These 6 Old Restaurants In Connecticut Have Stood The Test Of Time
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Lisa Sammons
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We love new restaurants: it’s great being among the first to try a spot before it gets too popular. But there’s something to be said for long-standing restaurants. After all, there’s a reason these places have been in business so long! Here are some of the oldest restaurants in Connecticut:
Frank Pepe Pizzeria has been around for almost 100 years. It's one of the most famous pizza places in the country, and has even been voted the nation's best pizza.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, 157 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
This place invented Connecticut-style apizza. The pizza baked here is famous for its thin crust and distinctive coal-fired texture. You won't find mozzarella on the original tomato pie here: that's considered an extra topping.
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The Tap Room at The Griswold Inn, 36 Main St, Essex, CT 06426, USA
The Griswold Inn is one of the oldest continuously-operated taverns in the United States. It's been a gathering spot for thirsty travelers for hundreds of years.
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There are actually a few dining rooms at the Griswold Inn. You can find more elevated entrees in the main restaurant, but the Tap Room is a great option for those looking for casual meals. The Tap Room is in an old schoolhouse that was connected to the Inn in 1801.
Louis' Lunch, 261 Crown St, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
Another of our favorite historic restaurants in Connecticut is Louis' Lunch. This spot in New Haven was opened by a Danish immigrant way back in 1895. If you believe the restaurant's claims (backed by the Library of Congress), the first burger ever was served here in 1900.
Louis' Lunch still uses the same historic equipment to make burgers today. The burgers here are different than those you'll find elsewhere: the toppings choices are quite limited, and you'll allegedly be kicked off the premises if you ask for ketchup. They're cooked on regular old white bread and topped with Cheez Whiz. This is a classic burger like no other!
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J Timothy's Taverne, 143 New Britain Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA
This one's a little newer than the other restaurants on this list, but it's been going strong for four decades now. The building that J. Timothy's Taverne is housed in has been a tavern since 1789.
Do yourself a favor and opt for the chicken wings, which are often called the best in Connecticut. You can get them in a variety of flavors and they're all delicious.
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Sally's Apizza, 237 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
When it comes to historic pizzerias, New Haven has more than most places. Another great spot to grab a historic bite is Sally's Apizza.
The pizzas here are baked New Haven-style, of course, so you'll find that signature charred crust that adds a smoky flavor.
Modern Apizza, 874 State St, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
More pizza?! That's right, we love our pizza in Connecticut. Another long-standing, top-ranked spot in New Haven is Modern Apizza.
You'll often hear Nutmeg State residents arguing about which of the "big three" pizza spots (Modern, Sally's, or Frank Pepe) have the best pizza. We say just enjoy them all! You can get more information on Modern Apizza's website.
Did we miss your favorite old restaurant in Connecticut? Share your suggestions in the comments!
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