Bridgeport offers a few amenities unique on the Gold Coast of Connecticut. For the sake of this guide to restaurants in Bridgeport, CT, the most important is ample (and cheap) spaces to rent.
It allows for a bit more risk-taking. A venture doesn’t need to be successful the moment it opens the way it does in other spots in Fairfield County.
So, like South Norwalk restaurants, you’ll find more diverse eateries here. There are even some restaurants that have survived past the culinary movements they evoke.
Some of the best restaurants in Bridgeport, CT, are like delicious little time capsules.
This spirited city on Long Island Sound boasts numerous delectable options. You can check out food from regional cuisine to international fare and seafood. Be sure to check out the savory steaks, tantalizing tapas, and delectable Italian specialties.
There’s something for every palate!
Map design by Stanton House Inn with elements from Flaticon
Top Restaurants in Bridgeport, CT, for steak
Bridgeport, Connecticut, is home to some of the best steakhouse restaurants in the Northeast.
You can find a classic steak dinner or something more adventurous. Options makes the town very family friendly.
Think: Juicy sirloins cooked to perfection. Then, you’re served with fresh sides to unique dishes that combine traditional flavors with modern flair. These top-rated steakhouses will satisfy your cravings!
Joseph’s Steakhouse
Joseph’s Steakhouse on Fairfield Avenue has garnered rave reviews since its opening in 2000.
The owner, Joseph Kustra, has lived in France and worked in America after being born in Croatia. He puts his culinary prowess on full display with a menu boasting stone-crab claws, dry-aged beef, and a signature steak sauce.
You’ll appreciate the extensive wine list if you’re a wine lover.
Don’t forget to save room for dessert. The selection of apple strudel, pecan pie, and after-dinner drinks will have your taste buds rejoicing.
Step into the cozy restaurant, and you’ll be greeted with a simple yet charming interior. The rustic, heavy wooden tables are adorned with crisp white tablecloths. It’s a signal that the main event here is the delicious, homemade food. To top it off, you can tell the cuisine is made with care by the chefs.
Seafood lovers rejoice! Bridgeport, Connecticut, offers many seafood restaurants to please your cravings.
Seafood Restaurants in Bridgeport, CT
From a hearty chowder to a delicate seafood risotto, Bridgeport has no shortage of delicious options.
You can look forward to classic New England-style clam shacks. There are even upscale eateries featuring the freshest catches from local waters.
BRYAC Restaurant & Raw Bar
BRYAC Restaurant & Raw Bar is also fondly called the Black Rock Yacht & Athletic Club. This spot is a must-visit seafood joint known by locals and tourists. Its feat is the delectable traditional pub fare and sophisticated, upscale dishes.
BRYAC takes great pride in using only the freshest and most delicious homemade ingredients. This is why they have a loyal following of patrons. These customers come to indulge in the following:
- Mouth-watering filet mignon
- Oyster Rockefeller
- Lobster bisque.
Their live music performances are equally impressive. Wednesday to Sunday evenings feature talented local and touring acts. And, if you want to get your funk on, then make sure to swing by on Wednesdays for their famed Funk Night.
Uberti’s Fish Market
Uberti’s Fish Market is a seafood lover’s paradise.
With a restaurant and fresh seafood market, you can find the freshest seafood of the highest quality here. From fried shrimp to sea scallops and battered fish sandwiches, their menu offers a variety of delicious options to eat in or take away.
Enjoy your meal at the picnic tables outside during the summer to get some fresh air while enjoying a delicious meal.
Uberti’s takes pride in their focus on freshness and authenticity, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch. And if you’re looking to cook at home, their market sells sushi-grade tuna and salmon and a selection of dressed fish.
Get ready to dive into some seriously top-notch seafood at Uberti’s Fish Market.
Mr. Crab Seafood & Bar
Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or just in the mood for a delicious meal, Mr. Crab Seafood & Bar is the place to be.
