to celebrate my mom’s birthday, we took her out to dinner at j restaurant in hartford and with my third trip there, i can honestly say it just keeps getting better and better!
i went to my friend’s bridal shower there 2+ years ago and a monthly dinner with the girls back in april. this time, a family visit, everyone loved their dinner just as much as all my previous visits.
last time, i ordered crab cakes and a greek salad, which was great and not too heavy. this time, i opted for the seared sea scallops with shoestring potatoes and asparagus, along with the signature salad (subbed goat cheese in place of blue cheese, with cranberries, pears and pecans).
my one staple every time i’ve gone: the sweet chili calamari. it’s unreal - unlike any calamari i’ve ever had before - lightly battered, not greasy and served with the best sweet chili glaze.
the birthday girl got a bacon-wrapped tenderloin with mashed potatoes, spinach and asparagus, while my dad got a spicy sausage and pasta dish with tomato, arugula and parmesan.
to finish it off, we shared one creme brulee with three spoons and it was a perfect end to the meal. i really can’t recommend j enough - i’ve enjoyed every meal i’ve had there, as has everyone i’ve been with.
it has its own parking lot and is located right next to hartford hospital/across the street from the connecticut children’s medical center. pretty easy to get to and well worth venturing downtown for.
j restaurant & bar | 297 washington street | hartford, ct 06106
