My husband and I wanted to stop for lunch & found this restaurant on Yelp close to I-84 on our way to NH. It was such a find! I had one of the nicest salads with perfectly grilled chicken and a cumin-citrus dressing. He had a terrific burger- one of the best. We couldn't eat everything, so we brought the rest with us for later. Service was great, atmosphere was nice, especially during FIFA World Cup in the air and on their TV's. Soon we were on the road again, but we now know the perfect place to stop on our next trip north! read more

A friend of mine and I went to Craft Kitchen for lunch on this Thursday. There was plenty of parking to the right of the restaurant, and the side entrance was right there. As I walked through the front doors, I noticed kegs alongside on the floor. This was kind of a turn off, kind of reminds me of a dive bar. So my mentality kicked in that we were going into a dive bar serving food. I kinda get the sketchy feeling. Once we were seated, and menus placed, we were served iced water A few minutes later, the server came back and took our order. My friend ordered a cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, and some string french fries. I ordered the 1/2 smoked chicken, which came with two sides. I chose the rattlesnake beans and the creamy macaroni and cheese. Also include included was cornbread I originally wanted the street corn, as a side, but it was not available. Our lunches came quick, and my friend only ate half the french fries and cheeseburger, as she wasn't really turned on by them. The smoked chicken was fairly dry, with a very interesting smoked flavor to it that I can't put my finger on. I eat about 1/3 of it. Left the rest on the plate. The creamy macaroni and cheese was out of bounds top-notch. I could've eaten this all day. The rattlesnake rice and beans were just OK. The rice was cooked pretty good, and was seasoned well. The beans had a weird taste. Now thinking of this side dish, I was hoping for raw onions to be on top, but they were nowhere to be found. It'll be nice if there was chopped raw onions to go with this. The cornbread was delicious. I ate about half of it. It was a generous slice. While the server was fairly attentive, as she only checked in to fill the water glasses and ask how lunch was. She didn't ask us if we wanted a desert or coffee. Being old folks this would've been a great up for us, but it didn't happen. I had to ask for the check. I'm not sure if I would come back. I think this might be a one and done. The vibe just didn't hit it for me. Restrooms were clean. The restaurant was clean; the silverware clean. I don't know. It just was like a funky type layout and those beer kegs kinda sent the wrong tone to me as a guest. Lunch for the two of us was $40 and change and I left a $10 tip. We didn't have any cocktails or mock tails, we didn't have coffee or dessert either. From what I understand, the owner was near the exit when we left, not even a smile or a thank you for coming in... read more

Craft Kitchen - Smoked half chicken with rattlesnake beans and macaroni and cheese - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

Another perfect lunch! My friend and I shared the burrata, peach bruschetta and the beet salad. My only complaint was I wish it had more crispy prosciutto! The flavors all blended perfectly and it was plenty big enough for two. We also split the small beet salad which was perfect. After our relatively healthy lunch we decided to share the peppermint bark cheesecake which we agreed was delicious mouthfuls of chocolate ,peppermint with just a touch of cheesecake! I appreciated that both my cups of coffee were freshly brewed I look forward to my visits to this wonderful place and glad it's a perfect 1/2 way meeting place for me and my dear friend. read more

See all

We had planned to go somewhere else but it was late on a Saturday night and that place was busy so we last minute pivoted to here. Upon arriving we'd realized we'd eaten at this restaurant before (when it was in a different location) and eaten in this building before (when it was a different business). Caesar salad appetizer was excellent. Kids Mac and cheese was maybe one of the best Mac and cheeses we'd ever had, kids or not. And it was great as a pizza topping. My wife and I split a wagyu burger and The Craft Pie. The burger we believe we got someone else's, it was missing the espresso aioli and prosciutto jam. It wasn't until we finished it that we realized it was way different than we expected. The pizza was excellent however. I could have done without the pears but so many other flavors that were excellent, though the real winner was the sour cherries. I'd come back again just for this pizza. read more

