The Diversity of New Haven Restaurants
How many countries can you name that are represented by New Haven restaurants?
Eating is one of the best things to do in New Haven, and we are so lucky to live in a place where foods from all over the world can be found just a few blocks away!
But most of us are creatures of habit and stick to our few favorite places, never taking the leap to try “that one place you always walk by but never stop in.”
In the Eating Around The World series, our superstar intern Kate embarked on a voyage to try as many exotic foods as she could around New Haven, with a goal of making different cuisines more approachable and encouraging people to step outside of their comfort zones.
She visited 7 Downtown New Haven restaurants (and one bonus location in the `burbs) and took literally hundreds of pictures to document each one! She’ll give you all the details from the ambiance, to the service, to the cocktails & culinary, and you’ll learn exactly what to order when you visit.
The Eating Around the World series is more than just a New Haven foodie's dream - it's a celebration of the rich cultural heritage that makes the New Haven restaurant scene so vibrant. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or just starting to explore the local culinary scene, we encourage you to add these 8 stamps to your foodie passport:
Mexico - Tacos los Gordos
The Middle East - Mamoun’s Falafel
Peru - Chacra
A Mix of Arab Flavors - Havenly
Japan - Fin & Scale
Korea - OhK Dog
China - Tiger daddy & Whale Tea
*Bonus* India - Darbar India Restaurant (Branford)
Check out our Instagram posts and IG guide to learn even more about each spot!
1. Mexico - Tacos los Gordos
During our "journey" to "Mexico," we embarked on a flavorful adventure at Tacos Los Gordos. This vibrant restaurant truly embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine with its bold and distinctive flavors. From the moment we stepped in, the atmosphere reflected the lively spirit of the country.
Tacos Los Gordos offers both a casual grab-and-go option and a cozy sit-down experience. As we approached the counter to place our orders, we were captivated by the sight of the skilled chefs preparing our meals right before our eyes.
For drinks, we opted for their homemade horchata and refreshing mango juice, both bursting with authentic flavors. Then came the moment of truth as we indulged in three delectable tacos: pork, beef, and the beef tongue. Yes, you read that right, tongue! These “lengua” tacos are a beloved staple in Mexico and we can confidently say they were absolutely delicious!
Last but not least, the street corn was a true standout, perfectly capturing the essence of the restaurant. The vibrant colors of the spices and the creaminess of the cheese created a harmonious blend that instantly made us feel at home.
Our visit to Tacos Los Gordos was a delightful culinary experience that transported us to the heart of Mexico. With each bite, we savored the richness of Mexican flavors and felt a deep appreciation for the cultural tapestry woven into every dish.
The mural on their wall says "Ya llegaste!" (welcome home), and we certainly felt welcomed as part of their family!
But it's not just the food that makes Tacos Los Gordos special - the friendly and welcoming service from the staff adds to the overall experience. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, you'll feel right at home as you chow down on some of the best Mexican street food in town.
The mural on their wall says "Ya llegaste!" (welcome home), and we certainly felt welcomed as part of their family! Tacos Los Gordos is a must-visit for any foodie in New Haven, and it's a great spot for a quick and delicious meal on the go. 🌮🎉🌯
📍167 Crown Street
2. The Middle East - Mamoun’s Falafel
Our second stop was Mamoun’s Falafel to represent the Middle East. Mamoun's Falafel is a beloved New Haven restaurant, serving up some of the most delicious and authentic Middle Eastern food in the city. This family-owned and operated restaurant has been a staple of the New Haven restaurant scene for decades, and it's not hard to see why.
At Mamoun's, the star of the show is undoubtedly the falafel. Made from scratch daily using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, these crispy and flavorful chickpea fritters are a true delight for the taste buds. They're served in a variety of ways, from a classic sandwich to a platter with hummus, baba ganoush, and tabbouleh.
But Mamoun's isn't just about the falafel - their menu is packed with delicious Middle Eastern dishes. From savory kebabs to rich and flavorful shawarma, there's something for everyone at this iconic restaurant.
We ordered the combination plate with lamb, french fries, pita bread and hummus, grape leaves and of course the falafel. It was delicious!
And don't even get us started on the hummus. Creamy, flavorful, and downright addictive, it's no wonder why Mamoun's has been known for their hummus for decades. And the baba ganoush? A smoky and flavorful eggplant dip that's the perfect complement to any meal.
If you're in search of an authentic and mouthwatering Middle Eastern culinary adventure, Mamoun's Falafel is the ultimate destination. Prepare your taste buds for a feast of flavors, as they serve up delectable dishes that will transport you to the heart of the Middle East. With their warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and inviting ambiance, it's no surprise that Mamoun's Falafel has become a beloved fixture in New Haven for countless years. Indulge in their tantalizing menu and experience the true essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. 🥙🍴
📍85 Howe St.
