The best restaurants in Fairfield have turned our college town into a dining destination. From cult-favorite pizza, to award-winning local-style lobster rolls, to French eateries with serious ambience, Fairfield’s restaurants offer something (delicious) for everyone.
If you’re looking for the best spots to dine in town, keep reading. Each year, we survey our local community to gather the consensus on the top dining options in town. We get thousands of responses, so we’re confident that our list is the most relevant, up-to-date one you’ll find.
To help you find the best restaurants in Fairfield for your next date night, sushi craving or family outing, we’ve given each restaurant a superlative. You’ll find the best Italian restaurants, top taco spot, the finest service, and more.
The people of Fairfield have spoken, and these are their favorite dining destinations.
Best Restaurants in Fairfield
1. The Stand
Best Service
The Stand Vegan cafe is the local go-to for juices, smoothies, and basked goods so delicious, the thought that they might be vegan would never cross your mind. .
2. Artisan
Business Lunch + Hotel Restaurant + Outdoor Dining + Private Dining/Intimate Venue + Special Occasion/Date Night
Offering a blend of New England tradition and international flair, Artisan showcases a menu filled with refined dishes in a chic setting. Both the outdoor space and the cocktails are some of the best in the area, too.
3. Barcelona Wine Bar
Creative Menu + Tapas
As a renowned spot for Spanish tapas and wines, Barcelona Wine Bar offers a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for sharing flavorful dishes and trying new wines.
4. Il Pelicano
New Restaurant
Il Pelicano opened in Fairfield in 2023, serving up a mix of new and traditional Italian-style dishes, along with Italian tapas and a robust wine selection. Highlights include the cacio e pepe, pappardelle ossobuco, and the spritzers, which reviewers liken to ‘adult slushies.’
5. Colony Grill
Pick-up Option
Known for its iconic thin-crust pizzas, Colony Grill in Fairfield mirrors its other locations, serving up a casual, warm atmosphere loved by locals.
6. Lobstercraft
Seafood
Lobstercraft, which started out as a food truck with a big fan base, is one of the best spots in the state to order a lobster roll. The only problem? Deciding between the hot and cold options.
7. Blackstones Steakhouse
Steak
Echoing its other locations, Blackstones in Fairfield offers prime steaks, classic accompaniments, and a selection of wines, all in a plush, upscale setting.
8. Nordic Fish
Sushi
Don’t be fooled by the sprawling fish counter and no-frills interior. Nordic Fish is the local destination for seafood enthusiasts, and its takeout sushi platters are an easy way to elevate any get-together.
9. Little Pub
American
A cozy spot with a traditional pub feel, Little Pub is perfect for those seeking a diverse and quality menu in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
10. Mecha
Asian Fusion
Staying true to its brand, Mecha in Fairfield offers an assortment of Asian-inspired noodle dishes like Pho and Ramen in a vibrant, modern environment. Don’t forget to try the cocktails.
11. shu
Chinese
If you ask any local about where to order Chinese takeout, the answer is usually Shu. Specializing in Chinese and Asian fusion cuisine, Shu offers an array of traditional and modern dishes, emphasizing flavor and presentation.
12. Martel
French
This small, bistro-style restaurant has served up French staples along the Post Rd. for more than a decade. You’ll find French restaurant essentials like Croque Monsieur, duck confit, escargot and steak frites, along with a range of signature dishes. The patio is a highlight in the warmer months.
13. Layla’s Falafel
Greek + Mediterranean
Serving up Middle Eastern delights, Layla’s Falafel offers authentic dishes like falafel, shawarma, and other regional specialties in a fast-casual environment. It’s also a top pick for takeout any night of the week.
14. Taj
Indian
With its authentic and expansive menu of Indian dishes, top-notch service, and an inviting atmosphere, Taj is the easy go-to for those with a hankering for Indian cuisine.
15. Luigi’s
Italian
This longstanding Fairfield spot has been in operation since 1975 for a reason. Customers love its large portions, homemade pastas, and pizzas fired on the largest rotating pizza oven in town.
16. Fin
Japanese
Poke bowls, sushi, and ramen noodle soups are the main draws to Fin, on the Post Rd. Devotees argue its the best Japanese restaurant in Fairfield County.
17. Bodega
Mexican
Bodega might be small, tucked away in a Post Rd. shopping center, but the flavors are anything but. The restaurant specializes in Mexican food with a modern perspective: Think tuna tartare tostadas, sweet chili duck nachos, and mahi mahi tacos with lemon aioli.
18. Whoopi Thai
Thai
Catering to lovers of classic Thai cuisine, Whoopi Thai serves up a spectrum of Thai dishes, balancing sweet, salty, spicy, and sour flavors in a simple and intimate space.