As an avid traveler and passionate food enthusiast, I’ve had the pleasure of sampling all sorts of culinary delights across the United States. But let me tell you, few places have a breakfast and brunch scene that can rival Hartford, Connecticut. Nestled in the heart of New England, Hartford may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of food, but once you experience its breakfast and brunch spots, you’ll wonder why you haven’t visited sooner.
In this article, I’ll share with you four must-try eateries in Hartford: two breakfast spots and two brunch locales. These are the places that I personally recommend, and after indulging in their delightful dishes, I’m confident you’ll agree that they offer some of the best meals to start your day. From cozy, charming cafés to vibrant, bustling brunch spots, Hartford’s food scene has something for every palate.
1. Max a Mia
Location: 1741 Hebron Avenue, Glastonbury, CT (just a short drive from Hartford)
Let me begin with a breakfast experience that feels like a warm hug for your soul. Max a Mia is located in the charming town of Glastonbury, just a short 20-minute drive from downtown Hartford. This inviting restaurant offers a beautiful combination of classic American breakfast dishes and Italian-inspired breakfast fare. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a cozy atmosphere and an aroma of freshly brewed coffee that immediately makes you feel at home.
Must-Try Dishes
- Lobster Eggs Benedict: If you’re feeling indulgent, this is the dish you don’t want to miss. Perfectly poached eggs, succulent lobster, and a rich hollandaise sauce make for an unforgettable start to your day.
- Max’s Pancakes: These pancakes are light, fluffy, and served with a generous helping of maple syrup. They’re the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth first thing in the morning.
- Crab Cakes with Avocado Toast: The crab cakes are tender, flavorful, and paired perfectly with creamy avocado on freshly toasted bread.
Cost & Reservations
On average, a meal here will run you around $15-$25 per person, depending on what you order and whether you opt for sides or drinks. As for reservations, it’s best to call ahead, especially on weekends when the restaurant is bustling with locals and visitors alike. You can also use platforms like OpenTable to make a reservation in advance, which is always a smart move if you want to avoid a long wait.
Pro Tips for Discounts
Max a Mia occasionally offers seasonal promotions, so keep an eye on their social media pages or sign up for their newsletter to stay informed about any ongoing specials. They also have a loyalty program that rewards frequent visitors with discounts on future meals.
2. The Blue Plate
Location: 717 New Park Avenue, Hartford, CT
Next up is The Blue Plate, a breakfast and brunch spot that is a true local gem. Situated right in Hartford, this place serves up comforting, homemade dishes with a modern twist. The decor is hip and modern, and the staff is friendly, making it an ideal spot for both solo diners and groups of friends. Whether you’re after a light breakfast or something more filling, The Blue Plate has got you covered.
Must-Try Dishes
- Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy: The biscuits are soft and flaky, topped with a rich and flavorful sausage gravy. It’s the ultimate comfort food to fuel your day.
- Chicken and Waffles: The chicken is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and perfectly paired with a fluffy waffle. It’s a flavor combination that’s hard to beat.
- Breakfast Burrito: Packed with eggs, cheese, bacon, avocado, and a spicy salsa, this burrito is a great choice if you want something that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.
Cost & Reservations
Expect to spend about $10-$20 per person at The Blue Plate, depending on what you order. It’s usually not too hard to get a table, but if you’re visiting on a busy weekend, reservations are recommended. Again, OpenTable is a great resource for securing a spot in advance.
Pro Tips for Discounts
The Blue Plate occasionally offers “Brunch Specials” with discounts on select menu items, so it’s worth asking the staff about any ongoing promotions when you arrive. Additionally, consider checking out local deal sites like Groupon for discounts on brunch bookings.
3. The Capital Grille
Location: 100 Trumbull Street, Hartford, CT
Now, let’s talk about one of the best brunch experiences in Hartford—The Capital Grille. While it’s known for its elegant atmosphere and upscale dining, its brunch menu offers a mix of indulgent dishes and fresh, wholesome options. Located downtown, it’s perfect if you’re planning to explore the city after a leisurely brunch.
Must-Try Dishes
- Lobster Frittata: This decadent frittata features large chunks of fresh lobster, mixed with eggs, spinach, and a blend of cheeses. It’s a true showstopper and a must-try for seafood lovers.
- Steak and Eggs: If you’re craving something hearty, the steak and eggs at The Capital Grille are perfectly cooked, tender, and paired with creamy scrambled eggs.
- Cinnamon Streusel French Toast: For those with a sweet tooth, this French toast is a game-changer. It’s topped with a cinnamon sugar streusel, whipped cream, and maple syrup. Trust me, you won’t want to share!
Cost & Reservations
Brunch here runs a bit higher than the other spots, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 per person, depending on what you order. However, the quality of the food and the luxurious setting make it well worth the splurge. I recommend making a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends, as it’s a popular spot. Resy is a great app to use for securing a spot.
Pro Tips for Discounts
Keep an eye on Restaurant Week events in Hartford, as The Capital Grille often participates in these and offers a set menu with discounted prices. They also offer a private dining option, which can sometimes include brunch specials for larger groups.
4. Salute
Location: 100 Trumbull Street, Hartford, CT
Last but certainly not least is Salute, an upscale, Italian-inspired restaurant with a fantastic brunch menu. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, Salute has something to offer. It’s located right downtown, making it a convenient choice for both locals and visitors who are exploring the area.
Must-Try Dishes
- Frittata: This Italian-style omelet is filled with fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and melted cheese. It’s a simple, yet delicious dish that showcases the fresh, high-quality ingredients they use.
- Eggs Salute: A twist on the classic Eggs Benedict, this dish features poached eggs served on a bed of crispy prosciutto and creamy hollandaise sauce.
- Salmon Benedict: For something a little more refined, try the Salmon Benedict. The smoky salmon pairs beautifully with the creamy eggs and tangy hollandaise.
Cost & Reservations
Brunch at Salute will typically cost you around $15-$25 per person. This is another restaurant where reservations are a good idea, especially on weekends when it’s busier. You can make a reservation on OpenTable for convenience.
Pro Tips for Discounts
Salute offers occasional discounts for guests who book large group reservations or opt for private dining. Be sure to check out local discount platforms like Groupon or Travelzoo for any special promotions.
Why You Should Use Dining Platforms for Your Hartford Food Adventure
When planning your trip to Hartford, I highly recommend using dining reservation platforms like OpenTable, Resy, or Groupon to help you secure a spot at the best restaurants and even snag some great deals along the way. These platforms are especially useful for busy weekends, and they help you avoid the disappointment of being turned away when you’re craving that perfect brunch dish.
Hartford’s Breakfast and Brunch Scene Is Worth the Visit
Whether you’re a local or a visitor passing through, Hartford’s breakfast and brunch spots are an absolute treat. From the mouthwatering lobster eggs Benedict at Max a Mia to the indulgent lobster frittata at The Capital Grille, these four restaurants will make your mornings in Hartford unforgettable. So go ahead, make your reservations, and prepare yourself for a delicious start to your day! Trust me, you won’t regret it.
