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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Hamden

Food and bars

A cold drink and a plate of food are the only things on the agenda for the evening.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated April 2026
01
Side Street Bar & Grill image 1
Side Street Bar & Grill image 2
Side Street Bar & Grill image 3
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Indoor and outdoor seating create a pub-like atmosphere that feels welcoming and comfortable. The bar attracts a college crowd, making it lively and busy at times. Food portions are good-sized with well-prepared burgers standing out.

Food features good bar food with clever names and generous portions. Burgers, wings, and ribs stand out as popular choices with solid quality.

Offers good-sized portions of classic bar food like wings and ribs with clever names. The atmosphere feels pub-like and casual.

People are saying

"The food here is really delicious, especially the burgers."

"The bar food here is great, with good-sized portions."

"I found the burgers really delicious and cooked as I requested."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially with the college crowd.

3

Prices are moderately high for a night out for two.

02
Weed's Cafe image 1
Bar & grill

Bar and grill with a well serviced pool table and a DJ playing great tunes on busy nights. Atmosphere shifts from calm weekdays with an older crowd to lively weekends attracting younger guests. Offers a chill neighborhood vibe popular for hanging out and socializing.

Food here is extremely flavorful and consistently delicious. Dishes like the empanada taco and Rasta pasta stand out for their great taste.

Friendly bar maids create a welcoming vibe. The owner shows care by fixing a flat tire after hours. It serves as a great neighborhood spot for hanging out with friends and enjoying a drink.

People are saying

"The bar has friendly barmaids and a great DJ."

"The food here is incredibly flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The cafรฉ is currently open for business.

2

The cafรฉ has been under new management and renovations.

3

The menu is well put together.

03
Mazorca Mexican Cuisine LLC. image 1

Mexican restaurant with bright colors and a gorgeous mural creates a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that feels like home. Live music and karaoke add energy, while a small bar and cultural center support community events. The space is spacious and clean, attracting locals for both dining and takeout.

Food here offers authentic Mexican flavors that stand out for their genuine taste. The dishes come with excellent service and a homely atmosphere that makes dining pleasant and inviting.

Small bar offers a nice atmosphere with friendly staff behind it. Bar serves as a spot to order drinks and handle payments directly.

People are saying

"The homemade salsas here are spicy and flavorful."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and authentic."

"Henry, the waiter, saved my afternoon at the bar."

Good to know

1

Mazorca hosts community events like Lucha Libre wrestling and comedy nights.

2

Karaoke nights are held regularly at Mazorca.

3

Prices for dishes like the Fish Burrito and Shrimp Taco are under $20.

04
Salvatore's Steakhouse image 1

Boutique-style steakhouse offers a chic, ranch-inspired design with a large bar and outdoor patio. Atmosphere is lively and loud, especially near the bar where conversation requires leaning in. The space feels open and inviting despite closely set tables.

Food arrives promptly with a great variety and consistently delicious flavors. The overall dining experience pairs awesome food with attentive service.

People are saying

"The food and experience here are amazing for Date Spots."

"The bartenders here provide the most incredible service I've ever experienced."

"I was excited for the Wagyu steak, but it didn't live up to expectations."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy events to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour offers discounted food and drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Parking is available in the lot across the street, but can be tricky.

05
Cave a' Vin image 1
Wine bar

Cozy space with wooden barrels, piano, and comfy sofas creates a quaint, inviting vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and somewhat dark and cold, filling up after dinner. Wine selection is extensive with detailed tasting notes, paired with flavorful small plates.

Food includes pulled pork street tacos and light options designed for wine tasting. Dishes arrive quickly and consistently impress with their excellent quality.

Charming wine bar with comfy sofas and a lively bar area. The host brings an infectious energy that shapes a cute and classy French vibe.

People are saying

"The wine knowledge here is amazing; the staff are super helpful."

"The bartender's charisma made every visit a memorable experience."

"I thought the food was excellent."

Good to know

1

Cave a' Vin closes at 10 PM, not 11 PM as listed online.

2

The wine selection is extensive with detailed tasting notes.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of wine and food offered.

06
Odie's Place image 1
Pizza restaurant

New Haven style pizza stands out with consistently amazing quality and affordable prices. Pool tables and occasional live music create a friendly, chill vibe with plenty of TVs for sports viewing. The space feels cozy and casual, attracting a local crowd who enjoy relaxed gatherings.

Food offers fresh Italian dishes and a variety of options like pizza, club sandwiches, and appetizers. Prices stay affordable while maintaining consistent quality.

A friendly regulars bar with easy access to the counter for ordering drinks. Offers bar shots and serves good food in a neighborhood setting.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was amazing."

"I found the food here to be amazing, especially the pizza."

"I loved their pizza and the bar food was great."

Good to know

1

Cash is needed for payment as credit cards are not accepted.

2

The place is bike-friendly with ample space to lock bikes outside.

3

The venue hosts a rock painting activity on Sundays.

07
Lynon's Restaurant And Bar image 1
American restaurant

Small family-owned spot offers amazing southern food with outstanding yams and mac and cheese. Atmosphere feels grown and sexy with a relaxing vibe supported by music suited for chilling and dancing. Food and drinks come with generous pours, creating a chill and groove environment.

Southern food stands out with phenomenal flavor and consistent quality. Dishes arrive hot and delicious, combining affordability with great taste every time.

Good drinks and friendly staff create a welcoming bar atmosphere. Karaoke and dancing are common, though the bar itself feels like it could use some improvement.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"The bar's atmosphere is grown and sexy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect food preparation to take about 40 minutes during busy hours.

3

Parking can be tight, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

08
Charlie & James Place image 1
Soul food restaurant

Soul food restaurant offers a chill atmosphere with live DJ music that energizes the space. The vibe stays peaceful yet lively, attracting those looking to relax and enjoy good tunes. Signature dishes like Honey jerk wings add a flavorful touch to the experience.

Food offers consistent good flavor and quality. Service supports the experience, and music adds a vibey atmosphere.

A neighborhood bar with nice staff who make good drinks. Service can be slow, with waits up to 20 minutes at the bar.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing."

"The bar staff make great drinks and are really nice."

Good to know

1

The bar has a happy hour with discounted drinks from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Online ordering is not available; all orders must be made in person.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere with no strict dress code.

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