June 27, 2025

Finest Breakfast Spots in Hartford for a Yummy Time

Read about Hartford’s delicious breakfast places where you can enjoy rich dishes or custom-made meals that start your day just right. Discover quick stops with thoughtful menus that make every morning special!

Richard Gargan
Reviewed from:
Connecticut
Editor's Note: Brunch Expert is supported by our readers. We sometimes earn commissions when you click through to restaurants or affiliate links.

Good morning from Hartford! Start your day by trying some of the best breakfasts in town. These places have a cozy feeling and serve carefully-made, custom dishes just for you.

TheSpot Cafe'

649 Burnside Ave, East Hartford

(860) 310-2283

Reviewed by:

Geneva Stefadu

This place is awesome. I love that it's a woman-owned business! The food is great, and the staff is super helpful and kind. If you haven't tried it yet, you need to check it out. We were looking for a great breakfast spot nearby and found exactly that. The vibe is fantastic, and the service adds to the experience. Plus, the home cooking is just what you need to start the day; those home fries were banging! It was my first visit to The Spot Café, and it was an overall great experience. The friendly staff and attention to detail really stood out. I had a really good breakfast and am definitely coming back next time for the pastries! 😋

Aurora's Restaurant

399 Capitol Ave, Hartford

(860) 461-1127

Reviewed by:

Nerio N Norma Edmonds

Aurora's Restaurant in Hartford is a legitimate contender for meal of the year. The fresh, flavorful food and juice at an affordable price, coupled with a friendly atmosphere, make it a must-visit. I can't recommend the Guatemalan traditional breakfast enough—probably the best tortillas I've ever had. I tried the Guatemalan breakfast with steak, and it was so good I almost went back for seconds. The steak was seasoned perfectly, with rice, beans, plantains, and those fresh tortillas that left me in disbelief. The hot sauce on the side was perfection! I stumbled upon this gem because I was hungry and needed breakfast, and I'm glad I did. It's like I fell into some amazing food. Everything is fresh and made to order, making it worth the trip if you want to feel like you're in Central America. I also tried the bistec rice, which comes with a decent portion and lots of sides. The homemade tortillas are incredible, and the plantains are delicious. The beet salad was a delightful addition. The steak was well-cooked, though a bit salty for my taste. The kids' menu is fantastic, with lots of kid-friendly options. I'll definitely be back to sample more dishes.

Fire by Forge

539 Broad St, Hartford

(860) 727-8066

Reviewed by:

Jill Grisham

Visited for the first time, and I had a fantastic meal at Fire by Forge for breakfast in Hartford! The servers were incredible, and I truly appreciate that the restaurant provides real opportunities for folks in need. I can't recommend the pupusas enough; they were perfect. My only regret was forgetting my leftovers in the hotel fridge! I had dinner there before a show at the Bushnell, and it was an amazing experience. Our waitress was so nice and down-to-earth, making our night even more enjoyable. We went all out with drinks, appetizers, entrees, and desserts, and everything was spot on with zero complaints. I'm definitely coming back to try their lunch menu. Thank you for an unforgettable night out! Fire by Forge is awesome for a lot of reasons. They employ the homeless and less fortunate in the kitchen, and their front-of-house staff is paid a livable wage, so tipping is optional. I still tipped 20%+ because the service was excellent. There's even a low-income grocery store right next to the restaurant. Beyond these incredible initiatives, the food and drinks are top-notch. I had a smoked old fashioned that was made perfectly, and the Brussels sprouts and empanadas were fried to perfection. The lava cake was a delicious finale to our meal. I wish more places like this would open across the country; it's definitely where you should spend your money! We stopped in on our way to vacation, and the brunch here ended up being the highlight meal of our trip. The atmosphere is a cool mix of modern and historical, paying homage to the old forge. The specialty drinks and brunch dishes were amazing, and we took four giant cookies to go, including a vegan one that was surprisingly delicious.

