Connecticut’s hospitality industry just got stronger—and more unified.
The Connecticut Restaurant Association has officially evolved into the Connecticut Restaurant & Hospitality Association, bringing restaurants, bars, caterers, and hotels together under one banner.
By uniting these sectors, the new organization creates one voice at the Capitol, one strategy for promotion, and one coordinated effort to support an industry that plays a major role in our state’s economy.
And a major role it is, indeed—with nearly 400 hotel properties, 36,000 rooms statewide, and a $5.8 billion economic impact. Because hotels and restaurants already share customers, staffing needs, marketing goals, and policy priorities, industry leaders say aligning their advocacy is a natural next step.
Thirty-one other states already operate under this unified model—and now
Connecticut joins them. The new association will focus on tackling industry challenges while promoting growth, collaboration, and long-term competitiveness. Governor Ned Lamont voiced his support, calling the joint venture something to be proud of. When restaurants and hotels move forward together, the entire visitor economy benefits—stronger partnerships, clearer messaging, and a more competitive Connecticut.
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Connecticut’s pizza prowess continues to grab widespread attention! Tasting Table recently published a story on “The 15 Absolute Best Pizza Places” in the state. The national food website looked at historically favored spots like Frank Pepe’s, and then checked out newer pizza restaurants featured in food TV shows, mentioned in national and local media, or with exceptionally high reviews. New Haven’s “Big Three” made the list, including Pepe’s, Sally’s, and Modern Apizza. Zuppardi’s Apizza and Roseland Apizza, which are staples in nearby West Haven and Derby, also made the cut. The article also includes other time-honored spots like Ernie’s in New Haven, Colony Grill in Stamford and The Little Rendezvous in Meriden.
Tasting Table also shouted out some New Haven favorites that aren’t doing the traditional ah-beetz style, like Zeneli, with its authentic Neapolitan pies. BAR got a mention for its famous mashed potato pie, and One6Three for a creative signature with peanut butter, bacon, and cranberry honey jam!
The list wasn’t all New Haven or old-timers, though! Two Hartford-area spots made the cut, including Little City in Avon and Zephyr’s Street Pizza in West Hartford.
Greenwich’s Grigg Street Pizza and Swyft in Kent also got the nod.
Of note: Every one of these pizzerias is on the official Connecticut Pizza Trail!
Stay tuned for more updates next week when we tell you MORE good stuff about Connecticut!
