Fernwood Restaurant

Fernwood Restaurant

1113 New Britain Ave, West Hartford, CT 06110, United States

+1 860-233-6662

American restaurant
(160)
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About This Place

Nestled in the heart of West Hartford at 1113 New Britain Ave, Fernwood Restaurant offers an inviting taste of classic American comfort food with a warm, retro-inspired atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. This beloved local gem is a must-visit for anyone craving hearty, thoughtfully prepared dishes that evoke a true sense of home.

From the moment you step inside, Fernwood’s cozy ambiance and friendly staff create a welcoming setting perfect for families, couples, or solo diners seeking a relaxing meal. The charm lies not only in the restaurant’s nostalgic decor that hints at a simpler era but also in the genuine care and attention the team extends to every guest.

The menu is a testament to indulgent, satisfying American fare with standout dishes that have quickly become local favorites. You can't go wrong with the crispy Fish and Chips, golden-battered and paired with perfectly seasoned fries, or the expertly crafted Roast Beef Au Jus, tender and rich in flavor. Seafood lovers will appreciate the expertly fried shrimp and oysters, each bite delivering a delightful crunch and fresh ocean taste.

For a touch of hearty comfort, the Beef Chili is a rustic classic—meaty and intensely flavorful—as applauded by diners who appreciate its generous portion and bold seasoning. The Pea Soup, thick and delicious, evokes a homemade goodness that's both nourishing and satisfying. Meanwhile, the Bangers & Mash, served alongside Guinness and Roe & Co Irish Whiskey, adds a spirited Irish twist that's perfect for an elevated yet comforting meal.

Fernwood also excels in smaller plates and salads, like the delicate Crab Meat Salad Plate and the Spinach Salad with Bacon & Mushrooms, which balance freshness with savory notes. For something lighter but full of flavor, their wraps—especially the teriyaki chicken variants with zesty lime or chili mayonnaise—offer a fresh take on classic tastes.

End your meal on a sweet note with the rich and comforting Bread Pudding, a dessert that truly lingers pleasantly on the palate. Whether paired with a smooth cold brew or a handcrafted cocktail, Fernwood’s drinks selection complements the meal perfectly.

What truly sets Fernwood apart is the authentic passion behind the food and service. The clam chowder, highlighted by one loyal patron as the best they've ever tasted, is a shining example of the kitchen’s dedication to homemade quality. Attentive servers ensure your experience is smooth and enjoyable, with many guests praising the warm hospitality and swift service, even during busy hours.

In all, Fernwood Restaurant captures the essence of approachable, nostalgic American dining—with a menu full of crave-worthy classics and a dining atmosphere that feels like a comfortable retreat. For both longtime local fans and first-timers, Fernwood offers a memorable experience that keeps people coming back for more.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great beer selection Great cocktails Great dessert
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Quick bite Small plates Spirits Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Historic
Crowd
Family friendly Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Sunday
    Closed

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • John Day
    2 week ago

    I have been meaning to try the Fernwood for a long time, and I'm glad I finally stopped. Great atmosphere and super friendly staff! The clan chowder is hand down, the best I've had, and it's made in-house. Haven't even gotten the rest of my meal yet, but I'm making plans to come back.

  • Avi Smith-Rapaport
    2 month ago

    I can't believe we've never been here For whatever reason the inside looked exactly as I pictured it Very cozy type family restaurant with lovely staff and yummy foods We tried the fish and chips and fried shrimp and soup and chili and bread pudding The chili was super meaty which is how I like it The Mrs got pea soup and it was delicious and also thick in a very good way The fries were not our favorite but definitely cooked properly with a little crisp I'll try the tater tots next time The bread pudding was damn delicious. Wow it was so good we want to try more of the other home made desserts Definitely comfort food and fun staff Also a nice looking bar area

  • Sheila Bez
    2 month ago

    Very good meal, extremely pleasant server who was also bar tender,she was excellent,

  • Carol & Ed Voorhees
    3 month ago

    First time here this century, very retro vibe from ?1980s? Ate dinner near end of service, dining room still pretty busy, families & couples. Server friendly, welcoming & attentive. Drinks came fast & good. Same with food. Very traditional Connecticut menu. Good dinner, good value, we left happy. Parking in rear lot off New Britain Ave.

  • Jason Ayala
    3 month ago

    Just good old fashioned comfort food...Tom and the rest of the staff were quite pleasant and attentive

  • Kiri Thomson
    3 month ago

    This was the most homey, Renaissance tavern-like place! Almost like I stepped into an Elizabethan movie scene. The stained glass windows are gorgeous! The service was impeccable and the locals were talkative, warm and nostalgic about there growing up coming to the Fernwood in the 60s and 70's. My salmon caesar salad was fresh, crisp and plain old good eats! My cranberry vodka was perfect and the clam chowder was thick and brimming with clam, cream and potato goodness! I wanted to come here forever and while I waited to get my nails done next door, I went for it. Not a mistake was made on this day. It's a must try! I've heard St. Patty's Day is a blast and if you like it ...they have liver and onions on the menu. Tell em Kitty sent you! You won't be disappointed in the least!

  • SuSu GooGoo
    3 month ago

    On New Year's Eve had Roast Beef au jus ..fabulous! And the clam chowder delicious! For dessert blueberry pie's the Best! My companion said the Scrod was excellent !!!! Service great by real professional staff!

  • Ja Kr
    4 month ago

    Great, friendly service. The interior could be a restaurant set from a 70's crime drama, but if you look closely, everything is clean and relatively modern. You'll hear a lot of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and other crooners from the Golden Era on the speakers in the restaurant. Food is good to very good (almost everything is homemade and the menu will vary from time to time), but we found some of our meals to be slightly bland, such as the meatloaf, and mashed potatoes, but they were otherwise good. Overall this is a good place, and your kids will be just fine here. There is a kids menu also. Pricing is very reasonable, portion size is very good, and it didn't take too long for us to get our food. Plenty of off-street parking is available.

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