unique dining experiences in ct

Grab the family for a memorable drop-in the kids can even play on the playscape! From Gourmet Food Tasting Tours to Golf Lessons with a Pro, Skydiving thrills to Sunset Campaign Sails or even NASCAR Driving experiences, you are sure to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list! This spot was added to the list of wacky restaurants because you are actually allowed to write on the walls. Nestled off the beaten path in Wilton, Connecticut, sits one of only two national historic sites devoted to the visual arts. And one of the most quaint and historical experiences is riding along the Connecticut River by train and boat. Featuring, Whats the next best thing to growing your own fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, and more? The Magic Time Machine is a unique restaurant in Dallas with costumed characters and fun themed dining areas. New Britain was later the source for not only many manufactured goods in the 1800s, but also the machines and know-how to operate them. This resulted in the dissolution of the monarchy and led Oliver Cromwell into power. The third smallest state in the USA, Connecticut packs more into its tiny borders than one might expect. Looking for the best restaurants in Connecticut? Visit a world class museum Connecticut is packed full of great museums and a number of them serve to celebrate the state's long and illustrious nautical heritage. 15. Today, that macabre relic is viewable in the chapel on the island: the severed arm of St Edmund. One of the most unique and well-known displays of New England cuisine is the clambake. the birds bring a bit of whimsy to this sandwich shop. No plane ticket needed to travel to this slice of Germany. Unique culinary institutions cropped up in every corner of the state. Complete with a 36 by 9.5 foot mural of the ancient German city of Heidelberg, waiters in traditional German attire, authentic German cuisine and even tables with snow rails to keep your beverages cold, this spot will take you across the globe. But one of the most interesting and unique restaurants in New Haven is the home of future sushi. 3 Beds. TV screens inside Mystic Pizza run the movie on a continuous loop, in case you need a refresher. , the largest Native American museum in the world. A fun and relaxed atmosphere with some seriously good eats. If you're looking to experience one in Doha, you'll have to head up to the Lusail Food Arena for Ink Caf. Its why The Nature Conservancy deemed the Connecticut River Valley one of the last great places on Earth. If youre looking for something truly unique to coastal Connecticut, look no further than the seasonal restaurant, the Place. Check out this pizza filling station that has something special going on. The building began as a textile mill in the early 1800s, became a speakeasy in the 1920s, and then transformed into an inn. And this unique destination remains a major draw for those in the know in the Connecticut summer months. Infinity Hall is home to a vibrant restaurant and bar scene as well as a fabulous four-star menu. Lively accordion music, waitstaff in Lederhosen, and bellowed drinking mantras all add to the experience at this unusual place. Opened in 2005, the all-glass restaurant has a menu consisting of fresh seafood, beef rib eye, veal, and other gourmet items. The flavor names. Open May through October in Guilford, this entirely open-air camp kitchen cooks all its dishes over a fire pit since it opened in 1971. 12 Connecticut Travel Resolutions for 2023, Great Places for Workcations in Connecticut, 34 Things to Do in Connecticut This March, Winter - Celebrating Places to Dine and Drink in Connecticut, Stories > Set in a repurposed car garage, Olive Oyls brings delicious carry-out bites to the heart of walkable downtown Essex. Both locals and tourists flock to La Caverna for its intimate and relaxed dining and memorable food experience. Greenwich, CT, has fine French dining in abundance. Get more stories delivered right to your email. From being the second state to legalize same, Putting together your 2023 priorities? Bun Lais mother, Japanese immigrant Yoshiko Lai, opened. The Board Room is the first board game cafe in Connecticut. And, as befits, a small state, theyre all close enough to our Greenwich, Connecticut, bed and breakfast to be an easy day trip. 02 of 10 And because theyre not as famous as the beaches in other states, theyre also much calmer and quieter. Text: (475) 263-3732 Some of the most unique points of interest here include: Connecticut offers a culinary tour of historic and futuristic firsts. We pride ourselves on making things work, and making them work well. What was once a muddy country road in a backwoods town is now one of the most cosmopolitan shopping districts in America. $2,300 /mo. This constellation of islands vary in size, but none larger than a few miles. For those of you who'd like a more hair-raising dining experience, London in the Sky might be for you. Connecticut packs plenty of variety in its approximately 100 miles from Greenwich to Stonington. But the proceeds go to a number of charities. I came to appreciate Connecticut as an adult. Located in the heart ofPutnams Antique District, youll find the menu and atmosphere designed with a courthouse and antique theme in mind. Don't let the wacky name fool you, there is nothing silly about their food. 10. Today, OKO Kitchen offers an innovative take on traditional Japanese food and sushi. With one of the earliest public school systems in the country, Connecticut has long had a high literacy rate. Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History New Haven. Inventive restauranteurs have transformed all sorts of landmark venues into showcases for fine food, whether it's a brick-oven pizza, fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, or a classic hamburger (We invented it! Its why The Nature Conservancy deemed the Connecticut River Valley one of , An early 19th century example of that eccentricity is, William Gillette was even the source of the phrase, , A system of hidden mirrors for spying on public rooms from the master bedroom, Strange door knobs, locks, and light switches, A steam engine and railroad tracks that once circumnavigated the property, Walking trails featuring wooden trestles and arched bridges, 13. Some Other Fantastic French Restaurants Hug the Connecticut Shoreline: Union League Cafe, New Haven This writer has memories of going to Union League Cafe as a child. Check out these places for a dining experience youll never forget. HOURS. Today, Louis Lunch has occupied the same location since the 1970s. Built in 1911, this theatre is the oldest continuously performing summer theatre in the United States. Tell us what interests you most (check all that apply), Connecticut is a place for everyoneso all our fun is LGBTQ+ friendly fun. Shortly before the Parkway ends after crossing the Housatonic River, youll find a small museum in Stratford devoted to the design and construction of this bucolic holdever through Fairfield County. Prepare to be amazed by Las Vegas' signature dining experiences that just hit different. With options from blue crab, lobster and shrimp to mouthwatering sauces like Cajun, lemon pepper and garlic butter, your seafood fix will be satisfied and the experience will be unlike any other. But what other state claims to have the largest flea market in New England? Its now a certified National Trust Historic Site, open May 1 to November 30. The state capital deserves its own guide. The food here is pretty good. Treat your tastebuds to more of Chef Tyler Anderson's cuisine with a bite atPorrn & Pia, a Spanish inspired restaurant and wine bar in the historicGoodwin Hotelin Hartford, CT. OnceWallingfords first public library, this restaurant combines the essence of historic downtown Wallingford with the old-world traditions of Portuguese and Mediterranean cuisine. How about brunching in a fire station? Head to the Lobster Bin in downtown Greenwich for what is arguably the best lobster roll in Connecticut. 14 Unusual Dining Experiences in Connecticut. Enter if you dare. Fork & Fire 364 American (New) Cocktail Bars $$ This is a placeholder The unique experience of a fancy multiple course meal outside on a picturesque farm comes at a price. And Bun Lai has created an innovative menu serving local invasive species. Another Mystic contribution to the list of unique things to do in Connecticut, Olde Mistick Village is more than just a tourist trap. Actors are dressed like guests and begin the night seated amongst the crowd anyone in the room may become part of the show! has occupied the same location since the 1970s. Have as much fun preparing your dish as you do eating it! Silver Diner - Cherry Hill This classic diner has its own jukebox. A jutting coastline, a . Our state has played host to artistic minds for millennia. From being the second state to legalize same, Putting together your 2023 priorities? in 1982. And its been self-supporting for the entirety of its history. There, they can watch a simulated hunt by the ancestors of the Mashantucket Pequots, complete with the sound of creaking ice and winds. Making sure life's most-important celebrations are as awesome as possible is our job at Unique Dining. As far as historic attractions focused on the performing arts goes, much of the attention goes to the Goodspeed Opera House. Of Culture Nigerian Bedford-Stuyvesant Perfect For: Special Occasions Date Night Unique Dining Experience $$$$ 327 Nostrand Avenue, New York View Website Earn 3X Points A newcomer to the restaurant scene in Connecticut, The Dilly Duck Shop turns out some amazing sandwiches. Located in the waterfront outdoor Biergarten. From 1931 to the 1980s, these brick walls were headquarters of the Vigilant Hose Company, firefighters protecting the community. CONTACT. A Marine Corps veteran, turned trial lawyer, turned brewery owner, Walt traded in his combat boots for dress shoes and now flip flops. But what makes this place especially unique is that it's built in a beautifully restored 1920s gas station. Top 10 Diners' Choice Winners in Connecticut The Luke Brasserie Bar & Cafe Exceptional ( 80) $$$$ Contemporary French / American New Haven Booked 20 times today Arethusa al Tavolo Exceptional ( 