Rustic Oak
Just across the town line in North Haven, the Rustic Oak has been a popular gathering spot for more than 30 years. The menu spotlights USDA Choice Western beef, hand-cut by the restaurant's own staff. Seafood and chicken dishes are also available. Cocktails are available, as are selections from a "focused and reasonably priced" wine list. The restaurant is modeled after a ski lodge in Sun Valley, Idaho, so to really soak up the rustic atmosphere, ask for a table by the fireplace,
Rustic Oak
165 Washington Ave.
North Haven, CT 06473
(203) 239-1107
rusticoakrestaurant.com
Carmen Anthony
A short 10-minute drive from central Hamden, the Carmen Anthony Steakhouse in New Haven is one of the area's most popular restaurants. Winner of numerous culinary awards from Connecticut magazine, the restaurant specializes in thick-cut angus beef. The menu also offers chicken and seafood options, and the wine lists have repeatedly received the Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine. Reservations can be made online.
Carmen Anthony Steakhouse
660 State St.
New Haven, CT 06511
(203) 773-1444
carmenanthonyrestaurant.com/newhaven.html
American Steakhouse
If you are looking for value and are willing to range a bit farther afield, consider the buffet-style American Steakhouse. This Connecticut-based chain has five locations, including one in Meriden, just a 15-minute drive up State Highway 15 from central Hamden, as well also one in Waterbury, about a half-hour from Hamden. These restaurants may not be much for ambiance--no crackling fires or extensive wine lists--but with most steaks costing less than $10, you can't beat the price.
American Steakhouse Meriden
1170 E. Main St.
Meriden, CT 06450
(203) 634-9994
American Steakhouse Waterbury
1011 Wolcott St.
Waterbury, CT 06704
(203) 756-7529
americansteakhouse.com
Article Written By Cam Merritt
Cam Merritt has been a professional writer and editor since 1992, specializing in articles about spectator sports, personal finance and law. He has produced content for "USA Today," "The Des Moines Register" and the "Better Homes and Gardens" family of magazines and websites. Merritt has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Drake University.
