Portland, Connecticut

Portland, Connecticut may be a small town, but it is home to some fantastic eating establishments. Here are a few must-try spots:

1. The Royal Coal Pizza Oven: This food truck serves up wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas made with locally sourced ingredients. It's a popular spot for takeout, but there's also limited seating available.

2. Vantastical Gelato: This gelato shop uses local dairy and fresh, seasonal ingredients to create unique and delicious flavors. It's a great spot for a sweet treat, and they offer vegan options as well.

3. Sea Swirl: This beloved local institution has been serving up hot dogs, hamburgers, and fries since 1959. It's a classic spot for a casual meal, and their homemade hot relish is a must-try.

4. Portland Italian Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been a staple in Portland for over 50 years. They offer a wide variety of breads, pastries, and cakes, all made from scratch.

5. The Cooking Company: This gourmet market and café offers a variety of prepared foods, as well as sandwiches, salads, and soups. They also offer cooking classes and special events.

For those looking to dine-in, many of these establishments offer limited seating, but it's always a good idea to call ahead and check availability.

When it comes to searching for food reviews online, there are a number of popular sites and apps that can help. YELP, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor are all great resources for reading reviews and getting a sense of what to expect. For those looking for pickup or delivery options, sites like Grubhub, Uber Eats, and DoorDash can be helpful.

For locals, I would recommend checking out the social media pages of their favorite restaurants, as many establishments post updates and specials on Facebook or Instagram. Joining local foodie groups on social media can also be a great way to discover new spots and get recommendations from other locals.

For visitors, I would recommend reading reviews on sites like YELP or TripAdvisor to get a sense of what restaurants are popular and well-regarded. It's also a good idea to check the hours and availability of restaurants ahead of time, as some may have limited hours or may be closed on certain days of the week.

Overall, Portland, Connecticut has a great food scene, and there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there are plenty of options to choose from.