Wildcat

58

271

525

5 months ago

We tried to visit this place and it is temporarily closed or maybe indefinitely. Had high reviews but I guess/ who knows.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jasmeet M.

450

130

209

1 year ago

My meal was amazing as always! The head on grilled shrimp was flavorful and grilled to perfection. The crudo with the addition of finger lime was incredible. Every bite was filled with a nice mild fish with a burst of citrus. Dessert was light packed with flavor. Christian the bartender provider excellent recommendations and whipped up some delicious cocktails! The ambiance is great and still gives me a nice NYC vibe nestled in Hamden. Love the seasonal menu changes and I can't wait to go back read more

Wildcat - Espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Whole fish (trout) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - CHERRY CLAFOUTIS cherry & almond frangipane, crème fraîche, cherry syrup - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - GRILLED HEAD-ON SHRIMP ramp kimchi, fried garlic, cilantro, lime - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - CRUDO red snapper, spring onion ash, shishito chimichurri, cilantro, finger lime * - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Anita J.

20

236

650

2 years ago

Cute little bar! They were having a tiki themed weekend/menu and also had a popup tattoo artist which was interesting. They were very popular so there wasn't much seating so a grou pof 5 of us sat at their middle bar section. However, the staff were very attentive and took care of us. The drinks were all great. They also have a food menu which we thought was good but perhaps overpriced. I would definitely recommend Wildcat for their drinks! read more

Wildcat - Pork belly bao - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 2

Oh no 1

Sarah Kate K.

11

113

220

2 years ago

Awesome new cocktail bar in Hamden. There's nothing like this in town and it's just was needed. It is a little pricey but you're def paying for quality drinks. read more

Wildcat - Tiki pop up - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Adrienne D.

254

58

113

2 years ago

I am so excited about this place! Fabulous cocktails and food - in Hamden!! Our table by the door was pretty dark. I was going to apologize to you for the bad, dim pics, but it's amazing what photo editing can do. The pictures look much better illuminated than it actually was. I LOVED my Alpine Arrows and my husband loved his Sons of Monarchy. They were totally delicious, but in very different ways. We thoroughly enjoyed the food too - ceviche, crudo, and the crispy chicken sandwich. Everything we ate was creative and so tasty and truly exceeded our expectations. I can't wait to go back and try more things. Attentive, friendly service too. Next time I will try to sit at a table that has better lighting though so I can actually see what I'm eating as I eat it. ***update*** We went again last night and we sat at one of the tables along the wall with lamps above them. The lighting was great. It was still dark enough for a nice ambiance, but I could see everything I was eating! read more

See all

Helpful 7

Thanks 4

Love this 6

Oh no 0

Mike G.

96

5

0

1 year ago

Service was horrible. Ordered grilled mushroom asked for no butter,soaked in butter. No eggplant or tomato with the mushroom. Told them it was my birthday before hand . Told them I did not want dessert (ignored)Was served it anyway.My wife left . There was only one other table being waited on.Super disappointed. Tiny portions. We ended up eating at the Korean/Japanese place next door. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Joshua W.

423

87

54

2 years ago

One of our favorite new restaurants in CT. I know good food and frequent high end restaurants in NYC and Wildcat can rival most of them! The staff are very friendly, the ambience is very city-esque and cozy, and the food/drinks are spectacular. You will not be disappointed by Shane and Kris' latest venture! read more

Wildcat - Bison tartare - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Pheasant roulade - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Cold smoked venison loin - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Boar French rack with rutabaga puree and tri-color cauliflower - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Sheep's cheese flan, smoked maple caramel and lamb fat tuile - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Tardivo with persimmon, pickled plumcot and elk salami - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Jman91

0

1

1 year ago

Amazing food & cocktails to match. Don't miss out on the best burger around the New Haven/Hamde area! They have great service, knowledgeable people behind the bar for custom drinks for your pallet. Appetizers were awesome, main course was well worth the $$, gourmet style imho. read more

Wildcat - Great drinks and food! Awesome - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Kyle F.

