Uncovering Connecticut’s Food Gems: A Culinary Journey

Every time we drive through Connecticut on our way to NYC, we make sure to stop at the Sonic in Wallingford. So far, Connecticut has mostly been a pass-through state for us, but we had an absolute blast visiting Mark Twain’s house, and I’m hoping to make it to Mystic this summer to try Mystic Pizza. We did have a not-so-great experience at Nardelli’s—I guess pickled everything isn’t my thing. But I’m optimistic that Guy Fieri’s picks will offer more culinary excitement! Here’s the list of spots we plan to explore:

Bridgeport

• Merritt Canteen Inc.: (Season 11, Episode 10) Known for its classic American diner fare, this spot is a local favorite for burgers, hot dogs, and more.

Fairfield

• Super Duper Weenie: (Season 5, Episode 12) Famous for its gourmet hot dogs with a variety of creative toppings.
• Wilson’s Holy Smoke BBQ: (Season 5, Episode 10) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Greenwich

• Grigg Street Pizza: Serving up delicious, handmade pizzas with fresh ingredients.
• Il Pastaficio: A gem for fresh, homemade pasta dishes that transport you straight to Italy.

Manchester

• Corey’s Catsup & Mustard: (Season 11, Episode 7) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Middletown

• O’Rourke’s Diner: (Season 5, Episode 4) Looks like this restaurant closed since the show. What a bummer!

Norwalk

• Valencia Luncheria: (Season 5, Episode 6 & Season 21, Episode 18) A must-visit for Venezuelan cuisine, especially known for its arepas and empanadas.

Stamford

• Corbo’s Southside Deli: A local favorite for its generous sandwiches and deli classics.
• Kouzina Greek Taverna and Bar: Offering authentic Greek dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• The Stamford Diner: A classic diner experience with an extensive menu of American favorites.

Westport

• Black Duck Café: (Season 6, Episode 7) A unique spot housed in a converted boat, famous for its burgers and waterfront views.

We’re looking forward to diving into these culinary adventures and discovering more of what Connecticut has to offer. If you have any other recommendations or must-try dishes, let us know! Let’s make the most of our time in the Nutmeg State and uncover some hidden gems together.