Friday night is pinochle night, but we always get something to eat either takeout or dine in before playing? Tonight, our choice was a West Haven icon, App's. Forever known for their outstanding Italian and seafood cuisine. I set up a reservation for 4:30pm, we were directed to our table right away. Our server was Sebastian. He was very friendly and comfortable around us, he did a great job. read more

We went in for an early Sunday dinner today and it was such a wonderful time! Growing up in the area, Italian food is a staple in cuisine. However that being said, this was THE best Italian food I've had in a really long time. We started out with the NY style calamari- amazing! Then we ordered our entrées which came with the choice of a soup/salad and pasta/potato & veg. I have to mention that their honey house dressing is to die for! (Our waiter suggested it and it did not disappoint!) For our entrées we ordered chicken parm, Chicken App's and shrimp, whole clams and scallops entrée Fra diavolo. Their sauce is so flavorful and delicious! All of our entrées were incredible and prepared perfectly!! I am a huge Italian cuisine kinda gal and when I tell you it was THE BEST food I've had, I mean it. I'd easily say they have the best chicken parm (I've ever had and I've had it from a lot of different places). All of our food was cooked perfectly, tender and seasoned just right. Not to mention the presentation was just outstanding! App's is such a beautiful, cozy and elegant restaurant with a hometown - local feel. You can just tell they have a passion for cooking and put in the extra dedication to make sure their patrons enjoy every bite. I can't wait to go back and absolutely love that I can support a local business who has been such a staple in the area for decades. They know what they're doing! Also when you go, be sure to ask for Dorian, he was such a wonderful, insightful, attentive and joy to have as our waiter! read more

See all

I arrived with a friend for dinner and though we didn't have reservations we were promptly greeted and seated in a cozy booth. The dining room was nicely decorated with tablecloths, candles and linen napkins. Several tables were already occupied and the room was quite comfortable. Our server promptly arrived to welcome us with water, the menus and asked if we wanted to place drink orders while we perused the menu. Next we were served bread and butter plus olive oil for dipping. I ordered the Chilean Sea Bass and my friend ordered shrimp parmigiana with pasta. Our dinners included a soup or salad. Our server was very friendly and attentive. Our meals were delicious - both fresh and piping hot. We ordered a glass of wine to enjoy with our meals and had room for dessert. The dining room was packed at a point during our dinner with lively conversation. No doubt that I will be back again soon. read more

See all

I was not impressed with App's at all. The bar area is cute and rustic which I like but the rest of the restaurant looks like it's in need of some desperate renovations. Our waiter was attentive, however he forgot my drink numerous times and my boyfriend had to go to the bar himself to get it. The stem of the glass was extremely sticky. The stuffed mushrooms appetizer was probably the best thing we had. I ordered rigatoni vodka with shrimp; the shrimp were mushy and the sauce was watery and had no taste. My boyfriend got chicken florentine which he said was flavorless. We did get a few desserts, a chocolate one and the carrot cake. The carrot cake was good, the chocolate one was just okay. I know Apps is a west haven staple and I was excited to go but they need to revamp their establishment, menu, food and service. read more

This is the place to go if you love Italian food and pasta! When we arrived they were packed (no reservation) and within 5 minutes they got us the last table and took care of us like we were family. Ordered calamari, soup and pasta with shrimps (the shrimps were HUGE and so fresh). The pasta was cooked to perfection ... Honestly, everything was perfect! read more

An establishment much beloved by West Haven locals, App's checks all the right boxes for those hankering for a lively cocktail hour, competently prepared Italian-American dinners, interesting & generously portioned fresh seafood & a changeable selection of wonderful specials. The every Monday night dinner special of roast Prime Rib au jus with mashed potatoes & savory gravy is very good. Dinners come with soup or salad. Try the house salad dressing, it's homemade & delicious. Clams Casino, clams on the half shell, stuffed mushrooms, & fried calamari are just a few of the starters that are sharable bites of bliss. Apps may have white crisp linens on their table tops but the atmosphere is unpretentious, relaxed & friendly. Service is always excellent. I recommend Apps highly for their seafood & shellfish specials & home made beef braciola. Get there early on Mondays if you are wanting that Prime Rib. read more

App's Ristorante - Prime Rib, optional mushrooms. - Italian Near Me - West Haven, Connecticut

I got to go order it was fast The fettuccine barely had any sauce and has parsley all in it was disappointed with it. The tomato and mozzarella was covered in black pepper I couldn't eat it due to pepper allergy. I heard rave reviews of this place waste of my money. It's a beautiful place though. read more

sohaib was a very good sever . He explain the menu very well and very experience of someone who's been waiting tables much longer

