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Food and Drink: Family-Friendly Favorites

  • Mr. D’s – Wallingford, CT

    Mr. D’s – Wallingford, CT

    Mr. D’s

    Wallingford, CT

    mr-ds-wallingford-ct
    Scoops, sweets, and small-town charm—Mr. D’s makes every visit feel like a treat. 📸 Mr. D’s

    Mr. D’s Ice Cream & Sweets
    • Address: 50 N Main St, Wallingford, CT 06492
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.getmrds.com

    Overview:
    Mr. D’s is the kind of place that becomes part of your routine without even trying. Maybe it starts with a scoop of Black Raspberry after school. Or a birthday cake you picked up once—and now pick up every year. For owner Heather Williams, it started with childhood memories of Praline’s Ice Cream and turned into a dream come true when she bought the shop in 2021. Today, Mr. D’s still serves those classic Praline’s flavors, along with cupcakes, candy, coffee, and a little local magic.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Because every town needs a spot like this—where the cones are generous, the candy jars are full, and everyone knows your go-to order. Mr. D’s makes everyday moments feel like little celebrations.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open year-round—check the website for current hours
    • Sells Praline’s Ice Cream, a Connecticut original
    • Ice cream cakes, cupcakes, and candy galore
    • Coffee, smoothies, and rotating dessert specials
    • Indoor seating with a few outdoor tables

    Fun Fact:
    Heather’s love of Praline’s Ice Cream goes back to her childhood in Meriden—and now her daughters are regulars at the shop she runs herself.

  • Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream – Griswold, CT

    Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream – Griswold, CT

    Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

    Griswold, CT

    buttonwood-farm-ice-cream-griswold-ct
    Come for the ice cream, stay for the sunflowers—Buttonwood Farm is summer sweetness in every sense. 📸 Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream

    Buttonwood Farm Ice Cream
    • Address: 473 Shetucket Turnpike, Griswold, CT 06351
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.buttonwoodfarmicecream.com

    Overview:
    Out in the quiet countryside of Griswold, Buttonwood Farm has been a family-run operation since the 1970s. These days, it’s best known for two things: rich, creamy homemade ice cream and its sunflower fields that bloom each July for a good cause. With more than 50 flavors to choose from—plus fresh-made waffle cones and real whipped cream—it’s the kind of place that draws a crowd on sunny afternoons. Kids can see the cows, parents can kick back under the open sky, and everyone leaves happy.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    This is classic Connecticut summer at its best. Buttonwood keeps things simple: good ice cream, friendly people, and a peaceful place to enjoy both. Add in the sunflowers and it’s no wonder folks come back year after year.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open March through October, 12–9 p.m. daily
    • More than 50 flavors, including non-dairy and frozen yogurt
    • Sunflower season hits mid-July and can get busy
    • Fresh waffle cones and whipped cream made in-house
    • Big parking lot and picnic tables available
    • No indoor seating—pack sunglasses and a blanket

    Fun Fact:
    Each year, Buttonwood plants over 14 acres of sunflowers to raise money for Make-A-Wish Connecticut—so far, they’ve raised almost $2 million.

  • Grassroots Ice Cream – Granby, CT

    Grassroots Ice Cream – Granby, CT

    Grassroots Ice Cream

    Granby, CT

    grassroots-kitchen-and-creamery-granby-ct
    From honey lavender to goat cheese swirl, Grassroots Ice Cream is a scoop above the rest. 📸 Grassroots Kitchen + Creamery

    Grassroots Ice Cream
    • Address: On the Town Green, 4 Park Pl, Granby, CT
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.grassrootsicecream.com

    Overview:
    Just off the Farmington River Trail, Grassroots Ice Cream in Collinsville serves up wildly creative, small-batch scoops made at their Granby Creamery. Best known for imaginative flavors like Goat Cheese Blackberry, Blood Orange Chocolate Chip, and Honey Lavender, Grassroots churns out over 100 unique varieties throughout the year. The shop sits in a charming brick building with rainbow benches outside, perfect for a post-paddle or biking break. What started in the former Granby General Store has grown into a family-run favorite with locations across Connecticut and a reputation for making everything—down to the mix-ins—from scratch.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Voted one of Yelp’s “Top 100 Places to Eat” and a “Best of Hartford” winner, Grassroots balances creative flair with genuine community charm. From scratch-made jams and brownies to welcoming service, this spot delivers more than a scoop—it delivers a whole experience.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open year-round; hours vary seasonally
    • Rotating ice cream menu—check online for updates
    • Vegan and dairy-free options available
    • Street parking nearby
    • Take your cone for a walk along the river or nearby trail system

    Fun Fact:
    Though best known for ice cream, Grassroots also dishes up “fast-gourmet” street food—think tacos, wraps, and salads—at their Granby, Simsbury, and New Milford locations.