26

107

0

2 years ago

We had great cocktails and a great meal here. Came in, sat at the bar (which has way comfier stools than the backless stools at the family-style table in the middle). The cocktails were inventive and excellent, not too sweet. Mine was tequila drink and his was gin, sorry I forgot the names and they update the menu often and I didn't see what we had being on the website. Our apps were excellent: chickpea batter-fried chicken drumsticks and a rye panzanella salad. I had the roast chicken which was fantastic. My partner had the Bánh mì, which he liked but didn't love. I tried a bite and I think they nailed the pork, but the sandwich was pretty dry (bread was very dense), so I can see why. I won't give them points off for this because I think this was probably a fluke. Servers were great, fast, friendly and attentive. Fantastic ambience, nice chill, low light, with decent acoustics because there were lots of people in the space, but it didn't feel loud. Looking forward to going again soon. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Taylor M.

3

45

116

2 years ago

Wildcat is one of our favorite cocktail bars ever. The cocktails are very high quality and unique. They perfected the classics such as espresso martinis and old fashioned. Additionally, they have awesome food. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Victoria G.

324

134

218

2 years ago

Went here on Friday night and it was pretty busy but they still accommodated even though we didn't have a reservation. The food was excellent. I really enjoyed everything I got and the drinks were also really good. Definitely recommend checking this place ! read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Joe A.

13

158

31

2 years ago

Food was ok. Nice atmosphere. But overall too expensive for the quality of the food served.

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Chantel M.

216

11

10

2 years ago

Amazing and will definitely be back! Service was attentive and fast. Food was delicious. Loved the decor and vibe throughout the whole space. For drinks I got the "Bad Alibi" and he got the "Fortunate Sun" off the Sans Booze portion of the menu. Love a restaurant that has mocktail options! Dinner I got the Steak Frites which was amazing. Cooked to perfection and the chimichurri was delectable. He got the Airline Chicken and the blackberry-mustard pan sauce is to die for. Wish we could bottle that up! Dessert we had the Black Sesame Mousse which really had all the elements of crunch and smooth textures with sweet and sour taste. read more

Wildcat - Steak Frites & airline chicken - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Black sesame mousse - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Bad Alibi and Fortunate Sun - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Mike G.

7

87

11

2 years ago

We came in for an early dinner on Saturday. I had accidentally made reservations for the following week, but they were happy to seat us anyway. We had a few appetizers, entrees, and cocktails. Everything was really excellent. The fried chicken sandwich was a highlight for me. It was super crisp and the toppings were interesting without being overwhelming. The French fries were also excellent - shatteringly crisp outer layer with a hot and fluffy center. I think it bodes well for a restaurant when such attention is paid to the details. They also came with a tasty herb dip. The cocktails were exceptional. I think both owners come from a bar background, and it shows. Really interesting and balanced drinks. The vibe was quiet when we were there, but that may have been because we were there so early. Overall, I am super happy that they opened up. read more

Helpful 9

Thanks 4

Love this 6

Oh no 0

Briana B.

3

30

8

2 years ago

Went here on a whim for a special anniversary dinner and it was worth every minute and every morsel. Service was impeccable. The drinks were creative and delicious, things I would never try but was surprised by how much I loved. The food was perfect, literally the best meal I have had out in a long time. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Joseph C.

3

22

4

2 years ago

10 out of 10! What a gem and Hamden is lucky to have such a place! The moment I walked in, I knew it was going to be a great experience. You can tell that real thought and detail were put into the restaurant just by the atmosphere. The service, the drinks and the food were absolutely top notch. The smoked trout was outstanding, the brussel sprouts were possibly the best I've ever had and the pork chop was cooked to perfection and so flavorful! This place is a MUST try! I am already looking forward to my next visit very soon. read more

See all

Helpful 6

Thanks 4

Love this 6

Oh no 0

Yurothamotha S.

0

12

5

1 year ago

Enjoyed cocktails, wine and dinner (beet salad, gnocchi, calamari and radicchio salad) at the bar. It was a Tuesday night and not crowded at all. Loved the vibe. Bought a gift certificate for my daughter who went back with her husband the next night. They loved it. They had a burger and pork sandwich. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Victoria I.

