In the world of fine dining, few moments can match the excitement that comes with the announcement of the annual "Connecticut Magazine's Best Restaurants" awards. This highly anticipated tradition celebrates the culinary prowess and creativity that abound within Connecticut's dynamic food scene. The 2023 edition is no different, with numerous restaurants bagging accolades across a myriad of categories. This year, readers and experts alike have cast their votes for their top picks in Indian cuisine. In addition, the experts have curated an exclusive list of 25 romantic dining spots, perfect for planning a memorable evening.

Indian Cuisine - A Melange of Flavors

Connecticut's love for Indian food is hardly a secret. The state is home to a multitude of establishments that celebrate India's rich culinary heritage. This year, the reader poll and expert panel's selections have provided an exciting snapshot of the best the state has to offer in this category.

Our online survey allowed voters to choose up to three restaurants in order of preference, with votes weighted accordingly. This year's poll, conducted in September and October 2022, has contributed significantly to showcasing the finest Indian eateries in Connecticut.

While the results of the poll remain under wraps for now, it is important to note the guidelines that governed the voting process. Restaurants were capped at a maximum of four Readers’ Choice category wins. If a restaurant had already bagged four awards in a category, the award would be passed on to the next qualifying restaurant. This model ensured a fair and balanced recognition of culinary excellence.

Romantic Dining – For Those Memorable Evenings

The awards don't just acknowledge the restaurants serving delectable food. They also highlight the dining spots that offer an unparalleled ambiance, perfect for a special night out. Connecticut Magazine's expert panel has curated a list of the 25 most romantic dining spots in the state, shedding light on what truly makes a restaurant romantic.

Romantic dining is a symphony of elements working in harmony. The perfect lighting, soft music, beautiful decor, an intimate setting, impeccable service, and of course, exquisite cuisine - all contribute to the creation of a memorable experience. As with art, the concept of a romantic restaurant can be subjective. However, there are certain universal characteristics that almost everyone would agree on, and these have formed the criteria for our experts' picks. Whether you're planning an anniversary dinner, a surprise proposal, or a simple date night, this list of the 25 most romantic restaurants will surely provide plenty of great options.

A Culinary Journey

Connecticut Magazine's annual Best Restaurants awards serve as a guide for food enthusiasts, couples, families, and tourists seeking to explore the diverse culinary landscape of Connecticut. The awards are a testament to the commitment, creativity, and passion of the state's restaurateurs, chefs, and service staff. As the excitement builds for the announcement of the full list of winners, we can already celebrate the diversity and vibrancy of Connecticut's food scene. From spicy Indian curries to enchanting romantic dinners, the state offers a feast of flavors waiting to be discovered.

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