See all

We have been here several times and tonight was the best service we've had. Austin was great. Everyone in our party enjoyed their food. Even my 12 year old. He doesn't like Mac and cheese but he ate it here. My miso crusted salmon with faro peach salad was wonderful. Oh I almost forgot about the baked Brie. I didn't have any but everyone else said it was really good. Bring a big appetite because the portions are a nice size. The feel of the place is comfy and a little rustic. It's a great blend. I do recommend making reservations as the weekends are busy. read more

Craft Kitchen - Miso glazed salmon - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

Craft Kitchen blends open, industrial charm with cozy comfort. The high ceilings, warm lighting, and mix of bar and booth seating make it an inviting spot whether you're stopping in for lunch or lingering over dinner. There's both indoor and outdoor dining, and everything felt clean, spacious, and relaxed. We stopped by on a Tuesday afternoon, and seating was easy. Our server was attentive, friendly, and kept things moving smoothly. Parking is shared with nearby businesses, so while it was fine midweek, I imagine it could get tricky on a busy Friday night. Their menu covers brunch, lunch, and dinner. You'll find a mix of sandwiches, pizzas, soups, charcuterie, and skillets. My friend ordered the sangria, while I went for their Pumpkin Pie Mocktail -- a seasonal blend of pumpkin, apple, and maple that was surprisingly refreshing and full of fall flavor. You could really taste both the pumpkin and apple coming through in each sip. For my main, I ordered the Smokehouse Platter -- where you choose your meats (pick 1 for $18 up to 4 for $40). Every option comes with two sides and cornbread. I went with Pulled Pork and Spicy Pork Belly Burnt Ends, paired with mac and cheese and fries, plus an added side of Mexican Street Corn. The hickory wood smoking brought out a deep, rich flavor without overpowering the meats. The pork belly wasn't exactly spicy, but beautifully seasoned, tender, and perfectly charred on the ends.The pulled pork was also flavorful, smoky and moist texture. Other meat selections include half chicken, jalapeño cheddar sausage, brisket (+$6), burnt ends (+$10), and a half rack of baby back ribs (+$14). The mac and cheese deserves its own shout-out -- creamy, cheesy, and comforting without an upcharge like most places (and definitely not Kraft). The cornbread added a nice savory touch against the sweetness of the meats, while the street corn was perfectly grilled, juicy, and full of flavor. My cousin ordered a burger and loved it -- juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked just right. Portions are generous; honestly, my platter could have easily fed two. I enjoyed the mac and cheese so much I ordered another one to-go -- always a good sign. Overall: Craft Kitchen delivers solid service, great flavors, and a relaxed atmosphere. The pricing feels fair for the portions, and everything tasted thoughtfully prepared. Perfect for casual meetups, family dinners, or laid-back nights out. Next time, I'm coming back for brunch. read more

See all

The server was one of the most rudest people I have has ever waited on me. I understand a bad day. But yelling at me because she never came over to take dirty dishes off our table and us putting it on the table next to us to clear it off was crazy. She through the check on the table at the end. I spoke to the owner and he was surprised about it. I would of thought he would of said something to her but he did not. Because after leaving her a 6-dollar tip she came out to the parking lot to give it back to me. That was crazy. Never again will I go there or recommend them . Also I spent thousands there on a parrty a couple years ago and the owner just did not car. read more

We've been here several times and have always had a phenomenal meal. I love their smoked wings and their barbecue. Excellent flavor, well seasoned and smoked, not too salty. good portion of meat. I also appreciate that they serve the sauce on the side. read more

Craft Kitchen - Chicken bbq plate - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

See all

They have the best mac & Cheese!!!! My friend always asks me to go to get her fix! The new location has so much more space!!

