New Haven Hotspots: According to Our GEMites

GEM started in a small office in North Haven seven years ago, moved to Hamden, and settled into their brand new home in New Haven this past December. After the better part of a decade here in the Greater New Haven area, our GEMites have ventured out and tried many of the local spots. After much contemplation (and internal debate), we’ve compiled the Top 10 New Haven Hotspots, according to our staff.

1. Bar

If you’re tired of the same old plain pizza, take a risk and try the mashed potato pizza at Bar. We promise you won’t regret it. The GEMites also love the drinks (they brew their own beer!) and atmosphere of the restaurant, which turns into a nightclub at night.

2. Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana

Our staff loves a good pizza, and that’s exactly what you’ll get at Pepe’s. It tops many “Best Pizza in America” lists and is so famous, that there’s always a line around the building. Trust us, it’s worth every bit of the wait.

3. 116 Crown

If you’re looking for an upscale, sophisticated dining experience, this is the spot. Our GEMites love 116 Crown’s french fries and amazing high-end cocktails made with only the best ingredients.

4. The Pantry

Make sure you go hungry (and bring cash)! The Pantryis one of the best breakfast places in New Haven, and serves pancakes as big as the plate they’re on! They make all of the classic breakfast favorites and some new ones that will make you think, “Why hasn’t anyone done this before?”

5. Geronimo Tequila Bar & Southwest Grill

Applewood Smoked Bacon Guacamole. Do we need to say more? Geronimo’s food alone is enough to put it on this list, but their margaritas and incredible tequila selection take it to a whole other dimension.

6. Christopher Martins Restaurant & Pub

The atmosphere is one of our favorite parts about this establishment. There’s always something going on at Christopher Martins, whether it be live music, art shows, or 5k pub runs, so there’s a good time to be had by everyone. On top of all that, they have amazing food and drinks, so what more could you ask for?

7. Basta Trattoria

According to our staff, this is the best date night restaurant around. It’s centrally located on Chapel Street, with a movie theater and the Shubert Theater right in walking distance. Basta’s authentic Italian dishes are the perfect start to a romantic evening.

8. The Cask Republic

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast (like many of our GEMites), then The Cask Republicis the perfect place for you. With over 130 distinct beers being served at any given time, there is something on tap for everyone. Pair one of these beers with any of their unique hand-crafted entrees for an experience that your palate will thank you graciously for.

9. Temple Grille

Have you ever gone to a restaurant and wanted a salad or sandwich but didn’t like the options available? Well, that’s not a problem at Temple Grille. They offer you the chance to customize your sandwich or salad with over fifty fresh ingredients that will have you dreaming about their food days later.

10. C.O. Jones Mexican Restaurant & Tequila Bar

“The unofficial GEM spot,” as one of our staff called it. The unique drinks and tapas at C.O. Jonesis what keeps GEMites coming back. Not to mention, the warm and inviting atmosphere makes you lose track of time, which is perfect after a long day at the office! Oh, and the yucca fries? You can thank us later.

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• New Haven
• Food
• Drinks