3. Peru - Chacra
Next, we stopped in Peru! Chacra opened recently and is a perfect example of Peruvian cuisine. Chacra is a hidden gem in the heart of New Haven, serving up some of the most delicious and authentic Peruvian cuisine in the city. Tucked away on Temple Street, the unassuming façade may not catch your eye at first glance, but once you step inside, you'll be teleported straight to the vibrant streets of Peru.
At Chacra, the star of the show is undoubtedly the ceviche. Ceviche is “raw” fish that is “cooked” in the acidity of lime juice (If you’re a fan of sashimi, you’ll love this Latin twist). Made from the freshest fish and seafood available, the ceviche at Chacra is a true work of art. Each bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the perfectly balanced mix of citrus, spice, and herbs.
But Chacra isn't just about the ceviche - their menu is packed with a wide variety of delicious Peruvian dishes. From savory empanadas to rich and flavorful churros, Chacra's menu offers a diverse array of options to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences, from meat lovers to vegetarians. We got the the Clasico Ceviche, the Classic (beef heart!), the Papas A La Huancaina, Causa a la Limeña de Pollo, and beef with rice.
And of course, no visit to Chacra is complete without trying their legendary pisco sour. This classic Peruvian cocktail is made with pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and egg white, and it's the perfect complement to any meal. 🍤🍸🥘
📍152 Temple St
4. A Mix of Arab Flavors - Havenly
Our fourth stop was Havenly to represent a mix of Arab flavors. With a sign outside the front door advertising “the best Baklava around,” I was already intrigued. From the delicate layering of the pastry to the generous sprinkling of finely chopped nuts and the perfect drizzle of sweet syrup, their baklava guarantees a consistent and mouthwatering experience with every bite. In addition to the baklava, Havenly also offers a variety of other Middle Eastern desserts, as well as your typical muffins and croissants.
But Havenly isn't just a bakery - they also offer a selection of delicious sandwiches, soups, and salads for those looking for something savory. We got the Turkish Coffee, an Iced Latte, the Istanbul Street Bites, the New Haven bowl, Pistachio Tamriyah (and of course baklava). Their sandwiches are made with fresh ingredients and feature a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan options (even their baklava is vegan!). If you're looking for something to wash down your meal, Havenly also serves a variety of coffee and tea beverages that are sure to hit the spot.
Havenly is not only a beloved bakery in New Haven, but it also has a deep commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment. One of the ways that Havenly demonstrates this commitment is through the Havenly Fellowship. Through this program, Havenly helps refugees and other immigrants settle in the United States by offering job training and employment opportunities to refugees who are seeking to rebuild their lives in the United States.
The fellowship provides refugees with the skills and training they need to succeed in the food service industry, including baking and pastry skills, customer service, and English language proficiency. In addition to job training, the program offers refugees with ongoing support, mentoring, and guidance as they transition into their new careers.
The Havenly Fellowship is an important part of their commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment. By providing refugees with the opportunity to build their skills, gain employment, and achieve financial independence, Havenly is helping to create a more equitable and inclusive community in New Haven.
When you support Havenly, you're not just indulging in delicious baked goods - you're also supporting a local New Haven bakery that is making a positive impact on the world. 🍪👨🍳👩🍳
And did we mention we love their baklava?
📍25 Temple St
5. Japan - Fin & Scale
Next, we flew over to Japan at Fin and Scale. If you're looking for sushi in New Haven, add Fin and Scale to your list. This Westville sushi restaurant specializes in Japanese-inspired dishes, with a focus on fresh and flavorful sushi rolls - made from only fish with fins and scales - to accommodate different dietary restrictions including a Kosher diet.
Their menu features a wide variety of sushi rolls - including classic options like California rolls and spicy tuna rolls, as well as unique creations like the “Abundance Roll,” which is seared cajun black pepper salmon and avocado topped with salmon, avocado and mango, and drizzled with a white sauce. They also offer a selection of sashimi, nigiri, and hand rolls.
In addition to sushi, Fin and Scale also offers a variety of other Japanese dishes, such as ramen, udon noodle soup, and teriyaki bowls. They even have a few Korean-inspired dishes, like the Bulgogi Beef Bowl and the Kimchi Fried Rice.
We ordered edamame, salmon nigiri, the Laguna roll, the jalapeño crunch, and the yellowtail jalapeño
To complement your meal, Fin and Scale offers a selection of beer, wine, and sake, as well as creative cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages. We ordered 2 refreshing cocktails: the raspberry mojito & cucumber collins.
Overall, Fin and Scale is a great choice for anyone looking for delicious and fresh sushi in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you're in the mood for something classic or adventurous, you're sure to find something to love at Fin and Scale. 🍣🍶
📍920 Whalley Ave
6. Korea - OhK Dog
Would you try a corn dog dipped in cinnamon & sugar and topped with ketchup & mustard? Well, we did it for the ‘gram! To represent Korea on our tour around the world, our sixth stop was OhK Dog.
At OhK Dog, their signature dish is their Korean hot dog, a delicious blend of a classic corn dog and Korean street food. Each hot dog is served on a stick, and comes coated in your choice of cinnamon, sugar, or both. You can then choose from a variety of toppings, including classic options like ketchup and mustard, or more adventurous toppings like spicy chili, parmesan, and even potato chunks!
