ZINC New Haven

We had a great meal and drinks at Zinc. The waitress was very friendly and attentive as was all of the staff. The sangria was very good I would highly recommend it. I ordered the octopus and my husband has the sea bass. Both entrees were delicious but on the smaller side. We did not care for the cheese platter appetizer and would skip that next time. Overall we enjoyed the meal! Parking can be validated at the local garage or park on the street at a meter.

First time here in years and was pleasantly surprised to learn the had updated the menu over the last year. Fortunately, the food was just as excellent as my last visit. Since I was flying solo, I decided to sit at the bar and had a great conversation with the bartender. Everything was delicious and the portions were just right. Highlight was the branzino, it was cooked to perfection!

Hands down the best food we’ve had in the city. The use of herbs is what makes this place shine. Perfectly placed mint, basil and rosemary. Everything fresh and creative.

I had my baby shower at Zinc’s garden room event space and could not have asked for a better experience. The waitstaff was excellent, attentive, and very patient with my group of eccentric guests. They even came up with a last minute signature drink for the shower (bees knees) when they saw the Winnie the Pooh/honey decorations! Everyone raved about the food and the desserts were to die for. The event space itself is beautiful and lightly decorated, but not so decorated that it interfered with our additions. Would 100% recommend to anyone looking to host an event in New Haven and I look forward to hosting our next event there.

We made reservations for the restaurant prior to a show at the Shubert. It’s the perfect location to eat dinner if you’re going to one of the two theaters right there in New Haven. They held our table for us, even though we arrived late due to much traffic. We had a perfect table location, the restaurant was not too noisy, and we could have quiet conversation The wait staff was perfectly attentive to filling our waters and asking if we needed anything The menu didn’t have lots of choices, but what they did have looked amazing and the two dinners that we got tasted wonderful. A really wonderful blend of flavors, and spices which made the whole thing well balanced. I would definitely eat here again

Nice atmosphere, friendly staff. Very good food, started with summer beet salad, then roasted chicken and lamb chop meals. Ended with butterscotch dessert

Excellent restaurant right in the center of New Haven, across from the green, upscale atmosphere and a bit pricey, but the food is fresh and delicious. Great for romantic dinner or special occasion.

Beautiful establishment, attentive staff. Flavors of the meals are out of this world. I had a wonderful experience sitting at the bar. Will absolutely be back soon! Gluten free options. Greatly gifted chef. Drinks were SO tasty too! I got the tuna, got it as the chef recommended. My friend ordered the salmon. Was so good! Almond cake, get it if you can!

New American restaurant but some dishes here are more Asian fusion! I made a reservation on a Friday night. Food was great, service is fast and the place is nicely decorated. Their menu also isn't super big. I really loved the duck tacos and the tempura mushroom appetizer. Tuna was great as well. The chocolate cake I would skip for next time, it didn't stand out to me as a chocolates dessert.

This was a good option in New Haven for a business party of 8 to enjoy a meal and some drinks. Service was great with the wait-staff refilling waters and offering more drinks shortly after finishing one. I never felt I was waiting for anything. The drinks were all lacking something. I started with a spicy gingery drink and it had a nice kick to it, but was lacking something. So I switched to a mezcal based drink which was good, but again, missing something. Finally, I just switched to beer... they had a great Japanese white. Foodwise, I had some good stuff! The Lettuce Wraps were amazing with a nice spice and great flavor. The Sea Scallops weren't overly large, but they gave me 6 of them! The were cooked perfectly (Gordon R. would be proud) and came in a puddle of Tzatziki with a cool Quinoa and Veggie side. I felt like I was eating healthy again! Until the Gelato Trio at the end which was a nice finishing touch. I'd go back again as they had some excellent looking options which my co-workers ordered and liked (Gnocchi, Singapore Noods, Hangar Steak). I'd probably get the Singapore Noods based on what I saw (and maybe sampled).

We stopped in for lunch and enjoyed a quiet meal, good food, and attentive service. The prices were a little high, but the quality and preparation was very good. I had the cheeseburger, and it was a hefty burger, stuffed with prime Angus beef, generously melted jack cheese, lettuce and tomato slices, and a delicious onion relish to spread as one pleased. It came with seasoned fries that were well cooked, crispy exterior and a tender interior. My wife had the charred Caesar salad with grilled salmon which looked delicious (and was per my wife). Service was very good and the ambiance was very calming.

