Cast Iron Chef Chophouse & Oyster Bar Voted Connecticut's Best Steakhouse

The New Haven restaurant has been recognized as the top steakhouse in the state and county for 8 consecutive years.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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In a segment on 'CT BUZZ,' Attilio Marini, Owner/Executive Chef of Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar, celebrated the restaurant's latest honors from 'Connecticut Magazine,' recognizing it as the Best Steakhouse in New Haven County for the eighth consecutive year and the Best Steakhouse in Connecticut for the first time. During the segment, Chef Marini demonstrated how to prepare a classic Italian comfort dish, pasta fagioli.

Why it matters

Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar's consistent recognition as the top steakhouse in Connecticut and New Haven County highlights the restaurant's dedication to quality, service, and culinary excellence, making it a premier dining destination in the region.

The details

During the 'CT BUZZ' segment, Chef Marini prepared a rustic pasta fagioli, a hearty Italian soup made with olive oil, garlic, onions, celery, a mild Italian long hot pepper, house-made chicken and pork stocks, cannellini beans, a touch of tomato, and pasta cooked directly in the broth. The Chef explained that the soup's simplicity and warmth make it a perfect complement to the restaurant's celebrated steakhouse menu, which also features inventive desserts, fresh oysters, and happy hour specials.

  • Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar has been recognized as the Best Steakhouse in New Haven County for the past 8 years.
  • The restaurant was also named the Best Steakhouse in Connecticut for the first time this year.

The players

Attilio Marini

Owner/Executive Chef of Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar.

Natasha Lubczenko

Host of 'CT BUZZ' on WTNH.

Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar

A New Haven restaurant known for its celebrated steakhouse menu, fresh oysters, and Italian comfort dishes.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

There are still a few openings for Valentine's Day at Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar, which falls on a Saturday evening this year.

The takeaway

Cast Iron Chef Chop House & Oyster Bar's consistent recognition as the top steakhouse in Connecticut and New Haven County demonstrates the restaurant's commitment to quality, service, and culinary excellence, making it a premier dining destination in the region.