Do not eat here if you're looking for BBQ!! Could barely cut thru the ribs - super dry!! This place does not know how to cook meat. Also, do not visit if you're looking for a place to watch sporting events. I was rudely told they "cannot change the channel" on their two TVs in the bar area. Definitely will not go here again. read more

I had wanted to try Craft Kitchen for awhile but unfortunately this visit didn't work out well for us. I thought that having pasta dishes with red sauce or vodka sauce would lend itself to vegetarian options for my veg husband but all of their sauces have meat. I opted for the Mac & cheese with pulled pork and the Mac & cheese was great the pulled pork which was a hefty up charge was all fat and inedible I was sorely disappointed, my husband had the Mac and cheese pizza and he liked it, we both had drinks which were good and our waiter was very nice, but not a return visit unfortunately. read more

See all

There were many reviews that said the meats were dry and not tender, but we decided to try this anyway. The meats were dry and tough, including the filet mignon and the ribs. Should have listened to the reviews. The service was spotty as our waiter also had tables outside and disappeared from time to time. The atmosphere was more like a bar than a restaurant . So not a good places for kids. read more

Came in for lunch, ordered 35 dollar 3 meat combo came with half chicken, pulled pork, sausage and side of mac, rice and beans, and cornbread. All i can say was every piece of meat was cold or luke warm and definitely made the day before, pulled pork and chicken where extremely dry and had almost no flavor, corn bread tasted store bought and cold out the fridge was very surprised as the reviews are good here. Will not be back. read more

Craft Kitchen - 3 meat Pick Three Platter - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

I loved the openness of this restaurant, very cute and clean. We had good service, delicious drinks, I ordered a steak with maple brussel sprouts and they were great. The steak was cooked how I liked and the vegetables had really good flavor. I'd love to come back next time I'm in the area. read more

Craft Kitchen - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

See all

The service was good but the food was awful. The restaurant itself was nice but two of us dining there both agreed food was not good

Great food. We were sat in the back so of course service wasn't good. We were constantly being walked past by people who didn't give us a second thought. We weren't in their station and our server must of been on a smoke break. We enjoyed our food and enjoyed our beer. read more

Service was great! Food was good. Roasted vegetables was star of meal. The smoked meat platter was good but unfortunately we were there when they ran out of pulled pork. Chicken was a bit dry for our liking but still tasty! Poutine was yummy and comforting with brisket that was great! read more

I've dined at Craft Kitchen twice now, and I have to say I'm really impressed with their menu and the quality of their food. We timed our second visit perfectly with the launch of their new fall menu items, and also discovered they had recently brought in a bunch of new barbecue items from their Bird Dog BBQ concept. Everything is farm-to-table fresh! The servers have been friendly and attentive both times, and the restaurant has a nice laid back vibe. I hope to come back soon to try even more menu items! read more

See all

This place is amazing, come for drinks and stag for food or come for food and stay for drinks! Both are amazing! The smoked old fashioned is a nice touch, smoked right in front of you! The poutine is one of the best poutines I have had in a long time, the brisket is so tender and moist, add that to the curds, gravy and hand cut fries! Service was on point! Looking forward to dining again soon! read more

Craft Kitchen - Poutine - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

See all

I was hoping to keep this as a helpful/constructive criticism between myself and the owner. However, I could find no place to contact the business by email. I am a chef of many years I was hoping to be constructive to help the business. I attended the brunch on Sunday for Easter. We had a seating, which was set for 2 o'clock, waiting nearly an hour for the Buffet. Once up there, the bread was taken away just as we were approaching it. Just some crumbs left. Never more bread brought back. Went to grab a plate and there was nothing available other than sandwich/salad plates for a $55 Buffet. Panzanella salad was very wilted and needed a refresher at the very least. Next we were waiting on tortellini salad where we waited in line for 4 to 5 minutes. Next thing I remember was bananas foster French toast. The bottom of my serving was burnt. Not from caramelized brown sugar, but black Like the bottom of a over cooked brick house pizza. There were a couple of empty Buffet pans. There was no chicken (empty hotel pan) advertised, jumbo shrimp for a cocktail we're actually 40-25 shrimp very disappointing. I do not eat shrimp that is generally sourced from Vietnam, India or China. I don't know for a fact that's where it was from but 90% of that type of shrimp comes from those three countries. When food was removed, there was no one behind them to replace what was taken. That is a definite faux pas. You always have someone behind to replace what is taken. I will say that I enjoyed the au gratin potatoes, and the honey ham, which was very good. Then on to the strip steak. I was under the impression there would be someone there carving the steak I do believe it said, steak station. I could be wrong, however. It was pre-cut in a hotel pan. the meat was tough nicely cooked but tough. When I got back to my seat at the table, I had a butter knife to cut the steak, which I mentioned was tough and made it difficult to cut. When I first sat mimosas were served before the meal. It was served in the juice glass with ice. Another faux pas When It was time for Dessert, there were slim pickings no fresh baked pie or cheesecake.. Disappointed to not see any cheesecake,or pie but then again, it may have just been scooped up ahead of us All that was left for dessert was cookies and little ells. Our server, although a bit slow, probably very busy was quite congenial, and did her best to serve with a smile and accommodate. And lastly, it is always good to have one person at the buffet to keep track of what is low what needs to be replenished plates,silverware and just keeping it a general eye on things replacing spilled food etc. I hope you know that this was meant to you help improve your business./service not disparage. as far as the critique goes our table of 14 which I was party of has over 100 years of restaurant and food service experience between the four of us At the table. We realize this was probably one of your biggest days. I don't know what kind of background you have with serving large crowds, but I hope this helps you in the future. I know that things can be difficult and hopefully this constructive criticism helps you in the future. Best of luck. Dave read more

