Cj's Tavern - Hartford

So disappointed. We stopped on our way home and my first thought was how filthy it is. Dirty windows, crumbs on the counter. But 2 adults and 3 hungry kids meant we had to eat. I ordered a garden salad with tuna on it. It was a small bowl of salad (perhaps make it clear this is a SIDE SALAD) with a minuscule (maybe 1/8 cup) scoop of tuna. I inhaled it but made a comment when I went to pay about how disappointing it was for $10. The manager said she would take care of it so I was really surprised to see she took only $2 off the bill. Why bother? Also, seeing the waitress file her nails behind the counter, then seeing her smoking in front of the restaurant is gross. I guess necessity and sheer hunger are keeping this place in business.

I was really disappointed with my experience at this restaurant. We stopped on our way home, and my first impression was how unclean it was – dirty windows and crumbs scattered on the counter. With two adults and three hungry kids, we felt we had no choice but to eat here. I ordered a garden salad topped with tuna, but it turned out to be a small side salad with just a tiny scoop of tuna (about 1/8 cup). I finished it quickly but mentioned my disappointment when I went to pay, especially considering it cost $10. The manager assured me she would take care of it, but I was surprised to see only a $2 discount on my bill. Why even bother? Additionally, I found it off-putting to see the waitress filing her nails behind the counter and then smoking out front. It seems like only desperation and hunger are keeping this place open.

What a delightful experience! After a long day of traveling, we stumbled upon this gem. It's the perfect spot to enjoy an ice-cold beer and a satisfying meal in a laid-back atmosphere. Our server was both friendly and attentive to our two kids. The portion sizes were generous, and you absolutely must try the zucchini fries—they're a unique treat! We finished off our meal with the delicious cinnamon chips, which are a must-try as well!

I ordered the Hot Turkey sandwich, but the turkey was dry, tough, and clearly not fresh. I mentioned it to the waiter, but he simply responded with an "OK." My wife had a hot dog, and it was just an average hot dog.

The food was excellent, the service was friendly and attentive, and they had Switchback on tap, making it a perfect spot for lunch. We visited with a group of eight on a busy day, and despite the bartender being busy managing all the tables, he remained super friendly and took care of everything. Everyone in our group agreed that the food was delicious. I tried the steak bomb, which was fantastic—especially when I dipped it in the sauce from my daughter’s hot wings. The patty melt was hearty and juicy, while the cheeseburger was perfectly cooked to medium rare as I requested. Even the fish and chips were outstanding, not greasy at all. I can’t recall everything that our group ordered, but I do know that everyone left happy with their meals. Overall, it was a perfect experience.