Elite 23

105

212

385

2 years ago

Stopped in for a few drinks with my coworkers, it's Tuesday night 7pm. The bar is gorgeous so we chose to sit there. The ambiance is cozy and sexy! The bartenders were very attentive and The drinks they made were very good! They have a menu that made it hard to choose what drink I wanted because they all sound delicious and creative! Very much enjoyed myself here and will be visiting again! read more

Wildcat - Sea witch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Joshua W.

0

1

8

2 years ago

One of our favorite new restaurants in CT. I know good food and frequent high end restaurants in NYC and Wildcat can rival most of them! The staff are very friendly, the ambience is very city-esque and cozy, and the food/drinks are spectacular. You will not be disappointed by Shane and Kris' latest venture! read more

Wildcat - Sheep's cheese flan with smoked maple caramel and lamb fat tuile - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Tardivo with persimmon and pickled plumcot, with elk salami - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

Wildcat - Boar French rack with rutabaga puree and tri-colored cauliflower - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Robin K.

0

13

1

1 year ago

It was amazing, great drinks. Delicious food. All with a distinct taste and touch of elegance. Awesome first date or intimate night out. Warm, cozy atmosphere with friendly staff. Leave the kids home and have fun here. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Meghan W.

Elite 23

2

64

65

2 years ago

Nice ambiance, expansive specialty drink menu. Romaine wedge salad was highlight of the meal. Tuna carpaccio small plate was disappointing (too salty sauce and swimming in it). Banh mi sandwich bread and veggies were tasty but Pork was too fatty and too thick cut difficult to eat. Salad and drinks were good enough to give it another try. Party next to us ordered catfish and steak and seemed to really enjoy it. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Casey H.

0

3

0

2 years ago

There's nothing original about this place. Food is subpar. Drinks are mediocre at best. There are much better options nearby. I never leave reviews but this place was massive letdown. read more

Helpful 5

Thanks 5

Love this 4

Oh no 4

Anna G.

0

15

0

1 year ago

Great happy hour! Service and food was excellent. Good music not not so loud that we cousins talk. Will definitely be back

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Isabel B.

Elite 24

5

60

128

2 years ago

Cool cocktail spot. We didn't get any food but we did get a lot of drinks. All their drinks are super creative. Inside was chill and modern and very very dark. Seating at the bar was nice and were served water immediately. Our bartender was polite and gave us fast service. If you are down for some creative and tasty drinks def come here. I recommend the Sea Witch if you enjoy dirty martinis. read more

Helpful 6

Thanks 3

Love this 3

Oh no 0

Roy S.

0

4

0

1 year ago

Wonderful delicious, unique food. Great appetizers (e.g. Grapes and olive salad- delish). Small restaurant. But highly recommend.

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

William O.

316

4

2

2 years ago

Chris and Shane have brought something to Hamden that it was sorely missing. Amazing food and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere. It automatically has become our go to spot in town. read more

Wildcat - Tuna Carpaccio - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Hamden, Connecticut

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Dor B.

0

2

0

2 years ago

I was very happy to have a restaurant of this caliber in Hamden. We've been there 3x already and have not been disappointed! The inventive menu offers locally sourced items, and the bar program is stellar. Shane, Kris, Chef & staff have made this our go-to place! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Josh C.

0

3

0

2 years ago

For my wife's birthday recently, I asked the team at Wildcat if we could host a loose party/Happy Hour with family and friends. Shane and the team were extremely generous and offered us the community table right in the middle of the restaurant. I cannot rave about Wildcat enough. From the moment you walk in to this unassuming gem you feel as if you've been transported to a high-end Manhattan hot spot without the pretense and obnoxiousness. The cocktails Shane has perfected over his recent years in and around the New Haven food scene are genius and delicious. The menu promises delicious bites and the kitchen delivers. The staff are attentive, kind, and extremely hospitable. Run, don't walk, to Wildcat. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Jason W.

0

1

0

2 years ago

The McGowan Brothers have done it again! Everything these guys touch ends up pure gold! I'm not going to lie, I cried tears of joy when I discovered I could enjoy the Sea Witch cocktail once more. A totally unique rendition of a dirty martini, this slightly sweet umami bomb is crave-able! The food was all spectacular but the standouts were the Warm Grapes & Olives and the Duck Confit. Every table should order the grapes and olives as their bread selection! The duck confit has caramelized skin that shatters when your fork touches it. I'm going back tonight to indulge in that one again! Service was very kind and knowledgeable. The space was stunning with dark high ceilings and sexy teal velvet on the walls. The designer did a spectacular job with this former wagon wheel wielding, burger bar. Hamden residents are lucky to have cocktails, food and a luxurious space like this one in their backyards. Run... don't walk!!!! read more

Helpful 4

Thanks 3

Love this 5

Oh no 0

Joni Beth R.