Visited for my husband's birthday. The service and atmosphere were top notch. We loved each course from the apps to the drinks; we will be back! There is a variety of options and a quick shout out for their Espresso Martini flight. We loved trying all the different flavors. Truly a New Haven staple!

I liked the vibe - an oasis in grim downtown New Haven. Great service from the bartender (we ate at the bar). Interesting menu, everything was good. Would be a regular if we lived here.

A truly wonderful experience. Professional all around. They took my mother's wheelie and coat and stored it safely out of the way, first time that's happened. And we go out in New Haven area almost every weekend. Sean, Bar Manager and mixologist extraordinaire, created three unique drinks for us, one without alcohol for my mother. Our waiter, I forgot his name but he's from Salerno, Italy, was on top of service every step of the way. It was restaurant week, which isn't the reason we went, and we don't typically care for the special menu, but there was something for everyone in the three course offering. The House Cured Gravlax For appetizers, the Edamame and Mango / Coconut Milk / Fried Rice Paper appetizer was one of the best things I've ever eaten anywhere! Two others had the Crispy Sunchoke Herb Oil / Garlic Aioli, which was also very good. For dinner, t lwo of us had the green curry w/tofu and one had the fried chicken. I was told the chicken was very soft and moist but the accompanying greens were too salty and the chow chow not very appetizing. The green curry was very good but had a couple of surprises not listed on the menu, some type of little red pepper which I've never had but believe we're sweetly drops, that had a sweet pop and a bit of a spicy note, which I appreciated but the other person didn't necessarily. Dessert was either a chocolate mouse with a chocolate gelato or a rhubarb crumble cake with crème fresh gelato. Both were very good, gelato excellent, but the chocolate mouse wasn't chocolate mousse. It was heavy on the espresso/coffee flavor which the person ordering it wouldn't have had it been described as such, a tiramisu-like cake. All in all a wonderful meal!

I came on a Friday night at 6pm to get dinner with a friend. There was a weird moment when the hostess wanted us to sit at one of the high tops when we had a reservation (and the restaurant was empty), but we were eventually sat at one of the normal tables. The service during dinner was otherwise great, very friendly staff and I enjoyed the food. I splurged for the Marinated Chilean Sea Bass. While it was tasty, I don't think the value was the best given how expensive it was ($42). We paid about $100 per person for dinner, one app, one salad, and 1 drink each. We also wanted to try the dumplings but they were out when we went. The lettuce wraps were pretty good, and I also really enjoyed the Caesar salad. The restaurant got progressively louder as the night went on, as well as dimmer. Intimate, would probably be good for a date if it's not too loud. I probably won't be back anytime soon, but may be down to give it another try in the future!

I hate giving less-than-stellar reviews, so I'm sorry to write this. We went to Zinc for lunch for a once-in-a-lifetime occasion. I wanted a handsome place that would be quieter, and it was. We had a lovely table for our party of four. The first issue came up when we were ordering. When the server told us the soup and pasta of the day, she didn't tell us that the Southern Fried Chicken Sandwich wasn't available. Someone tried to order that, and that's how we found out. Then, after we ordered, the server returned and apologized for the artichoke appetizer being off the menu. As someone with restaurant experience, I will assume that the kitchen didn't communicate well with the staff that day rather than blame the server. The second issue had to do with food. My pasta with tomatoes and fresh mozzarella was fine, as was the cheeseburger, and the Charred Gem Caesar was rather petite but good. My wife got the organic greens salad and the ramen. The salad again was tiny, but it was undressed. I don't know how you forget to dress a salad. And the ramen was so bland that she only ate a bite or two. I usually would be wary of ordering ramen outside a ramen shop, but there are limited vegetarian items on the menu. At home, we use minimal salt, so food tastes excessively salty when we dine out. That's how tasteless the ramen was. I hope this was just an off day for lunch at Zinc. Unfortunately, I'm from out of state and won't have a chance to verify that.

