Community Corner

Hidden Gems Of Hartford And Tolland Counties

Just follow your nose to the "magic grill" at the latest Hidden Gem.

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Bart's in Windsor has been considered a landmark luncheonette for more than 60 years.
Bart's in Windsor has been considered a landmark luncheonette for more than 60 years. (Chris Dehnel/Patch )

WINDSOR, CT — The center of Windsor is known as a postcard scene. Along the main drag, we encounter vintage buildings, small shops, the town green, a pretty nice private school and a variety of restaurants. Speaking of food, there's another iconic red brick establishment tucked just outside the center in a small plaza that's the latest Hidden Gem — Bart's.

Bart's is one of the true classic luncheonettes and drive-ins in north central Connecticut and people from all over the state who know the location have been stopping there during their travels for the past six decades.

The signature menu item is the chili dog, a footlong culinary marvel made on the "magic grill." OK, any hot dog from Bart's is worth a mention.

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Bart's is also known for its fresh fried clams, burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream.

"What really brings customers back is the feeling of family and friendship," the staff likes to say.

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Want to to see how Bart's pulls off that chili dog? Click here for a behind-the-counter video Patch compiled way back in 2013.

Bart's is located at 55 Palisado Ave. in Windsor.

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The Hidden Gems series features out-of-the-way mom and pop restaurants, small specialty stores you may have never heard of, little-known historical markers or beautiful nature spots that may be a bit off the beaten path, all located within Hartford and Tolland counties. Do you have a favorite "hidden gem" in the area that you wish to see featured in this column? Email your ideas to Chris.dehnel@patch.com.

Other Gems in this series:

2022

2021 and earlier:

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