  • The Pantry – Washington Depot, CT

    The Pantry – Washington Depot, CT

    The Pantry

    Washington Depot, CT

    the-pantry-washington-depot-ct
    Fresh-baked pastries, seasonal plates, and small-town charm—The Pantry is worth the detour. 📷 The Pantry

    The Pantry

    Address: 5 Titus Road, Washington Depot, CT
    State: Connecticut
    Website: https://www.thepantryct.com

    Overview
    The Pantry is the kind of place that feels like it’s been there forever—in the best way. Tucked into a quiet corner of Washington Depot, this café and market has been serving thoughtful, seasonal food since 1977. It’s warm, welcoming, and the kind of spot where regulars know each other’s names.

    Now run by Keith and Zoe (who met working here and eventually took it over), The Pantry still offers up some of the best casual breakfast and lunch around—simple dishes made with care, great coffee, and baked goods that feel like a hug.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop
    It’s not flashy, but it’s full of heart—and a perfect spot for a low-key morning or midday date that feels a little special.

    What to Know Before You Go

    • Open for breakfast and lunch only
    • Closed Tuesdays
    • Small indoor dining area with a few seasonal outdoor tables
    • Menu changes with the seasons
    • Don’t leave without something from the bakery case

    Fun Fact
    The current owners met while working here years ago—now they run it together, and it shows in every little detail.

  • Pop’s Family Restaurant – Milford, CT

    Pop’s Family Restaurant – Milford, CT

    Pop’s Family Restaurant

    Milford, CT

    pops-family-restaurant-milford-ct
    Homestyle cooking, warm hospitality, and a side of local history—Pop’s has been Milford’s go-to for breakfast and lunch for over 30 years. 📷 Pop’s Family Restaurant

    Pop’s Family Restaurant
    • Address: 134 Old Gate Lane, Milford, CT 06460
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.popsfamilyrestaurant.com

    Overview:
    There’s something about Pop’s that feels instantly familiar. Maybe it’s the warm welcome you get when you walk through the door. Maybe it’s the smell of bacon on the griddle or the sight of a stack of pancakes headed to someone’s table. Or maybe it’s the story behind it all—a story that started with Gus Grigoriadis, who came to the U.S. from Greece in the 1970s with nothing but determination and a strong work ethic. What began as a little donut shop on New Haven Avenue has grown into a beloved family-run diner that’s been feeding the Milford community for over 30 years. These days, Gus and his family are still behind the counter, serving up homemade breakfasts and lunches with the same heart they started with.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Pop’s is the kind of place where kids can dig into chocolate chip pancakes while parents sip their second cup of coffee and plan the rest of the day. The menu is full of diner classics—omelets, waffles, burgers, sandwiches—and there are Greek specialties tucked in, too, for those in the know. It’s casual, welcoming, and the portions are generous enough to keep you full well past lunch.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. (9:00 p.m. Thursdays – Saturdays)
    • Great for families—there’s a kid’s menu, high chairs, and plenty of booth seating
    • Everything is made to order, so you might wait a few extra minutes—but it’s worth it
    • Takeout is available if you’re on the move
    • Free parking lot with easy access

    Fun Fact:
    When Dunkin’ Donuts opened across the street from the original Pop’s location, Gus made a bold move—he scrapped the donut shop model and reinvented Pop’s as a breakfast and lunch spot. That pivot helped turn Pop’s into the local institution it is today.

