Top Rated Nightlife in Hartford

One of the area's best restaurants, Black-eyed Sally's BBQ & Blues has barbecue, catfish, grits, fried chicken and plenty of other Southern favorites, all accompanied by live music. Open for lunch and dinner, this is one of the most popular eateries in the downtown area and a great place to "Pig-Out" (a dinner special that includes ribs, pulled pork and Andouille sausage). Be sure to get here early because it gets busy on weekends and game days!

This restaurant's name says it all--Booze, Blues and BBQ. Theodores' was given a Keeping the Blues Alive award and named the Best Blues Club in the Country in 2004 by the Blues Foundation, so you know this is the place to come for some real, authentic Blues. But that's not all you'll find here! Make sure not to miss out on the menu, featuring everything from individual pizzas, to Gumbo, and of course, lots of amazing Barbecue. And don't skip the drinks either, try the World's Greatest Margarita or Bayou Punch. Theodores' is just a little taste of the Deep South in New England.

The Federal A Restaurant & Bar, located in one of Agawam's historic buildings, was opened to the public by Ralph Santaniello and his co-partner executive chef Michael Presnal in the year 2002. The menu features American dishes blended with French and Italian flavors, lending it a contemporary European twist. The restaurant's interiors are an extension of the menu's heterogeneity, as the modern decor is seamlessly blended with the vintage architecture. The Skillet Seared Salmon, the Burnt Tangerine Glazed Cod, and the Fork & Knife Braised Shortribs are some of the must-haves here. Give dinner a sweet finish with a slice of Tiramisu or the exquisite Chocolate Pistachio Semigreddo.

Get ready for great music and great cocktails at Shakago Martini & Piano Bar. With over 200 martinis, plus a full bar with an impressive wine and beer selection, you'll be able to find the perfect drink to enjoy at this musical bar. The first floor of the bar has live entertainment and also serves food, like baked stuffed shrimp and pasta primavera. The second floor is an intimate lounge lit by candle light that's perfect for both first dates and private parties.

Located on Farmington Avenue in West Hartford, Treva marvels its guests with its delicious and innovative Italian cuisine. The menu is primarily made up of recipes from the central and northern regions of Italy and it's filled with tantalizing fresh pastas, scallops, pork and chicken dishes, come la mamma lo fa (how mom does it). Give your meal a sweet finish with a slice of Tiramisu or cheesecake from their dessert menu.

A popular night spot among locals and tourist alike, time spent at Sunset Cafe seldom fails to be a memorable one. Largely frequented by the young citizens of the city, the energy at this club is set at a constant high note. Resident DJs keep the crowd buzzing with excitement with a great track selection, while the bartender ensures everyone has enough to drink. Regular events, theme nights and occasional visiting DJs add to the excitement of this place.