ZINC came highly recommended by a friend, so I celebrated my birthday there. We were a party of 7. The atmosphere and decor is very nice, and we had a great table by the window. Service was great from the moment we walked in. Drinks were very unique. The wine list extensive. We were started off with two small plates, compliments of the house...cucumber with salmon and something else, that was delicious, and yummy bread with fennel and some other spices, with a dipping sauce that was also delicious. I had the pork tenderloin, and it was superb! In retrospect, I should've tried ZINC without kids (we had a 10 and 7 year old kids with us), the menu is fascinating but not really for kids (my daughter did devour the pork belly, but not the gin soaked watermelon). Going to come back without the kids.

Let's just start by saying, if I could give them more than 5 stars I would absolutely do so. As we entered, they checked in our coats and proceeded to seat us. The restaurant was dimly lit but perfect for a romantic dinner. Our server was quite attentive but not overbearing. To start our meal we had the 3 cheese board which came with some bread, jam and fruit as well. The cheeses were really good, a nice way to start. For our meals I had the double cut pork chop which was cooked perfectly, served over some beans and butternut squash. My girlfriend had the bolognese served with sausage. Both meals were cooked perfectly. For dessert we had a pear tart which was served with a pistachio sauce which was really good. We really enjoyed the meal and service and would definitely go back in the future.

I couldn't love this restaurant any more than I do now! From the moment you enter this special little gem of a restaurant located on the busy New Haven Green you feel taken care of and so comfortable. The staff is welcoming, professional and knowledgeable. The restaurant ambiance could be a beautiful oil painting. Tables are placed for privacy, gleaming glassware, and a bustling atmosphere but still intimate. The menu leaves you wondering how much you can possibly eat in one evening. We narrowed it down to the duck nachos with our generous delicious cocktails. We followed the nachos by the salmon entree and the chicken entree. I selected the chardonnnay and my husband the pino noir and both were better than your ordinary glass of wine. We thank the fabulous staff and so appreciate the skilled and talented chef. We can't wait to return!!!

I had a nice lunch, which included the duck nachos and burger. The nachos were very tasty but I feel you didn't get enough of you plan on sharing. The burger was good and a nice size. It came with either fries or salad and I liked the salad. My party also ordered the shrimp pasta which they said was ok, nothing remarkable, and the fried chicken sandwich, which was good but not exceptional. The service and ambiance are nice but I was a little surprised by more expensive I thought it would be.

Food is amazing must go back here. I got seared scallops that were so so good. The duck nachos didn't have enough meat and stuff on it. It tasted good but was lacking. Everything else great and I will be back.

Really spectacular. I used to live in New Haven full-time, now I am half-time in NYC and half-time outside New Haven, and have not been to Zinc in years. I was just here for dinner with a friend from NYC and we were both blown away. The food was the best I have had in New Haven in years - by far. The cocktails were spot on, the service wonderful, the table spacing and sound level just right. (And the validated parking just makes it too good to be true.) I could have the duck here once/week...and that is currently my plan. Don't miss Zinc.

Our food was absolutely delicious. My husband got the duck bao and I got the Singapore noodles. Our server Wendy was very professional, helpful, and helped make our first anniversary so special. We will definitely be back!

I've been coming to this place before a show at the Shubert for years. The food is excellent. The service is excellent. I used work nearby and would often get the Cobb salad. Also, excellent.

And the Yale graduation adventures continue. Today I celebrated a post graduation dinner for my niece at Zinc. It's a very elegant place. Nice décor and ambiance. And very close to Yale university. I ordered duck confit with pasta and chased it down with a nice sauvignon blanc. For appetizers I had a tasty charcuterie board of various goat cheeses, prosciutto and grilled brussel sprouts. And afterwards some delicious cocktails . I enjoyed everything immensely. Quite tasty as I like to say and absolutely another Sho' am good sho' am good Time by Derek Branum !

Very innovated menu. I like how it changes with the seasons. My favorite menu items aren't on the menu anymore but I'm sure everything new is just as good.

10/10 for everything here. The ambiance. The service. The bartender. The sommelier. The food. The wine. The cocktails. Zinc is a perfect fine dining experience and I can't wait for the next special occasion as a good excuse to come back here !!

We have been coming to Zinc since they opened in 1999 for their great food, beautiful space, and impressive staff. Last night I had one of my top five entrees at any fine dining restaurant ever. The Singapore noodles. Spicy, a touch of sweet chutney, some crunch, tender shrimp. Rice noodles dressed with a curry sauce. It was outstanding! I can't wait to go back and have it again. My hope is that it wasn't so special it can't be duplicated again.

