Unveiling the Best of Hartford 2021 Winners: Discover Connecticut's Top-Ranked Businesses and Services

Discover the best of Hartford 2021! Check out the top-rated restaurants, shops, attractions, and more as voted by locals and visitors.

The Best of Hartford 2021 winners have been announced, and it's time to celebrate the top businesses and individuals that make this city so special. From the best restaurants to the most talented artists, these winners have been voted on by the people of Hartford, making their victories even more meaningful. So, without further ado, let's dive into the winners and find out what makes them stand out.

First up, we have the winner of Best Restaurant: Max Downtown. This iconic restaurant has been a fixture in Hartford for over 20 years, serving up some of the best food and drink in the city. With a menu that features classic American cuisine with a modern twist, Max Downtown is the perfect place for a special occasion or a night out with friends. Their extensive wine list is also a highlight, featuring both local and international selections.

If you're looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than the winner of Best Bakery: Taste by Spellbound. This charming bakery offers a variety of delicious treats, from cupcakes to macarons to custom cakes. Their attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality ingredients make every bite a true delight. Plus, their cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make for a truly enjoyable experience.

For those who love exploring the great outdoors, the winner of Best Park is a must-visit. Elizabeth Park is not only one of the largest parks in Hartford, but it's also home to one of the most beautiful gardens in the country. The Rose Garden boasts over 15,000 roses and is a popular spot for weddings and other special events. The park also features walking trails, picnic areas, and a pond, making it the perfect place for a family day out.

When it comes to shopping, the winner of Best Boutique is a standout. Hartford Prints! is a locally-owned shop that offers a variety of unique and creative gifts, cards, and home decor. Their products are all designed and made in-house, making them truly one-of-a-kind. Plus, their commitment to sustainability and supporting other local businesses makes them a great choice for those who want to shop consciously.

If you're in the mood for some live entertainment, the winner of Best Performing Arts Venue has got you covered. The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, from Broadway productions to concerts to comedy shows. Their beautiful theater and top-notch performers make for an unforgettable experience.

For those who appreciate art and culture, the winner of Best Museum is a must-visit. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is the oldest public art museum in the country, and it's home to an impressive collection of over 50,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art, there's something for everyone at this world-class museum.

When it comes to fitness, the winner of Best Gym is a cut above the rest. CrossFit Hartford offers a challenging and rewarding workout experience that's suitable for all fitness levels. Their community-focused approach means that every member feels supported and motivated to reach their goals.

If you're in need of some relaxation, the winner of Best Spa is the perfect place to unwind. The Spa at Norwich Inn offers a variety of luxurious treatments, from massages to facials to body wraps. Their peaceful atmosphere and attentive staff make for a truly indulgent experience.

For those who love beer, the winner of Best Brewery is a must-visit. Hanging Hills Brewing Company offers a variety of delicious and creative brews, from IPAs to stouts to sours. Their cozy taproom and outdoor seating area make for a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy some tasty beer.

Finally, we have the winner of Best Local Hero: Dr. Miguel Cardona. This Hartford native has made a name for himself as an advocate for education and equity. He served as Connecticut's Commissioner of Education before being appointed as the United States Secretary of Education under President Biden. His dedication to improving the lives of students and educators is truly inspiring.

Overall, the Best of Hartford 2021 winners represent the best of what this city has to offer. Whether you're looking for great food, entertainment, or relaxation, there's something for everyone on this list. Congratulations to all the winners!

Introduction

Hartford is a city in Connecticut, United States, and has been a hub for business, education, and entertainment for many years. The city has a rich history and a vibrant culture that attracts people from all over the world. Every year, the Hartford Magazine conducts a survey to identify the best businesses in Hartford. The 2021 edition of the survey has been released, and we will be discussing the winners in this article.

Best Italian Restaurant

The winner of the best Italian restaurant in Hartford for 2021 is Peppercorn's Grill. This restaurant has been serving authentic Italian cuisine for over 30 years, and it is no surprise that it won the award. Peppercorn's Grill has a cozy atmosphere and excellent service. Their menu features classic Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and seafood. They also have an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with their dishes.