American & Mexican Diner

243 Zion St, Hartford

(860) 728-9822

Reviewed by:

Phillip Jeansonne

I absolutely love the American & Mexican Diner for breakfast! It's the perfect place to bring the family, and the kids just adore it. The atmosphere is fantastic, and the staff is always polite and helpful. The food? It's delicious and worth every penny. They offer a great variety, from soups to salads, so there's something for everyone. Plus, they don't serve alcohol, which makes it easy to focus on quality family time. In my opinion, this is the best breakfast spot in Hartford County. They even offer catering services, which is a bonus. Every Sunday, my granddaughter looks forward to our breakfast here. We all love it! The nachos are one of our favorites, and I can't recommend them enough. The servers are friendly and attentive, and the food and drinks are consistently great. I'll definitely keep recommending this gem to others! 😊

Harvey's Cafe & Market

161 Oakwood Ave, West Hartford

(860) 523-3263

Reviewed by:

Kimsue Fox

I was hungry while in the area and decided to pop into Harvey's Cafe & Market for a bite. What a find! Harvey was incredibly kind and helpful, suggesting the "Queen Rachel" sandwich. It was outstanding. Johnathan crafted an absolute masterpiece of a sandwich. I'm definitely coming back. Their quality of service and food is top-notch. I also tried their smoked salmon bagel sandwich, and it was so good! I was pleasantly surprised by this cafe. There's outside dining with three tables, and maybe four inside. They have hard ice cream in various flavors, with options for a waffle or sugar cone. The market offers a great selection of drinks like craft beers, CBD-infused beverages, and kombucha. Sandwiches are spot-on, and the bagels are fantastic. This place is a gem.

Fire by Forge

539 Broad St, Hartford

(860) 727-8066

Reviewed by:

Jill Grisham

Visited for the first time, and I had a fantastic meal at Fire by Forge for breakfast in Hartford! The servers were incredible, and I truly appreciate that the restaurant provides real opportunities for folks in need. I can't recommend the pupusas enough; they were perfect. My only regret was forgetting my leftovers in the hotel fridge! I had dinner there before a show at the Bushnell, and it was an amazing experience. Our waitress was so nice and down-to-earth, making our night even more enjoyable. We went all out with drinks, appetizers, entrees, and desserts, and everything was spot on with zero complaints. I'm definitely coming back to try their lunch menu. Thank you for an unforgettable night out! Fire by Forge is awesome for a lot of reasons. They employ the homeless and less fortunate in the kitchen, and their front-of-house staff is paid a livable wage, so tipping is optional. I still tipped 20%+ because the service was excellent. There's even a low-income grocery store right next to the restaurant. Beyond these incredible initiatives, the food and drinks are top-notch. I had a smoked old fashioned that was made perfectly, and the Brussels sprouts and empanadas were fried to perfection. The lava cake was a delicious finale to our meal. I wish more places like this would open across the country; it's definitely where you should spend your money! We stopped in on our way to vacation, and the brunch here ended up being the highlight meal of our trip. The atmosphere is a cool mix of modern and historical, paying homage to the old forge. The specialty drinks and brunch dishes were amazing, and we took four giant cookies to go, including a vegan one that was surprisingly delicious.

Harvey's Cafe & Market

161 Oakwood Ave, West Hartford

(860) 523-3263

Reviewed by:

Kimsue Fox

I was hungry while in the area and decided to pop into Harvey's Cafe & Market for a bite. What a find! Harvey was incredibly kind and helpful, suggesting the "Queen Rachel" sandwich. It was outstanding. Johnathan crafted an absolute masterpiece of a sandwich. I'm definitely coming back. Their quality of service and food is top-notch. I also tried their smoked salmon bagel sandwich, and it was so good! I was pleasantly surprised by this cafe. There's outside dining with three tables, and maybe four inside. They have hard ice cream in various flavors, with options for a waffle or sugar cone. The market offers a great selection of drinks like craft beers, CBD-infused beverages, and kombucha. Sandwiches are spot-on, and the bagels are fantastic. This place is a gem.