0

24

0

2 years ago

Each time food is amazing. Menu changes based on local ingredients and is always fresh and delicious. Cocktails are well done. Service friendly. A new favorite space to visit. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Amy G.

0

1

0

2 years ago

We've been to Wildcat several times, and every time it's been amazing. The cocktails are always perfect, and as vegetarians we always find delicious options on the menu. The ambiance is both artsy and cosy, and the staff are always welcoming and professional. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Marie C.

88

79

3

2 years ago

So excited this place has come to Hamden. Amazing cocktails, great food, and such a nice vibe.

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

The Man R.

5

15

6

2 years ago

This was my first time dining at The Wildcat. We were greeted by one of the owners who quickly accommodated our larger party despite being very busy. The inside decor replicates green rooms of historical American ballrooms and music venues. We had everything on the menu and not a single dish missed, all things I have never had before. A truly unique dining experience with a Manhattan feel without the attitude right in the center of Hamden. Our server David was amazing, beyond attentive, and super thorough in guiding us through the rather unique menu. His knowledge of craft and fine dining was apparent. The wine, spirit, and cocktail menu doesn't really compare to anything else I've experienced in CT. Compliments to the entire team, especially the kitchen. The bar staff was efficiently shaking up state of the art garnished cocktails each round being more picture worthy than the last. I loved the confit mezcal cocktail, I can not recall the name. A beautiful seasonal food menu accompanied by beautiful decor, drinks, and staff. Thank you! read more

Helpful 6

Thanks 4

Love this 5

Oh no 0

Ellen M.

1

169

117

2 years ago

We were in Hamden tonight and stumbled across a gem -- Wildcats. It is a small restaurant in an unassuming little strip mall on Whitney Avenue near the entrance to 91. But then you walk in the door ... and it is GORGEOUS. Everything from the teal walls, to the chandelier and mirrors, to the wood chairs and gorgeous table tops is beautiful, unique, thoughtfully planned. There isn't a tv in sight, which was a wonderful change of pace. The staff is warm and welcoming. We split the wedge salad, which was much more than lettuce with blue cheese dressing. The presentation, the spices, the vegetables, and the dressing were all superb. We split the fried chicken dinner with collard greens. First, the portion was huge. Certainly enough for two people. Then, the chicken was perfectly cooked and delicious, and the collard greens were in a sauce that I could not put down. Truly, every bite was delicious. If you are looking for a special date night spot, a place to hold your company holiday party, or a very special location for a birthday - or any - celebration, this is it. Five stars. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

J V.

0

4

0

2 years ago

This place is a vibe! The food was soooo good and the drinks were top notch. The service was great as well - everyone was so attentive. Order all of the desserts - you won't be disappointed. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Derek B.

0

2

0

2 years ago

Can't get over how great this place is! The food and drinks were incredible and the staff were extremely knowledgeable and kind throughout our entire meal. The atmosphere is perfect for a date night or to get a group of people out for an upscale yet affordable meal. Will absolutely be coming back soon and often! read more

Helpful 8

Thanks 3

Love this 6

Oh no 0

Jim M.

0

8

2

2 years ago

Service was not good at all. It all started when I asked for an Espresso Martini a particular way which was disregarded when the drink arrived. Fast forward to dinner. My wife's salad (Fennel) was absolutely disgusting (completely inedible had to send it back). We were then told the taste was normal if we weren't used to it (having grown and eaten fennel salad many times before in life this came off as ridiculous). Burgers we ordered were grossly undercooked (ordered medium got "still mooing"). Shared a couple of more drinks with friends at which point we were asked by an employee if we could please leave because it was very busy and people were waiting for the table (reservation). Never in my life had that ever happened. Having spent $250 on our bill it's ludicrous to be asked to get up and cut our night short. Awful will never come back. If I could give zero stars I would. Terrible. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

More info about Wildcat

3000 Whitney Ave
Hamden, CT 06518
Directions
(203) 390-5972
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.ctwildcat.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Wildcat open?

