New Haven’s dining scene thrives beyond polished facades.
Unassuming storefronts hide lively kitchens humming with regulars and rich stories. Forget reservations—here, the thrill is in the find.
Each corner offers a fresh chapter in Connecticut’s love affair with honest, unforgettable eats.
Zeneli Pizzeria
Tucked into Wooster Street’s iconic pizza row, Zeneli Pizzeria serves up Neapolitan magic that rivals its New Haven-style neighbors.
While the city is famous for charred apizza, this family-run spot swaps coal-fired ovens for a wood-burning beast, crafting pillowy, leopard-spotted crusts that transport taste buds straight to Italy.
With rave reviews for fresh ingredients, generous pours of wine 🍷, and a vibe that’s equal parts lively and welcoming, Zeneli has become a must-visit for pizza pilgrims and locals alike.
Food Highlights
- Diavolina Pizza: Spicy salami, creamy mozzarella, and a kick of red chili flakes make this pie a fiery favorite. Reviewers call it “outstanding” for its bold flavors and perfect crust char 🍕🔥.
- Tres Carne Pizza: A carnivore’s dream with sweet sausage, spicy salami, and prosciutto. Diners praise its meaty harmony and fresh tomato base 🥩.
- Margherita Verace: The classic done right—buffalo mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes. Its simplicity lets the quality ingredients shine ⭐.
- Nutella Pizza with Strawberries: A dessert legend. The Nutella-stuffed crust and fresh berries turn this sweet treat into a “best dessert ever” contender 🍓.
- Homemade Meatballs: Baked to a tender finish (never frozen!), these crowd-pleasers come smothered in tangy tomato sauce. Pair them with the arugula salad (drizzled with lemon!) for a fresh contrast 🥬.
- Pizza Genovese: A pesto-forward masterpiece topped with prosciutto and arugula. Fans call it a “salizza” (salad-pizza hybrid) worth the hype 🍃.
Atmosphere
Step into Zeneli and feel the energy of a bustling Italian trattoria.
The cozy, rustic space packs in wooden tables, checkered cloths, and a crackling oven where pizzaiolos toss dough like pros.
Outdoor seating offers prime people-watching on Wooster Street, while the staff—often the Zeneli brothers themselves—greet regulars by name 😊.
Even on packed nights, the vibe stays warm, thanks to swift service and a soundtrack of clinking wine glasses.
Bottom Line
Visit Zeneli for Neapolitan pizza that’s light, fresh, and unpretentiously delicious.
Whether you’re dodging New Haven’s pizza tour buses or craving a Nutella finale, this spot delivers joy by the slice.
Just save room for that limoncello cake—it’s “oh my!” good 🍰.
Address: 138 Wooster St, New Haven, CT 06511 🗺️
Icaru
Tucked into downtown New Haven, Icaru is the kind of place locals whisper about—a no-frills gem where every bite feels like a hug from Peru.
Opened by brothers Jose and Pedro Diaz, this cozy spot packs bold, authentic flavors into every dish, from sizzling stir-fries to citrus-kissed ceviche.
With generous portions, wallet-friendly prices, and a vibe that’s as warm as the crispy yuca fries, Icaru has quickly become the go-to for anyone craving a taste of Lima without the airfare.
Food Highlights
- Lomo Saltado 🥩: Peru’s iconic stir-fry stars tender beef, tangy tomatoes, and crispy fries tossed in a savory soy glaze, all piled over fluffy rice. Reviewers call it “unlike anything they’ve had before” and “plate-licking good.”
- Ceviche Mixto 🍤: A bright, zesty mix of shrimp, squid, and mussels cured in lime juice with red onions and cilantro. One Yelper compared it to “sunshine in a bowl.”
- Chaufa de Pollo 🍚: Peruvian fried rice loaded with juicy chicken, scallions, and ginger. A staff-recommended comfort dish that’s “big enough to fuel a marathon.”
- Papa a la Huancaina 🥔: Creamy yellow pepper sauce smothers tender potatoes—a cool, spicy starter that’s pure comfort.
- Anticucho (Beef Heart) 🍢: Grilled skewers of marinated beef heart, smoky and tender, served with golden potatoes. Not for the timid, but a must for adventurers.
- Tacu Tacu con Lomo Saltado 🍛: Crispy rice-and-bean cake topped with that legendary stir-fried beef. A textural masterpiece that’s “worth every calorie.”
Atmosphere
Step inside this snug Elm Street eatery, and you’re greeted by walls splashed with Peruvian art and the aroma of garlic and cumin.
The vibe is unapologetically lively—reggaeton hums in the background, staff chat with regulars in Spanish and English, and the open kitchen sends out plates faster than you can say “¡otra cerveza, por favor!” 🎉
It’s the kind of place where you’ll bond with strangers over shared bottles of chicha morada (purple corn drink) and leave planning your next visit before you’ve even paid the bill.
Bottom Line
Icaru isn’t just a meal—it’s a passport to Peru. Come for the explosive flavors, stay for the friendly chaos, and leave wondering why all restaurants can’t be this fun.
Pro tip: Bring friends, order family-style, and save room for the tres leches cake.
Address: 39 Elm St, New Haven, CT 06510