When you are looking for great food it is always best to ask the locals. Whether you are searching for the best burger or something a bit spicier - the locals know which restaurants have the best flavors even if they aren't the most popular places to dine. In Connecticut we have a whole lot of great restaurants, but here are the ones that perhaps you never knew existed.

1. Michael's Trattoria (Wallingford)

Italian food at its finest can be found at Michael's Trattoria, a quaint little restaurant right in the center of downtown Wallingford that serves amazing appetizers and classic Italian food. The chefs are well known for their eggplant, chicken or veal parmigiana.

344 Center St.,

Wallingford, CT

2. Stowe's Seafood (West Haven)

If a little shack on the beach that serves seafood is your style, then you have to visit Stowe's Seafood. It is right across from the beach with plenty of outdoor seating and fantastic pirate decor. Make sure you try the tasty sandwiches or lobster rolls.

347 Beach St.,

West Haven, CT

3. The Edison Grill (Harwinton)

For some fantastic American fare, try out the Edison Grill up in the northern part of our state. With signature burgers, steaks, chicken, salmon and more, there are many tasty lunch and dinner options at this local joint.

178 Birge Park Rd,. Harwinton, CT

4. Bartaco (Westport)

Bartaco in Wesport serves authentic Mexican street food. But this is no food truck situation, the restaurant is sleek and well decorated in a beachy space providing a great atmosphere for some delicious fare. Try their oyster or wild boar taco for something unique and delicious.

20 Wilton Rd., Westport, CT

5. Ted's Steamed Cheesburgers (Meriden)

So it might not look like much, but the steamed cheeseburger is not to be taken lightly. It is all about the delicious goodness between the bun. You'll love the warm and melty cheese on top of a steamed cheeseburger — if you have been to Connecticut and haven't tried this local dish then you are missing out.

1046 Broad St., Meriden, CT

6. Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen (West Hartford)

To taste some truly inspired dishes you should visit Zohara Mediterranean Kitchen. From lamb to octupus, the flavors are amazing. Make sure you try their homemade hummus, it is wonderful.

991 Farmington Ave.,

West Hartford, CT

7, The Clam Castle (Madison)

If you are in Connecticut then you have to know where to go for the tastiest clam chowder. The Clam Castle has been doing chowder for more than 50 years and they have the recipe right. Not to mention they have a great selection of tasty fried seafood. Enjoy the outdoor dining area where you see lots of interesting nautical decor.

1324 Boston Post Rd., Madison, CT

8. Hidden Valley Eatery (Washington)

Hidden Valley Eatery is a charming restaurant that features local and organic ingredients. It has a very large vegetarian and vegan selection as well. The beautifully crafted salads are worth the trip alone.

88 Bee Brook Rd. # 1,

Washington, CT

9. Soul de Cuba Cafe (New Haven)

This restaurant in downtown New Haven exeeds your expectations as every dish bursts with ethnic flavor. So many choices on the menu and every single one is excellent. Do not pass on dessert while you are at Soul De Cuba Cafe, the tres leches cake is scrumptious.

283 Crown St., Ste. 1,

New Haven, CT

10. Saybrook Fish House (Rocky Hill)

Saybrook Fish House has a wonderful selection of seafood and steaks and everything is delicious. What we especially love is the family style salads that are brought to the table and served with two choices of homemade dressing.

2165 Silas Deane Hwy.,

Rocky Hill, CT

11. Coyote Blue Tex Mex (Middletown)

To pair some great food and a perfect margarita, head over to Coyote Blue Tex Mex restaurant. The quesadillas are unique and packed with flavor. To get great tasting Tex Mex style food in Connecticut is a feat in itself. This small restaurant has a ton of style and the flavors to match it.

1960 Saybrook Rd.,

Middletown, CT

What are your taste buds telling you? Have you ever been to any of these restaurants in Connecticut? Do you have a different dining experience to recommend? Share your suggestions and comments, we would love to hear what you have to say!

To keep this food fest going, check out this Connecticut restaurant that's way out in the boonies, but so worth the drive!