Situated on Fairfield Ave in Bridgeport, CT, this restaurant is loved for its eco-friendly atmosphere. The stunning interior and friendly staff are cherries on top. Here, you can indulge in various fresh and flavorful seafood dishes that will leave you satisfied and content.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience their homemade-style cooking.
Check out their website for the full menu, and visit this must-try restaurant in Bridgeport, CT.
Italian Bridgeport Restaurants
Bridgeport, Connecticut, is home to various Italian restaurants. These favorites offer delicious cuisine for every taste.
Everyone loves the classic Neapolitan pizzas and handmade pasta. You can also find traditional dishes like osso buco or risotto alla milanese. These eateries offer something for everyone.
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or an authentic family-style experience, you can find it. Bridgeport’s Italian restaurants are sure to please.
Ralph ‘n’ Rich’s
Discover the perfect blend of family heritage and exquisite dining at Ralph ‘n’ Rich’s. This family-owned restaurant has over three decades of serving unparalleled dishes. It boasts a prime location opposite the Barnum Museum in Bridgeport.
The owners have deep roots in this city. Whether you have dietary restrictions or picky eaters at your party, Ralph ‘n’ Rich’s customizable menus cater to everyone.
Step inside and be swept away by the plush and diverse dining spaces. They are complete with cutting-edge technology in the kitchen. These advances help support the delightfully creative yet traditional cuisine.
Take advantage of the must-tries:
- Coconut Shrimp
- Spiedina Romano
- Oysters Fiorentina
- Baked Meat Lasagne
Plus, during the summer, enjoy the expansive patio and soak up the warm weather while indulging in the mouthwatering dishes.
“Sunday Sauce” is a highlight here. Every Sunday from noon until four, you and your loved ones can indulge in an array of delicious Italian antipasto. There are also succulent meats, flavorful pasta, and decadent desserts. This is all for a set price. Make memories while savoring the tastes of a traditional Italian feast.
Massimos Pizzeria Ristorante
Looking for the perfect Italian restaurant in Bridgeport? Look no further than Massimos Pizzeria Ristorante!
With a commitment to providing the best food and service possible, this restaurant has gained a following of almost 1k people as of April 2022.
With amazing ambiance, it’s the perfect spot for a special evening out. Their healthy ingredients and authentic Italian flavors make each dish a real experience for your taste buds.
Head to their website to learn more and make a reservation today!
Testo’s Restaurant & Catering
This family-run restaurant has been serving up delicious Italian cuisine. It’s noted for its top-notch service since 1976 in the quiet Bridgeport neighborhood.
Recently voted Best Italian Restaurant in Fairfield County, Testo’s is the perfect spot for a romantic night out. It’s even fit for a large-scale event. The warm and welcoming ambiance helps make the place feel like home. Every detail has been carefully considered for an unforgettable dining experience.
When it’s time to unwind, head to Testo’s Lounge for delicious cocktails. There, you can enjoy relaxed dining and even live entertainment on select nights. Satisfy your palate with a world-class menu that will leave you craving more.
Don’t miss out on one of Bridgeport’s premier dining destinations. Come see what all the fuss is about and taste the magic for yourself at Testo’s!
Mexican Restaurants in Bridgeport, CT
From classic tacos to flavorful burritos, Bridgeport, Connecticut, is home to a bunch of Mexican restaurants. You can find a quick bite or an exquisite dining experience.
So, come explore the vibrant flavors of Mexican food and make your taste buds happy!
Taco Loco
This beloved and long-standing restaurant has been around for over three decades.
After you have a meal here, it’s easy to see why they’ve received awards. They have been voted the “Best Mexican Restaurant” and “Best Margaritas” for ten years straight by Fairfield County Weekly!
Taco Loco serves up all your favorites, from homemade salsa to plentiful nachos, seafood enchiladas, and much more. And if you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage to accompany your meal, check out their weekly discounts on specialty margaritas.
What sets Taco Loco apart is its family-owned atmosphere. This is where you can feel like you’re a part of the family, and everyone is committed to providing you with an outstanding dining experience.
So, why wait? Head to Taco Loco today and savor the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine at its best!