Story and Soil Coffee

387 Capitol Ave, Hartford

(860) 540-3987

Reviewed by:

Minnie Perez

I visited Story and Soil Coffee for breakfast in Hartford and had a fantastic experience. The interior is super cool, with a trendy, artsy vibe, making it a great spot to relax or get some work done. The outdoor seating is perfect when the weather is nice. I tried the espresso tonic, and it was incredible! My sister got an iced latte, which she loved – smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with lots of people around, and I loved seeing the small board with notes from customers and events happening in Connecticut. Their coffee is amazing; I had the Spanish latte, and it was delightful. I can't wait to go back for more. I was a bit worried about parking, but going after work on a weekday, I had no issues. The service from the barista was fantastic, even though it was near the end of the shift. Both the espresso and the drip coffee were delightful. I highly recommend Story and Soil for any coffee lover. Plus, their banana bread is a must-try. The indoor space is perfect for getting some work done, and the staff is incredibly sweet.

The Corner Cafe MX

262 Franklin Ave, Hartford

(959) 226-3055

Reviewed by:

Ruben Smith

If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot in Hartford, The Corner Cafe MX is a must-visit. Their breakfast burrito is fantastic, with a nice spicy green sauce on the side, and the portion size is huge – all for just $9. The croissant I tried was super fresh, and the bread in this place is something special, even better than what you’d find at Whole Foods bakery. It’s an ideal spot for a quick morning meal, and though the wait is about 10 minutes, it's totally worth it. Plus, they’re available on DoorDash, making ordering easy. I’m definitely planning to come back for lunch and to try more of their menu, especially the birria I’ve heard great things about.

Rush Bowls

15 Front St, Hartford

(860) 993-1747

Reviewed by:

Tyreekaa Smith

First off, I love Rush Bowls. It's one of my top spots in the downtown Hartford area, and their smoothie bowls are consistently delicious with a rich texture that keeps me coming back. The staff are always lively, friendly, and make every visit enjoyable. It's so convenient having a place like this downtown. While the Hartford location is my least favorite of the ones I've visited in Connecticut, it still has a lot going for it. The owner and staff are genuinely nice and patient, which I appreciated when they helped guide my daughter through her first acai bowl experience. She loved it, and it's a relief to have found a new food option for her sensitive diet as she heads off to college. I recently had a minor hiccup with a bottled water charge, but the staff handled it as best they could and even offered a discount card for my next visit. Though I was disappointed not to receive the promised refund, the overall experience at Rush Bowls makes up for it. Amoni, one of the staff, was fantastic with us today. She recommended the Espresso Yourself and Pumpkin Spice bowls, both of which were excellent. She even gave a treat to our puppy, which was a thoughtful touch. Despite the occasional issue, I think Rush Bowls is a must-visit when you're in the area. It's a vibrant place with great food and welcoming people.

Story and Soil Coffee

387 Capitol Ave, Hartford

(860) 540-3987

Reviewed by:

Minnie Perez

I visited Story and Soil Coffee for breakfast in Hartford and had a fantastic experience. The interior is super cool, with a trendy, artsy vibe, making it a great spot to relax or get some work done. The outdoor seating is perfect when the weather is nice. I tried the espresso tonic, and it was incredible! My sister got an iced latte, which she loved – smooth, rich, and perfectly balanced. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with lots of people around, and I loved seeing the small board with notes from customers and events happening in Connecticut. Their coffee is amazing; I had the Spanish latte, and it was delightful. I can't wait to go back for more. I was a bit worried about parking, but going after work on a weekday, I had no issues. The service from the barista was fantastic, even though it was near the end of the shift. Both the espresso and the drip coffee were delightful. I highly recommend Story and Soil for any coffee lover. Plus, their banana bread is a must-try. The indoor space is perfect for getting some work done, and the staff is incredibly sweet.

The Corner Cafe MX

262 Franklin Ave, Hartford

(959) 226-3055

Reviewed by:

Ruben Smith

If you’re looking for a great breakfast spot in Hartford, The Corner Cafe MX is a must-visit. Their breakfast burrito is fantastic, with a nice spicy green sauce on the side, and the portion size is huge – all for just $9. The croissant I tried was super fresh, and the bread in this place is something special, even better than what you’d find at Whole Foods bakery. It’s an ideal spot for a quick morning meal, and though the wait is about 10 minutes, it's totally worth it. Plus, they’re available on DoorDash, making ordering easy. I’m definitely planning to come back for lunch and to try more of their menu, especially the birria I’ve heard great things about.

