Best Restaurants in Stamford (2025)

Stamford’s Eritrean and Ethiopian standard-bearer moved downtown in May 2024 and remains a community favorite for sharable injera platters and warm hospitality. Covered by CT Insider and praised by local food writers for genuine, family-run cooking.

Brothers Nick and Vincenzo Petrafesa’s trattoria is beloved for handmade pastas, Pugliese recipes, and a lived-in dining room full of regulars. Spotlighted by Connecticut’s official tourism site and praised by regional critics for consistent, heartfelt Italian cooking.

A West Side landmark since 1947, still family-run and famous for baked chicken, red-sauce classics, and celebratory portions. Frequently cited by the Stamford Advocate and cherished by generations for its old-school Italian-American spirit.

An Albanian and Kosovar showpiece with folkloric details, lively cocktails, and platters of grilled meats, mantia, and creamy dips. Reviewed by The Infatuation and celebrated for bringing a distinctive Balkan voice to downtown.

A boisterous Main Street taverna channeling the Greek islands with meze, slow-braised lamb, and plate-smashing Opa energy. Featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and embraced by locals for festive, generous dining.

Downtown’s vegetarian, VAAD-certified Indian stalwart excels with crisp dosas, Bombay street snacks, and South Indian thalis. Lauded by Connecticut Magazine contributors and celebrated in a Jane Stern column for depth beyond the usual curries.

A locally operated seafood house known for a raw bar, creative plates, and one of downtown’s most popular happy hours. Actively bookable on OpenTable and praised by area diners and bloggers for lively service and fresh catch.

Family-owned since 1999, this nuevo Latino pioneer blends Latin American flavors with polished service and strong cocktails. Regularly recognized by Connecticut Magazine readers and local critics as a Stamford essential for vibrant, pan-Latin plates.

Chef Jean Gabriel Jr. serves soulful Southern plates with Caribbean touches—fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and fine sides. Named a top pick for Southern and soul food by Connecticut Magazine and embraced for generous portions.

A longtime, family-run favorite for Puebla-style dishes, handmade tortillas, and spirited margaritas. Profiled by CT Insider and validated by years of loyal local following; the East Main dining room anchors Stamford’s Mexican scene.

Waterfront dining that’s pure Stamford culture—dock-and-dine slips, summer live music at The Shack, and New England seafood classics. Frequently highlighted in Connecticut Magazine roundups; its longevity and lively scene keep it essential.