The best restaurants in Middletown

36 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 36 places · showing the latest additions first

Casual eatery serving pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes for dine-in or delivery.

307 Main St (Cromwell)

“Casual eatery serving pizza, pasta, and other Italian dishes for dine-in or delivery.”

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Amici Italian Grill brings a warm, convivial vibe and distinctive Northern Italian cooking built on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Think…

Riverview Center, 280 Main St

“Amici Italian Grill brings a warm, convivial vibe and distinctive Northern Italian cooking built on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Think house-made pastas, traditional salads, fresh fish, and flavorful meats, all from brothers Sam and John Vrakas who make dinner feel like you joined the family.”

From the Middletown newsletter, August 30, 2026

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Puerto Vallarta Middletown keeps it simple in the best way, cooking everything from scratch with family recipes that actually taste like…

200 Main St

“Puerto Vallarta Middletown keeps it simple in the best way, cooking everything from scratch with family recipes that actually taste like someone’s abuela signed off.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 11, 2026

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Krust Pizza & Bourbon Bar nails that wood-fired magic with a beehive-shaped oven turning out thin, blistered pies topped with San Marzano…

686 Main St

“Krust Pizza & Bourbon Bar nails that wood-fired magic with a beehive-shaped oven turning out thin, blistered pies topped with San Marzano tomato and fresh mozzarella, plus shareable small plates. When you want smoky aromas and a bourbon list that actually delivers, this Middletown spot hits the spot.”

From the Middletown newsletter, August 31, 2026

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Family-owned, counter-serve eatery for tacos, burritos and Mexican standbys, plus chips and salsa.

120 Washington St

“Family-owned, counter-serve eatery for tacos, burritos and Mexican standbys, plus chips and salsa.”

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When you need a no-fuss pizza night or a legit sit-down pasta situation, ABC Trattoria & Pizza turns out hand-tossed NY-style pies,…

316 Main St (Cromwell)

“When you need a no-fuss pizza night or a legit sit-down pasta situation, ABC Trattoria & Pizza turns out hand-tossed NY-style pies, homemade bread, and hearty classics like chicken parm, baked ziti, and lobster ravioli with shrimp... the kind of hidden-gem flavor worth a weekly habit.”

From the Middletown newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Pastaio

Restaurants

Pastaio keeps it simple... serious Italian technique with a laid-back, family-style vibe. Fresh dough rolled and cut daily, market-to-plate…

825 Saybrook Rd

“Pastaio keeps it simple... serious Italian technique with a laid-back, family-style vibe. Fresh dough rolled and cut daily, market-to-plate ingredients from local suppliers, and plates like cacio e pepe, lamb ragu, or grilled Spanish octopus that hit just right.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 25, 2026

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Iguanas Ranas Taqueria keeps things delightfully home-style, with tacos, tortas, and burritos that taste like someone’s abuela actually…

129 Church St

“Iguanas Ranas Taqueria keeps things delightfully home-style, with tacos, tortas, and burritos that taste like someone’s abuela actually supervises. Add a laid-back cantina vibe and easygoing cocktails, and you’ve got a solid Middletown go-to when you want dinner that’s unfussy, flavorful, and reliably satisfying.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 23, 2026

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Fabian's Pizza

Restaurants

Fabian's Pizza does the crowd-pleasers and the curveballs, from a loaded House Special to Clams Casino and the Famous Bacon Cheeseburger,…

279 Main St (Portland)

“Fabian's Pizza does the crowd-pleasers and the curveballs, from a loaded House Special to Clams Casino and the Famous Bacon Cheeseburger, plus thin crust with advance notice. Planning a crew feast, order a party-size pie a day ahead and call it a win.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 5, 2026

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La Casa Mania Mexican Cantina finally parked the rusty truck and opened a full service home in Middletown, pouring a lively cantina vibe…

712 Main St

“La Casa Mania Mexican Cantina finally parked the rusty truck and opened a full service home in Middletown, pouring a lively cantina vibe with tacos front and center. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot you slide into when you want bold, feel good flavors and zero pretense, just good times.”