Good food. I loved the sprouts. But unfortunately I think this place is a bit overpriced

My husband and I are in town for our daughter's college orientation. We asked one of the administrator's at the college for a dinner recommendation. Without hesitation he recommended Zinc, and several of his colleagues agreed. Took a look on Yelp and quickly made a rez. The atmosphere was very nice and the service was almost impeccable. The only glitch was not bringing me sugar with my cappuccino, and then taking a while to bring me sugar after I asked for it. Our server did apologize, though, for taking so long with the sugar. This was not that big a deal, I would still give them 4.95 stars for service. We also sat at a nice round table which we really enjoyed. We ordered the cheese plate which was FABULOUS. Nice variety of cheeses and served with a thinly sliced cinnamon raisin bread which was really good and went well with the cheeses. Server was not able to answer a question about one of the cheeses, but quickly got back to us with the answer. The amuse-bouche of puréed sweet potato topped with octopus was nicely presented. I put it in the same category as escargot and uni, not my thing. My husband ordered the curried shrimp which he really liked. I ordered the Korean short ribs. The dish was almost a complete miss. I was expecting something close to a classic Korean braised short rib that is tender and juicy and full of flavor. As soon as I saw the meat I knew that was not what I was getting. Still, I gave it a chance and tried to cut off a piece to eat. Cutting into the meat was a workout. Still, I put the piece in my mouth and chewed. That was a mistake. It was really inedible, so overdone and dry, dry, dry. I think there was a light drizzle of the promised ssam sauce on top, but there was no saving that meat. The rice was okay. The only good thing on the plate was the thinly sliced pickles. I pushed the dish as far away from me as I could. The server came over right away and asked me what was wrong and I told her. She apologized and asked whether I would like to see the menu and order something else or try having the kitchen remake the dish. I of course went with the first option. The manager also came over to apologize and let me know that they were taking the dish off the menu for the night and that I of course would not be charged for it or for the second dish I ordered which was the Saigon Beef Lettuce Wraps. He asked me if I wanted to still have the rice and pickles from the original dish, and I said yes to the pickles. The lettuce wraps were pretty good, good flavor but the beef was a little overdone. The raspberry chocolate mousse cake we ordered for dessert was very good, even though the cake seemed a little dense for a mousse cake. They also gave us a small dish with a cardamom panna cotta, a mini coconut brûlée, a small scoop of a fruity ice cream that was also flavored with lime, and a blueberry and lime crumble. The dish was so yummy with the ice cream being the star of the show. I would definitely go back despite the fail with the short ribs as we still really enjoyed our dining experience. Great service goes a long way!

Food was excellent. Service was also superb. Could not beat the ambiance - perfect. It is my kind of restaurant.

I went here with a few work colleagues, figuring they would have at least one vegetarian/vegan entree, because that sort of seems like the usual thing in this modern world. However, I was surprised to find literally every single entree was fish or some other meat. I asked if they could make anything vegan, and they said they could make some curry vegetables (which was very accommodating, maybe Zinc should get some points for that). The salad was honestly really weird and slimy. The vegetables were mediocre. Fairly bland, and overly salty. But possibly understandable given that it wasn't on the menu. The overall vibe was strange. The restaurant was dark and the skylights were really grimy looking. Absolutely would roast this place to anyone who would listen. Probably much better if you eat meat.

Service was nice at first, until the entrées came. The cioppino was just above room temperature and they forgot the accompanying toast with lobster foam (toast was cold, crumbly, and greasy). Even when they reheated the cioppino, it was kind of bland and nothing to write home about. I was nice about the temperature stuff and missing toast, but I won't be back. Not worth the money. The salad with cheddar and caramelized onions was good, though, but I can recreate it at home. I waited about 10 minutes while they reheated my cioppino, so I just awkwardly waited, hungry, while my date ate his meal (or that would have gone cold, too). Would have been nice if they offered anything at all-- glass of wine, knock the salad off the bill-- but nothing. Just because of that I won't be back.

Came to Zinc for a birthday dinner. I made a reservation a couple days ago, restaurant staff called to confirm this pm. We were greeted warmly and sat at a table immediately. Water was refilled promptly, service was wonderful. I would definitely return to try more menu items. Delish!

