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Best Fun Restaurants in New Haven

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41 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Elm City Social restaurant
4.4
Awesome(312)
Price: Moderate
• American • New Haven
Booked 12 times today
Voted Connecticut’s Best New RestaurantElm City Social evokes the spirit of the 1920s, bringing back to life the craftwork of cocktails that has been lost until now. In the kitchen, Chef John Brennan draws you in with seasonally inspired menus that can only be described as “comfort food with a flavorful twist.” People love our style; we were even named one of the Best New Restaurants this year by Connecticut Magazine.We’re located inside the historic building that once housed Kasey's Restaurant in the early 1900's. By the corner of Chapel and College Streets, we're situated across the street from the famed Shubert Theater and just off the New Haven Green. Join us today.
A photo of olea - New Haven restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1404)
Price: Very Expensive
• Spanish • New Haven
Booked 6 times today
In the heart of downtown New Haven, Connecticut, Olea offers an innovative interpretation of Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine. Chef Manuel Romero and his team explore these flavors in their food, wine, and cocktails, locally sourcing many products and importing specialty items from the Mediterranean region.
A photo of Olives and Oil restaurant
4.4
Awesome(216)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Italian • New Haven
Booked 27 times today
Brought to you by the team at Elm City Social, Olives and Oil explores Chef John Brennan's modern take on rustic Italian cuisine, wine, and life in a vintage setting.What you'll find inside: fresh ingredients, small plates, brick oven-fired pizza, and a delicious raw bar.Serving lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch!
A photo of ZINC New Haven restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2977)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • New Haven
Booked 9 times today
Across from the historic New Haven Green, ZINC offers an innovative seed-to-plate menu that celebrates the surrounding community. Sustainable food has been the focus of ZINC since opening its doors in 1999 and has helped earn our place as a fixture in the downtown landscape. Our modern interpretation of “American Food” is local market inspired and globally infused with a focus on sustainable food, offering a dining experience fit for the most enthusiastic of foodies. ZINC offers a Wine Spectator award-winning wine menu.
A photo of The Luke Brasserie Bar & Cafe restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(347)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary French / American • New Haven
Booked 12 times today
Chef Vincent is excited to bring a dynamic contemporary brasserie experience to New Haven.Chef Vincent has worked with such culinary giants as: Charlie Trotter, Daniel Boloud, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Marcus Samuellson, Rocco Dispirito, Georges Blanc, Paul Bocuse, Michel Geurard, and Stephen Starr.
A photo of South Bay restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(448)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • New Haven
Booked 7 times today
South Bay in New Haven is a fun spot for Mediterranean cuisine. Reviews rave about the 'fun lively atmosphere', 'great inventive menu' and 'welcoming staff'. It's a local favorite for its 'great service', 'delicious food', and 'lovely ambiance'. Plus, it's a great spot before a show at the Shubert Theater. Definitely a place to consider for a fun dining experience.
A photo of Pacifico - New Haven, CT restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1417)
Price: Moderate
• Latin / Spanish • New Haven
Booked 9 times today
We are located in the heart of downtown New Haven NY times, Zagat, Hartford Courant rated, featuring extraordinary Nuevo-Latino cuisine. Along with traditional tapas, some of our signature dishes include Seafood Paella, Skirt Steak with Chino-Latino stir fried rice, Caramelized Salmon and Dulce de Leche Cheesecake. Among some other favorites are our Sangria and award winning Mojitos (Best Mojito – CT Magazine) which will surely liven your day.
A photo of Te Amo Tequila Bar & Tacos restaurant
4.5
Awesome(345)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • New Haven
Booked 38 times today
Te Amo Tequila Bar & Tacos ( translation: I Love Tequila) is a modern Mexican restaurant and tequila bar featuring delicious tequila cocktails, and a completely unique taco experience. Whether you are going out for happy hour, date night or late night partying, the sophisticated atmosphere combined with two fully stocked bars & open kitchen will have you loving Te Amo. Located adjacent to the New Haven green, across from the Omni Hotel and through the plaza from the Shubert Theater.Noteworthy: Margaritas flights, flaming queso, one of a kind tacos, summer terrasse diningNot finding your available time? Check out our sister locations Barracuda Bistro & Bar & 80 PROOF American Kitchen & Bar (also on open table)
A photo of 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4.3
Awesome(156)
Price: Moderate
• American • New Haven
Booked 26 times today