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Fuego Mexican Grill keeps things casual but tasty with burritos, enchiladas, and sizzling fajitas, plus a bar shaking up signature…

36 Shunpike Rd (Cromwell)

“Fuego Mexican Grill keeps things casual but tasty with burritos, enchiladas, and sizzling fajitas, plus a bar shaking up signature cocktails made from scratch. Solid weeknight go-to vibes, and they also cater if your next backyard shindig needs a little more fuego.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Niuda Noodle & Sushi nails the Middletown trifecta: thoughtful specialty rolls, slurp-worthy ramen, and satisfying noodle classics like dan…

102 Court St

“Niuda Noodle & Sushi nails the Middletown trifecta: thoughtful specialty rolls, slurp-worthy ramen, and satisfying noodle classics like dan dan and spicy beef. When the sushi craving hits or you need a cozy takeout fix, their fresh, well-balanced flavors and easy pickup or delivery make weeknights simple.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 24, 2026

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Family run with a friendly, no-fuss vibe, Campagna Restaurant nails the kind of classic Italian comfort fare locals actually crave, with a…

151 Marlborough St (Portland)

“Family run with a friendly, no-fuss vibe, Campagna Restaurant nails the kind of classic Italian comfort fare locals actually crave, with a glass of wine or a cold beer to match. Need space for a celebration? Their banquet hall keeps the whole crew fed, happy, and nearby in Portland.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Since 2013, Pizzeria DaVinci Cobalt has been serving New Haven style thin-crust pies to Cobalt, East Hampton, and Portland, and they…

363 W High St (Cobalt)

“Since 2013, Pizzeria DaVinci Cobalt has been serving New Haven style thin-crust pies to Cobalt, East Hampton, and Portland, and they support local organizations and charitable causes. Solid, neighborly, and tasty, it’s the kind of go-to spot you keep in your rotation when dinner just needs to happen.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 8, 2026

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Whether you’re craving a classic pie, a hefty grinder, a juicy burger, or a not-sad salad, Tommy’s Pizza Palace nails the no-fuss,…

330 Marlborough St (Portland)

“Whether you’re craving a classic pie, a hefty grinder, a juicy burger, or a not-sad salad, Tommy’s Pizza Palace nails the no-fuss, big-flavor routine locals rely on. It’s the kind of spot you keep on speed dial for busy nights, game days, or when cooking sounds... optional.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 6, 2026

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Run by the Cafe Luna crew next door in Cromwell, Lorenzo’s Pizza and Martini Lounge leans into traditional pies crafted with care and…

35 Berlin Rd (Cromwell)

“Run by the Cafe Luna crew next door in Cromwell, Lorenzo’s Pizza and Martini Lounge leans into traditional pies crafted with care and laid-back lounge energy. Perfect for a no-fuss weeknight or low-key date, it’s the kind of spot locals keep in the rotation when cravings hit.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 5, 2026

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Craving bold flavors without leaving town this week? Yu's Fusion (Juicy Cajun Seafood) mashes up juicy Cajun seafood with fresh sushi and…

220 Main St

“Craving bold flavors without leaving town this week? Yu's Fusion (Juicy Cajun Seafood) mashes up juicy Cajun seafood with fresh sushi and Asian favorites, from Snow Crab Legs and Crawfish Combo to Sushi Bar entrées and hearty seafood platters. Generous portions, friendly service, and serious flavor...”

From the Middletown newsletter, August 28, 2026

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When you want real-deal red-sauce comfort and a proper cocktail, Cafe Fiore Cromwell delivers with traditional Italian favorites, nightly…

134 Berlin Rd (Cromwell)

“When you want real-deal red-sauce comfort and a proper cocktail, Cafe Fiore Cromwell delivers with traditional Italian favorites, nightly chef specials, and a broad wine list. It’s the sister spot to Middletown’s Fiore II, so you know the pastas and desserts won’t mess around.”