Wildcat opens at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Wildcat close?

Wildcat is closed on Monday and Sunday.Wildcat closes at 9:30 PM on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Mon, Sun ClosedTue-Sat 4:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Payment methods

Does Wildcat take credit cards?

Yes, Wildcat takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Wildcat have catering options?

Yes, Wildcat does have catering options.

Does Wildcat have a drive thru?

No, Wildcat does not have a drive thru.

Does Wildcat serve alcohol?

Yes, Wildcat serves alcohol. Full Bar

Indoor Amenities

Does Wildcat allow dogs?

Yes, Wildcat allows dogs.

Does Wildcat have TVs?

No, Wildcat does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Wildcat have bike parking?

Yes, Wildcat has bike parking.

Does Wildcat have parking?

Yes, Wildcat has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Wildcat allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, Wildcat allows outdoor smoking.

Does Wildcat have free WiFi?

Yes, Wildcat has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

A unique space offering a curated menu of craft cocktails alongside expertly executed New American dishes.

You might also consider

Ristorante Luce

3.6(200 reviews)

0.1 mi

We went for our book club and it was just delish. But our waiter Anthony was a huge bonus!! Will…read moreask for him again

Went here for Easter and it was amazing! Lots of great appetizers, our waiter was awesome, and the…read moremeals were a good size and delicious. I'd go back for a nice Italian dinner date

Veal Milanese

See all

Small Batch Cellars

4.6(11 reviews)

4.4 mi

Owner was extremely friendly, gave us a tour & allowed to taste a few of the wines before we choose…read morewhich one to drink. They have a stage outside & have shows every weekend. Looking forward to returning.

I'm not impressed with this business nor how they handle inquiries. On their website they list an…read moree-mail address on where to submit a request to book your band to play at their venue. I submitted my request three times over the course of one month before finally receiving a response back. Per their response, they are only interested in artists who can draw crowds of around 200+ people. I was referred here from other artists who have performed here. I perform at various venue's regularly and steadily and always draw a good crowd, so this was a huge letdown. The business seems like a cool place, but I am turned off now after many attempts to even get a response and by not even getting a chance to show them what we got.

Live music on the weekends

Performance space

See all

The tasting room

The VUE

3.8(6 reviews)

1.9 mi

The VUE is a beautiful, modern-contemporary venue space that sits on a golf course. A funky-shaped…read morebuilding with large glass windows. They have a restaurant, but can be booked for weddings and special events. I had the pleasure of visiting the VUE for a wedding. The wedding was beautiful and since there were a lot of vendors and people involved, this review will be based on the VUE's dining space, food, and experience. The space was spectacular--it was like sitting in a glass box in the best way. The chairs on the other hand felt very hard and unstable. During cocktail hour, it was open bar, passed around hors d'oeuvres, a large charcuterie spread, and buffet-styled apps. There was an overwhelming variety from stuffed breads, meats, cheeses, vegetables, fruits, penne alla vodka, mini lobster rolls, and so much more! My favorite was the mac & cheese. Before dinner began, the staff went around to confirm everyone's dishes since it was a plated dinner. There were 4 options: beef, fish, chicken, and a vegetarian (cauliflower steak) dish. The staff took the time to take down guests' preferences on how they wanted their steaks cooked and alert the kitchen with a food restrictions or allergies. This did slow down the time for dinner, but I was surprised the staff did that for a large wedding. I picked the vegetarian dish, a cauliflower steak that was seasoned with turmeric, other Indian spices, and a cream sauce. It was a little try and wished there was more sauce. It was served with a delicious cooked spinach and mashed potatoes. Everyone at our table cleaned their plates--Chicken Francese and Filet Mignon. We left the wedding very full and satisfied.

Attended a wedding here last weekend. The venue was spacious and good for 100+ people. The staff…read morethat were serving were nice and friendly. The ceremony was outdoor, which was a nice set up. The bride and groom were standing right in front of the sun. There were two bars which serve the crowd pretty quickly. The food was also good. My entree the filet mignon was cooked perfectly.

