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Welcome to Hartford Road Cafe

Hartford Road Cafe, located at 378 Hartford Rd in Manchester, CT, is a beloved neighborhood gem. This locals' bar exudes a nostalgic vibe and offers a warm welcome to everyone. Known for its homemade dishes, the menu features mouthwatering options like house-smoked brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, and an unforgettable escargot baked with garlic and cheese. The cafe stands out for its hospitable staff and a fine selection of craft drafts. Patrons rave about the comforting ambiance, exceptional service, and dishes like their acclaimed baked beans. Whether you're a local or visiting, you’ll feel right at home at Hartford Road Cafe.

Hartford Road Cafe: Reviews & Ratings

Steve Powell
Steve Powell

Back in the day bar. Like going back in time. Definitely a locals bar. but they were very friendly to this non-local. I wasn't planning on eating and then I found Escargot on the menu. Snails are very difficult to find these days. They were baked in a ceramic dish with cheese, butter and tons of garlic. They were delicious and there had to be at least 10 pieces. It is also served with two pieces of sourdough like toast that is great for dipping in the sauce. They have a nice selection of craft drafts. The barkeep is super friendly and did the follow-up that is rare to find these days. Nice ambiance. Plenty of off street parking in the rear.

John Direct
John Direct

Food is always good as I come here more than often. Service and staff are kind and awesome. I'm a real boy. No bot or AI.

Patrice Griffin
Patrice Griffin

All homemade food on this menu, house smoked Brisket and Pulled pork sandwiches, everything on thing menu is excellent even down to the 2 footlong dawgs with the best homemade coleslaw. Cold beer, good service and comfortable conversation.

Edna Perez
Edna Perez

Memorial Day; we are far away from home and family, but we wanted a BBQ meal; we shared the BBQ Special it was delicious! The seafood stuff mushroom starter was so good!

Luke Aleo
Luke Aleo

BEST BAKED BEANS I'VE EVER HAD My wife and I stopped in for a beer and and lunch. My wife got the Reuben, I got a brisket sandwich with beans. hands-down THE BEST BAKED BEANS I'VE EVER HAD in my life. The brisket, Reuben, and fries were good but those beans...

Bryan Peretto
Bryan Peretto

I've been going here for decades with various experiences, however the trend seems to be in a positive direction. The new (not new anymore) bar is great. The bartenders are always super nice though one was fairly incompetent- I don't think he was supposed to be bartending. The food is great. Where else can you get escargot in the area? Wings are decent. Sandwiches and entrees have never disappointed.

Rachel Flanagan
Rachel Flanagan

Becoming a new favorite. Today was my 3rd time there. The food people and atmosphere are so good and welcoming.

Chris Chorney
Chris Chorney

This is a great place. Very comfortable environment, the food is good and the drink prices are surprisingly affordable. Some of the foods I've had there that I would recommend include the Bang Bang Shrimp which was amazing and I've had several of their wraps, all of which were very generous and delicious. The fries were unfairly good each time. I'm trying to watch my weight but their cook is not making it easy with fries that good. I don't know what the regular entertainment schedule includes but I know Mondays have an open mic Jam hosted by Brandt Taylor which is a really fun time. The house band is great and the musicians that come up to play each week are all good. They have a parking lot behind the building but there is a ton of on-street parking as well.

Location

Welcome to Hartford Road Cafe, a hidden gem nestled on Hartford Road in Manchester, Connecticut. This welcoming spot embodies the essence of a classic local bar while inviting newcomers to experience its unique charm. The cafe is not just a place to grab a drink; it is a destination where time-traveling nostalgia meets contemporary culinary delights.

The moment you step through the doors, you might feel like you've traveled back in time. With an ambiance that encourages comfortable conversation and connection, Hartford Road Cafe is the perfect retreat. Patrons are greeted by friendly staff who provide excellent service, whether you're a regular or visiting for the first time.

One highlight of the menu that has caught the attention of many is the Escargot. One reviewer described it as a rarity, baked in a delicious concoction of cheese, butter, and garlic. Served with sourdough toast for dipping, this dish transforms a simple snack into a memorable dining experience. For those enamored by BBQ, the cafe's house-smoked brisket and pulled pork sandwiches are top-notch, alongside the much-lauded BBQ Special that diners rave about.

And let’s not forget about the baked beans, hailed as the best many have ever tasted. These mouthwatering beans are just one component of satisfying meals that make a mark, leaving patrons eager to return. Whether you opt for the Reuben or a hearty brisket sandwich, each plate is crafted with care and features homemade quality that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.

With a nice selection of craft drafts and ample off-street parking, Hartford Road Cafe caters to both palate and convenience, giving you every reason to unwind and relax. The combination of cold beer, good food, and vibrant atmosphere creates a communal vibe where everyone feels at home.

If you're in the area, Hartford Road Cafe is a must-visit for a taste of homemade cuisine that truly delights. Whether it’s the delightful escargot or the unbeatable beans, each bite is a testament to the care put into every dish. Come for the food, stay for the friendly ambiance – you won't regret your visit!