We aren't dining out often during the pandemic, but we will visit a restaurant that has demonstrated that they are serious about keeping customers safe. App's is one of those places. We feel safe there. Our meal on Monday was delicious. I enjoy the App's Mixed platter while my wife says that their stuffed sole is the best she has ever eaten. I LOVE the house honey wine salad dressing. The staff are always welcoming and attentive. This is one of our favorite local spots. Prime rib lovers will enjoy the Monday special! read more

App's Ristorante - Mixed Platter; pork chop, chicken breast, Italian sausage, sweet and hot peppers in a delicious sauce over fried potatoes. - Italian Near Me - West Haven, Connecticut

See all

App's West Haven What an exceptional dining experience! I have lived in Connecticut for 49 years and am still pondering how it took me so long to find this gem of a restaurant. We heard about this place through word of mouth back in November, from a couple who have been dining at App's for years. We were on the subject of prime rib, and they urged us to go to App's for their regular Monday night prime rib special. That was the original plan. But when I saw the board of specials upon entering on the Monday before Christmas, the plans changed fast. The specials included Prime Rib "au jus" with mashed potatoes and gravy for $24.95, ground strip steak, veal, and pork Bolognese tossed with rigatoni for $26 and picked lobster meat and shrimp over linguine in a choice of either red fra diavlo or white sauce for $36. Because I couldn't get a small sampler of each (I tried!) we just ordered all three. And wow, was that the right decision! After our drinks, which came out almost immediately, followed a simple but delicious warm loaf of bread with butter. A salad, fresh and chilled, arrived next with a lovely house dressing. Then came the most tender and tasty fried calamari with a side of really, really, really good red sauce. OMG, I'd go back for those things alone. But then came the entrees! Because I hadn't been able to choose between the fra diavlo and white sauces for the lobster dish, I had asked if the rigatoni Bolognese could be prepared fra diavlo style, which they were able to do for me. That came out concurrently with the lobster and shrimp in white sauce. Right behind was the prime rib - to medium rare perfection with mashed potatoes and gravy that were quite literally the best I've ever had in my life! Each entrée was better than the last. An unexpected bonus to the whole experience was our waiter, Justin, who was attentive, engaging, personable, and extremely helpful in helping us make good decisions. He was also the inventor of the cocktail of the night, a creamy gingerbread martini with a kick, which we enjoyed for dessert, as we were too full to eat anything else after all that food. The restaurant itself was a lovely combination of classy, clean, and sophisticated while still being clearly a beloved and favorite place by locals. We arrived right when they opened at 4 p.m. and stayed until 8, leisurely eating, drinking, and watching the patrons (clearly lots of long timers) come and go. The ambiance, the comfort, the attentiveness of the staff, and the food made it a night to remember. We'll be back for sure. Five stars without hesitation. read more

See all

Great meal tonight. Chicken Apps- tender chicken in a white wine sauce with sweet peppers and fried potatoes. Best meal I've had in years. The honey wine vinaigrette dressing is killer and highly recommended. Carole and her brothers own and run the restaurant, a classic shoreline haunt. Service was good and the booths are comfy. Another good meal at Apps read more

App's Ristorante - Chicken Apps! Delicious!!! - Italian Near Me - West Haven, Connecticut

I hardly ever post reviews but I have been meaning to review App's and, after last night's meal, I wanted to give a much-deserved shout-out. It was just fantastic as always! Every time I come to Connecticut (where I grew up) for a visit, my first meal out is almost always App's. From the absolutely fantastic and generous Cosmo, made by world-class bartender Tammy, to the delicious, generously portioned food, great staff (thanks Justin for the excellent service!) and very fair prices, you cannot go wrong. Last night, we had a fabulous Baked Stuffed Filet of Sole, yummy and generous Shrimp Florentine, and the best Caesar Salads ever (see photos). Love coming home to Apps! read more

See all

My friend had takeout at Apps and said it was delicious . I said let's go -so we did and ugh big mistake. We shared a fried calamari appetizer. It was disgusting. The calamari 's breading wasn't cooked enough not crispy at all just chewy. Then dinner. She had spaghetti with meatballs I had eggplant Parmesan $24. The sauce was very acidic and my eggplant dish was very disappointing and the portion size was smaller than I've had anywhere else. . My friend said the one redeeming thing with her meal was the meatballs. They were very tasty. Also service wasn't the greatest - not our waitress's fault. She was very nice but we didn't receive the attention due a paying customer. We sat near the kitchen and saw her and another waiter going back and forth continuously never stopping so it appeared there was not enough staff . Would I give it a second chance? No . There are to many awesome Italian Restaurants in the area that I know serve delicious food to waste any more money at Apps. read more

