Middletown

Now that my favorite bar/restaurant is gone (RIP Delaney's), I have to head all the way to Middletown, CT to visit my second favorite bar, Eli Cannon's. Eli Cannon's has a great selection of beer, cheap and tasty food, and a funky atmosphere that can't be beat. At it's core it's just a dive bar, but something about it makes you like you're in the know to even be there. A few favorite menu items include the soft pretzel with three dipping sauces, the BLT, and any of the wing flavors.

As Middletown is about a twenty minute trek from New Haven, it's exciting that Eli Cannon's isn't the only thing worth going there for anymore. After lunch, head across the street to NoRa cupcakes where you can sample amazing flavors like 50 Shades of Chocolate, Fat Elvis, and Fluffernutter. They have ample cafe space to kick up your feet and eat a few cupcakes before you head down the street to Middletown's newest craft brewery, Stubborn Beauty.

The brewery is dedicated to brewing unique, full flavored beers. They aren't into "cookie cutter" beers and are known for their eclectic style. Grab a few tastings and a growler fill before you make the drive back to New Haven.