From the Middletown newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Terrazza Restaurant brings elegant Italian comfort to the Quarry Ridge Golf Course, with locals raving about their vodka sauce and the kind…

9 Rose Hill Rd (Portland)

“Terrazza Restaurant brings elegant Italian comfort to the Quarry Ridge Golf Course, with locals raving about their vodka sauce and the kind of golden hour views that make you linger over another glass.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 9, 2026

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Casa Mia at the Hawthorne is the local move when prime rib cravings hit and you want it with Tuscan Italian sides. Think extra thick, well…

2421 Berlin Tpke (Berlin)

“Casa Mia at the Hawthorne is the local move when prime rib cravings hit and you want it with Tuscan Italian sides. Think extra thick, well aged cuts, lobster specials, and a lively 2421 Supper Club scene with the game on and live entertainment.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 10, 2026

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Japanica II

Restaurants

Cozy and casual, Japanica II handles cravings with fresh sushi, teriyaki chicken, and other Japanese comfort foods, plus vegetarian options…

852 Washington St

“Cozy and casual, Japanica II handles cravings with fresh sushi, teriyaki chicken, and other Japanese comfort foods, plus vegetarian options for the plant-based crowd. When you need dinner without fuss, their easy online ordering or a quick table reservation keeps things simple.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 12, 2026

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When you want reliable sushi and a little hibachi theater without leaving town, Moonlight Sushi Bar and Grill delivers. From poke bowls and…

130 Main St

“When you want reliable sushi and a little hibachi theater without leaving town, Moonlight Sushi Bar and Grill delivers. From poke bowls and bento boxes to special rolls and sizzling hibachi combos, plus a proper drink menu, it's an easy weeknight upgrade or low-key date spot.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Mondo

Restaurants

Family-owned since 2010, Mondo nails New York-style, brick oven pies, plus fresh-in-house salads, panini, and pasta. They also feature…

10 Main St

“Family-owned since 2010, Mondo nails New York-style, brick oven pies, plus fresh-in-house salads, panini, and pasta. They also feature local goods like Foxon Park soda, Cato Corner Farm cheeses, and NoRA Cupcakes, with an ever changing beer and wine selection to keep weeknights interesting.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 28, 2026

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Hachi

Restaurants

When a sushi craving hits and you want options, Hachi keeps it easy with set and à la carte menus, plenty of classic and special rolls,…

320 Main St

“When a sushi craving hits and you want options, Hachi keeps it easy with set and à la carte menus, plenty of classic and special rolls, plus comforting Japanese and Thai plates. Bubble tea for the sweet tooth, beer and wine for the unwind.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 27, 2026

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Sicily Coal Fired Pizza brings New Haven-style coal-fired pies, handcrafted pastas, and seasonal chef features together with a lively bar…

412 Main St

“Sicily Coal Fired Pizza brings New Haven-style coal-fired pies, handcrafted pastas, and seasonal chef features together with a lively bar scene. Think 50+ rotating beers, standout cocktails, and an eye-popping 72 wines by the glass via Coravin... perfect for weeknights, birthdays, or just because.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Giulia's Pizza Restaurant is that reliable local find when you want classic Italian without the fuss: crisp pies, twirlable pastas, and…

199 Shunpike Rd (Cromwell)

“Giulia's Pizza Restaurant is that reliable local find when you want classic Italian without the fuss: crisp pies, twirlable pastas, and hefty sandwiches that hit the spot. They’re more than just pizza, too, with catering for your next get-together and delivery through Slice when the couch wins.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Zerio's

Restaurants

Zerio's keeps it classic with brick-oven Grandma’s Style grated cheese pizza, meatball-and-ricotta panini, and grinders built on fresh…

2 Willowbrook Rd (Cromwell)

“Zerio's keeps it classic with brick-oven Grandma’s Style grated cheese pizza, meatball-and-ricotta panini, and grinders built on fresh bread delivered daily, all made to order with locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for a no-fuss weeknight win or when you need crowd-pleasing catering that actually tastes homemade.”

