Claire's Corner Copia
Claire's, an offbeat restaurant, bakery and coffee house located at the corner of Chapel and College streets, has been serving vegetarian comfort cuisine since 1975. Claire's emphasizes fresh produce, seasonal dishes and whole grains; vegan items are clearly labeled on the menu. Omelets, flat bread pizzas, veggie burgers, Mexican favorites, salads, baked goods and a variety of sandwiches are available daily. Order and pay at the counter, claim a table and wait for your name to be called. Claire's is inexpensive and casual and open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Claire's Corner Copia
1000 Chapel St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 562-3888
clairescornercopia.com
Zinc
This upscale and elegant eatery located on Chapel between College and Temple streets offers contemporary American cuisine and is an excellent choice for a romantic evening out. Publications like the New York Times have praised Zinc for its creative menu, which changes seasonally to take advantage of local produce. House specialties include pan-seared Scottish salmon, ricotta gnocchi and chipotle pork shoulder. The smoked duck nachos appetizer is a local favorite. The average entree costs between $30 and $50. Zinc also offers a full bar and extensive wine list. The restaurant is open weekdays for lunch and dinner and weekends for dinner only.
Zinc
964 Chapel St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 624-0507
zincfood.com
Roly Poly
Enjoy a meal on the go as you explore the Green. Roly Poly, located on Church Street between Chapel and Elm, is part of a national chain of casual restaurants offering quick and inexpensive meals. Sandwiches, soups and salads are the focus of the menu. Over 50 different sandwich wraps made with luncheon meats and vegetables are available daily, in addition to a variety of classic soups like minestrone and unique salads such as lobster and avocado. Menu items average less than $10. Roly Poly is open weekdays for lunch and dinner.
Roly Poly
129 Church St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 777-7659
rolypoly.com
Keys to the City @ Caffe Bottega
Keys to the City is a bistro and piano bar on Chapel between Church and College streets. The setting is an eclectic mix of hip cafe and lounge bar. Dinner is served after 5 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, and the location overlooking the Green makes the available outdoor seating appealing. The menu includes spring rolls, burritos, fajita wraps, shrimp, pizzas and several salads. Entrees range from $9 to $15. Evening entertainment includes karaoke, live music, DJs and dueling pianists. Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups.
Keys to the City @ Caffe Bottega
910 Chapel St.
New Haven, CT 06510
(203) 624-6200
botteganewhaven.com