App's is our favorite restaurant. Food is always good, even great, portions are great for my husband, take home bag for me. We have had several events there, from anniversary party to bereavement lunches, always spot on. The staff does everything in their power to please you. Every year we gather in-laws and out-laws together for Christmas dinner. Never have any of our guests had a complaint, nor do we. From making reservation (usually Carol) to having a drink (usually Tammy) to our servers (usually Justin and/or Jason) to the meal (Clark and the kitchen staff) we are always well satisfied and leave quite full and happy. Thanks to all at App's Ristorante read more

Out for a night of good food, great ambiance with the hubby & Friends. The chicken Marsala was amazing and so flavorful. The hubs has a lasagna to kick your socks off and our friend had a steak he absolutely loved and devoured. My friend Beth had the Same opinion about the chicken Marsala. A must try for sure folks! read more

See all

Outstanding food, service and ambiance. If you are looking for great Italian food, this is the place!!

This was my 4th time at this restaurant my experience was always good but this time it was great. Our waiter was Justin he didn't even have to right down our order he did it out of memory. The restaurant was very busy and he had a lot of other tables but it didn't slow him down he was very kind funny and made sure our family had a great time. He recommended the chicken apps which was amazing. Just want to take this time to thank Justin and the rest of the staff. We can't wait to come again!!!! read more

Met a date here for dinner. Hadn't been here in several years. Food was great. Place has a good locals vibe.

We had an exceptional dinner tonight. Shrimp cocktail, spinach and meatball soup, chicken with lemon, stuffed sole and rice pudding. Vodka bay breezes. Dorian was our waiter. Such a sweetheart. Excellent environment. Great food. Such a wonderful time. read more

I went to Apps on Mother's Day 5/15/23 . I am a mother and was with my sister my mother in law , her mother, and a few aunts . Essentially we were with a mature crowd . They sat us is the back room and cleared a table that was back there and moved them to the brighter front room . So it was just us (African Americans) in the back . Even one of the servers came back and said "damn how did you clear the room like that" we arrived at 3:10 reservations were for 3 but the front was kind and said no worries . The food came out at 5:05 and we watched new tables get served and left in that time frame . We asked the server to explain the delay and he casually walked by and said it's the amount of appetizers we ordered . We had a total of 5 apps . He dismissed our concern and we asked for a manager . The overly tanned woman came out and repeated what we complained about said she will change the server . A bubbly friendly girl came out and with the food almost immediately . Three plates of Lemon chicken were cold . As if it was sitting back there the whole 2 hours . We sent the 3 dishes back and when they came out one had a bite in it. So we asked for the manager again and she had the AUDACITY to say "NOW WHAT!" I have NEVER in my life been treated like that and she bragged and boasted about being open for 50 plus years and then told us to "Pay and leave " . UNACCEPTABLE. I will NEVER. Visit that establishment again in my life and will strongly urge anyone who appreciates customer service to not go either . read more

Food was a surprise for my wife she didn't enjoy the lasagna and couldn't believe it was from App's

I had a glass of wine at this establishment and ordered veal Francaise for takeout. $8.00 for a glass of house chardonnay? The portion of the veal was parsimonious. I will not be going back. read more

Every aspect was superb. Service was great, raw calms were great, dinner was as close to homemade as you can get. I didn't like getting a martini in a while me glass....twice. I was so comfortable, well taken care of and fed delicious food. I highly recommend read more

So glad I came here with my 15 month son & my mom for her birthday. Food was DELICIOUS & our waiter Justin was attentive & a great easy going guy. The Italian combo was out of this world delicious! Veal parm was good. Fair pricing & great portions! read more

App's Ristorante - Italian Near Me - West Haven, Connecticut

Dined here for the first time. Excellent authentic Italian food. Everything was incredibly fresh. Justin our server did a great job. Fair prices , great service, drinks and food were on point. Will definitely be back read more

stopped there Monday because people say its their special on prime rib, waiting almost 15 at the door without a hostess, the bar was packed with a loud crowd, got seated at a bar table, waited another 10 plus for someone, got my drink and placed order, the salad was the standard cheap salad with lettuse and greens and one small tomato and a small cup of dressing, the Prime rib came with a small dish of mashed potatoes smothered in gravy about an ice cream scoop size. the steak was probably without exaggerating 50 % fat see photos, what a shame. last visit to this place , I thought the Savin Rock roasting house was terrible... they have competition . read more