80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar is a modern twist on classic fare with a focus on shareable plates, elevated bar food & approachable craft cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere with two bars, a large private patio, and multiple options for private dining and events. Chef Sonia Salazar of Te Amo Tequila Bar & Barracuda Bistro & Bar delivers another delicious menu to the area. menu highlights include wonton tuna nachos, watermelon feta salad, short rib tacos, mussels in a lobster bisque, and the specialty drink menu features a seasonal selection of delicious summer cocktails with ingredients such as vodka, bourbon, tequila and gin with fresh watermelon, blackberries, basil & mint. Don't miss the Sunday Brunch from 11am - 3pm.Our summer patio dining is an oasis in the center of the theater district with quick access to the Shubert Theater and College St. Music Hall.
A photo of Atelier Florian restaurant
4.2
Awesome(742)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • New Haven
Booked 6 times today
Here at Atelier Florian, we welcome you to experience a full array of fresh sea-to table dishes and sustainable meats and produce from local purveyors in a relaxing ambiance that is true to the finest European tradition. Our chefs work hard to bring you the freshest and most tantalizing seafood-centered masterpieces, the heartiest meats and poultry and the healthiest composed salads, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, all with an elegant Belgian twist.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • RichardVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My favorite. Always amazing food. Will be back. The staff and the kitchen don’t take shortcuts. Everything is done properly.
    More info
    olea - New HavenPrice: Very Expensive• Spanish• New Haven
    4.8
  • Mariel
    Greater Boston •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    It’s beautiful in there, it was my second time dining at olives & oil. This time we went on a friday after Christmas, the decoration, staff, food was amazing. Whether you’re there for a couple of drinks at the bar or seating in there dining section you’ll have a wonderful experience. They pay good attention to allergies and have gluten free options.
    More info
    Olives and OilPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Italian• New Haven
    4.4
  • daphne
    South Carolina •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    We had a table for five plus a baby for lunch. Interesting and flavorful menu. Pulled duck tostados were excellent. One friend said the chicken sandwich was the best meal she had over the Christmas/Hanukah holiday. Kitchen made an easy substitution for a food allergy. Only slight gripe was that it was chilly sitting at the front table in the window. Will definitely be back!
    More info
    ZINC New HavenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• New Haven
    4.7
  • Alyssa
    South Carolina •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    My family and I had an unforgettable Christmas dinner at The Luke. The candlelit atmosphere was beautiful, and the service was impeccable. Chef Vincent greeted guests, described dishes, and even created additional vegetarian options for a guest at our table. Every dish was inventive, fresh, and delicious. Our server, Iris, took excellent care of us and helped create a truly memorable experience. From the Prosecco toasts on arrival to the flawless execution of the menu, it was one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in quite some time. As a hospitality professional myself, this evening reminded me how impactful a dining experience can be when great people thoughtfully execute every detail. I’m truly looking forward to dining at The Luke again!
    More info
    The Luke Brasserie Bar & CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary French / American• New Haven
    4.8
  • Krissy
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 22, 2024
    Our first server was okay but then Anthony came over and he was exceptional. So polite, attentive and professional.
    More info
    Elm City SocialPrice: Moderate• American• New Haven
    4.4

Discover best fun restaurants in New Haven

Discover the vibrant dining scene in New Haven, Connecticut, where restaurants excel in creating fun, memorable dining experiences. Whether you're in the mood for the lively flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, the unique twist on Mexican street food, or a charming bistro setting with an extensive wine list, New Haven offers a variety of establishments that prioritize a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. These restaurants are celebrated for their inventive menus, excellent service, and delightful ambiance, making them perfect spots for both casual outings and special occasions. Patrons consistently praise the engaging environments and the quality of food, which together ensure a fun night out in this culturally rich city. Each location brings its own unique flair to the dining experience, contributing to New Haven's reputation as a dynamic culinary destination. So, if you're looking for a place that combines great tastes with a fun vibe, New Haven's restaurant scene should be at the top of your list.

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