2930) $$$$ Contemporary American Bantam Booked 26 times today Pasta Vera Exceptional ( 5) $$$$ Italian Greenwich Winvian Farm Exceptional ( 195) If youve seen our latest films, The Sound on the Sound Music Festival at Seaside Park in Bridgeport made Connecticut a 2-day mecca for music. Get ready to discover your next favorite place, because here we go! We're hiring. Take away your sight and you're left with enhanced senses for taste, smell, touch and sound. The cooks put littleneck clams in the fire until they open, then douse them in a mixture of cocktail sauce and butter. The restaurant brings a classic mix of new and old together into a charming and stylish American eatery. Of the lengthy list, heres a map of our top 10 things to do across Connecticut that seem the most uniquely Connecticutian. 9. The seafood is fresh and well cooked, and the lobster roll has quite a fantastic reputation around town. New England's 38 Essential Restaurants. Then, spend 2 and a half hours on a narrated trip up the Connecticut River Valley, seeing such sights along the way as Gillette Castle and the Goodspeed Opera House. The tradition of parading and burning the traitors effigy continued until the Civil War, and restarted in the last decade. Next time you dine out, just look at the amazing places you can dine in! And find even more igloos at Wood-n-Tap and Aquila's Nest Vineyards! Foodies can indulge themselves at an historic mill, a train station, even a gas station. And the largest are studded with summer cottages constructed in the Victorian Era. It could very well be one of the most romantic. With a transparent acrylic roof above, the restaurant offers its diners a 270-degree panoramic view of sea creatures swimming in the Maldives' crystal clear waters. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Today, Present Company serves the finest farm-to-table American fare. Now I warned you about this place not being a restaurant, but it does serve drinks so Im stretching the rules because it is something you have to do at least once. Dirt Candy , hosts a culinary event celebrating one of the most well-known New England fares: clam chowder. The cafe has a small but satisfying menu including grilled cheese paninis and a gourmet mac and cheese. Its now home to an eatery that serves hand-carved steaks and seafood, and prepares everything from scratch. New Haven, CT 06511. . (As a visitor, of course.) /*-->*/. 76 Maple Avenue Why, buying them fresh, Copyright 2023 Connecticut Office of Tourism, Connecticut: An LGBTQ+ Summer Destination, New Year's Eve Events in Connecticut 2022, Find Your Vibe in Connecticut As Seen on TV, the jail cells overlooking the three-story bar are still intact, as are the bars on the windows that face the Litchfield Green. Email: info@stantonhouseinn.com So maybe a fancy anniversary getaway? Dine on picnic tables in a Texan like environment at Joey C's Roadhouse BBQ & Tex Mex. Map design by Stanton House Inn using resources fromFlaticon.com. If you dont have an open invitation to one of the private cottages, some of which have been owned by families for generations, you can always ride one of the ferry services for a special day trip. One of the [] See details . But I appreciated the various things to do here even more during the Covid pandemic, especially the lockdown. Open Sat-Tue 8am-2am; Wed 8am-midnight; Thu-Fri 24 hours. Customize your own seafood experience at this unique spot that operates by the phrase "No plates, no forks, no rules!" most unique of outdoor activities in Connecticut, attractions, activities, and things to do in Norwalk, CT, Mystic, Connecticut, is itself an attraction, unique birthday party spots for adults in Connecticut, activities, attractions, and things to do in Danbury, Connecticut, and nearby, things to do in the summertime in Connecticut, Concours dElegance a quintessentially Greenwich tradition, Summer fairs, festivals, and carnivals in Connecticut, Fall festivals and fairs across Connecticut, Cos Cob CT: A Quaint, Quirky, and Charming Town, 12 of the most unique antique stores In CT, The Thimble Islands: A Guide To CTs Most Unique Attraction, A More Unique Way to See the Gold Coast of Connecticut, Connecticut Fall Foliage: Everything You Need to Know, Directions to Greenwich, CT, and Stanton House Inn. The most extraordinary detail? 1. And it has one, as the list of activities, attractions, and things to do in Hartford is lengthy. Some other Connecticut restaurants serving great lobster rolls include: Save an appetite for the home of a heavy-hitting first in America, in New Haven, Connecticut. Here are six remarkable. These are as delightful affairs as those much better known horse-focused sporting events. In different parts of Connecticut, youll find activities associated with: Ready to start your tour of attractions, activities, and things to do in CT? For a pitch-black experience: Nox - Dine in the Dark. Some of the most popular Yale museums include: Afterwards, be sure to take the free daily tour of campus led by current Yale students. Our state even offers a unique spin on dog-friendly activities in Connecticut. Just off the I-84, this could