Sadly, the food is just not very good. Excellent service, nice space... the last 2 times I have been there, the food has disappointed.

Man what a gem of a restaurant. New Haven is truly the best foodie city in New England. There are dozens of amazing places to eat and drink. And still through all of them Zinc finds a way to stand out. We ordered the lettuce wraps for an appetizer which were really outstanding. They're packed with flavor, you just have to try these. My wife for the steak and I got the salmon. Oh my we're both out of this world. My salmon was cooked PERFECTLY and it was so balanced with the risotto and cranberry's. Their menu is always tweaked to fit the season. What I think really set Zinc apart from some of its neighbors is that service. They really make you feel like you're in a Michelin star restaurant the way they serve you. Such attention to detail which is especially rare with the staffing shortage due to Covid. A waiter even noticed my parking ticket I had left out so I wouldn't forget to get it validated and he came over without me asking and give us the validated slip. Little things like this will keep myself and others coming back to Zinc New Haven.

It's a pretty nice date place--quiet, fancy, has tablecloths. But the food really disappointed. The pork belly appetizer was dry, and the fried spinach that came with the main tuna entree tasted like old oil. It was really only edible with the tuna, but there was way too much spinach for it to be possible to finish both together. The fried spring rolls that came with it were also not that flavorful. I'd say the duck nachos were the best part of the evening and were quite enjoyable! The drinks were not my favorite but were incredibly strong, so in that sense worth the price.

I was there 8/27/2022 with three guests and I have to say I was not impressed at all. First off, I despise bad, slow and inattentive service by the wait staff and it was not a good experience. Had to literally ask for everything...water, napkins, etc and several times at that. We started with cocktails and they did not arrive until the dinner just about came out -and that was a while to get. The menu -I like creativity and innovative menus but not impressed with the appetizers or entrees. Weird stuff, weird menu offerings -just way to off what is even halfway normal and really weird combinations of ingredients as well. The pork belly app was good....the pork dumplings should have noted on the menu how spicy they were. Naaaaa...not worth the $300.00 plus bill.

Came here for my birthday. Food was excellent. Got the salmon, was one of their specials. Would recommend the "nachos" as well, very tasty.

We got the mushroom piccata, charred Vietnamese chicken, seared Mahi Mahi, summer melon salad, cheese plate, shrimp toast. Everything was delicious! Great service!

Zinc was an amazing experience. I came here for a romantic night with my husband. The staff were unbelievably friendly and accommodating. The food was the best I've ever had. I highly recommend the salmon and the gelato dessert Omg it will literally melt in your mouth!! Had a blast here. Definately a top restaurant in the new haven area!!

I find that Zinc is overpriced for the quality of food it serves, and the menu often leaves me unimpressed. It has a fine dining price tag with a quality that I don't necessarily find comparable. I do however, enjoy their pizza place out back.

Very nice restaurant in downtown New Haven - with lots of Americanized Asian food options - be aware that there are limited vegetarian options though. Among their appetizers beef wrapped in lettuce was my favorite and I liked steak hanger among main course options

Parking: street or around the corner on College St is a parking garage Atmosphere: business casual, low music in background, not too loud...just right Food: had Pork Belly app and Gnocchi with fig entree and they were stellar! Service: fast and friendly, Jessica was waitress and she was on top of things, even water refills! Price: on point for atmosphere and quality of food and wine. Overall: 5 star and will 100% return

Service and ambiance were excellent, but we were disappointed with the food. I do not recommend the lamb breast/coulis entree--the lamb was tender and tasty but overwhelmed by the accompanying 'bean salad' (= lots of dried beans that were nothing special). The appetizer mixed green salad was overdressed and our dessert, the carmelized apple tart, sacrificed taste to novelty, with a hard, cookie-like crust that was impossible to cut with a spoon, and cheese ice cream that did not turn out to be the delightful surprise we were hoping for. We feel no inclination to return soon.

I came here with my bf on our first date and honestly I think we could've gone somewhere cheaper with better food. The food just lacked flavor in my opinion. The place is really nice and clean but aside from that the food isn't great. Save your money and go somewhere else.

Came here a while ago to celebrate a friend's job offer. Classy environment and interior with attentive and kind staff. The seasonal duck breast I got was juicy and delicious, but there were a few spots where the fat wasn't rendered completely. Otherwise, a perfect dish and a good time!