See all

The Library Wine Bar & Bistro

3.6(360 reviews)

5.5 mi

Great spot for lunch with coworkers--delicious food, friendly staff, and quick service! The salmon…read morewith the rasberry sauce on top was to die for !

My expectations were high for this place. The ambiance, decor and location are all on point. Cozy,…read morechic, New England vibes. My friend and I started with a glass of wine, and the service in the beginning was good. However things quickly went downhill. This library proves you can't judge a book by its cover. We ordered the calamari appetizer. When it arrived, I opened my silverware from the napkin and discovered that my fork was filthy-- a giant glob of white, crusty food, the size of a dime, was still stuck between the prongs. I waited for my waitress to check in (she didn't deliver the food) but she never came. We tried to get the attention of another waitress and were ignored. After 10 minutes, with my calamari growing cold, I eventually walked to the bar to get a replacement. The bartended exclaimed, "Gross!" -- my sentiments exactly-- when I showed him the fork. By the time I actually sat down to eat, the calamari was cold. It was also super tough and chewy. There were hardly any peppers. We didn't eat much of it. I love French food, and I ordered the duck for dinner. I ordered it medium. When it arrived, it was cooked well done- perhaps in an oven rather than seared. I say this because the skin was not crispy and the fat had not rendered, so the skin/fat remained thick, chewy and inedible. Usually the crispy skin is the best part of duck, so I was disappointed. I had to cut off the skin and thick layer of fat to make it edible. It tasted quite gamey and there was no pink center. It came sliced into thirds, so they knew it was overcooked when they served it to me. I only ate a small portion. The rest of my dish (which came out looking stunning by the way) was also a big disappointment. Although it looked beautiful at first glance, I discovered the delicata squash still had the rough, inedible skin attached. The cherry sauce was heavy-handed and drowned my brussel sprouts, sweet potato purée and carrots to the point that all I could taste was the sauce (a thick, sugary glaze). I did my best to eat around it, because my waitress didn't check on us until much later. In fact we were basically done by the time I saw her again. I had given up at that point and left most of my food behind. There was also an issue with where we were seated. We had a small table in front of a window, but completely blocking a much larger table in a narrow corner. There was a family there when we arrived, and each time they got up to use the bathroom, I had someone's body pressed against my chair to squeeze by. A woman's behind actually grazed the back of my head at one point. When the family left, I could feel them brushing my coat off the back of my chair, resulting in them stepping on it. I can't blame them- it was a tight spot and a very awkward place for a table. I was annoyed that the waitstaff (I'm assuming) took the other chairs at my table, making a 4 seat table into a 2 seater, so I had no choice in where to sit. I didn't understand why they did this, because there was a lovely fireplace nearby and I had my back to it all night. Clearly, they weren't thinking about the dining experience from the customer's point of view. Maybe I could have switched tables but finding my waitress was like trying to find Waldo all evening, so it wasn't worth the hassle. Safe to say I won't be back. If you decide to try it out, be sure to get there early as parking is a pain to find at peak dinner hours.

Wine Bar

Buffalo chicken flatbread (To Kill a Mockingbird)

See all

Ludal Italian Restaurant

3.6(299 reviews)

2.1 mi

•$$$

Came here for lunch for a farewell lunch for my coworker. I haven't been here in a long time…read more Inside there is a lot of seating and not too busy. The table and seating were very comfortable. Parking is kind of small and tight. Server was informative and was very good about my coworker's nut allergies. The bread came out and had a good chimichurri that came with it. I think I had like three slices. All the meals came with salad which was not special. I order the Panko Shrimp which was absolutely delicious. I would come here again to try the other dishes. Overall good experience.

I came with some girlfriends on a busy Friday happy hour. The bartender was extremely friendly and…read morehelpful with our drink choices. We then decided to move to a table and they made sure they had space for us. Everyone working there was extremely friendly and nice to deal with. We shared a few of the half price happy hour appetizers and had no complaints. Great options available for happy hour, we will definitely come back for dinner next time.

