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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in New Haven

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10 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ZINC New Haven restaurant
1. ZINC New Haven
4.7
Exceptional(2975)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 13 times today
ZINC New Haven, located across the historic New Haven Green, is a culinary gem celebrated for its exceptional Global, International cuisine. Since its inception in 1999, ZINC has been dedicated to a sustainable, seed-to-plate philosophy, intertwining local market inspirations with global flavors, creating a dining experience that resonates deeply with food enthusiasts. With a menu that features inventive dishes like the spicy juniper cocktail and the Chilean Sea Bass, alongside a Wine Spectator award-winning wine selection, ZINC consistently impresses. Patrons rave about the "exceptional food and service" and the "innovative and tasty" menu, making ZINC a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience in New Haven.
A photo of Heirloom - New Haven restaurant
2. Heirloom - New Haven
4.3
Awesome(1512)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 9 times today
Heirloom in New Haven is a gem for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled within the Study at Yale Hotel, Heirloom proudly showcases an authentic farm-to-table concept, serving dishes that highlight heritage ingredients supplied by local farmers and growers. Praised for its "beautiful, fresh brunch meals" and "exceptional service," the restaurant offers an array of sophisticated and heartwarming dishes. Reviewers rave about unique offerings like the "delicious caprese sandwich" and the "outstanding fried rice with salmon," paired with an "eclectic and distinctive" wine selection. The inviting atmosphere and consistent quality make Heirloom a beloved spot, with one reviewer noting, "My favorite restaurant in NH - always a delight! So accommodating." This dedication to quality and service underscores why Heirloom stands out as a pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in New Haven.
A photo of John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New Haven restaurant
3. John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New Haven
4.4
Awesome(424)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 7 times today
John Davenport's at the Top of the Park is a seafood lover's dream, perched on the 19th floor in New Haven. Renowned for its "contemporary, approachable, coastal New England fare," the restaurant excels in sourcing sustainable seafood that delights with freshness and flavor. Diners rave about the seafood selections, particularly noting the "perfectly cooked" salmon and lobster mac & cheese, and the "AMAZING" scallops. With its commitment to local sourcing and in-house culinary craftsmanship, the restaurant stands out not just for its food but also for the breathtaking panoramic views that accompany each meal. Whether it’s the fried calamari or the clam chowder, each dish is a testament to the authentic and high-quality seafood offered, making John Davenport's a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.
A photo of 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4. 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar
4.3
Awesome(155)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 4 times today
At 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar in New Haven, the cocktail bar experience is truly exceptional, blending a vibrant atmosphere with a meticulously crafted drink menu that delights the senses. The establishment thrives on its reputation for "approachable craft cocktails" that are both inventive and seasonal, featuring fresh ingredients like watermelon, blackberries, basil, and mint. Patrons rave about the quality of the cocktails, with one guest celebrating the "exceptionally good tasting drinks" made by the bartender during a bustling event. Another highlight is the Martini Flight, recommended as a must-try. The dedication to quality and service at 80 Proof makes it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a memorable night out in the heart of New Haven's theater district.
A photo of The Anchor Spa restaurant
5. The Anchor Spa
4.5
Awesome(55)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 5 times today
*Please note: Outside Seating is on a first come, first served basis. You may request Outside Seating with your reservation and we will do our best to accomodate it, however, we cannot guarantee it.*Named after the Milford, Connecticut beach where it first opened during Prohibition, in its halcyon days The Anchor became a favorite watering hole for actors, artists, poets, writers, and Yalies, and the after-work boîte for bartenders and staff from other bars. Relaunching in 2016, The Anchor effortlessly aligned with a revitalized Downtown New Haven, in the vibrant midst of Yale University. The bar and eatery simultaneously honors, embraces, and reflects the City’s economic, social and intellectual diversity—representing a cultural cocktail of town and gown immediacy of a deadline. The Anchor’s new owner, Yale alumnus Karl Franz Williams’ plan is to preserve the best and most recognizable aspects of the restaurant’s former incarnation and create something evocative and timeless.
A photo of Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar restaurant
6. Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1124)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • New Haven
Booked 61 times today
At Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar in New Haven, guests rave about an exceptional steakhouse experience that stands out in Southern Connecticut. Renowned for employing the unique old world skillet cooking technique, the restaurant offers "the most perfectly cooked steak," as highlighted in glowing reviews. Patrons consistently celebrate the quality of their meals, with one noting, "Had the Cast Iron Filet Mignon with peppercorn sauce, it was perfect!" The commitment to using only Prime Angus beef, perfectly aged and hand-cut on premises, underscores their dedication to quality. The ambiance and customer service match the high standard set by the food, making every visit memorable. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, Cast Iron Chef is the go-to destination for steak lovers.
A photo of Monty's River Grille restaurant
7. Monty's River Grille
4.8
Exceptional(67)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Shelton
Booked 6 times today
Monty's River Grille in Shelton, Milford, is a gem for those seeking top-notch Contemporary American cuisine. Known for its scenic views of the Housatonic River and an award-winning golf course, Monty's offers a dining experience that combines culinary excellence with breathtaking surroundings. Chef Matt Adkins crafts dishes using the freshest sustainable ingredients, ensuring each meal is both innovative and flavorful. Guests rave about the "delicious brunch with exceptional service" and highlight dishes like the "garlic strip steak with potatoes and roasted tomatoes" as standouts. With its consistent praise for attentive service and a comfortable ambiance, Monty's River Grille is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exceptional Contemporary American meal in a picturesque setting.
