Nestled on the northwestern edge of Middletown, the Country Club neighborhood has a quietly evolving food scene that’s winning over locals and new residents alike. Whether you’re winding through Highland Avenue seeking a casual bite, or you want a sit-down dinner to celebrate, this part of town offers a perfect slice of Middletown’s culinary diversity.
Neighborhood Overview
Dominated by leafy streets and the historic greens of the Middletown Golf Course, Country Club isn’t just for golfers and longtime residents—it's become a magnet for food lovers who appreciate quality without the city buzz. As you drive along Higby Road, past scenic neighborhoods and parks, you’ll find everything from classic New England eateries to international cuisine, cozy cafés, and even a food truck or two cleverly positioned near community hotspots.
Standout Restaurants
- Giovanni’s Brick Oven Pizzeria (550 Highland Avenue)
- *Cuisine:* Italian/Pizza
- *Price Range:* $8-$25 per entrée
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* A neighborhood favorite for over two decades, Giovanni’s impresses with artisan pies, hand-tossed thin crust, and authentic pasta dishes. Their Margherita pizza and house-made lasagna are bestsellers, and cozy booths provide a welcoming atmosphere for both takeout and dine-in.
- The Fairway Grill (130 Golf Club Rd, inside the Middletown Country Club)
- *Cuisine:* American/Club Fare
- *Price Range:* $10-$18 per entrée
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* Open to the public as well as club members, The Fairway Grill is famous for juicy burgers, fresh salads, and post-golf nibbles. Go for brunch on weekends—locals rave about the eggs benedict with house-made hollandaise and the panoramic patio views of the greens.
- El Mejor Sabor (mobile, usually at Higby Road & Country Club Rd)
- *Cuisine:* Puerto Rican Food Truck
- *Price Range:* $3-$14 a dish
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* This roving gem brings the island to the suburbs with its perfectly seasoned pernil, crispy tostones, and pastelillos bursting with flavor. El Mejor Sabor often sets up during community events—expect a line, but know that the mofongo is worth every second.
Bakeries & Cafés
- Sweet Heather’s (660 Highland Avenue)
- *Cuisine:* Bakery & Coffee Shop
- *Price Range:* $2-$10 per treat/beverage
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* This inviting bakery brings small-batch, scratch-made pastries to Country Club without the fuss. Their croissants sell out by mid-morning, and specialty cupcakes (try the lavender lemon) have a cult following. Coffee is locally roasted, and the cozy seating is perfect for a quiet morning or a post-school snack.
- Perk Up Café (corner of Higby Rd & Pine St)
- *Cuisine:* Café
- *Price Range:* $3-$12 per drink/meal
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* Tucked beside a neighborhood park, Perk Up Café specializes in creative espresso drinks (cardamom vanilla latte, anyone?) and light fare like avocado toast with watermelon radish. The staff know their regulars by name, and the sunny patio is the local secret for working remotely on pleasant afternoons.
Popular Spots for Diverse Palates
- Saffron Chutney (625 Highland Avenue)
- *Cuisine:* Indian
- *Price Range:* $10-$20 per entrée
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* While not splashy on the outside, Saffron Chutney is famous for regionally inspired curries and tandoori. Lunchtime brings a steady stream for their daily thali specials—don't miss the butter chicken or paneer tikka.
- Aspen Asian Bistro (intersection of Highland Ave & Country Club Rd)
- *Cuisine:* Pan-Asian
- *Price Range:* $8-$22 per entrée
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* Aspen surprises with its wide-ranging Asian menu and chic, modern décor. Sushi is artfully plated, but locals also come here for noodle bowls and dim sum on Sunday mornings.
Hidden Gems and Local Food Traditions
- Mamita’s Little Kitchen (pop-up, typically at Highland Ave Farmer’s Market on Saturdays)
- *Cuisine:* Guatemalan/Latin American
- *Price Range:* $5-$12 per plate
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* Seasonal tamales, spicy pupusas, and the creamiest horchata you’ll find in town. Mamita’s shows up only a few times a month, drawing lines for its homemade sauces.
- Country Club Ice Cream Truck (various neighborhood routes, most evenings April–September)
- *Cuisine:* Ice cream/novelty treats
- *Price Range:* $2-$6 per item
- *Why It’s Noteworthy:* This isn’t your average truck—the menu includes vegan strawberry pops and locally made Italian ices, alongside classic cones. It’s a beloved part of Country Club’s summer evenings—watch for it parked near Pine Street Park or at the end of Highland Avenue at dusk.
Where Foodies Gather
Stroll Highland Avenue on a Friday night, and you’ll notice the lively hum near the intersection of Highland Ave and Country Club Rd. Here, cafés, pizza spots, and takeout counters are packed with both families and students from Wesleyan who’ve made the trek for a quieter, tastier alternative to Main Street. The Highland Avenue Farmer’s Market is a seasonal highlight, offering local produce, cheese, and rotating food stalls—perfect for discovering the next hidden gem.
Why Country Club’s Food Scene Shines
What really sets Country Club apart? It’s that blend of neighborhood charm and quiet ambition. These small businesses champion quality ingredients and put genuine care into every plate. Friendly staff remember your name, menus feature local produce, and there’s a tucked-away spot for every taste and budget. For those willing to explore beyond Middletown’s downtown strip, Country Club offers a warmly welcoming, ever-changing food scene that’s perfect for anyone hungry for discovery.
Next time you find yourself near Highland Avenue or cruising down Higby Road, skip the chains and savor the flavors from these Country Club favorites—you just might find your new go-to spot.