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12 Best Restaurants in Norwalk, Connecticut (Updated July 2024)
Norwalk is a vibrant city in Fairfield County, Connecticut with a blossoming foodie scene. As more people discover Norwalk’s charms, the restaurant options continue to grow and impress. From fine dining establishments to hip bistros and cafes, Norwalk has something for all tastes and budgets. This article explores 12 of the best restaurants that Norwalk has to offer.
For each entry, you’ll find key details like cuisine type, signature dishes, price range, and what makes the restaurant stand out. Whether you’re a local looking to try somewhere new or a visitor seeking the top tables in town, this list has you covered. Grab a seat and get ready to start tasting the best Norwalk has to offer!
Barcelona Wine Bar (Spanish, Tapas)
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With its sleek décor and mouthwatering Spanish tapas plates, Barcelona Wine Bar transports you straight to Spain. This Norwalk hot spot specializes in importing authentic ingredients from Spain along with an extensive list of Spanish wines to perfectly pair with your meal. Standout tapas picks include the pan con tomate, a crusty bread rubbed with fresh tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. Their famed paella, loaded with seafood, chicken and chorizo is a must-try.
What Makes It Stand Out: Vast selection of Spanish wines, authentic ingredients sourced from Spain, lively atmosphere
Match Burger Lobster (Burgers, Lobster Rolls)
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For a taste of New England seaside dining, check out Match Burger Lobster. Come for the juicy burgers cooked to order and stay for the buttered, perfectly grilled lobster rolls overflowing with fresh lobster meat. Carnivores will delight in building their own gourmet burger creation with premium toppings like applewood smoked bacon, truffle aioli and caramelized onions. Pescatarians shouldn’t miss the Connecticut-style lobster roll perched on a toasted, buttered bun.
What Makes It Stand Out: Gourmet burgers, lobster rolls shipped directly from Maine fishing docks
B•AN•C House (New American, Brunch)
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Housed in a restored 1910s brick warehouse, B•AN•C House stuns with its industrial chic vibe and seasonal New American fare. Stop by for their award-winning brunch, where favorites include lemon ricotta pancakes and their signature B•AN•C Benedict with smoked salmon. For dinner, relish creative plates like pan roasted duck breast with forbidden rice and fig glaze. Their curated wine list and handcrafted cocktails make the perfect pairing.
What Makes It Stand Out: House-made pastas, unique brunch dishes, restored historic warehouse space
Capital Grille (Steakhouse)
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This upscale steakhouse chain has perfected the art of exceptional service and exquisitely prepared steaks. Only the finest cuts of dry-aged beef make the menu, such as the bone-in ribeye and center-cut filet mignon. Seafood also dazzles, like the pan seared Chilean sea bass with lobster risotto. From martinis at the bar to fine wines in the dining room, Capital Grille spares no detail for a lavish night out.
What Makes It Stand Out: Dry-aged steaks, premium seafood, refined old-world elegance
Copper Beech Inn (French, Fine Dining)
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For a fine dining experience steeped in old world charm, Copper Beech Inn delivers. Housed in a magnificent 1902 Tudor mansion, guests can dine on elegant French fare either in the formal dining room or outdoors in the English-style garden. Chef Brian Lewis puts his expert touch on classics like coq au vin and bouillabaisse as well as seasonal specials. Their award-winning wine cellar holds over 20,000 bottles from around the world.
What Makes It Stand Out: French haute cuisine, extraordinary wine collection, elegant historic mansion setting
Grey Goose (French)
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Travel to the French countryside at Grey Goose, where vintage decor flows seamlessly into the open kitchen. Renowned for their classic French techniques, the menu stars expert renditions of coq au vin, cassoulet, escargots and decadent dessert crepes. Extensive wine options from France, Spain and California pair flawlessly.
What Makes It Stand Out: Classical French cuisine focused on technique and flavor, intimate atmosphere with views into the kitchen
Mecha Noodle Bar (Asian Fusion, Ramen)
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For a hip Asian hotspot, check out Mecha Noodle Bar. Diners mix and match pan-Asian tapas plates like Japanese gyoza, Korean bbq ribs and blistered shishito peppers, rounded out by specialty Ramen noodle bowls. Their Pork Belly Ramen is legendary, with thick noodles, crispy pork belly, soft boiled eggs and pickled vegetables in a rich broth. Lively ambiance and creative cocktails centered around sake and soju make this a local favorite.
What Makes It Stand Out: Modern izakaya-style small plates, build your own ramen bowls, extensive specialty cocktail list
Oar and Oak (Seafood)
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Focusing on sustainably sourced seafood and ingredients from local vendors, Oar and Oak delivers tastes of coastal New England. Diners rave over dishes like the peel-and-eat shrimp starter followed by entrees of expertly seared scallops or classic New England clam chowder. Desserts also shine, especially the warm beignets doused in powdered sugar.
What Makes It Stand Out: Hyper-local and sustainable ingredients, pristinely prepared seafood, intimate nautical décor
Penny Lane Pub (Gastropub, Craft Beer)
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For elevated pub grub paired with Connecticut’s finest craft brews, Penny Lane Pub is a must-visit. With daily rotating taps, the bar showcases beers from revered area breweries. Seasonal New American fare like brick chicken, fish and chips, and their signature Penny Lane burger pair perfectly. The lively space features cozy nooks and fireplaces along with patio dining.
What Makes It Stand Out: Curated craft beer list spotlighting CT breweries, gourmet gastropub fare, lively vibe
Rainbow Thai (Thai)
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Take your taste buds to Thailand at festive Rainbow Thai. Renowned for intense flavors and superb service, the menu covers all the bases. Old favorites like pad Thai and panang curry share the spotlight with lesser-known dishes that regulars rave about, like larb salad and crying tiger grilled beef. Extensive vegetarian and gluten-free options ensure all dietary needs get met.
What Makes It Stand Out: Authentic Thai flavors, extensive vegetarian and gluten free options, relaxed dining room with outdoor patio
Tarantino Ristorante (Italian)
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For homestyle Italian cuisine just like nonna used to make, Tarantino Ristorante hits the spot. Family-owned for over 35 years, the kitchen turns out lovingly prepared classics from hearty lasagna and chicken parmigiana to lighter seafood linguine. Save room for canoli and other Italian pastries crafted fresh daily.
What Makes It Stand Out: Family recipes passed down for generations, freshly baked Italian pastries, warm and welcoming service
Washington Prime (Steakhouse)
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Settle into a leather booth at this contemporary American steakhouse for exceptional cuts of meat and dazzling city views. Only USDA Prime and Choice beef makes the cut here, starring in dishes like the bone-in double cut pork chop and dry aged Delmonico steak.
Seafood also captivates, especially the Chilean sea bass with lobster risotto. Their craft cocktail menu adds modern flair.
What Makes It Stand Out: Sophisticated steakhouse fare, CT-focused ingredients, panoramic city views
Conclusion
From small bistros to Michelin-starred venues, Norwalk’s dining scene has something for all tastes. These 12 restaurants represent the very best Norwalk offers, thanks to their culinary creativity, high-quality ingredients, and inviting atmospheres.
Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to eat stellar food, you can’t go wrong with the exceptional restaurants highlighted here. They continue raising the bar when it comes to fantastic dining in Norwalk.