See all

Favio's Trattoria

3.9(27 reviews)

5.3 mi

Tip... make a reservation. Very small cozy restaurant. Sat immediately no wait. Order limoncello…read moreprosecco drinks. Delish and so refreshing! Our waiter was very good friendly and attentive. We ordered pretty quickly. We started out with a fried artichokes and we also got the meatballs. Those meatballs might be the best things I've ever had in the fried artichokes were absolutely delicious. For dinner, I got the special of shrimp and lobster and raviolis, which were a handmade pasta so very light and fluffy and the lobster stuffing had lobster meat in it and was very tasty. It was so good. I ate the whole bowl and had no leftovers! My friends all liked each of their meals and no one left with any doggie bags! They did offer us dessert But since we were going to a show, we did not have time for that. Highly recommended!

Flavors were bland. The penne vodka sauce is way better at his other locations not sure why…read more Chicken parm was over cooked and tough. Zucchini chips were flavorless.

Bar area

See all

Bellini's Italian Cuisine

3.5(204 reviews)

2.2 mi

Fine Dining @ its Best! Ambiance, Service, American/European Food; Take Out, Catering (Yummy…read morePizza/Bar). We go for Lunch Frequently, I will be Planning a Retirement Luncheon in the Spring! Doesn't get any Better! Tootsie T.

Service was good. All the food was very good with the exception of my main course. I got veal Parm…read moreand it was very tough. Otherwise I would've given it a much higher rating.

Buffet and bar in private room

Tiramisu... yummy

See all

Ibiza Restaurant

3.6(230 reviews)

3.2 mi

I have been wanting to try Ibiza for quite some time. We arrived on a Friday night and it was…read morepretty quiet. They have a small lot in the rear and side street parking. Upon walking in we were greeted and advised that we could sit anywhere as there were many open tables. They have a mixture of high top seating, bar seating, tables and an enclosed patio overlooking Dixwell Ave. The server was nice and accommodating. I knew I wanted the shrimp ceviche. It was fresh, limy and balanced. For my main course I ordered a ribeye with mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and a creamy peppercorn sauce. Everything was good and fresh. There was quite a wait for the entrees. My friend initially wanted a paella but was advised that it would take 45 minutes. Had she know the alternative option she chose would take almost the same amount of time, she would have waited on the paella. But she enjoyed her entree. They drinks were amazing. I had the Princess Cocktail. It was really good. If you're looking for good drinks, tapas or a full dining experience, I highly recommend.

Every dish was fabulous! - And beautifully plated as well. The service was excellent and the…read morestaff is friendly and professional! The ambiance was authentic. We will e back for sure!

Burrata

See all

Paolo Ristorante

4.3(55 reviews)

6.2 mi

Food!!! its absolutely delectable, and you can taste the care/attention taken in each and every…read moredish! Paolo is so creative -- they never disappoint

Terrible. I am really not sure why the ratings of this place were so good, the food was disgusting…read more I ordered the rigatoni dish that came with pink sauce and grated Italian cheese. It straight up tasted like Kraft Mac and Cheese. My husband got the orecchiette with broccoli rabe and sausage, which was slightly better but not by much. Pasta was not great, sausage did have flavor but was very dry. Broccoli was good. Bread was decent. Not good overall

Appetizer fried mozzarella with homemade bread and other cheeses

Zappa de pesc made for one but would comfortable serve 2 if one was kind enough to share

See all

Bucatini Bolinas perfected

Gaetano's Tavern On Main

3.5(230 reviews)

5.5 mi

Gaetano's is right in the heart of Wallingford and has been around forever. My husband and I used…read moreto come here often when we lived in CT, and it's always been one of our go-to-spots. The restaurant is divided into a dining area and a bar area, where they often have live music. They offer outdoor seating on the sidewalk and I believe they still open up part of the parking lot as well. The menu is extensive, the portions are generous and everything is reasonably priced. I ordered the chicken teriyaki salad expecting a light meal, but it was much larger than anticipated and absolutely delicious. The added mandarin oranges were sweet and the almonds added a nice crunch, and the clam chowder was excellent. My husband enjoyed his tuna melt. Service has always been good, and the food comes out quickly-hot, fresh and consistently delicious. We'll definitely keep coming back whenever we're in Wallingford.

Wonder service as always. People were talkative. A lot of regulars. Great happy hour that ends at 6…read morem-f. Establishment is clean and workers are friendly. Food is wonderful.