Rush Bowls

15 Front St, Hartford

(860) 993-1747

Reviewed by:

Tyreekaa Smith

First off, I love Rush Bowls. It's one of my top spots in the downtown Hartford area, and their smoothie bowls are consistently delicious with a rich texture that keeps me coming back. The staff are always lively, friendly, and make every visit enjoyable. It's so convenient having a place like this downtown. While the Hartford location is my least favorite of the ones I've visited in Connecticut, it still has a lot going for it. The owner and staff are genuinely nice and patient, which I appreciated when they helped guide my daughter through her first acai bowl experience. She loved it, and it's a relief to have found a new food option for her sensitive diet as she heads off to college. I recently had a minor hiccup with a bottled water charge, but the staff handled it as best they could and even offered a discount card for my next visit. Though I was disappointed not to receive the promised refund, the overall experience at Rush Bowls makes up for it. Amoni, one of the staff, was fantastic with us today. She recommended the Espresso Yourself and Pumpkin Spice bowls, both of which were excellent. She even gave a treat to our puppy, which was a thoughtful touch. Despite the occasional issue, I think Rush Bowls is a must-visit when you're in the area. It's a vibrant place with great food and welcoming people.

Ashley's Restaurant

221 Main St, Hartford

(860) 247-8730

Reviewed by:

Rachel Ann

I had breakfast at Ashley's Restaurant in Hartford and enjoyed the experience overall. The food was great, and I was especially impressed with the homefries and my mom's corned beef and French toast. We were so happy with our meal that we actually ate there two days in a row, which really says something about the quality of the food. The staff were wonderful—friendly and attentive the whole time. Although it took a bit longer for our food to arrive, the servers were pleasant and made sure we were well taken care of. The restaurant does get quite busy around 11, at least on the Saturday we visited, so it's best to come a bit earlier or be prepared for a wait. The decor could use a little help, and the coffee was not my favorite as it tasted slightly burnt. Despite these minor issues, the restaurant offered good food at affordable prices. If I lived in the area, I'd definitely return to Ashley's for breakfast again.

Hartford Baking Co.

965 Farmington Ave, West Hartford

(860) 724-4169

Reviewed by:

Marquez Caal

Hartford Baking Co. is a true gem in the Hartford area, known for its exceptional baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch menu. The efficiency and consistency, even during the busiest times, never compromise the high quality of their food. The atmosphere is inviting, with plenty of seating and a friendly, smiling staff that makes the experience even more enjoyable. One of the highlights for me was the scrambled eggs wrap with black beans, avocado, cheese, and spiced potatoes in a whole wheat wrap. It was incredibly flavorful, and I loved the way the eggs were cooked. The ability to customize items through their app adds a convenient touch, making it easy to explore various breakfast options. The coffee, whether it's espresso, lattes, or regular, has always been up to par. It's perfect for starting the day or enjoying a relaxed moment. While the food and drinks are top-notch, the prices are reasonable, offering great value. Overall, Hartford Baking Co. is a place I highly recommend for a consistent and satisfying breakfast experience.

Rebel Dog Coffee Co. EAST HARTFORD

361 Main St, East Hartford

(860) 519-5621

Reviewed by:

John Rincon

I love this location! It's so convenient right off the highway. The breakfast sandwiches are great, and the drinks are reliably good. I decided to try a donut and was surprised at how good it was! The seating area is chill, and there's a cute little patio too. I had been meaning to try their coffee and was pleasantly surprised by their fantastic food menu. I usually make my own coffee, so the beverage menu was a bit overwhelming, but the barista was super helpful in choosing something I loved. I also tried a cinnamon scone, and it was absolutely amazing! The atmosphere here is modern and fresh, with high ceilings that give it a cool vibe. I can't wait to return, maybe with my family. The cold brew is good, and the apple fritters are phenomenal—whoever makes those should definitely bake more. The eggs Benedict and bagels are okay, but the prices are high for what you get. The place is large for a coffee spot, so there’s usually no problem finding a seat. Just be cautious with the payment system, as the tip options start at 25% and go down to 18% unless you enter a custom amount. The staff is nice, and the atmosphere is good, but the prices are quite steep. A grain bowl was $18 after tax, and for that cost, the portions felt small.