Oaxaca Pizzeria & Taqueria
Oaxaca Pizzeria & Taqueria in Bridgeport, CT, has blended two local-favorite cuisines. You can look forward to Mexican and pizza in one delicious menu! Families will love the opportunity to indulge in both types of cuisine.
With fast and friendly service, you’ll feel right at home in their beautiful ambiance. This restaurant has quickly become one of the most popular in Bridgeport, CT, so why not try out some of their mouth-watering dishes?
La Fonda Mexican Restaurant
This restaurant has an inviting and beautifully designed interior. La Fonda provides diners with a wide selection of delectable Mexican dishes.
However, it’s not just the food that makes this spot special. Instead, it also prides itself on serving fresh ingredients in an eco-friendly atmosphere. Plus, their friendly and well-trained staff ensure your dining experience is incredible.
If you’re hunting for the best Mexican food in CT, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit.
Trumbull Café & Grill
As the name implies, this isn’t in Bridgeport, but Trumbull Café & Grill is so good and close enough that it warrants a mention!
The restaurant serves a traditional American café menu with a Latin twist. On the menu are eight different taco varieties. There is also Chef Everht Roque’s version of a ham and cheese sandwich (with avocado, refried beans, and jalapenos). You can even try classics like guacamole and nachos.
Chef Roque created all of the recipes based on family favorites, using fresh, homemade ingredients. Furthermore, they frequently change the menu to try new things and surprise their customers.
American restaurants in Bridgeport, CT
When it comes to finding the perfect lunch or dinner spot, Bridgeport, Connecticut, has you covered. There is no shortage of delicious American and brunch restaurants.
There is classic comfort food to upscale dining options. You can even find vegan-friendly menus. This city is vibrant with options.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an exquisite meal with friends and family, Bridgeport has got you covered!
Metric Bar and Grill
This place has a reputation for serving great food, all prepared by world-class chefs.
Metric Bar & Grill is conveniently located downtown, next to the courthouse. It is the perfect spot for a delicious meal or a fun night out.
With an amazing interior and well-trained employees, your experience is guaranteed to be one to remember. Plus, with a menu filled with a wide range of delicious food choices, there’s something for everyone!
Don’t wait! Head over to Metric Bar & Grill and see what the buzz is about.
Brewport Brewing Company
Brewport’s building is not your average local Connecticut brewery.
It has a rich history that dates to the late 1940s. This building served as the distribution spot for out-of-town newspapers in Fairfield County. It received hot-off-the-press newspapers twice daily from major cities like New Haven and New York.
The newspapers were meticulously counted, folded, and bundled in the metal rolling tables still there today.
Even the woodwork in the building was salvaged from the various offices, adding to the historical accuracy of the space.
Today, Brewport takes pride in preserving this unique piece of history. It’s a place where customers can enjoy delicious food, drinks, and the fascinating story of this building’s past.
Step into this historic venue, and you’ll be greeted with a unique, one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Instead of traditional menus, you’ll find them stored in old newspaper vending machines. This adds a vintage charm to the experience.
The creativity doesn’t stop there—the bar rails are constructed from original steam pipes that warmed the building. The basement pays homage to the past with remnants of the coal bin once used for steam boilers.
The cherry on top? There’s a spacious entertainment area known as the “book room.” It was originally designed to store non-daily magazines, comic books, and paperback novels.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply looking for a memorable night out, this venue has something special.
Hub and Spoke
If you’re in Bridgeport and looking for a delicious Sunday brunch option, look no further than Hub and Spoke. This tapas restaurant and tavern offers an all-you-can-eat buffet that’s sure to please.
With a seasonal menu that perfectly balances upscale and comfortable, Hub and Spoke’s brunch is the highlight of the week.
You’ll find everything you’re looking for here. Breakfast and lunch options, fresh seafood, a waffle station, carving stations, and a pastry table will make your mouth water.
What’s brunch without a drink? You can indulge in bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys for a fun late morning, early afternoon.
Get your Sunday off to the perfect start at Hub and Spoke!