See all

Old school great Italian food. Amazing portions and value, no one leaves hungry. I've been coming here since i was a kid. The pork parmesan is soooo big! read more

See all

Food was fantastic. Service was great for a group of 18. They said separate checks would be no problem then changed their mind when we tried to pay. I would go again with my wife but would not bring a crowd unless I was ready to pay for everyone. read more

This place is a west haven landmark!! Hands down the best Italian restaurant in the new have area. I have been eating at apps since I was a small child and I have to say everything I have ever eaten from there has been great. Make sure to try the hot antipasto appetizer. For a main dish I recommend the veal Marsala it's def one of my favorites. Apps has the best homemade salad dressing you will ever have!! read more

App's Ristorante - Veal Parm - Italian Near Me - West Haven, Connecticut

Just came back to this place after some time. Restaurant has been upgraded in decor and food. Veal was among my the best I ever had. Great atmosphere and service. I highly recommend Apps! read more

Haven't been there in a while but I did remember that I loved their veal parmesan. Well, lucky for me that I ordered. It was the best I ever had! The breading was light, crispy and not greasy at all. Our server was super sweet and attentive. Please give this place a try, you won't be disappointed. read more

DO NOT EAT HERE!!! 3rd time they have served me undercooked seafood!!!! I woke up at 3 am puking my brains out. Which by the way I felt extremely sick allllllll day the following day.....which happened to be as an irish man....on my favorite holiday! COMPLETELY RUINED ST PADDYS DAY FOR ME!!! COULDNT ENJOY ANY FOOD AT MY FAMILY PARTY! No big deal....Ill just have wait an entire year to enjoy my favorite hoiday that they ruined on me......3 strikes and you are out!!! I decide to go from $15 dish to a $25 special, I figured I was in for a treat. Easily the most tastless peice of food I ever had. Very evident that were extremely busy that night and the chef completely forgot season it and pulled it out way too soon. Ate most of it only to find out the center was raw. The woman who manages this place is the biggest A*****E I have ever dealt with. She was EXTREMELY RUDE!!!! And told me i shouldnt have ate so much of I wanted it to be comped. With thay being sad if im unsatisfied Ill order something else next time or just dont go back. I think in all my life I have asked 2 times to have something removed from a tab. Didnt know the center was raw until i got there! And appearently neither did the chef who served it up. Avoid this place at all costs! In addition to that it took 2 1/4 hrs to get our food, so dont come here on an empty stomach!!!! Which was the original reason I didnt return this tastless peice of trash....cant say enough bad things about this place. However the waiter was very charming and was very enjoyable! I believe his name was justin, probably the funniest and nicest waiter I have had serve me all year....He was very very nice!! He had us laughing all night long. read more

I had to lunch is she one big stuff fillet of soul came with everything and then another meal which was shrimp scampi they did a really excellent job everything was absolutely delicious Carol is a great host also. Gary from tech support for UI read more

We have been going to App's for several years now. Food is always good whether you are having one of their daily specials or off the menu. Cocktails are to die for. Can't help but mention Carol who is one of the owners and is always most welcoming and Jason and Susan who are excellent wait staff. Would highly recommend for dinner or an event you may be having as they have several banquet rooms. read more

Listen up waitstaff: when a couple comes in, orders a bottle of wine, two dinners and dessert? Spend some time being charming! Be attentive! I had an uptight waiter from hell last night that made us feel rushed and not valued as patrons. Food was eh! Needs more flavoring for sure! We won't be back. Not a value by any means. No veggies served either - lacking presentation as well. I can go on but we've all been there! read more

I love this place!! Food is amazing...seafood is 10x better than Jimmie's. Staff is very friendly too.

They do a prix fixe menu on Wed & Thurs. nights. For about $20 (plus tax & tip) you get a three course meal from a solid list of options. Really good selection and tasty food. We had to wait a while to be seated, but our waitress was pleasant & attentive. read more

Service was great. Food was a delicious execution of the predictable yet traditional Southern Italian/Southern Connecticut fare. Decor was a bit tacky and dated, but isn't that what you want from a place that's been around for nearly 80 years? App's is old reliable. Veal parm is a winner. read more

It's been many years since I've dined there but I thought it was very nice. The menu, food, service and value were excellent.

We went to Apps and it's so important that I state the dinner was superior. We were a party of 8 and from the wine to the entree to our DELICIOUS desserts we all felt welcome and treated like our table was our waiters #1 table. I am so fond of Apps the menu hasn't changed which is fine by me. The menu is upscale and very well thought out. I am having the left overs tonight. Num Num read more