Best Steakhouse

Ruth's Chris Steak House won the award for the best steakhouse in Hartford for 2021. This restaurant is known for its high-quality steaks, cooked to perfection. Ruth's Chris Steak House also offers excellent service, a beautiful ambiance, and an extensive wine list. They have a variety of cuts of meat, including filet, ribeye, and porterhouse.

Best Mexican Restaurant

The winner of the best Mexican restaurant in Hartford for 2021 is Sayulita. This restaurant serves delicious Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. They also have a great selection of margaritas and other cocktails. Sayulita has a lively atmosphere, and their staff is friendly and attentive.

Best Asian Restaurant

Feng Chophouse won the award for the best Asian restaurant in Hartford for 2021. This restaurant serves a fusion of Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Japanese, and Korean dishes. They also have an extensive sushi menu and a great selection of cocktails. Feng Chophouse has a modern and elegant ambiance that complements its delicious food.

Best Fine Dining Restaurant

The winner of the best fine dining restaurant in Hartford for 2021 is Max Downtown. This restaurant offers an unparalleled fine dining experience, with an exquisite menu and excellent service. Max Downtown is known for its contemporary American cuisine, which includes seafood, steak, and pasta dishes. They also have an extensive wine list that pairs perfectly with their food.

Best Brewery

The winner of the best brewery in Hartford for 2021 is Hanging Hills Brewing Company. This brewery is known for its unique and flavorful beers, which are brewed on-site. They have a beautiful taproom where visitors can enjoy their beers and food from local food trucks. Hanging Hills Brewing Company also hosts events and live music performances.

Best Museum

The winner of the best museum in Hartford for 2021 is the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. This museum is the oldest public art museum in the United States and houses an impressive collection of over 50,000 artworks. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art features American and European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. They also have a collection of contemporary art and host exhibitions throughout the year.

Best Music Venue

The winner of the best music venue in Hartford for 2021 is Infinity Music Hall & Bistro. This venue offers a unique music experience, with performances by local and international artists. Infinity Music Hall & Bistro also serves delicious food and drinks, making it a great place to spend an evening with friends or family.

Best Fitness Center

The winner of the best fitness center in Hartford for 2021 is LA Fitness. This fitness center has state-of-the-art equipment and offers a variety of classes, including yoga, cycling, and strength training. LA Fitness also has a swimming pool, sauna, and steam room. They have excellent trainers who can help you achieve your fitness goals.