Ashley's Restaurant

221 Main St, Hartford

(860) 247-8730

Reviewed by:

Rachel Ann

I had breakfast at Ashley's Restaurant in Hartford and enjoyed the experience overall. The food was great, and I was especially impressed with the homefries and my mom's corned beef and French toast. We were so happy with our meal that we actually ate there two days in a row, which really says something about the quality of the food. The staff were wonderful—friendly and attentive the whole time. Although it took a bit longer for our food to arrive, the servers were pleasant and made sure we were well taken care of. The restaurant does get quite busy around 11, at least on the Saturday we visited, so it's best to come a bit earlier or be prepared for a wait. The decor could use a little help, and the coffee was not my favorite as it tasted slightly burnt. Despite these minor issues, the restaurant offered good food at affordable prices. If I lived in the area, I'd definitely return to Ashley's for breakfast again.

Rebel Dog Coffee Co. EAST HARTFORD

361 Main St, East Hartford

(860) 519-5621

Reviewed by:

John Rincon

I love this location! It's so convenient right off the highway. The breakfast sandwiches are great, and the drinks are reliably good. I decided to try a donut and was surprised at how good it was! The seating area is chill, and there's a cute little patio too. I had been meaning to try their coffee and was pleasantly surprised by their fantastic food menu. I usually make my own coffee, so the beverage menu was a bit overwhelming, but the barista was super helpful in choosing something I loved. I also tried a cinnamon scone, and it was absolutely amazing! The atmosphere here is modern and fresh, with high ceilings that give it a cool vibe. I can't wait to return, maybe with my family. The cold brew is good, and the apple fritters are phenomenal—whoever makes those should definitely bake more. The eggs Benedict and bagels are okay, but the prices are high for what you get. The place is large for a coffee spot, so there’s usually no problem finding a seat. Just be cautious with the payment system, as the tip options start at 25% and go down to 18% unless you enter a custom amount. The staff is nice, and the atmosphere is good, but the prices are quite steep. A grain bowl was $18 after tax, and for that cost, the portions felt small.

Hartford Baking Co.

965 Farmington Ave, West Hartford

(860) 724-4169

Reviewed by:

Marquez Caal

Hartford Baking Co. is a true gem in the Hartford area, known for its exceptional baked goods and delightful breakfast and lunch menu. The efficiency and consistency, even during the busiest times, never compromise the high quality of their food. The atmosphere is inviting, with plenty of seating and a friendly, smiling staff that makes the experience even more enjoyable. One of the highlights for me was the scrambled eggs wrap with black beans, avocado, cheese, and spiced potatoes in a whole wheat wrap. It was incredibly flavorful, and I loved the way the eggs were cooked. The ability to customize items through their app adds a convenient touch, making it easy to explore various breakfast options. The coffee, whether it's espresso, lattes, or regular, has always been up to par. It's perfect for starting the day or enjoying a relaxed moment. While the food and drinks are top-notch, the prices are reasonable, offering great value. Overall, Hartford Baking Co. is a place I highly recommend for a consistent and satisfying breakfast experience.

Effie's Place Family Restaurant

91 Park Rd, West Hartford

(860) 233-9653

Reviewed by:

Jaron Simmons

I had a great time at Effie's Place Family Restaurant for breakfast in Hartford. We stopped by on a Sunday afternoon around 12:45 after helping a family member settle into college. The place wasn't too crowded, which was nice because we were quite hungry. I particularly enjoyed the mimosas and the steak fries. Everyone in our group loved their meals, and the friendly, attentive waitress made the experience even better. What I really appreciate about Effie's is their gluten-free options. It’s one of the few places where I can enjoy gluten-free pancakes and toast, along with everything else. The recent remodel adds a fresh touch, and the open patio is a favorite during the summer months. This spot has lots of heart, with good staff and good food. It’s unfussy but consistently delivers on quality. Definitely planning to return!

Sisters Restaurant LLC

2756 Main St, Hartford

(860) 527-1234

Reviewed by:

Infiniti Weilbaker

The breakfast at Sisters Restaurant LLC in Hartford was a delightful experience! I enjoyed three fluffy pancakes with crispy bacon, while my girlfriend loved her French toast and eggs with a side of sausage and bacon. The staff were incredibly friendly, which contributed to the warm ambiance, although the atmosphere could use a bit more charm. Despite that, the meal was satisfying and certainly filled our plates to the edge. Visiting from Florida, I was recommended to try this place, and I’m glad I did. The food was so flavorful that I ended up going back a second time. If you're in town, I definitely recommend stopping by for breakfast—just be prepared to eat!