From the Hartford newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Whether you're plotting a laid-back taco night or a full-on chips-and-salsa situation, Coyote Blue Tex Mex Cafe brings the party with…

1960 Saybrook Rd

“Whether you're plotting a laid-back taco night or a full-on chips-and-salsa situation, Coyote Blue Tex Mex Cafe brings the party with Tex-Mex comfort plates, famously bold margaritas, and a back bar boasting over 120 tequilas and mezcals. A solid go-to when Middletown evenings need some zip.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 16, 2026

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Whether you’re in a plain-cheese mood or hunting for something heartier, Middletown Halal Grill & Pizza nails the cravings with pies,…

570 Main St

“Whether you’re in a plain-cheese mood or hunting for something heartier, Middletown Halal Grill & Pizza nails the cravings with pies, wings, gyros, grinders, and the beloved chicken or lamb over rice. Affordable, filling, and reliably tasty, it’s a clutch move for busy Middletown nights.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Vero Cucino

Restaurants

Vero Cucino turns imported Italian ingredients into delicately cooked, legit Napoletana pies, then backs it up with pastas, panini, and…

Tradewinds Plaza, 749 Saybrook Rd

“Vero Cucino turns imported Italian ingredients into delicately cooked, legit Napoletana pies, then backs it up with pastas, panini, and other Italian comfort staples, all in a laid-back vibe. Weekly entertainment and easy online ordering make it a reliable go-to when dinner needs to be both good and simple.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Pho & Grill Vietnamese Restaurant in Cromwell delivers the essentials, think steaming pho and other Vietnamese classics made with fresh…

200 West St (Cromwell)

“Pho & Grill Vietnamese Restaurant in Cromwell delivers the essentials, think steaming pho and other Vietnamese classics made with fresh ingredients. Zero fuss, all flavor, and perfect for weeknights when you want something warm, fresh, and reliably good without trekking across the county.”

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Brasa Bella Pizzeria turns out handcrafted pies from a granite oven with precision heating and expert calibration, so the crust hits that…

1448 E Main St (Meriden)

“Brasa Bella Pizzeria turns out handcrafted pies from a granite oven with precision heating and expert calibration, so the crust hits that crisp-chewy sweet spot. Family-run by Sammy and Benny, it’s the kind of local slice you start defending in group chats.”

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Perk on Main

Restaurants

Perk on Main serves artisanal coffee and sweet-and-savory crepes, and it walks the talk on values with organic and fairly traded…

386 Main St · ✓ checked Sep 3

“Perk on Main serves artisanal coffee and sweet-and-savory crepes, and it walks the talk on values with organic and fairly traded ingredients, wind energy, and composting. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll probably see a neighbor, then stay for another latte because it feels right.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Taino Smokehouse

Restaurants

Taino Smokehouse is the original Middletown spot for scratch-cooked barbecue that feels like it was made by a neighbor who really knows…

482 S Main St

“Taino Smokehouse is the original Middletown spot for scratch-cooked barbecue that feels like it was made by a neighbor who really knows their smoker. Small inside when it’s chilly, then the patio goes big in summer, perfect for lazy plates, shared bites, and community vibes.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 19, 2026

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Pho 170

Restaurants

If your week needs a reset, Pho 170 delivers steaming bowls of pho, Thai curries, and other cozy favorites right in Metro Square Shopping…

170 Main St

“If your week needs a reset, Pho 170 delivers steaming bowls of pho, Thai curries, and other cozy favorites right in Metro Square Shopping Center. Lively open-kitchen energy, quick friendly service, and easy online ordering make it an easy go-to when you want comfort without the fuss.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 26, 2026

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Denovellis

Restaurants

Denovellis serves northern Italian comfort in a roomy, brick-walled spot where everything’s cooked to order. Think specialty pizzas, veal…

944 Cromwell Ave (Rocky Hill)

“Denovellis serves northern Italian comfort in a roomy, brick-walled spot where everything’s cooked to order.”

From the Middletown newsletter, September 10, 2026

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