2 Best Restaurants in Hartford and the Connecticut River Valley, Connecticut

What looks to be a simple neighborhood spot south of downtown is actually one of the state's most hallowed Italian restaurants and pizza parlors, serving superb thin-crust pies and much, much more since 1936. The old-fashioned wooden bar is jammed most evenings with suburbia-bound daily-grinders; the main dining room, which is just as noisy, has a brick wall covered with celebrity photos.

Share small plates, have a pub-style sandwich, or enjoy a full entrée at this iconic neighborhood tavern—there's something on the menu that will appeal to everyone; the Friday Night Prime Rib Special is a big draw. There's also a great selection of local craft beer and cider and a full wine list.