Best Southern American Restaurants in New Haven

29 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Harvest Wine Bar and Restaurant - New Haven restaurant

1. Harvest Wine Bar and Restaurant - New Haven

4.6

Exceptional(278)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 10 times today

At Harvest Wine Bar and Restaurant in New Haven, the cocktail bar is a standout feature, offering an authentic and sophisticated experience for all patrons. Guests rave about the "intricate and delicious" drinks, highlighting signature cocktails like the "rose gold martini" that are sure to impress. The ambiance, described as "fantastic," complements the exceptional cocktail offerings, making it a top choice for a refined night out. Diners consistently praise the well-crafted beverages, noting that the cocktails are "well-made" and a perfect match for the delectable menu items. Harvest Wine Bar is the go-to destination in New Haven for those seeking a premium cocktail bar experience with superb service and a vibrant atmosphere.

2. ZINC New Haven

4.7

Exceptional(2968)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 24 times today

ZINC New Haven, located across the historic New Haven Green, is a culinary gem celebrated for its exceptional Global, International cuisine. Since its inception in 1999, ZINC has been dedicated to a sustainable, seed-to-plate philosophy, intertwining local market inspirations with global flavors, creating a dining experience that resonates deeply with food enthusiasts. With a menu that features inventive dishes like the spicy juniper cocktail and the Chilean Sea Bass, alongside a Wine Spectator award-winning wine selection, ZINC consistently impresses. Patrons rave about the "exceptional food and service" and the "innovative and tasty" menu, making ZINC a must-visit for an unforgettable dining experience in New Haven.

3. South Bay

4.5

Awesome(442)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 27 times today

South Bay in New Haven is a beacon of Mediterranean excellence, known for its commitment to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about their experiences, noting dishes like the "perfectly salted branzino" and "the best seafood risotto I’ve ever had." The atmosphere is consistently described as warm and welcoming, a testament to the Siguenza family's passion for hospitality and superior cuisine. Patrons frequently mention the outstanding service and the creative menu, highlighting the Sicilian calamari and the crispy eggplant burrata as must-try dishes. Whether it's a special dinner or a casual outing, South Bay promises an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience, making it a favorite in the vibrant New Haven culinary scene.

A photo of Heirloom - New Haven restaurant

4. Heirloom - New Haven

4.3

Awesome(1507)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 9 times today

Heirloom in New Haven is a gem for lovers of Contemporary American cuisine. Nestled within the Study at Yale Hotel, Heirloom proudly showcases an authentic farm-to-table concept, serving dishes that highlight heritage ingredients supplied by local farmers and growers. Praised for its "beautiful, fresh brunch meals" and "exceptional service," the restaurant offers an array of sophisticated and heartwarming dishes. Reviewers rave about unique offerings like the "delicious caprese sandwich" and the "outstanding fried rice with salmon," paired with an "eclectic and distinctive" wine selection. The inviting atmosphere and consistent quality make Heirloom a beloved spot, with one reviewer noting, "My favorite restaurant in NH - always a delight! So accommodating." This dedication to quality and service underscores why Heirloom stands out as a pinnacle of Contemporary American dining in New Haven.

5. Elm City Social

4.3

Awesome(305)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 21 times today

Elm City Social in New Haven, Connecticut, has redefined the art of mixology with its exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service, making it a must-visit destination. Celebrated as Connecticut’s Best New Restaurant, this venue revives the allure of the 1920s cocktail craft. Patrons rave about the distinctive and flavorful drinks, with one guest exclaiming, "Every cocktail was super unique and delicious," and another endorsing the "El Pastor" as a savory twist on the spicy margarita. The ambiance, enhanced by its historic setting, complements the high-quality service and inventive drink menu, ensuring a top-tier bar experience. Elm City Social is not just a meal but an event, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a night out in a lively and elegant atmosphere.

A photo of 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar restaurant

6. 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar

4.1

Excellent(150)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 15 times today

At 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar in New Haven, the cocktail bar experience is truly exceptional, blending a vibrant atmosphere with a meticulously crafted drink menu that delights the senses. The establishment thrives on its reputation for "approachable craft cocktails" that are both inventive and seasonal, featuring fresh ingredients like watermelon, blackberries, basil, and mint. Patrons rave about the quality of the cocktails, with one guest celebrating the "exceptionally good tasting drinks" made by the bartender during a bustling event. Another highlight is the Martini Flight, recommended as a must-try. The dedication to quality and service at 80 Proof makes it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a memorable night out in the heart of New Haven's theater district.

A photo of John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New Haven restaurant

7. John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New Haven

4.6

Exceptional(419)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 4 times today

John Davenport's at the Top of the Park is a seafood lover's dream, perched on the 19th floor in New Haven. Renowned for its "contemporary, approachable, coastal New England fare," the restaurant excels in sourcing sustainable seafood that delights with freshness and flavor. Diners rave about the seafood selections, particularly noting the "perfectly cooked" salmon and lobster mac & cheese, and the "AMAZING" scallops. With its commitment to local sourcing and in-house culinary craftsmanship, the restaurant stands out not just for its food but also for the breathtaking panoramic views that accompany each meal. Whether it’s the fried calamari or the clam chowder, each dish is a testament to the authentic and high-quality seafood offered, making John Davenport's a must-visit for an exceptional dining experience.

A photo of High George by Siena restaurant

8. High George by Siena

4.6

Exceptional(4)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 3 times today

Guidelines:1hr 30min table limit for parties of 22hr table limit for parties of 3 or moreParties of 8 or more please call to reserve

9. The Anchor Spa

4.5

Awesome(54)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 1 time today

*Please note: Outside Seating is on a first come, first served basis. You may request Outside Seating with your reservation and we will do our best to accomodate it, however, we cannot guarantee it.*Named after the Milford, Connecticut beach where it first opened during Prohibition, in its halcyon days The Anchor became a favorite watering hole for actors, artists, poets, writers, and Yalies, and the after-work boîte for bartenders and staff from other bars. Relaunching in 2016, The Anchor effortlessly aligned with a revitalized Downtown New Haven, in the vibrant midst of Yale University. The bar and eatery simultaneously honors, embraces, and reflects the City’s economic, social and intellectual diversity—representing a cultural cocktail of town and gown immediacy of a deadline. The Anchor’s new owner, Yale alumnus Karl Franz Williams’ plan is to preserve the best and most recognizable aspects of the restaurant’s former incarnation and create something evocative and timeless.

A photo of Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar restaurant

10. Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar

4.7

Exceptional(1096)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • New Haven

Booked 44 times today

At Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar in New Haven, guests rave about an exceptional steakhouse experience that stands out in Southern Connecticut. Renowned for employing the unique old world skillet cooking technique, the restaurant offers "the most perfectly cooked steak," as highlighted in glowing reviews. Patrons consistently celebrate the quality of their meals, with one noting, "Had the Cast Iron Filet Mignon with peppercorn sauce, it was perfect!" The commitment to using only Prime Angus beef, perfectly aged and hand-cut on premises, underscores their dedication to quality. The ambiance and customer service match the high standard set by the food, making every visit memorable. Whether it's for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, Cast Iron Chef is the go-to destination for steak lovers.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southern American Restaurants in New Haven

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29 restaurants available nearby

1. Harvest Wine Bar and Restaurant - New Haven

2. ZINC New Haven

3. South Bay

4. Heirloom - New Haven

5. Elm City Social

6. 80 Proof American Kitchen & Bar

7. John Davenport's at the Top of the Park - Omni New Haven

8. High George by Siena

9. The Anchor Spa

10. Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar

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