Conclusion

Hartford is a city full of amazing businesses and attractions, and the winners of the Hartford Magazine survey for 2021 are a testament to that. From excellent restaurants to world-class museums and music venues, Hartford has something to offer everyone. We hope this article has given you some ideas for places to visit in Hartford and that you will have a great time exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Best of Hartford 2021: A Comprehensive Guide to the City's WinnersHartford, Connecticut is a vibrant city that boasts an array of attractions and activities for visitors and locals alike. From mouth-watering cuisine to top-notch entertainment venues, from scenic outdoor adventures to unique local shops, and from museums to educational institutions, Hartford has something to offer everyone.In this article, we will take a closer look at the Best of Hartford 2021 winners, highlighting the top spots in various categories throughout the city. So whether you're a foodie, a culture buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a comfortable place to stay, read on for our recommendations.Best Local Restaurant: A Look at Hartford's Top Culinary HotspotsHartford has no shortage of delicious dining options, and the Best of Hartford 2021 winners prove it. Our top pick for the best local restaurant is Salute, located in the heart of downtown. This Italian eatery offers classic dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients that are sure to please your taste buds.If you're in the mood for something more casual, try Black-Eyed Sally's BBQ and Blues. This lively spot serves up mouth-watering barbeque and hosts live music performances throughout the week, making it the perfect place to grab a bite and enjoy some entertainment.Other notable mentions include Max Downtown for upscale American fare, El Pollo Guapo for Latin-inspired cuisine, and Firebox for farm-to-table dining.Top Entertainment Venues in Hartford: Where to Catch the Best ShowsHartford is home to several top-notch entertainment venues, including our Best of Hartford 2021 winner, The Bushnell. This historic theater hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances throughout the year, attracting both locals and visitors alike.Another popular venue is the XL Center, which hosts sporting events, concerts, and other large-scale productions. For a more intimate experience, check out the Infinity Music Hall and Bistro, which features live music performances in an upscale setting.Best Outdoor Activities: Exploring Nature in HartfordHartford is surrounded by natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner for outdoor activities is Elizabeth Park, known for its stunning rose garden and scenic walking paths.Other notable mentions include the Connecticut Riverwalk and Bikeway, which offers miles of scenic trails along the river, and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art's outdoor courtyard, which features sculptures and greenery.For a more adventurous experience, head to the Talcott Mountain State Park, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the city skyline.Hartford's Best Local Shops: Where to Find Unique Gifts and GoodsIf you're looking for unique gifts or souvenirs, Hartford has plenty of local shops to explore. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner is Hartford Prints!, a boutique that offers locally made clothing, accessories, and home goods.Another popular spot is the Mark Twain House and Museum Store, which sells books, gifts, and other items related to the famous author. For handmade jewelry and other artisanal products, check out the Artists' Cooperative Gallery of West Hartford.Best Museums and Art Galleries in Hartford: A Cultural Tour of the CityHartford is a hub of culture and history, with several museums and art galleries to explore. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner for museums is the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, which houses an impressive collection of European and American art.For a more interactive experience, head to the Connecticut Science Center, which features hands-on exhibits and demonstrations on topics ranging from space exploration to physics. Other notable mentions include the Mark Twain House and Museum, the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, and the New Britain Museum of American Art.Top Hotels and Lodging Options in Hartford: Where to Stay for a Comfortable VisitWhether you're visiting Hartford for business or pleasure, there are plenty of comfortable lodging options to choose from. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner is the Goodwin Hotel, a boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown.Other notable mentions include the Marriott Hartford Downtown, which offers modern amenities and stunning city views, and the Homewood Suites by Hilton Hartford Downtown, which features spacious suites with kitchenettes.Best Health and Wellness Centers in Hartford: Relaxation and RejuvenationIf you're in need of some R&R, Hartford has several health and wellness centers to help you unwind. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner is the Mandara Spa at Mohegan Sun, which offers a range of massages, facials, and other spa treatments.For yoga and meditation classes, check out West Hartford Yoga, which offers both in-person and virtual sessions. Other notable mentions include the Hartford Sweat, a fitness studio that offers a variety of classes and personal training sessions.Top Educational Institutions in Hartford: Where to Pursue Higher LearningHartford is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including our Best of Hartford 2021 winner, Trinity College. This liberal arts college offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of fields, attracting students from around the world.Other notable mentions include the University of Hartford, which offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a range of disciplines, and the Hartford Seminary, which focuses on religious studies and interfaith dialogue.Best Local Brands and Products: Supporting Hartford's Small BusinessesHartford is home to several small businesses that offer high-quality products and services. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner is Hog River Brewing Company, a local brewery that offers a wide range of craft beers.For handmade soap and skincare products, check out Little House in the Big Woods. Other notable mentions include the Hartford Flavor Company, which produces unique liqueurs and spirits, and Bear's Smokehouse BBQ, which offers mouth-watering barbeque sauces and rubs.Hartford's Most Iconic Landmarks: Exploring the City's Rich History and CultureHartford has a rich history and several iconic landmarks to explore. Our Best of Hartford 2021 winner is the State Capitol Building, which features stunning architecture and historical exhibits.Other notable landmarks include the Mark Twain House and Museum, where the famous author lived and worked, and the Ancient Burying Ground, which dates back to the 1600s. For a scenic view of the city, head to the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Arch in Bushnell Park.ConclusionHartford is a city full of surprises, with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors and locals alike. Whether you're in the mood for mouth-watering cuisine, top-notch entertainment, scenic outdoor adventures, unique local shops, museums and art galleries, comfortable lodging options, health and wellness centers, educational institutions, or supporting small businesses, Hartford has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide to the Best of Hartford 2021 winners has inspired you to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.