We got the “Oh! K Classic Hot Dog” dipped in cinnamon and sugar, and topped with ketchup and mustard. We also got the “Potato Mozza Dog” dipped in cinnamon and sugar and topped with sweet chili on the top half and cheese mustard on the bottom. We also got the fruit punch and mango slushies.
Did you know OhK Dog also has breakfast in addition to their signature Korean hot dogs? Order their popular egg toast & pick it up on the way to work!
OhK Dog's egg toast features a thick slice of perfectly toasted bread, topped with a fluffy, scrambled egg and a generous amount of melted cheese. You can then choose from a variety of add-ons, including crispy bacon, teriyaki, or even avocado!
OhK Dog is the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a fun dinner with friends, or even a late-night snack. So come by and see what everyone's raving about! 🌭🍳🍞🍴
📍208 College St
7. China - Tiger daddy & Whale Tea
Our seventh stop on our trip Around the World in New Haven was China, and Tiger daddy & Whale Tea were quite the grand finale.
Prepare to be dazzled by the newest addition to New Haven's vibrant food scene: Our seventh stop on our trip Around the World in New Haven was China for Tiger Daddy & Whale Tea.
Tiger daddy delivers a sensory journey through the captivating flavors of Asian cuisine. As you peruse the menu, you'll be enticed by an array of mouth-watering dishes that showcase the bold and intricate flavors that Asian cuisine is renowned for. From the time-honored sushi rolls to the fiery and aromatic bowls of extra-spicy ramen, each dish is meticulously crafted with expertise and brimming with irresistible flavors.
However, the true standout experience at Tiger Daddy lies in their hot pot adventure. Choose from an enticing selection of broths, meats, seafood, and veggies, and immerse yourself in the art of cooking right at your table. It's a dynamic and engaging dining experience that gives you an appreciation for all the fresh ingredients. 🍜
Our dry hot pot bowl was packed with instant noodles, succulent shrimp, slices of lotus root, earthy mushrooms, silky tofu, and delightful quail eggs. The explosion of flavors and textures was a delight to our palates. We also relished in the tastiest sushi rolls—the Tiger daddy roll and the refreshing tuna avocado roll—each bite revealing a symphony of flavors that left us craving more. 🍣
But hold on, the adventure continues! For dessert, we ventured next door to Whale Tea, a charming cafe co-owned by Tiger daddy, to conclude our meal on a sweet note. There, we savored the irresistible combination of boba pearls and aromatic tea, a treat that perfectly complemented our Chinese feast. Check out our post on IG to learn the funny origin of the word “boba.”
From the explosive flavors of Tiger daddy to the delightful boba rendezvous at Whale Tea, our culinary escapade left us spellbound. Discover the tantalizing fusion of Asian delights and embark on a taste adventure that will leave you thinking about your meal for days. 🧋
📍Tiger Daddy - 54 Whitney Ave
📍The Whale Tea - 48 Whitney Ave
*Bonus Stop* India - Darbar India Restaurant - Branford, CT
For those of you who may live in the suburbs and not want to go all the way downtown, this bonus stop is for you! Branford’s Darbar India is one of the best Indian restaurants in CT, and it shows in their food and atmosphere.
The restaurant offers traditional Indian foods, as well as creative takes on the cuisine. By creative, I mean insanely delicious foods like Chicken Tikka Pizza or Chicken Tikka Tacos.
As someone who has never tried Indian food previously, this place totally changed my taste buds. I am now a huge Indian food fan!
To start, we got mint chutney, tamarind chutney, and red onion paired with Papad. Our first course was on the adventurous side - the Chicken Tikka Masala Pizza, chicken tikka masala tacos, the chili chicken, and shrimp poori. For a more traditional Indian dinner, we had garlic naan paired with white rice, an ‘elevated’ chicken tikka masala, and chicken tikka saag. For our drinks we got the chai martini, the spicy mango mojito, Rupee beer, and the ‘Empress’, a gin cocktail.
Darbar, a beloved Branford establishment, has recently found a new home, and it's nothing short of magnificent. The new location boasts a myriad of exciting features, including a stunning mural on the walls, an inviting outdoor patio, and a full bar. Step inside and be transported to a world where cozy meets contemporary, where every detail has been meticulously curated to create a truly immersive dining experience. The friendly and attentive staff ensure that your visit is nothing short of extraordinary, providing top-notch service that leaves a lasting impression.
Step into a world of vibrant spices, exotic ingredients, and masterfully crafted dishes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of India. 🍛🍴🌶
📍168 Montowese St, Branford
So next time you’re looking for a new restaurant in New Haven to try, tell a friend to pick a number 1-8, and take a trip to whichever number restaurant they pick!
We hope you enjoyed eating around the world with us! Check out our Instagram posts, story highlights and guides for even more details and photos of our delicious experiences.
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