When bar & grills open in Milford, we check them out. We’ve endured the mediocre burgers and the forgettable fries. But a handful rise above—places where the first bite of a charred ribeye or the first sip of a perfect old-fashioned makes you feel like you’ve discovered a local legend. Those are the spots that earn a place on this list.
Uptown Bar & Eatery
$$ | (203) 735-3300 | WEBSITE
Many of us discovered our neighborhood gems during those uncertain times, but few have maintained the consistent charm of Uptown Bar & Eatery, a former local haunt that’s evolved into Ansonia’s go-to spot for relaxed gatherings. The sizzle of perfectly grilled steaks and salmon carries from the kitchen to the cozy dining area, and a welcoming, chill atmosphere permeates every corner.
The cocktails are where things shine, though—the expertly mixed drinks pair beautifully with shareable plates like the legendary tot nachos, and the non-alcoholic options ensure everyone can join the fun. The hours are currently standard for the area—open daily for dinner and weekend brunch—but this is the kind of place worth making your regular.
Wood-n-Tap – Hamden
$$ | (203) 248-9663 | WEBSITE
Another bar and grill in Milford? Stop us if you’ve heard this one before. But Wood-n-Tap, a local chain that’s settled into a beautifully decorated space with family booths and highchairs, has a secret to standing out: seasonal menus. The rotating specials, especially when they feature those tasty calamari appetizers and Philly egg rolls, are enough to jolt anyone awake during a casual family meal.
As with any respectable bar and grill, the burgers and steaks are complemented by seafood options and a kids menu with activities, plus you can add trivia nights for extra fun. For now, the parking is spacious and easy during off-peak hours, but no promises it’ll stay that way once game nights roll around.
Crazy Horse Axe Throwing & Lounge
$$ | (203) 870-1010 | WEBSITE
Prepare for a pause when you enter Crazy Horse. Not because of confusion, but because everyone is immediately captivated. This lively axe-throwing lounge feels like a rustic sports bar meets tech playground: Digital targets glow on the walls and axe lanes stretch out like futuristic bowling alleys. The experience is just as much of a conversation starter.
Start with a cold craft beer and cheesy, wood-fired pizza while watching enthusiastic groups cheer each other on, then try the interactive throwing games that turn simple axe tossing into competitive fun. Expect a few playful touches—helpful staff giving safety tips, celebratory vibes for birthdays, and the option to book private lanes—but Crazy Horse is an entertainment venue first. One that you should try soon, before the excitement spills onto Milford.
744 West Bar & Grill
$$ | (203) 934-5726 | WEBSITE
Milford has plenty of casual dining spots, and 744 West Bar & Grill, a bustling bar-and-grill open for lunch and dinner daily, is already up there with the most reliable. But even if you’re not a regular, this popular spot is worth a visit just for the value. Like many neighborhood favorites, 744 West is heavy on portions and light on pretense.
Start with the tasty, parmesan-dusted wings that remind us of bar snacks, a juicy burger, and a plate of the 16oz prime rib or the somewhat straightforward (but highly satisfying) parmesan wings. Apple pie for dessert? Why not. Throw in a round of beers and a lively bar stocked with friendly staff, and you’ll be wondering what’s the rush to leave.
Pre Game Stratford
$$ | (203) 296-2544 | WEBSITE
This Milford bar and grill is known for its lively crowds and creative menu, and after one bite of their Mexican corn dip, we get the appeal. The generous plates here arrive more loaded than a game-day buffet, with flavors so bold they could pass as fireworks, housemade dips with creamy-smooth texture, and toppings piled like championship trophies (including that perfect crispy shrimp).
Go for the signature lobster nachos with a trio of textures—crunchy chips, tender lobster, and melted cheese—or the Buffalo chicken dip that delivers what it promises: spicy heat, cool ranch notes, and punchy flavor intense enough to make a sports fan forget the score.
RipTide Restaurant & Bar
$$ | (203) 390-5918 | WEBSITE
RipTide has been a favorite on our best bar & grill guide for years, but one thing it’s never been is formal. At RipTide’s bright new home in a shopping plaza overlooking the water, the lobster roll still costs $28, but there’s now a casual patio too, which means being able to stroll in for lemon pepper grouper and what might be the coast’s meatiest lobster bisque. Expect a friendly owner, sunlit views on the patio, and well-liked dishes that belong at a seaside grill.
It’s far from chaotic, but enjoying some of the area’s finest seafood on a weekend suddenly feels more manageable, without having to commit to a tricky parking spot.
Three Sheets
$ | (475) 202-6909 | WEBSITE
The folks at Three Sheets know how to fill a table with street tacos, but this cozy New Haven spot takes it up a notch. This welcoming restaurant specializes in spreads so diverse they’re served with vegan and gluten-free options that are celebrated for their exceptional quality. What follows is a delightful feast: standout nachos, yuca fritas, daily specials you shouldn’t miss, and those impressive tacos. And that’s just the start.
You’ll lose track around plate #4, but don’t tap out before making your way to the cocktails from fantastic bartender Sara, which are the best part. For now, the standard taco plates cost a reasonable $12 per person, with even heartier $18 and $24 sets available.
Anthony D’s Bar & Grill
$ | (203) 713-8243 | WEBSITE
Scoring a prime spot on Anthony D’s outdoor patio right now might be tougher than finding a free pool table on a Friday night. Tucked away in Milford but buzzing with locals, this bar and grill from the neighborhood is filled with more live music energy than a weekend festival. It’s the kind of place that calls for casual jeans and people-watching from a worn-in booth. The bar food here isn’t revolutionary, but focusing on cold drinks and lively entertainment makes for a great night out.
The TouchTunes jukebox is perfect for queuing up classics and belting along with friends, and the pool tables get a competitive boost from the mixed crowd. Don’t miss the early kitchen hours, closing around 9:00 pm, so plan your burgers accordingly before the band takes over.
Metric Bar & Grill
$$ | (203) 576-6903 | WEBSITE
Some bar and grill spots feel like they’re trying to do everything. Metric isn’t one of them. This Milford restaurant is all about that warm, inviting atmosphere with delicious food and exceptional service, and their commitment to a great experience clearly paid off. Both the standout salmon and perfectly cooked filet are excellent, though we prefer the latter—you can feel the lively vibe from the live music that adds to the cozy setting, and it pairs perfectly with the high-quality dishes.
Drinks range from rum punch to margaritas, even without a specific menu, but your first order needs to be the one that matches the fun, whether for a relaxed meal or a lively night out.
The Spot
$$ | (203) 884-3985 | WEBSITE
They say you can’t please everyone, but The Spot comes pretty close to pulling it off. Before 9 pm, this relaxed Milford bar and grill is a mellow haven with R&B tunes and a projector in the lounge, where friendly waitresses handle the tables with ease. The wings are the star here—cooked to perfection in flavors like mango habanero, hot lemon pepper, honey garlic, and honey Cajun.
Evenings are ideal for catching up with friends over mojitos and green tea shots, with the quiet atmosphere making conversation a breeze. You can follow them on Instagram or check out Chef Nie at @Niemadeit. While some menu items might be unavailable, the food that does arrive is consistently delicious. If there’s a casual night out that this reliable spot isn’t suited for, we haven’t discovered it yet.
