Fair Haven - New Haven, CT Area Guide

Fair Haven houses a rich history and has gone through many revisions over the years. Fair Haven was originally formed in 1679 to house industrial workers and was a very successful oyster and fishing town, producing 5,000 gallons of oysters per day. In the 19th century, Fair Haven housed a number of slaves through the Underground Railroad and saw an influx of immigrants settle here after the Civil War.

Today, much of Fair Haven has been renovated, including the waterfront area and many buildings along Grand Avenue. However, the neighborhood still strives to preserve its historic past, which can be seen throughout the River Street and Quinnipiac River Historic Districts.

Visit one of New Haven's many museums, such as the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, one of the oldest and largest natural history museums in the world.

Fair Haven has a host of dining options that cater to every taste. Whether you're in the mood for pizza, fresh seafood or delectable homemade pastries, it can be found in one of Fair Haven's several local eateries.

For nearly a decade, locals have chosen Grand Apizza on Grand Avenue for gourmet pizza and Italian fare. While the family-run restaurant serves fresh salads, stuffed breads, subs and hot entrees, the house favorite is definitely the thin-crust pizza. Try the vegetarian pizza, topped with eggplant, olives, broccoli, spinach, mushrooms and mozzarella. For a unique concoction, order the seafood-centric pizza that features clams, shrimp, hot cherry peppers and bacon.

Boat House Cafe serves breakfast and lunch on the scenic Quinnipiac River Marina. Locals and fishermen alike can be seen dining in the charming cafe while enjoying the nautical decor or sitting on the sunny patio to take in peaceful marina views. Breakfast favorites include corned beef hash, blueberry pancakes, French Texas Toast and the Big Breakfast, three eggs, bacon, sausage, home fries and toast. Lunch entrees include sandwiches, soups and salad in addition to fried clams, fresh seafood and hearty Italian specialities. Boat House Cafe also provides affordable prices and happy hour specials ensuring that you leave satisfied without breaking the budget.

Roccos Bakery on Ferry Street, another favorite of Fair Haven locals, serves the community fresh baked pastries and breads as well as cakes for any special occasion. Bring home fresh baguettes to serve alongside a delectable dinner or a variety of stuffed breads filled with pepperoni, spinach, broccoli, cheese or chicken to use as your main course. Peruse a pastry case filled with Italian rainbow cookies, jam-filled short breads, cheesecakes and frosted cupcakes. Roccos is guaranteed to satisfy any sweet tooth

While you will not find any bars or nightlife options in Fair Haven itself, New Haven, as a whole, hosts a wide variety of opportunities to have agreat night out on the town. Visit one of the many great watering holes less than 2 miles away such as Cave A' Vin or Firehouse 12. Take advantage of happy hour specials at local wine bar, Cave A' Vin. The French-themed bar features local art every month and live music and bands every weekend. Firehouse 12 showcases live blues and jazz bands and serves classic cocktails, wine and craft beer in a relaxed and intimate environment.

Getting around Fair Haven is easy, whether you prefer to travel by foot, car or public transportation. The majority of Fair Haven residents travel by car and enjoy easy access to Interstate 91. Although you won't be able to hail a cab on the streets, you can arrange for taxi pick-up or the smartphone-based Uber app which services New Haven neighborhoods. While Fair Haven does not have any parking garages, street parking is available.

Fair Haven is the 5th most walkable neighborhood in New Haven and many daily errands can be accomplished by foot. If choosing to bike, be aware that Fair Haven does not have any designated bike lanes, but major roads such as Grand Avenue, Chapel Street and Lombard Street are considered bike-friendly. Several of New Haven's buses also service the neighborhood, with routes traveling to Downtown New Haven, Yale and other desirable destinations.

Fair Haven is full of parks and recreational locations fit for all ages Clinton Park, Grand Acres Community Gardens and Lighthouse Point Park are just a few of the fantastic attractions found in the Fair Haven area.

Criscuolo Park, a must see, provides a multi-use green space with a playscape, athletic field, two baseball fields and a full basketball court. Stroll with your four-legged friends along the paved walking trail or let your children burn off some energy with friends. If you prefer water activities, visit Quinnipiac River State Park along the Quinnipiac River. The 6-mile park offers 4 miles of trails perfect for hiking or walking. Residents can also be seen fishing, canoeing and hunting in this urban oasis.

Residents of Fair Haven can enjoy a lower cost of living compared to the rest of the city. One bedroom rentals average $1,000, putting the cost of living nearly 12 percent less than New Haven.

Although gas prices settle in at 11 percent higher than the national average, a trip on a local bus only costs $1.50. There are also discounted fares available for seniors, disabled citizens and children. The cheap fares leave room in your wallet for the $5 beers at the local pub.

Fair Haven and the surrounding areas house plenty of options for shopping, whether it be a quick trip to Rite Aid to grab the essentials or a shopping spree through Coquetas Boutique on Ferry Street for fashionable women's apparel.

Vintage aficionados can delight in the offerings of nearby English Building Market and Fashionita Vintage & Variety. English Building Market, located on Chapel Street, sells everything from vintage apparel to kitchen essentials. Browse vintage teacups, dinnerware, men's ties, jewelry, furniture and paintings; locals praise the shop for one-of-a-kind treasures. Likewise, Fashionita on Whitney Avenue provides vintage findings and eclectic items for amazing bargains, from early 19th century jewelry to lovely 1950's dresses.

For grocery needs, residents can shop at C-Town Supermarkets in the center of the neighborhood or one of the many speciality stores. Ferraro's Market on Grand Avenue has been providing New Haven with quality goods and speciality items for 60 years. The family-run grocery has an impressive fresh seafood and meat department, a variety of fresh produce and a deli. Choose from dozens of prepared food options, such as fresh pasta, homemade sauces, soups, entrees and more

Be sure to also stop by one of the area's nearby farmers markets or speciality vendors for a local treat. Fair Haven Lobster Company on Front Street is a family-owned business that has been selling fresh lobster, clams, scallops and seafood for over 50 years. In addition, Fair Haven hosts their own farmers market that runs from July through October in Quinnipiac River Park and sells fresh produce, goods and breads from a host of local farmers.