This place used to be 4-5 stars, but has since slipped away to 2 stars now. I gave it 2 stars today but that was gracious. I couldn't even eat my meal because it was sooo dry. Like the food was sitting out all day. read more

The best way I can describe Craft Kitchen is tastefully rustic. Every decor piece fits together like a puzzle, creating a cohesive experience. I loved the glassware because it had an embellished stem and held a lot of liquid. It was light to hold and well-made. My martini was mixed quickly in the cocktail shaker, so it was served strong and not very cold. The olives were extraordinarily crunchy, and this hardness took away a bit from their overall enjoyment. They did have a nice salty flavor. My BLT was served on a deliciously seasoned crispy roll. Unfortunately, since my fries were limp and soggy, they were inedible. Another highlight was the house-made pickles served paper thin with a delicious brine. The bartender was good-natured and a pleasure to interact with. He also provided fantastic service. read more

See all

What a terrible experience! I made a reservation for 7pm. Started off with an absolute nightmare trying to find a parking spot. Parked in bumf*ck Egypt way far away. Still arrived on time at 7 pm. Hostess told us that go to bar at 7:15 for a complimentary drink when our table still wasn't ready. Bar staff treated us as an imposition when ordering but we got our drinks. We were finally seated at 7:35 but not given any menus. We finally found our waiter and told him we needed menus. He took our drink order and someone else brought us menus. My drink arrived 30 minutes later after asking for it again. I complained to our server that I have never felt so unwelcome at any other restaurant I have been to.Meanwhile another table was seated and received their appetizer. We got our food an hour after we ordered it. Mind you we ordered two pizzas and a burger. We asked to speak to the manager and her response was that they were really busy.... The table that got their appetizer had already been served their meal and were leaving when we finally got our food. My pizza was good, but at that point who cares. This place was recommended by many but I'm not sure why. We were there for 2.5 hours which was ridiculous. I won't be back. & to add: if you are a busy restaurant build in a waiting area for people to sit/stay in until their table is ready. We were all stuck by the door & in the way of servers getting customers their drinks at the bar. Staff was already annoyed by us right off the bat but for no fault of our own. read more

See all

So I have been to this staple a few times in Southington / Plantsville Ct not Plainsville at the holiday inn express that ones closed ask Mike but I did get an umbrella lol ! Ok so we have done / brunch / apps and mostly lunch. Place is spacious parking at certain times comes with a premium depending if Deans Stoves is open next door and busy . Mostly booths with a bar and few high tops inside as soon as you walk in . Waiting for chance for weather to break to eat outside as they have a secure patio out back. They smoke own meats which is nice because they do a nice job have had the poutine fries and brisket is delicious as an app. Meatballs also a go to as is the pork belly . Mostly sandwiches took us a few times to either get past daily specials to get off front of menu in photos . Today we turned the page I had the porketta which at first glance with broccoli rabe and provolone is up my alley. As a bridgeport ct kid I grew up on porketta from testos which nobody beats on a regular basis! But I digress today the porketta unknown to me is smoked. Not what I expected as I was hoping for that garlicky taste offset by the broccoli rabe. As much as I tried to like it , it was not meant for me or not what I expected . Done well and was tasty but not what I expected especially smoked. So that being said only time I can say that my meal was less than expected and the service as always is top notch so if you are in the area give it a try lmk !!! read more

