Food

Highly acclaimed and for good reason, West Street Grill (38 West St., Litchfield, 860/567-3885, 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. and 5:30–9 p.m., $21–38) is a little bit of big city in the country—a contemporary, buzzing bistro on Litchfield Green [1], with the requisite exposed brick and distressed wooden floors. Global flavors are the kitchen’s focus, which translates to specialties such as pan-seared scallops with celery root and fire-roasted salmon with heirloom tomatoes.

A top-notch wine list is also offered. Check ahead to find out the schedule for popular “bistro nights,” with an affordable prix fixe menu and wine specials.

The ever-excellent La Cupola Ristorante (637 Bantam Rd., Litchfield, 860/567-3326, noon–3 p.m. and 4–9 p.m. daily, $16–30) is known far and wide for its authentic Italian specialties. Be sure not to pass up any of the gnocchi specials, should they be on the menu.

There are fish specials aplenty on the menu at the casual and seafood-centric Central Galapagos (281 Winsted Rd., Torrington, 860/459-7259, www.northerngalapagosrestaurant.com [2], 5–9:30 p.m. Tue.–Sat., 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Sat.–Sun., $10–21). The grill figures heavily in the fresh, flavor-packed dishes, and the swift service is knowledgeable and friendly. For budget-conscious diners, the restaurant offers several prix fixe options for $20–25.

Calling itself the “weirdest restaurant in Litchfield County and quite possibly the world,” Bohemian Pizza (342 Bantam Rd., 860/567-3980, 11:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Thu.; 11:30 a.m.–10 p.m. Fri.–Sat.; 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m. Sun., $8–19) tries hard to live up to the name, with an energetic young vibe and décor ranging from a canoe to Holstein-patterned seats. The little restaurant is serious about its pizza, however, turning out awesomely good pies topped with everything from sun-dried tomatoes to andouille sausage, alongside a full menu of pastas, meal salads, and other simple-but-tasty entrées.