Need a good New Haven restaurant

[CallMeBruce]

I hate to create another one of these food threads, but I actually have a reason for this. My employees all work more-or-less remotely, and one in particular has been an absolute superstar lately, so we're looking for a way to show her how much we appreciate all of her hard work and dedication. My thought was for a $100 gift card to a restaurant in New Haven (where she lives), but I don't really know what's good in that area since I live in Boston. I'd like for $100 to cover a meal for two, more or less, if possible. Let me know if you guys have any suggestions. Thanks!

 

[John]

I like Bar Pizza, but not sure if you want something fancier than pizza. Your user name reminds me of this quote

Remember, Bruce! Fish are friends, not food!

 

[imno1]

Can't go wrong at Goodfella's

 

[Zionn]

L'Oricio - Italian (Northern)
Bentara - Malaysian
Miya's - Sushi
Soul de Cuba Cafe - Cuban

 

[Zionn]

If want to go more upscale Urban League cafe (French)

 

[upstater]

I like Bentara's too.

 

[Kembacity]

Prime 16 if its still around was a nice burger joint that offered craft beers and unique ingredients
Barcelona is a classy joint with an extensive wine collection if you think they're into that

Husky die-hard in Boston too here!

 

[seeya27]

You've got a list of good ones. For a 4-star experience that is remarkably reasonably priced, I would consider L'Oricio. Chic urban feel.

Tre Scalini, as well. A little more expensive, but terrific.

Both are Italian though. Urban League may be the best restaurant in the city but a little more costly.

 

[seeya27]

Pacifico for South American-inspired seafood. Owned by a very fine restauranteur.

 

[Irish Loop]

My absolute favorite restaurant in New Haven is Caseus. It's a little expensive but 100 would probably cover dinner for two.

Prime 16 is fantastic for beer and burgers; Bentara has awesome Malaysian food; L'Orcio, as others have said, has very good Italian; I love the mashed potato and bacon pizza at Bar.

Pacifico is another good place with fantastic tapas. Their duck quesadillas are awesome. Seriously. And half price bottles of wine on Sundays.

 

[J-dog]

Couple of others not mentioned...

Basta (awesome authentic Italian)
Geronimo's (great mexican fare; fabulous table-side guacamole)

 

[Stinger92860]

Send her to the Glenwood. For 100 she can make several trips

 

[Deepster]

116 Crown hasn't been named yet. Great drinks and a cool vibe.

 

[imno1]

Lot's of great choices in the Elm City.

Couple of others not mentioned...

Basta (awesome authentic Italian)
Geronimo's (great mexican fare; fabulous table-side guacamole)

and don't forget like 60 brands of tequila

 

[CallMeBruce]

Thanks guys! I'll have to spend some time looking through these.

 

[nomar]

Isn't it the Union League Cafe?

Very nice restaurant. Fancy. (Some would call it "stuffy.")

 

[Zionn]

Yes...Union ....sorry......

 

[bobbygt]

Zinc Restaurant is very good.

I also put a vote for Soul de Cuba Cafe

 

[sawxfan23]

Tre Scalini hands down

 

[8893]

I've eaten at all the places mentioned--most of them several times--and Union League Cafe would absolutely be my first choice if I wanted someone to feel special and appreciated. The service is impeccable, the food is excellent and the room is wonderful. $100 won't cover it if they are drinkers, but it will go a long way. I've been there dozens of times and never had anything but a great experience. I once had $100 gift card and used it to get crazy with the wine list--which you can definitely do there.

I love L'Orcio as well and also eat there very often. The food is excellent but the experience there is made much better imo when the weather is nice enough for you to eat outside because their courtyard is such a great spot.

Honestly, in my opinion these two places are head and shoulders above the rest for what you are looking for. I am not a fan of Caseus at all. I know it has a rabid following, but I don't find the food all that special, the service is affected or disaffected, and the room is not comfortable.

 

[Mazhude]

http://www.courant.com/new-haven-li...all-dining-october-20140930-story.html#page=1

Here's a nice and extensive write-up of the greater New Haven dining scene. Enjoy!

 

[CallMeBruce]

Thanks so much, everyone. This has been a huge help.

 

[Irish Loop]

116 Crown hasn't been named yet. Great drinks and a cool vibe.

Mostly because I have an ethical stance against spending 17 dollars on a cocktail.

 

[Waquoit]

Zinc Restaurant is very good.

I agree with Zinc. It seems to fit your bill here.

 

[Bezzz]

If your colleague is familiar to the New Haven restaurant scene and may want to try something new, check out my client/chef Avi's Roia in the former Taft Hotal. New to the scene, beautiful room, great food.
Roia