The Cook And The Bear - West Hartford

I absolutely loved this place, as did my two friends who joined me! Location is perfect- easy parking- the size of the spot is not too big or too small- super comfy booths- decor is kitschy while also being cool and modern- menus are easy to read and the cocktail menu is clever and fun. Food was all super delicious! Deviled eggs, bacon wrapped dates, beet salad, tomato salad- all fresh and divine. The MEATS! Pastrami- best pastrami next to Katz's Deli in NYC- for reals. Great flavors, perfect portions to share! Also worth noting- my friends have strict gluten and sugar free diets- there were so many choices for them, and our server Sam was incredibly knowledgeable about what they could eat. Service was also perfection! Can't wait to return without my healthy friends for the banana pudding

Awesome neighborhood restaurant. The menu is creative and the good delicious. Hubby and I shared a two item combo (brisket, sticky ribs, loaded potato and carrot salad). Jr had fries but opted for one of my ribs too after taking a taste. Christina, our server was knowledgeable and attentive. We ended with the banana pudding. I also appreciated the portion sizes: just enough. It’s a new favorite place.

This place has great food, beer, and service! The server, Omar, convinced me to try their brisket. I normally avoid brisket because it's usually dryer and tougher than I care for, but this brisket was cut-with-a-fork tender and amazing, smokey and flavorful! The restaurant had great character, and the manager, Vanessa, was awesome!

Thank you for existing. Thank you for your brisket. Thank you for your Vodka On The Menu. Thank you for your bacon wrapped dates. My tastebuds, stomach, cravings and I don't know what we'd do without you. My one and only recommendation is to add one vegetarian option to your entree selection. I can't choose you when accommodating for the vegetarian people I dine with. Never mind, stay the same. I'll take them elsewhere. The Cook and The Bear is the massage for your senses that you hadn't realized you needed. You will leave with maximum satiation.

The food is different and outstanding!!!!!! Bacon wrapped dates stuffed with chorizo sausage was my favorite. Could eat those and the buttermilk biscuits all night. Wait staff very helpful and pleasant. First time at The Cook and the Bear after first tasting their food at Millwright 's. Service was a little too quick. After driving over an hour we were finished eating in less than 40 minutes. Brisket, kielbasa and mac 'n cheese finished the meal. No room for dessert. Next time!!!