  • Chip’s Family Restaurant – Orange, CT

    Chip’s Family Restaurant – Orange, CT

    Chip’s Family Restaurant

    Orange, CT

    chips-family-restaurant-orange-ct
    From stacked pancakes to stacked memories—Chip’s has been a family favorite in Connecticut for nearly 60 years. 📷 Chip’s Family Restaurant

    Chip’s Family Restaurant
    • Address: 321 Boston Post Rd. Orange, CT 06477
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.chipsrestaurants.com

    Overview:
    A Connecticut favorite since 1966, Chip’s Family Restaurant has been flipping pancakes and filling bellies for generations. Built on the simple joys of homemade food and warm service, Chip’s is where locals gather for early breakfasts, post-game dinners, and everything in between. From fluffy buttermilk stacks and golden waffles to juicy burgers and hearty entrees, the menu is all about comfort with a creative twist. With multiple locations, including their longtime spot in Fairfield, Chip’s continues to be a go-to for families craving a reliable, feel-good meal.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Chip’s feels like your hometown diner—even if it’s your first visit. The menu is broad and kid-friendly, the portions are generous, and there’s always something seasonal or special to try. Whether it’s pancakes for dinner or a midday milkshake, Chip’s knows how to please a crowd without overcomplicating things.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Kid’s menu and high chairs available
    • Known for their pancakes—over 20 varieties!
    • Online ordering and takeout available
    • Multiple locations throughout the state
    • Walk-ins welcome; large parties may want to call ahead

    Fun Fact:
    When George Chatzopoulos took over in 2003, he kept Chip’s commitment to homemade dishes alive—and introduced even more creative pancake varieties, from Oreo to cannoli.

  • Shady Glen Dairy Bar – Manchester, CT

    Shady Glen Dairy Bar – Manchester, CT

    Shady Glen Dairy Bar

    Manchester, CT

    shady-glen-dairy-bar-manchester-ct
    Shady Glen’s famous winged cheeseburger and a scoop of house-made ice cream—classic Connecticut comfort with a twist. 📷 Shady Glen Dairy Bar

    Shady Glen Dairy Bar
    • Address: 840 Middle Turnpike E, Manchester, CT 06040
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.shadyglendairybar.com

    Overview:
    A Manchester treasure since 1948, Shady Glen Dairy Bar is as much a time capsule as it is a restaurant. Decked out in classic 1950s diner style—complete with retro-uniformed servers and Formica-topped booths—it’s a favorite for families craving old-school American fare. Their signature “winged” cheeseburger, topped with crispy-fried cheese, is a local legend, while the house-made ice cream keeps generations coming back. From breakfast specials to post-dinner sundaes, it’s a place where the food is hearty, the coffee’s always hot, and the service is famously fast.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Few places serve nostalgia this fresh. Kids love the fun presentation of their meals (and the promise of dessert), while parents appreciate the warm, no-rush atmosphere. The menu runs from crispy omelets and pancakes to burgers, small plates, and sundaes. Whether you’re stopping in solo or with a crowd, you’ll feel like a regular in no time.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily—check online for seasonal hours
    • No reservations—walk-ins only
    • Kid’s menu and high chairs available
    • On-site dining and takeaway available (no delivery)
    • Wheelchair accessible throughout (parking, entrance, seating, restrooms)
    • Free lot and street parking; dogs welcome outside
    • Cash only

    Fun Fact:
    The unique cheese used on Shady Glen’s iconic winged cheeseburger comes from Wisconsin and is fried directly on the grill to create those signature crispy edges.

  • Rein’s Deli – Vernon, CT

    Rein’s Deli – Vernon, CT

    Rein’s Deli

    Vernon, CT

    reins-deli-vernon-ct
    Rein’s has been dishing out deli classics for over 50 years—come hungry for matzo ball soup, corned beef, and a slice of old-school hospitality. 📷 Rein’s Deli

    Rein’s Deli
    • Address: 435 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon, CT 06066
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.reinsdeli.com

    Overview:
    Since 1972, Rein’s Deli has been a beloved stop for New York-style Jewish deli fare in northern Connecticut. What began as one family’s search for a great corned beef sandwich has grown into a full-fledged dining tradition—equal parts comfort food, nostalgia, and community hub. The bustling deli and restaurant in Vernon serves everything from sky-high pastrami on rye and knishes to house-made soups and desserts. For many, it’s not just the food—it’s the feeling of being home.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Rein’s is the real deal. The menu is massive, the pickles come out first, and the energy is warm and welcoming. Whether you’re craving hand-cut lox on a toasted bagel, a bubbling bowl of matzo ball soup, or just want to stock your cooler with deli salads and babka for the road, this place delivers on tradition and taste.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (check for holiday hours).
    • Deli case and dessert displays are fully stocked for takeaway.
    • Catering available for special occasions.
    • Plenty of indoor seating, plus an on-site gift shop with deli staples and more.
    • Expect a wait during peak times—it’s popular for a reason!

