7 Creative Connecticut Restaurants That Should Have a Michelin Star

There are several upscale restaurants in Connecticut but being close to New York City means they often get overlooked. And while the Michelin Guide has awarded its sought-after stars to many NYC restaurants, it has yet to cross into Connecticut. That doesn’t mean there aren’t any Star-worthy restaurants in the Constitution State, though.

Whether you call Connecticut home or are just visiting, you’ll find that the dining scene is just as unique as the state it’s in. From the creative to the dramatic, at least seven restaurants know what it takes to give diners an unforgettable experience.

Here are seven Connecticut restaurants we think should have at least one Michelin Star, based on the ratings diners have left on Yelp. (After you’ve read this article, check out the must-visit restaurant in every state .)

Restaurant at Winvian Farm — Morris

Restaurant at Winvian Farm is a cozy farm-to-table restaurant led by executive chef Chris Eddy, who sources fresh, local ingredients to make his exquisite menu. This place has won accolades, including five AAA Diamond awards and a nod for one of Zagat’s “Best Restaurants.” A three-course Prix Fixe Dinner has a menu that changes daily and includes dishes such as Handmade Ricotta Gnocchi with butternut squash, kale, and spinach, or Atlantic Halibut with creamed corn, caulini, and piquillo pepper.

Restaurant L’Ostal — Darien

There are many things to love about Restaurant L’Ostal but at the top might be exceptional cuisine that nearly transports you straight to Southern France. Chef Jared Sipple focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a seasonally changing menu. You’ll find entrees such as Grilled Steelhead Trout, Hudson Valley Duck Confit, and Iberian Pork Chop.

Present Company — Tariffville

Present Company owner and chef Jeff Lizotte has worked in award-winning restaurants around the globe and has been nominated for a James Beard Award. Present Company offers a three- or four-course prix fixe menu, with dishes such as Potato Crusted Halibut, Wild Boar Chop, Pastrami Rabbit Duo, and Stuffed Poblano Peppers. Desserts include Blueberry Cornbread and Egg Custard.

Arethusa al tavolo — Bantam

As a true dairy and seed-to-table restaurant, chef Dan Magill and his team focus on using the freshest and highest quality ingredients at Arethusa al tavolo . Magill has won numerous awards and was nominated for a James Beard Award. Arethusa al tavolo’s menu changes based on the season, with starters such as Yellowtail Tartare and Zucchini Flowers Filled with Basil Ricotta, and entrees that include Sweet Corn Agnolotti, Grilled Prime Striploin with Garlic Scape Crust, and Roasted Ora King Salmon with Black Truffle Glaze.

Oyster Club — Mystic

Connecticut is home to some of the top seafood restaurants , and at the boat-to-table Oyster Club , you can enjoy a menu from James Beard Award nominee chef Renee Touponce, who ensures each menu item is carefully curated from local ingredients. Seasonal offerings include Oysters Rockefeller, Empanadas, Tagliatelle, and Bluefin Tuna. There’s also a raw bar and a huge list of wines and cocktails.

Union League Café — New Haven

Union League Café is an upscale restaurant with French-inspired cuisine across from Yale University. Try Chef Guillaume Traversaz’s tasting menu or enjoy appetizers such as Foie Gras, Escargot, or Duck Confit. Entrees include pan-roasted Long Island duck breast, butter-poached Maine lobster, and goat cheese-filled tortellini. There is also a raw bar and several desserts to choose from.

Materia — Bantam

Another Bantam favorite, Materia may be the perfect stop for you if you’re looking for some distinguished Italian cuisine. While the menu items change with the seasons, you’ll often find items like the Tagliatelle Al Ragu with beef, pork, tomatoes, and parmigiano-reggiano or the Tortellini Alla Mantovana with roasted pumpkin ravioli. (Here’s a look at the best steakhouses in America .)

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