Craft Kitchen - Front page of menu - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

Sooo disappointing. We went on Friday for my birthday. The problems were too numerous to mention them all, but here are the biggest: * Extremely tough short rib--not braised properly * Weak drinks * Vestibule door left open, due to broken door closer. Waitress closed it a couple times, but 10 seconds later, somebody would enter or leave and the door would remain open. With each entry or departure, a blast of 25-degree air came in. Customers just left their parkas and hats on. * Appetizer salad arrived at the exact same time as the entrees. Dressing was flavorless. * Second round of drinks that we ordered when the food came arrived after we had eaten. * Dessert was a slice of cheesecake that had almost no sweetness to it * Zero mention of my birthday, much less anything comped. * Expensive, but if it had been good, I would have been okay with pricing. A similar but much better option would be Uncommon Grill in Watertown. read more

I came here on a Saturday night with a friend. We met there for 6pm, and ended up getting seating around 6:35pm. We didn't make reservations, which was a mistake. There is no waiting area, so you're kind of standing around in the middle of the bar in the way of everything. If you can carpool, do it. The parking lot was a nightmare. I drove around for at least 10 minutes trying to find a spot. One would open up, but due to having several cars circling the lot at once, it was hard to snag one. The space is very large, with a cool ambiance with the decor and low lighting, however, we were seated in a way back room that was very tight with very bright lighting. Not a really chill Saturday night vibe. The food was okay. My friend ordered a cauliflower pizza (paisano) which was very good. Her first choice was their special pizza, but at 7pm, they were out of pork belly. They were also out of a liquor that was needed for a cocktail I ordered. I ordered a scallop and butternut squash risotto. It was good, but the chunks of squash were undercooked. Overall, I'd give this a try again to determine if it would become a go-to place for me. read more

See all

Decent menu, food was good, but it was a while ago when I ate ther. Great bar and service was good.

Fries were saturated with grease. Hamburg was overcooked and friends late was returned due to ribs being cold Tomatoes onions and pickles were old read more

Craft Kitchen - Soggy fries - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

Gorgeous place. Warm and cozy inside. Fun bartenders who do an excellent job serving you. The food is next level awesome.

Came back! Was excited to spend my birthday at my favorite place. This time service wasnt great , forgot silverware at dinner, bags to carry takeout and food was not hot. Odd! Definitely not our favorite anymore...seems they are inconsistent and don't prioritize service but still had fun! We always do read more

See all

Beer was cold and tasty, I asked for no bun on my burger and they put extra tomatoes as a bottom bun and extra lettuce as a top bun. It was great! Server was very nice. read more

Hit it out of the park with a perfect meal! From the salad to the cavatelli to the pizza, everything was excellent! Delicious and served with a smile from the sweetest and most attentive and efficient server, Jas! Even packaged up a to-go order for us with care! Great environment, great service, great food! Can't ask for more! Highly recommend this place and can't wait to be back in the area to return! read more

See all

I went to Craft Kitchen in Plantsville (Southington) for the first time in their new location (42 West Main St.) and it was great! The new location is much bigger than the old one. Indoor and outdoor dining, multiple dining rooms, a bar, etc. Even on a Saturday night without a reservation I was seated right away. I ordered the Smoked Brisket Poutine as an appetizer and it was very good! The portion was large, definitely enough for 2-3 people. For my dinner, I ordered the Skillet Mac & Cheese. AMAZING! The menu describes this dish as "A ridiculously creamy blend of signature cheeses" and it definitely was! Probably some of the creamiest mac & cheese I've ever had. And it was topped with Panko Crumbs which added a nice little crunch. There were several options for add-ons like lobster, shrimp, chorizo, chicken, etc. available for an extra charge, though I just stuck with the regular mac & cheese. Again a large portion, but I took home the leftovers and ate them for lunch the next day (still tasted delicious). The server was very nice and attentive. My food was served relatively quickly. No complaints at all, I will definitely be going back! read more