The Tasty Yolk
What started as a 2016 food truck sensation has made it onto the highly coveted list of the top 100 food trucks in the country.
It’s been fueled by the expertise of Chef Felitto, who honed his skills at:
- Barteca Restaurant Group
- Artisan in Southport
- L’Escale in Greenwich
- The Chelsea in Fairfield
The Tasty Yolk brings a unique twist to classic egg sandwiches. Indulge in:
- The “Tasty:” Loaded with craft chorizo and cheddar
- The “Banker:” Stacked with brisket, Swiss, and spicy aioli
- The “Pig” breakfast burrito: A fan favorite, featuring bacon, eggs, and American cheese.
So, next time you’re in town, be sure to check out Tasty Yolk‘s over-the-top breakfast creations!
The most unique restaurants in Bridgeport, CT
And now, two Bridgeport restaurants deserve their own section.
These are holdouts from past culinary movements. Thanks to the unique conditions of Bridgeport, you’ll be able to enjoy a bit of nostalgia. You can also find a reminder of the need to fight the power. Just depends on whichever mood you’re in when you’re hungry.
Bloodroot Vegetarian Restaurant:
Welcome to Bloodroot!
This Bridgeport-based vegan restaurant is the perfect spot for conscious eaters. If you’re looking for a delicious, eco-friendly fare, they have you covered. The menu offers delights like mushroom walnut paté and grilled greens-stuffed tofu pockets. In addition, the restaurant features a feminist-focused bookstore.
Bloodroot was founded by a women’s collective in 1977. It’s a staple in the feminist restaurant movement that peaked from the 1970s to the early 1990s.
Come enjoy a meal and support a unique piece of culinary history in Bridgeport!
The feminist bookstore and restaurant are a place that recognizes food as a powerful tool for social change.
Bloodroot is a community that believes in empowering women. This group, historically, was barred from eating out without male escorts. This spot provided them access to public space through food.
They offer a rotating menu of seasonal vegetarian and often vegan specials, like the Thai vegetarian “chicken” or the spicy lentil soup. But it’s not just about the food. The owners have made a political commitment to go without waitresses. This allows diners to retrieve their orders and bus their tables.
Bloodroot’s founders have put their own money into the business, but it’s not about profit for them. Instead, it’s about creating a space where women and marginalized groups can unite, enjoy delicious food, and make history.
Indulge in a delectable dining experience with a menu featuring some of their most notable dishes! Savor the goodness of their classic French onion soup. You can also try the scrumptious Jamaican jerk “chicken” served with a side of mouth-watering coconut rice.
Make sure to save room for their sinfully delicious chocolate silk pudding. It’s topped with perfectly toasted almonds. What more could you want?
Merritt Canteen
In 1958, Lorraine Kohn started the popular Merritt Canteen in Bridgeport, CT. This drive-in restaurant also includes an ice cream parlor and a charming patio.
Merritt Canteen is a favorite among locals and travelers with its garage-style doors and extensive menu. Many customers rave about their signature deep-fried and grilled hot dogs. They’re smothered in flavorful hothouse chili, so you can imagine how insane they taste. In contrast, others enjoy the crispy fried soft-shell crab or the creamy New England clam chowder.
If you’re feeling bold, try the unique deep-fried cheesecake too!
Its enticing selection of highway food and unbeatable atmosphere make Merritt Canteen notable. This spot is a must-visit for foodies and nostalgia-seekers.
Find more things to do in Bridgeport, CT, now that you’re satisfied
Are your creature comfort needs out of the way?
Then it’s time to start exploring the activities, attractions, and things to do in Bridgeport, CT!
Start a Sunday morning visit with a sunrise walk at Saint Mary’s by the Sea.
After brunch, head over to Mongers Market to find a unique addition to your home or wardrobe. Then, be sure to enjoy the outdoors with a visit to some of the parks and trails across Bridgeport.
A few top picks include:
- Seaside Park
- The Beardsley Zoo
Or explore more of nearby Fairfield County:
I hope you enjoy wherever the road (and your stomach) takes you!