be a great stop on your next road trip. can walk the campus grounds, whose Gothic style, inspired by Cambridge and Oxford universities, are reminiscent of Hogwarts to some modern visitors. Guests can sample and judge more than 40 different chowder recipes from various restaurants. Every major city has those restaurants you have to try. This is seasonal dining at its finest, but not for kids. The Flying Monkey Grill Bar 400 American (New) Cocktail Bars Wine Bars $$ This is a placeholder "The bar at the Monkey has been home to many a fun times for me and my friends." more Outdoor seating Delivery Takeout Start Order 2. Other items in the museums collection highlight the history of submarines from inventor David Bushnell, a Connecticut native, and his Turtle, constructed in 1776. Writer Ayn Rand even spent some time here. Connecticut has some fantastically unusual restaurants that will give you more than just a meal. House for Rent 509 N Bluff West Dr, Moses Lake, WA 98837 3 Bedrooms | $2,300 View More The Most Rental Listings Choose from over 1 million apartments, houses, condos, and townhomes for rent. The people of New London never forgave him. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. 2023 is almost here so ring it in right. Fresh baked bread and homemade jam add extra personality to these one-of-a-kind menu options. SOLD FEB 10, 2023. Some of the best hiking trails in Connecticut are scattered along the route of the Merritt. The experience certainly makes for one of the most unique date ideas in Connecticut. Thursday-Saturday 11:30-10:00pm . Can you say fondue? Be sure to bring your own beverages (including beer or wine), and plenty of bug spray. - will answer hunger and intrigue the palette. Below are our top 5 picks for the most unique things to do in Connecticut. As the most populous part of Connecticut, much of Fairfield County was shut-down for months. Open only seasonally, many Connecticut residents anticipate the opening of this hot spot every year. This place is full of friends, family, and fun. In Victoria, Wheelies Motorcycles draws motorheads and Sunday brunch-ers to its Rock Bay Avenue caf and shop for chocolate fudge brownie ice cream sandwiches. Northern Quarter Party Bar Cocktail Bar Restaurant Bar Tell me more Enjoy healthy fresh soups and seasonal salads plus restaurant-style entrees like chicken pot pie, chili, chowders, stews, meat loaf, Cajun shrimp, short ribs, and more. Dianes Books is worth perusing whenever youre shopping Greenwich Avenue. The Jovial Crew bring the Tap Room to life with fun sing-alongs and a great sense of humor. The tavern hosted Elizabeth Taylor and Eddie Fisher on their honeymoon and received frequent visits from Hollywood heartthrob Spencer Tracy. Ever dined in a jailhouse? House for Rent. The Greenwich Polo Club hosts matches on Sundays. Its sister restaurant,Oyster Club, is located right down the road. E By Jose Andres Website Design by Q4Launch. Unique foodie fun doesnt always have to be a sit-down experience it can be a walking tour of tasty treats. Youll likely bump into a celebrity or two while taking part in the time-honored tradition of stomping divots in the field. East Side Restaurant creates an immersive dining experience where guests feel like theyre actually eating in Germany. Categories judged include Classic New England Clam Chowder and Most Creative Chowders. But the smaller, unassuming Ivoryton Playhouse is just as unique, and with an interesting cultural history. These are as delightful affairs as those much better known horse-focused sporting events. hosts over 200 events a year, hosting authors from around the country. With a stellar list of rotating performers, each brunch is filled with games, theater, comedy, music, and debauchery! Now I already think Connecticut is a pretty unique place, but these eats and drinks are pretty cool. This cozy British pub, located in the Spa at Norwich Inn, offers a typical pub menu with twists on flavors and spices that includes The Duck "DLT," and smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese bites. If your objective is to have dinner in a party-like setting then East Side Restaurant is a fantastic choice. There is no shortage of funky items on display here. Navigators meet at the historic 1892 Essex train station to start their excursion. Run to RSVP, Connecticut's Secluded French Restaurant Designed Like a Private Dinner Party There's no menuand nearly no staffat this A-plus surprise secreted away in the countryside. They're worth, Mystic Country is rich with locally owned and operated businesses for all your shopping needs. While its size makes Elephants Trunk unique, there are fantastic Connecticut flea markets in every corner of the state. Any time of year can be an appealing time to take this trip, as the 30 miles or so of the river from the mouth up to Middletown is picturesque villages and marshes. (203) 432-8987. These eight wacky restaurants have charm, vibrancy, fun, and something unique that you are just going to love. Built in 1875, the single-story, Italianate-style brick building was once theSimsburyRailroad Depot. And of these spots would be perfect for, 1. The original Red Brick store first opened in 1908and legend has it that one of its frequent shoppers was Marilyn Monroe. , next door to Greenwich, hosts an entire antiques district for aficionados. 