Craft Kitchen - Smoked Brisket Poutine - New American Near Me - Plantsville (Southington), Connecticut

See all

Absolutely amazing food! Hats off to the chef! We are never disappointed. Great atmosphere! Great staff. Greatful to have this gem in our little town! read more

Famous last words "Craft Kitchen never disappoints". Visited early on a Saturday afternoon, the day before Mothers Day. It was not busy but very dark inside on a sunny day. Ordered the appetizer ribs, which were disappointingly dry, obviously reheated. The rest of the order came to the table cold. The $25 Eggs Benedict came to the table without the advertised scallops or steak. Just the eggs on a very thick, un toasted English muffin and lots of potatoes. When brought to the attention of of yet another server, they left me the eggs and bacon just brought out two thin, but tender, pieces of steak and two scallops wrapped in bacon. All pretty cold by now. And , instead of a grinder on a roll, ordered by another party, out came a wrap! Has there been a change in management? So unless your really enjoy a lot of pre roasted potatoes, skip Craft Kitchen. I know I will from now on. read more

Craft Kitchen offers that hometown diner feel with delicious and well constructed menu choices. I've never visited this location before. I've had the opportunity to visit the Plainville location. Both offer the same great Craft Kitchen taste but with very different atmospheres. I visited this location on the Sunday afternoon before the Superbowl. This Southington location was quaint, beautiful decorated and offered a relaxed/quiet experience. I ordered a Crispy Chicken sandwich on a pretzel bun with a side of potato salad. The chicken inside the sandwich was crispy and not at all soggy or greasy. Something you deal with all too often with fried chicken meals. It was also LARGE. Yes. If you see the picture you will come to terms with this. You are getting true value from the price tag on this menu item. I decided to pair it with a side of their Kentucky sauce which was spicy. I'm all for that extra kick on my chicken. Next came homemade potato salad. It wasn't overloaded with mayo. It offered the right balance of veggies for a smooth but still textured consumption. For takeout, I ordered a Mac N' Cheese pizza which features there famous Mac N' Cheese. I know what your thinking. Mac N' Cheese pizza!? But listen, this is probably one of the best white based pizzas you will probably ever eat unless of course your Lactose Interolant . The pizza is not dry. The cheese proportion was perfect and it wasn't flimsy and even cut it was easy to be reheated without very little dropping in the oven on a pizza dish. If you are looking for a relaxed environment for brunch or lunch, visit the Craft Kitchen Southington location. read more

See all

Service was scary slow. Over 90 minutes to get the first plate of food. The restaurant was only about half full. I asked if they were experiencing growing pains or if they had staffing issues from the move to the larger new location and only heard back that they had a lot of orders. Food lacked the fantastic lustre that it used to have. I hope they can turn it around and get back to their previous great standards. read more

Nice space. Lots of beer options. Upscale bar food. We had good service, not great. Tried the Duck Wings which were recommended but were not for us. Next time I'll try the Pizza which looked great. Parking was plentiful but dark and a little difficult on a rainy evening. read more

Arrived 7:45 on a Saturday evening, tried to order off the barbecue pick meats menu. Was told two of the six were out. Picked chicken and were told that was out. Picked rack of ribs which came visibly burnt to a crisp and dry as a bone (something the waiter could easily have seen). Asked for another portion and was told that was the last piece (no wonder it was burnt, but still served!!). Ordered a strip steak which took 16 minutes (while my husband ate his meal so it wouldn't get cold) and came tough as nails. Told manager we would not pay for that meal, which grumpy agreed to with an attitude and no apology for the overall experience. Now we know why haven't been there in three years read more

Beyond excellent!!! French onion soup is smashing! Really beautiful restaurant! Terrific! read more

See all