    Fun Fact:
    The iconic motto, “The Taste of Quality is Long Remembered,” was coined by founder Bob Rein in 1972—and they’ve stayed true to it ever since.

  • Lyman Orchards – Middlefield, CT

    Lyman Orchards – Middlefield, CT

    Lyman Orchards

    Middlefield, CT

    lyman-orchards-middlefield-ct
    Pick your own berries, apples, or pumpkins, then swing by the market for a fresh-baked pie—Lyman Orchards is classic Connecticut family fun. 📷 Lyman Orchards

    Lyman Orchards
    • Address: 32 Reeds Gap Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: lymanorchards.com

    Overview:
    Lyman Orchards is a one-stop destination for family-friendly fun—offering pick-your-own fruits, a bustling farm market, seasonal mazes, and a quaint apple barrel bakery. Operating for more than 275 years, the farm spans over 1,100 acres and offers year-round activities that blend history, agriculture, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re biting into a fresh-picked peach or losing yourself in a corn maze, there’s plenty to keep every age entertained.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    Lyman’s offers the charm of a classic New England farm with something new each season. Kids can roam, pick their own snacks, and learn a little about farming in the process, while grown-ups will appreciate the bakery’s pies and the local goods inside the farm store.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily, year-round (hours vary seasonally).
    • Pick-your-own varies by season—check the website for fruit availability.
    • Seasonal mazes and festivals available in summer and fall.
    • Bakery and farm market offer fresh pies, local goods, and sandwiches.
    • Parking available onsite.
    • Restrooms available near the farm store.
    • Pet policy: No pets allowed in the pick-your-own areas or market.

    Fun Fact:
    Lyman Orchards is the 12th-oldest family-owned business in the United States and has been operating since 1741.

  • Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard – Shelton, CT

    Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard – Shelton, CT

    Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard

    Shelton, CT

    the-cider-mill-at-beardsleys-shelton-ct
    With donuts still warm and cider fresh from the press, Beardsley’s is a fall favorite for families across the region. 📷 The Cider Mill at Beardsleys

    Beardsley’s Cider Mill & Orchard
    • Address: 278 Leavenworth Rd, Shelton, CT 06484
    • State: Connecticut
    • Website: www.beardsleyscidermill.com

    Overview:
    Nestled in the White Hills of Shelton, Beardsley’s has been a family farming tradition since 1849. Today, it’s best known for its seasonal apple picking, fresh-pressed cider, and some of the best pies you’ll ever smell—let alone taste. The orchard opens each August with juicy peaches and rolls into peak apple season by September, culminating with a festive farm store that stays open through Christmas Eve. Whether you’re wandering the pick-your-own apple rows or simply stopping in for a warm pie, Beardsley’s is pure fall magic.

    Why It’s Worth a Stop:
    From crumb-topped apple pies and just-pressed cider to rare heirloom apples and a working mill on-site, Beardsley’s blends the charm of an old-fashioned orchard with the flavor of something truly special. It’s family-run, deeply rooted, and incredibly welcoming—just don’t be surprised if you leave with more than one pie.

    What to Know Before You Go:
    • Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. through December 24 (closes at 1 p.m. Christmas Eve).
    • Pick-your-own apples available on weekends only, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting in early September.
    • Peaches are available in August, but not for PYO.
    • No pets, backpacks, or large bags allowed in the orchard.
    • Fresh pies are available daily—first come, first served (no pre-orders).
    • Try their farm-pressed cider and browse the shelves for local spirits from White Hills Distillery.
    • Family seating area available near the orchard for enjoying treats if not visiting the distillery.

    Fun Fact:
    Beardsley’s heirloom apples have names like Tremlett’s Bitter, Kingston Black, and Brown Snout. They may not win beauty contests, but their flavor is treasured by cider lovers and apple nerds alike.