The Best of Hartford 2021 Winners: A Personal Point of View

The Pros and Cons of Best of Hartford 2021 Winners

As a resident of Hartford, I take great pride in the local businesses and establishments that make our city unique. The Best of Hartford 2021 Winners are a testament to the hard work and dedication of these individuals and organizations. Here are some pros and cons of the Best of Hartford 2021 Winners:

Pros:

Recognition: Winning a Best of Hartford 2021 award is a great achievement and provides well-deserved recognition for the winners.
Quality: The winners are recognized for their quality products, services, and experiences, which can help locals and visitors alike find the best places to eat, shop, and play.
Diversity: The winners represent a diverse mix of businesses and organizations, highlighting the wide range of offerings available in Hartford.

Cons:

Subjectivity: The Best of Hartford 2021 winners are chosen by a popular vote, which means that they may not necessarily be the best fit for everyone's tastes or needs.
Exclusivity: Only a select few businesses and organizations are recognized as winners, which may leave other equally deserving establishments feeling left out.
Competition: Winning a Best of Hartford 2021 award can create a sense of competition among local businesses and organizations, which may not always be healthy for the community.

Table Comparison of Best of Hartford 2021 Winners

Here is a table comparing some of the top winners in each category of the Best of Hartford 2021 awards:

Category	Winner	Runner-Up	Third Place
Best Restaurant	The Capital Grille	Farmington Avenue Kitchen	Bricco Trattoria
Best Bar	The Pig's Eye Pub	Craig's Kitchen and Bar	The Half Door
Best Museum	Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art	Connecticut Science Center	Hartford History Center
Best Park	Bushnell Park	Riverside Park	Cedar Hill Cemetery

Overall, the Best of Hartford 2021 winners are a great representation of the diverse and vibrant community in our city. While there may be some drawbacks to the selection process, it is clear that these winners have worked hard to earn their recognition and deserve to be celebrated.

The Best of Hartford 2021 Winners: A Guide for Visitors

Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best of Hartford 2021 winners! We hope that you found our recommendations helpful and informative. Hartford is a great city with much to offer, and we are proud to showcase some of the best places to visit, eat, and shop in the area.

If you are planning a trip to Hartford, we highly recommend checking out some of the winners on our list. From the best pizza joint to the top museum, there is something for everyone in this diverse and vibrant city. Whether you are a foodie, art lover, or history buff, Hartford has plenty to offer.

One thing that sets Hartford apart from other cities is its rich history. The Mark Twain House and Museum, which won the Best Museum category, is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in literature or American culture. The Wadsworth Atheneum, which won Best Art Museum, is also a great place to explore the city's artistic heritage.

For those looking for a bite to eat, Hartford has plenty of options. Sally's Apizza, which won Best Pizza, is a local favorite that has been serving up delicious pies since 1938. If you're in the mood for seafood, try Max's Oyster Bar, which won Best Seafood Restaurant. And for those with a sweet tooth, we recommend visiting The Capital Grille, which won Best Dessert.

If you're looking to do some shopping, Hartford has plenty of options as well. Westfarms Mall, which won Best Shopping Mall, is a great place to find everything from high-end fashion to home goods. If you prefer boutique shopping, check out The Shops at Yale, which won Best Shopping District.

Of course, there is much more to Hartford than just the winners on our list. We encourage you to explore the city and discover your own favorite spots. Whether it's a hidden gem or a well-known landmark, Hartford has something for everyone.

We would like to thank all of the businesses and organizations that participated in the Best of Hartford 2021 contest. Without their hard work and dedication to their craft, this list would not be possible. We encourage everyone to support these local businesses and help keep Hartford thriving.

Before we wrap up, we'd like to remind visitors to practice safe social distancing and follow any COVID-19 guidelines in place during your visit. We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring Hartford.

In conclusion, we hope that our Best of Hartford 2021 winners guide has provided you with some inspiration for your trip to the city. From delicious food to fascinating museums, Hartford has something for everyone. We wish you a wonderful visit and hope that you come back soon!

Thank you for reading and please feel free to leave a comment below with your favorite Hartford spots or any other recommendations you may have for visitors.