2. change throughout their lives. Plenty of the most interesting and unique attractions in Connecticut are also free, like viewing the mysterious and historic manuscripts of the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Starting in June, you can sit in their beautiful outdoor dining space overlooking the berry and fruit fields. My mother has memories of her parents going for relaxed Sunday drives on the Merritt Parkway, stopping to picnic on a shoulder along the way. This one-of-a-kind spot is more than just a rest stop its a destination for food, music, community and fun. Hosted at Barberry Hill Farm in Madison and White Gate Farm in East Lyme, the experience is $150 per person. Saus is a solid pick if you're seeking a unique and quick bite for lunch or dinner. Photo courtesy Koox Ich Kool. They're the sorority everyone wants a bid from whether they admit . Looking to show your pride year round? This despite such historic hurdles as invading British troops (Essex is one of the only towns in America invaded by a foreign power) and Prohibition. 10. As you enter this remarkable home, you're greeted by a stunning floor plan. $3,500. One of which is the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, the largest Native American museum in the world. Others are recent additions, thanks to the resurgence of interest in local food. Overlooking theLitchfield Green,Market Place Tavern serves its patrons in one of the oldest penal facilities in the state. Here are some exciting upcoming LGBTQ+ events. 9. to the Frisbie Pie Company). Dining out doesn't have to be just eating - it can be an adventure. Locals also use it to imply an intended arson. 2023 is almost here so ring it in right. Some even arriving to shop before the crack of dawn. Show more. Enjoy traditional and Tex-mex food including tacos, nachos, quesadillas, and churros. In 1900, a customer ran up and asked for a quick lunch to take with them. From 1910 to 1966, this stately building was an active post office. season 6 60 . Take a unique culinary journey at Koox Ich Kool: an organic Mayan farm located along the Ruta de los Cenotes offering an authentic farm-to-table dining experience. Much of this guide to Connecticut started with the research and exploration of the state I had to do to keep my spirits up when we were all feeling the most isolated. It holds the title for being the worlds first sustainable sushi restaurant. And because theyre not as famous as the beaches in other states, theyre also much calmer and quieter. And their plantains are pretty good, too. Open since 1973 on the main drag of Mystic, Connecticut, all pizzas are made with a secret sauce, the recipe of which, just like in the movie, is a mystery to outsiders. Alone, each Kappa brings unique qualities to campus, but together we make a difference. The island offers beaches, beautiful views of Norwalk harbor, waterside trails through the islands wildlife refuge, and ample space for picnicking. Featuring acclaimed Jazz and Blues artists to enhance your dining experience. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! In the 1860s, they produced fine fabrics in this intimate brick building. An early 19th century example of that eccentricity is Gillette Castle. The Connecticut lobster roll first appeared in the 1920s at a now-closed restaurant named Perrys in Milford, Connecticut. These eight unique dining experiences are some of the most memorable meals you'll have anywhere. Embark on an unforgettable lunch or Sunday brunch cruise aboard an authentic tall ship. They offer a number of items and a pretty decent charcuterie plate. Celebrate New Years Eve in Connecticut with drag performances, clubbing, Pork, chicken, cheese, beans, or loroco (flower bud) just some of the many varieties of pupusas you can enjoy. Today, you can enjoy a tour of this historic site, and see sweeping views of Long Island Sound, and even the NYC skyline on a clear day. Visitors to Yale University can walk the campus grounds, whose Gothic style, inspired by Cambridge and Oxford universities, are reminiscent of Hogwarts to some modern visitors. They're worth, Mystic Country is rich with locally owned and operated businesses for all your shopping needs. But the white-tailed deer population has exploded in Connecticut without predatory species to keep them in check, wreaking havoc on native plant populations. Some of the oddities of the P. T. Barnum Museums collection includes: After suffering some severe damage from a recent hurricane, the main building is closed, though some of the museums items are on display next door. The island is lovely, too, and worthy of its own pilgrimage for an afternoon. Here are some local farms to check out as you partake in the beloved holiday tradition of. Chow down on hanging kebabs, sharing boards and crispy halloumi burgers, all while the bartenders whip you up some of their award-winning cocktails packed with fresh herbs, fruits and spirits.