Brianna Arteaga ’29
Contributing Writer
During my first year at Trinity, I accidentally became the hub of knowledge about Hartford–an array of “Where do I go for good food?” or “Do you know where [x] is at? Can you take me there?” And so today I’ll be sharing my favorite places around Hartford. If you want to ditch Trinity for a day, take a chance on the amazing restaurants off-campus.
- Chosen 1: Cajun Seafood (2074 Park St, Hartford)
You have not lived if you haven’t had Chosen 1’s Fried Shrimp platter. It is truly a work of art how they managed to make a seafood hater (me at first) into a seafood connoisseur. Open throughout the week from 11:30 a.m to 10 p.m, Chosen 1 is the perfect spot for a group lunch, dinner, or even a solo experience. The service is incredibly quick, and the owners are the sweetest people. The entire layout of the restaurant is themed around an old pirate ship, which is decorated with shells and nets as well as name carvings from family customers. Though pricey at first, you are served an incredible amount of food. For my meal, I was given a large plate of shrimp, a refillable drink, and sauce for 14 bucks plus tip. If you’re looking for a nearby place to eat with friends, check out Chosen 1!
- Semilla Cafe + Studio (1283 Main St, Hartford)
For those who want a cute study space off campus, Semilla Cafe offers a free art studio with art supplies (which you can take or donate), amazing hot chocolate for just 4 bucks, and incredible breakfast sandwiches. Though the cafe is open every day, hours usually range from 7:30 a.m to 3 p.m so be careful if you’re in a time crunch! In terms of food, Semilla has exemplary brownies, and the staff will heat them if you prefer. The workers at Semilla are the kindest, and will personally serve you your food instead of just calling your name. Also, fun thing: if you’re eating in, they will serve you ceramic mugs, and it is the coolest thing ever. Also! Books are all free at the cafe; personally, I immediately snatched the Michelle Obama autobiography when I saw it on the shelf. Alongside the bookshelf is a quaint reading area with board games and magazines if you want to bring your friends along! Overall, cozy and a great place to study or draw!
- The First and Last Tavern (939 Maple Ave, Hartford)
To end this odyssey, The First and Last Tavern opens a world of antique mystique—it seems frozen in time. However, its food and service remain timeless (in other words, the pasta was really good here). Because the restaurant is so close to campus, it’s an easy walk or drive, and it gives you a chance to see historic Hartford and the mesmerizing fields right next to the tavern. The service was lovely, and the booths were cozy with vintage photos carefully framed on the walls. Whether you’re there for lunch or dinner, the food is exquisite. All for a good price: a plate of spaghetti goes for 13 bucks plus tip. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 a.m to 9 p.m, the tavern is a comfortable seat-in restaurant with fantastic food.
For my final piece of Hartford wisdom, be sure to always look at the stoplights when crossing the road: the walk/stop lights don’t work in some places.