Effie's Place Family Restaurant

91 Park Rd, West Hartford

(860) 233-9653

Reviewed by:

Jaron Simmons

I had a great time at Effie's Place Family Restaurant for breakfast in Hartford. We stopped by on a Sunday afternoon around 12:45 after helping a family member settle into college. The place wasn't too crowded, which was nice because we were quite hungry. I particularly enjoyed the mimosas and the steak fries. Everyone in our group loved their meals, and the friendly, attentive waitress made the experience even better. What I really appreciate about Effie's is their gluten-free options. It’s one of the few places where I can enjoy gluten-free pancakes and toast, along with everything else. The recent remodel adds a fresh touch, and the open patio is a favorite during the summer months. This spot has lots of heart, with good staff and good food. It’s unfussy but consistently delivers on quality. Definitely planning to return!

The Place 2 Be

5 Constitution Plaza, Hartford

(860) 206-5115

Reviewed by:

Douglas Henriette K

My wife and I wanted a change of scenery for breakfast and decided to try The Place 2 Be in Hartford, thanks to our friends' recommendations. The vibe was inviting and had a real sense of community, which we loved. It was a nice day, so we opted to sit on the outdoor patio. Brendan, our server, was prompt in bringing us water before we even had a chance to ask. We decided to try "the bathtub," and it was definitely a highlight. Devin, the bartender, did a great job with it. The menu offers a nice variety of breakfast, lunch, and brunch options, along with some unique drinks. While the food was good, I was a bit disappointed with the coffee, as different types tasted the same. It seems their cocktails are more popular. One downside was that service was mainly done through a phone, but they were quick to seat and serve us. The ambiance is lively, resembling a day club with music, neon lights, and even swings as seats. However, cleanliness could be improved; the floors were sticky and some seats stained. Our waitress struggled to answer questions about the drinks, and our food arrived before the drinks. It took a while to be informed they were out of ingredients for some drinks, even though the place wasn’t busy. We had appetizers with no plates, eating off napkins, which felt strange with staff walking past us. The alcoholic slushy lacked alcohol entirely. Despite ducks featuring prominently on their website, there were none to be found in their items. It seems they're more focused on aesthetics than performance. I felt a bit sorry for our young waitress, who was trying hard amidst the chaos. The water serving was odd in size, and the bill, with a regular coffee and bottomless mimosas, came out to nearly $70, which seemed pricey. This was my third visit, and I wasn’t impressed. The atmosphere is fun for photos, but the food doesn’t stand out, and I wonder how sustainable that will be for them in the long run.

A.C. Petersen Farms Restaurant

240 Park Rd, West Hartford

(860) 233-8483

Reviewed by:

Yenicel Turner

A.C. Petersen Farms Restaurant served up a breakfast experience worth savoring. I was greeted warmly and invited to choose a booth when I arrived before my friend, and the endless coffee refills were a great touch while I waited. The breakfast portions were generous enough that I wasn't even thinking about dinner later that day. Their omelettes were a standout, packed with fresh ingredients and customizable to get exactly what you crave - even if it might add a little to the cost. While the food didn't disappoint, the service was a bit slow, which was tough considering there were only a few tables occupied. My water didn't get refilled, and paying with cash was oddly complicated, resulting in a slight frustration. Despite these hiccups, I couldn't resist the allure of their ice cream. The Apple Caramel Crumb and Chocolate Extreme scoops were simply delightful, overshadowing the overpriced sundae on the menu. The place might not be decked out in fancy decor, but it has plenty of parking and seating, making it a convenient spot. Though there were a few service issues, I left satisfied and would return for those incredible omelettes and scrumptious ice cream.