A photo of The Essex Brasserie restaurant
8. The Essex Brasserie
4.3
Awesome(52)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Branford
Booked 5 times today
Los Charros Cantina in Branford is not your typical Asian cuisine destination, but it stands out by blending authentic regional Mexican flavors with an Asian twist. The restaurant, praised for its "delicious food" and "amazing margaritas," serves up dishes that are a fusion of creativity and tradition. Diners rave about the "ton of flavor" in their tacos and the unique "salsa flight" that is hailed as the best item on the menu. The use of organic heirloom corn from Oaxaca and a deep respect for traditional ingredients ensures each dish is both authentic and exceptional. This spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking a high-quality, innovative dining experience in Branford.
A photo of HOME restaurant
9. HOME
4.7
Exceptional(203)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Branford
Booked 12 times today
Nestled in the charming town of Branford, **HOME** stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Known for its inventive takes on comfort food, HOME delights diners with dishes that are both familiar and novel. Patrons rave about the "terrific sandwiches, lite bites, drinks and desserts," and the "Popeyes style fried chicken sandwich with totally delicious homemade pickles and spicy sauce" that leaves guests longing for more. The ambiance is described as "airy, comfortable," perfect for enjoying a "warm chocolate chip cookie 🍪 with whipped cream" that's "to die for." With its dedication to quality, local sourcing, and a menu that caters to diverse dietary needs, including a comprehensive gluten-free selection, HOME is more than just a meal; it's an experience that captures the essence of high-quality, authentic Contemporary American dining. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, HOME promises a culinary journey that feels both innovative and intimately familiar – truly, there is no place like HOME.
A photo of Uptown restaurant
10. Uptown
4.5
Awesome(39)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Ansonia
Booked 4 times today
Nestled in the historic opera house of Ansonia, Connecticut, Uptown Bar & Eatery shines as a beacon of Contemporary Latin cuisine. Praised for its innovative fusion and high-quality ingredients, Uptown offers an ever-changing menu that captivates food enthusiasts. Guests rave about the "incredible food" and "outstanding service," highlighting dishes like the seared tuna salad and the beloved banana tres leches cake, crafted to perfection by pastry chef Derrick. With its blend of vibrant flavors and a lively atmosphere enriched with live music, Uptown is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey through Latin America, making every visit a unique and delightful experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jack
    New York City •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    This is our regular Christmas or Thanksgiving location. It’s never disappointed. Pricing isn’t “holiday inflated”, food is always on point, service is stellar. I’m big on cocktails and theirs are lovely. Thought out and executed well. Huge wine selection, and deserts that don’t disappoint. Put this place on your list.
    More info
    Heirloom - New HavenPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• New Haven
    •
    4.3
  • Lorraine
    New York City •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Dec 19, 2024
    Too dark. Excellent, attentive service. Why do you wish to require a longer commentary than the writer wishes to submit!
    More info
    John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New HavenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• New Haven
    •
    4.4
  • Nina
    New York City •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 12, 2024
    We love this place, but be ready for a whole new menu! We used to love the duck nachos now replaced with duck tostados...they are good but not like the nachos. That could be personal though. The place is still wonderful. Our waiter was amazing a lot of fun. It is now owned by the same restaurant group that owns Union League, but still nothing like Union League-the atmosphere is still the same.
    More info
    ZINC New HavenPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• New Haven
    •
    4.7
  • ELDA
    Atlantic City / South Jersey Shore •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 8, 2024
    I absolutely love this place! The food is fantastic, with every dish packed with flavor and made from fresh ingredients. The drinks are equally impressive, offering a great selection that complements the meal perfectly our favorite was “let that MANgo”. We had the following and everything was delicious: lobster Mac and cheese, fried calamari, salmon, and flan for dessert—YUM! The atmosphere is welcoming and lively, creating an excellent vibe for any occasion. Best of all, the prices are very reasonable, making it accessible without compromising quality. The service from Jalinda was top-notch—attentive, friendly, and made the whole dining experience even better. The owner is also incredibly welcoming and goes above and beyond to make sure guests feel right at home. Highly recommend!
    More info
    80 Proof American Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• American• New Haven
    •
    4.3
  • Ray
    New York City •1 review
    4.0
    Dined on Dec 8, 2024
    Despite offering reservations in the “Bar” area. The bartender said “I know what it says online but we don’t do that”. Despite this, they did find a table for us to sit at and were accommodating when our party unexpectedly grew.
    More info
    The Anchor SpaPrice: Moderate• Caribbean• New Haven
    •
    4.5

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in New Haven

Discover the essence of contemporary American cuisine in New Haven, Connecticut, a city celebrated for its vibrant dining scene and culinary innovation. Here, you'll find a variety of restaurants that masterfully blend traditional American flavors with modern culinary techniques, offering a unique dining experience that caters to diverse palates. These establishments prioritize locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, reflecting New Haven's commitment to sustainability and quality. From the heart of Yale University to the scenic views of New Haven Green, each location provides a distinct atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for an inventive seafood dish, a classic steak cooked to perfection, or a creative take on plant-based cuisine, New Haven's contemporary American restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey. This city's dining landscape is not only a hub for delicious food but also a destination for those who appreciate thoughtful, beautifully presented cuisine served with exceptional service.

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