20 Best Bars near New Canaan

“We’d flown across the continent from Vancouver to New York, and drove up from Midtown to New Canaan to see something quieter. The moment we parked on Elm Street, it felt like the right destination. The name might belong to old horror movies, but the street was nothing but calm. My wife called it “cute” about a thousand times, and she wasn’t wrong.

We walked the shops, stepped in and out of small storefronts, and followed a narrow back alley when hunger finally caught up with us. That’s how we found Back End — tucked away, sunny, and exactly where it needed to be. The November air was cold, but the day had a clear sky that made everything feel sharp and clean.

Service was friendly and quick. The room had an easy rhythm — warm decor, high stools, tight tables. A space used well. Fun without being loud, relaxed without slowing down. Sometimes you stumble onto a place that matches your mood perfectly. This was one of those.

We shared tacos, Nonna's meatballs, and chicken dumplings. Every plate landed. Simple dishes done right, seasoned with confidence. Nothing heavy, nothing forced — the kind of food that keeps a conversation moving and a day on track.

Back End fit the afternoon. A hidden spot in a quiet town, found by accident on a long trip. The kind of place you remember because it met you exactly where you were.“

“Cherry Street East is a wonderful spot for classic American food. They serve generous portions that are hearty and satisfying, and every dish feels made with care. The flavors are spot on, making it the perfect place whether you’re hungry for a casual bite or a full meal. What stood out most was the owner—so kind and genuinely welcoming—that made the whole experience feel like visiting a friend’s home. A place I’ll definitely be coming back to again and again!“

“Really enjoyed our first time there. Can’t wait to come back and try more food!!!“

“We just hosted a big event at the Townhouse and it was amazing! Dana is a joy to work with, her team was professional, and the food delicious. My vendors loved working with them also!!“

“My husband can’t get enough of this place. Great vibe to socialize with friends. As well as make new ones. Alan knows how to make a killer cocktail.“

“Always a good time here. BJ & Keith have created a fun and friendly atmosphere here. Bartenders and Servers are always on point and provide the best service. Try a Carlarita…you won’t be disappointed“

“Had a great time with the live bands and Karaoke, and the food it’s out of this world!! recommend this place 100%“

“THE BEST CLUB IN ALL OF CT !!!! it’s gorgeous inside ! all new & redone HUGE TV like over the top big plus multiple all over the main area, there is also a VIP bar area 2 different stages & tons of good drinks with great prices plus package deals on bottles ! best club to go to for events , birthday party’s , bachelorette party’s, even divorce parties! the girls are HOT 🥵 like super model hot & so is the staff“

“Great food! Stunning views and reasonably priced!!“

“First time in town. First place we went after checking into hotel. Great bar. Great bartender (Maggie?)!

Had a few beers. Watched some baseball. Good time!

Proper Guiness pours. Other good beers on draft. Decent liquor choices.“

“The only reason I am giving it four stars is because my food came out about 5 mins before my husband's and it wasn't busy....Other than that....I got the BEC and it was hot and delicious...my hubby got the chicken sandwich and he enjoyed it. Having the ability to try different beers(with a large selection)is great! The atmosphere was mellow but it was on a Sunday and they do offer a brunch menu. Definitely a place to try“

“Stopped by this bar randomly last night before they closed and I'm glad I did. The owner, bartenders, and people at the bar are awesome and are welcoming with love. They have shuffleboard and great drinks. my experience was great. Give them a try❤️“

“Great food, atmosphere and waitstaff❤️“

“Hockey season is back and I’m back for all the food and drinks!

Elliot & Angel are so kind, super friendly and professional. I enjoy talking to them when they’re not super busy and they’re always serving amazing food and slinging awesome drinks (beers, cocktails and mocktails).

I enjoy their breakfast. Eggs are cooked to perfection. Their breakfast bowl I had was awesome. I don’t like my food touching so I asked for everything to be individually served. The tots were crispy, chili is awesome! Usually the breakfast bowl is all of the above layered in a bowl. Get it! You won’t be sorry.

The breakfast burrito is pretty hearty. It has eggs, cheese and potatoes wrapped in a flour tortilla. I’ve had their breakfast sandwich on a hard roll and it’s probably one of the best breakfast sandwich (egg, cheese, bacon) I’ve ever had.

For lunch and dinner they have many options since it’s a bar & grill. I personally love their chicken Caesar salad (you can get it in a wrap too). The chicken is so moist and seasoned to perfection and grilled nicely. My son practices here three times a week so he grabs dinner to eat in the car and he enjoys the kids menu options.

They’re located on the second floor of SoNo Ice House. Ambiance is a chill vibe with music loud enough to hear but you can still hear your friends during conversations. The tables are seated by the window so you can see your kid(s) play/practice. It’s clean. Has a full bar, full kitchen and booth seating as well. They also have a private party room for rent and they’ll cater it as well. So many great things to say about this establishment.“

“By far the best in town I been here like 6 times food is amazing drinks are amazing servers are all attentive very helpful with the menu on explaining what they have and what’s the best to get. I never had a bad experience when I come. Servers also aren’t annoying like other restaurants they don’t come by while you’re eating which is great they always wait when you’re done to come and ask how is everything I hate when a server always comes by to disturb so this is something that stood with me. If you’re planning on coming here don’t second guess it just go.“

“Found this place browsing for "pool table bar". Found this little gem. Has a nice pool table and other games. It is located on a quiet street in downtown stamford. Medium size and has an open area patio in the back. Overall a nice quiet bar. Ordered food which was way better than what I had expected, actually very good. Will go back for the calamaris and freshly cut homemade french fries.“

“Really great service and good food!“

“This place is a blast! Great food, great beers and drinks, awesome bands! It’s the place to be!“

“grew up there as a child above the bar I remember Jim and Ernie it will always be my hometown bar I used to break the boxes down for Ernie to pick up the trash early in the morning I think I was eight back then maybe nine for the history I could tell you“

“Surprisingly family-friendly for a bar! It’s our go to weekend hangout. There’s a whole separate area away from the main bar where you can let the kids loose (not literally… unless you’re into that). Tons of games: darts, table games, and enough fun to keep everyone entertained while you sip on a perfectly poured Guinness. The food? Ridiculously good. Wings and burgers hit the spot, and my husband swears by the Reuben-it’s basically his soulmate. Just don’t expect fine china here. Everything comes on paper plates, because the food’s too good to waste time on dishes. Bonus: the owners are the kind of people you’d want to have a beer with-friendly, down-to-earth, and clearly doing it right. Highly recommend if you want a place where the whole family can eat, play, and pretend it’s not a bar. 🍔🍺🎯“