2000
Vietnamese soup with chicken, rice noodles, and aromatic herbs.
- Authentic Recipe: Prepares authentic Vietnamese pho.
- Quick Service: Offers fast, efficient service for busy travelers.
- Customizable: Allows customers to customize their pho with various ingredients.
10. Shrimp and Grits at Caseus Fromagerie & Bistro
Creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp and cheese.
- Gourmet Twist: Elevates the classic Southern dish with a gourmet touch.
- Extensive Cheese Selection: A cheese-focused restaurant with an extensive selection.
- Wine Pairings: Offers wine pairings to complement your meal.
11. Falafel at Heirloom Food Coop
Crispy chickpea balls served in a pita with veggies and tahini sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: A delicious, protein-packed vegetarian dish.
- Local Produce: Uses locally sourced produce when available.
- Cooperative Model: A member-owned cooperative, supporting the local community.
12. Burger at Ordinary
Creative, locally sourced burger made with grass-fed beef.
- Locally Sourced: Uses only local and sustainable ingredients.
- Artisan Bread: Serves burgers on artisanal, house-baked buns.
- Craft Cocktails: Offers a unique and inventive cocktail menu.
13. Goat Cheese Pizza at Zest!
A creamy goat cheese-based pizza with roasted vegetables.
- Creative Twist: Features a unique, creamy goat cheese base.
- Farm-to-Table: Focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Seasonal Menu: Adjusts their menu to accommodate seasonal produce.
14. Tamarindo Chicken at La Luna Mexican Grill
Marinated and grilled chicken served with plantains and black beans.
- Authentic Flavors: Features traditional, flavorful Mexican dishes.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Offers a lively and colorful dining experience.
- Affordable Prices: Provides affordable, delicious meals for travelers.
15. Breakfast Burrito at Elm City Market
A hearty breakfast wrap filled with eggs, cheese, and your choice of proteins.
- Freshly Prepared: Cooks all meals to order for maximum freshness.
- Grab-and-Go Option: Offers convenient, grab-and-go options for busy travelers.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Uses locally sourced ingredients for their dishes.