Great food but: our table was not ready, which can happen on a busy night. Other people waited with us in an overcrowded entrance. Figure a pre Covid subway experience during rush hour to get the picture. We would have appreciated to be sent at the bar with some drinks on the house, it did not happen, so be it. Beautiful table, busy but friendly staff and excellent food. Nothing wrong except 2 issues; a couple behind us mistaken the restaurant for a hotel room. The staff saw it, nothing happened. Not shy about adult stuff but a place like this seems inappropriate for a live X scene. Then, the bill came, shy of 4 figures. Some of us decided to order expressos after the issuance. The staff conscientiously came back with a revised bill adding the 3 expressos. Zinc knows about food, but nothing about elegance.

Exciting menu with a tasting feel to it - but the entrees are full size - so don't be fooled! Loud and popular location - but waitstaff was able to keep up. I will definitely be back.

Went here for my wife's birthday. We had cocktails, small plates, entrees, and dessert--it was all great! The Arctic Char was some of the best fish I've ever eaten. There were amuse bouche provided as well. Service was excellent, and it was well worth the price considering the amount and quality of the food.

Impressive. Loved the food, service and overall vibe. Classy Chic with a trendy flair...been here at least 5 times- absolutely recommend this place.

Dined there in a party of four. Our waitress was pleasant and the bar provided good cocktails. The apps were on the small size for the price. My wife said the scallops were delicious. I thought the lamb chop was pretty good but a bit pricey. We had a good meal but I would not rank it in my top ten for New Haven. I rounded up since I couldn't give it a 3.5.

My husband and I went to dinner at Zinc last night for the first time and were so glad we tried it. We were drawn in by their creative menu and proximity to College Street Music Hall (which we were going to afterwards). Zinc is a stylish looking restaurant with very professional and attentive service. We had the duck nachos and olives as appetizers, and then both ordered the duck lo mein for our main courses. Everything was delicious. The olives weren't really anything different than you could get elsewhere, but the duck dishes were. The other items on the menu sounded great too, and the plates we saw other patrons eat looked good. The portions were generous, although the prices were on the higher end. We both said that we would gladly return. I am interested in trying the 3 course prix fixe dinner "of the week" on a future visit.

Just a fabulous restaurant. Ambiance and menu selections are always top notch. I recently dropped off soup for the security guard who works at Hendries Hall at Yale - I see him each week going into chorale. I promised him some butternut squash soup with shallots and ginger. After dropping that off, I stopped at this old favorite. Had a lovely pork chop on the bone with a Harissa glaze. It was served with a white bean ragout and greens. I paired it with a glass of Gamay noir. Great solo date night! I then ordered some soup to go for a homeless man sleeping in a tent on the New Haven Green. I was raised to give back and currently work for a company that does the same - Morgan Stanley. Peace to Zinc for a blessed holiday season. Have reservations to stop in with a friend after our concert the evening of 12/3!

I went their with my son and boyfriend a couple of weeks ago and will definitely be back. The restaurant was incredibly spotless, has great ambience, and is convenient to so many things downtown. The menu is smaller, but they manage to pack in something for everyone. Everything we ordered was delicious and prepared/served with great care. I can't wait for spring to see what they have on the menu then. Awesome place for any foodie to dine.

We went to zinc before the Remain in Light show without a reservation and we're happy to sit at the bar. Everyone was really nice to us and the food was beyond fabulous. I had the tuna which was served rare, it came with dried spinach stacked high that melted in my mouth and spring rolls with two types of sauce including wasabi and sweet and sour. Really a generous portion and delicious. My husband is still talking about the lamb soup and we indulged in a wonderful dessert. The restaurant is sophisticated and the attractive staff bustle and smile. We enjoyed interacting with the bartender who was making so many drinks with so many ingredients effortlessly. Giant recommend!

Definitely the place for you and your date. Despite the 2019 pandemic, the restaurant setting was arranged in such a way to make you feel comfortable and safely distance. The service and the attention from the staff is set to a high standard. There are a variety of very good choices of meal to choose from the menu that will satisfy you foodie appetite. This place deserve repeat visits once pandemic is over. 4 star mainly do to parking inconvenience. If it's a busy night in New Haven, you may have to park a distance.