[Stylo]

Originally Posted by JuJu83

As re: Yale in New Haven. I perceive that Yale isolates itself from New Haven--psychologically and physically--and offers relatively little to people who are not a part of the Yale community.

I don't think New Haven should be number 1. If one is planning to stick within a few blocks, sure--but there are large swaths of downtown I wouldn't go at night without an appropriate, um, mindset.

Well, yes, the one point I made about New Haven is - as a whole - the city has some pretty serious crime issues. As long as it has a population that is largely poor and welfare dependent, that isn't going to change.

I've never felt too unsafe around the center downtown area. I realize crime does happen there, but nothing like it does a few blocks out. It's better than it was 10 years ago.

Personally, I disagree about Yale being isolated. Most of the good real estate downtown is owned by them, and they attract great tenants and maintain the area nicely. Yale wants New Haven to succeed, that is plain as day. The safer and more successful the city is, the more Yale can expand and maintain its reputation. Some people think the Route 34 project is self-serving, but if Yale can attract medical and biotech companies, that can only help the economy. They're the biggest employer, and taxpayer - so they should be encouraged to expand and attract more businesses.

The point of New Haven being there is that it has more of a variety and quality of restaurants, history, architecture, museums, performing arts centers, shopping and general things to do.

I stand firmly behind the notion that no other downtown in Connecticut offers the variety it does. Stamford lacks the culture, Hartford lacks the culinary and nightlife (and also has a high level of crime), etc.

The fact that it has so much to offer should be more inspiration for the state and its residents to continue to make improvements to the city. Hopefully it doesn't remain a pit for federal funding and some progress is made. I wonder if the current administration there is doing good for the city or not?

[MrGompers]

FWIW, I've always liked Chester (altho it is a small downtown) and Litchfield. Most improved downtown in the last 20 yrs I would vote Middletown. Someone said it's too bad Middletown has that highway preventing access to the river. AFAIK, there is a pedestrian tunnel running underneath RT 9 it starts around City Hall & the MAT station and comes out into the park. (take a right and you will end up at Harbor Park restaurant)

Biggest downtown mistake goes to Meriden. Building the courthouse downtown was stupid. Now all the criminals are hanging out there during the day waiting for their cases to be called. Too bad because that side street next to the court house (Bank st) ? has some potential. Also, Meriden has some real nice topography that they haven't taken advantage of. (except for Hubbard Park)

Surprised no one mentioned Winsted. If it wasn't so busy with RT 44 it would be real nice.

I know these downtowns are not in CT, but if your out on an adventure this summer and come close to these areas I would suggest a visit.

Millerton, NY just over the CT border on RT44
Amenia, NY just over the CT border on RT41

[Stylo]

Originally Posted by MrGompers

Millerton, NY just over the CT border on RT44
Amenia, NY just over the CT border on RT41

Thanks! I often drive Route 7 and will check those out. Always curious what good things were across the border.

[JViello]

Originally Posted by mkiv808

Hartford lacks the culinary...

I agree with your post, I just want to point out that the above I think may be a mistatement. Hartford actually has a pretty rich culinary scene. On20 is one of the most innovative and progressive restaurants in the state and making waves for instance. http://www.ontwenty.com/

Then there is a slew of other places from Brazillian Churascara, to Ethiopian and everything in between. One of the best Spanish (As in Spain) restaurants on the entire eastern seaboard. http://www.costadelsolrestaurant.net/ (And rated as such by many) Chef worthy Indian at Masala http://masalafinedining.com/ etc etc. In fact in CT Magazine "readers choice" Hartford either dominated or was in the top 3 in just about every category.

I'd love to make a food thread. Maybe it's time.

[Stylo]

Interesting, I'll have to check it that Spanish place. Often Ibiza in New Haven is considered one of the best Spanish restaurants in the country (according to NY Times). Between that, Bistro Basque and Barcelona I've felt very lucky to have great tapas options in CT. I'll be sure to check out Costa Del Sol.

[kidyankee764]

You guys should try Mezcal in New Haven. FANTASTIC Mexican!

[Stylo]

Originally Posted by kidyankee764

You guys should try Mezcal in New Haven. FANTASTIC Mexican!

I'm on it.

A foodie thread is in order.

[JayCT]

Originally Posted by mkiv808

Well, yes, the one point I made about New Haven is - as a whole - the city has some pretty serious crime issues. As long as it has a population that is largely poor and welfare dependent, that isn't going to change.

I've never felt too unsafe around the center downtown area. I realize crime does happen there, but nothing like it does a few blocks out. It's better than it was 10 years ago.

Personally, I disagree about Yale being isolated. Most of the good real estate downtown is owned by them, and they attract great tenants and maintain the area nicely. Yale wants New Haven to succeed, that is plain as day. The safer and more successful the city is, the more Yale can expand and maintain its reputation. Some people think the Route 34 project is self-serving, but if Yale can attract medical and biotech companies, that can only help the economy. They're the biggest employer, and taxpayer - so they should be encouraged to expand and attract more businesses.

The point of New Haven being there is that it has more of a variety and quality of restaurants, history, architecture, museums, performing arts centers, shopping and general things to do.

I stand firmly behind the notion that no other downtown in Connecticut offers the variety it does. Stamford lacks the culture, Hartford lacks the culinary and nightlife (and also has a high level of crime), etc.

The fact that it has so much to offer should be more inspiration for the state and its residents to continue to make improvements to the city. Hopefully it doesn't remain a pit for federal funding and some progress is made. I wonder if the current administration there is doing good for the city or not?

For years Yale tried to isolate itself from New Haven but then they realized they couldn't keep doing that. They then begin to invest in the city and encourage development and interaction several years ago. It is just now showing results with all the building going on in the city. Jay

[Stylo]

Originally Posted by JayCT

For years Yale tried to isolate itself from New Haven but then they realized they couldn't keep doing that. They then begin to invest in the city and encourage development and interaction several years ago. It is just now showing results with all the building going on in the city. Jay

Makes sense. I haven't really explored the city much except for the last couple of years. 10 years ago or so, I had no interest.

[laulob]

Originally Posted by kidyankee764

Also, while we're talking about downtowns with potential, Seymour's is pretty interesting. It has a diner, a few pubs, a ton of antique shops, an old theater, two italian restaurants, a Metro North station and some quirky shops. The architecture is very nice, too, if only it was kept up a bit.

I agree - they layout is a little odd - You can't really see the downtown unless you're standing in the middle of it. Has no one mentioned Woodbury? Woodbury has a charming downtown, tons of antiques shops, wonderful restaurants and quite a few historical landmarks.

I don't really understand people's love for Bethel. It's one of those places that looks like it should be upscale but isn't. The main street looks cute but the stores are constantly closing and reopening. The only reason to go there IMHO is Dr. Mike's.