A.C. Petersen Farms Restaurant

240 Park Rd, West Hartford

(860) 233-8483

Reviewed by:

Yenicel Turner

A.C. Petersen Farms Restaurant served up a breakfast experience worth savoring. I was greeted warmly and invited to choose a booth when I arrived before my friend, and the endless coffee refills were a great touch while I waited. The breakfast portions were generous enough that I wasn't even thinking about dinner later that day. Their omelettes were a standout, packed with fresh ingredients and customizable to get exactly what you crave - even if it might add a little to the cost. While the food didn't disappoint, the service was a bit slow, which was tough considering there were only a few tables occupied. My water didn't get refilled, and paying with cash was oddly complicated, resulting in a slight frustration. Despite these hiccups, I couldn't resist the allure of their ice cream. The Apple Caramel Crumb and Chocolate Extreme scoops were simply delightful, overshadowing the overpriced sundae on the menu. The place might not be decked out in fancy decor, but it has plenty of parking and seating, making it a convenient spot. Though there were a few service issues, I left satisfied and would return for those incredible omelettes and scrumptious ice cream.

The Place 2 Be

5 Constitution Plaza, Hartford

(860) 206-5115

Reviewed by:

Douglas Henriette K

My wife and I wanted a change of scenery for breakfast and decided to try The Place 2 Be in Hartford, thanks to our friends' recommendations. The vibe was inviting and had a real sense of community, which we loved. It was a nice day, so we opted to sit on the outdoor patio. Brendan, our server, was prompt in bringing us water before we even had a chance to ask. We decided to try "the bathtub," and it was definitely a highlight. Devin, the bartender, did a great job with it. The menu offers a nice variety of breakfast, lunch, and brunch options, along with some unique drinks. While the food was good, I was a bit disappointed with the coffee, as different types tasted the same. It seems their cocktails are more popular. One downside was that service was mainly done through a phone, but they were quick to seat and serve us. The ambiance is lively, resembling a day club with music, neon lights, and even swings as seats. However, cleanliness could be improved; the floors were sticky and some seats stained. Our waitress struggled to answer questions about the drinks, and our food arrived before the drinks. It took a while to be informed they were out of ingredients for some drinks, even though the place wasn’t busy. We had appetizers with no plates, eating off napkins, which felt strange with staff walking past us. The alcoholic slushy lacked alcohol entirely. Despite ducks featuring prominently on their website, there were none to be found in their items. It seems they're more focused on aesthetics than performance. I felt a bit sorry for our young waitress, who was trying hard amidst the chaos. The water serving was odd in size, and the bill, with a regular coffee and bottomless mimosas, came out to nearly $70, which seemed pricey. This was my third visit, and I wasn’t impressed. The atmosphere is fun for photos, but the food doesn’t stand out, and I wonder how sustainable that will be for them in the long run.

Blue Plate Kitchen

345 N Main St, West Hartford

(860) 906-1419

Reviewed by:

Gloria Correa

I decided to try Blue Plate Kitchen for breakfast in Hartford, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. The standout for my wife was the white fish bagel, which she liked so much she called her mom to rave about it. Sitting outside was enjoyable, even though the outdoor area could use a little more upkeep. The staff was friendly and eager to help, which made the visit feel welcoming. Despite a few hiccups like lukewarm food and a missing salt shaker, I'm considering giving it another try. The service was a bit slow, possibly because we were a larger group, but the staff's kindness made up for it. The atmosphere has potential, and with a few tweaks, it could be a really great spot for breakfast. Overall, Blue Plate Kitchen shows promise, and I’m hopeful for an even better experience on my next visit.

Blue Plate Kitchen

345 N Main St, West Hartford

(860) 906-1419

Reviewed by:

Gloria Correa

I decided to try Blue Plate Kitchen for breakfast in Hartford, and overall, it was a pleasant experience. The standout for my wife was the white fish bagel, which she liked so much she called her mom to rave about it. Sitting outside was enjoyable, even though the outdoor area could use a little more upkeep. The staff was friendly and eager to help, which made the visit feel welcoming. Despite a few hiccups like lukewarm food and a missing salt shaker, I'm considering giving it another try. The service was a bit slow, possibly because we were a larger group, but the staff's kindness made up for it. The atmosphere has potential, and with a few tweaks, it could be a really great spot for breakfast. Overall, Blue Plate Kitchen shows promise, and I’m hopeful for an even better experience on my next visit.

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