Colony Grill

- 515 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850

For decades, Colony Grill has been a culinary landmark in Connecticut, known for perfecting a singular, unique style of pizza that has earned it a passionate following: the Original Hot Oil Bar Pie. Located in Norwalk, this celebrated pizza restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it's a piece of local history and a testament to the enduring appeal of quality, simplicity, and a one-of-a-kind flavor profile. Originating in Stamford in 1935, Colony Grill’s Norwalk location continues the tradition of serving this signature thin-crust masterpiece that is now a certified Connecticut local specialty.

The core of Colony Grill's reputation rests on its distinctive pizza. It is a paper-thin, crispy 'bar pie' style—small in diameter, designed to be easily managed with one hand (leaving the other free to hold a drink). Patrons consistently praise the pizza for its 'great crunch' and the 'brittle, crispy crust' that maintains its structure without being overly doughy. While the standard cheese pizza starts at an inviting price point of $10.95, the real star is the spicy, pepper-infused creation known simply as "hot oil." This topping is a favorite addition, which bakes into the crust, imparting a unique, zesty flavor that distinguishes Colony Grill from every other pizza restaurant in New England.

While the focus is on their iconic pizza, the atmosphere and beverage program are equally important to the experience. The restaurant is celebrated for having a 'Great beer selection' and 'Great cocktails,' making it an ideal spot for adults and groups. The overall vibe is friendly, professional, casual, and lively, perfect for watching 'Sports' or having a meal with family. From college students to families and groups of friends, the 'Colony experience' is a Connecticut tradition that extends well beyond just the food, blending a beloved Irish-American tavern heritage with a unique Italian-inspired culinary tradition.

The Colony Grill in Norwalk is strategically positioned on West Ave, making it a central and convenient destination for those in Fairfield County and beyond. Its location ensures ease of access for both local residents and tourists exploring the area.

• Address: 515 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850

Accessibility and parking are well-addressed to ensure a comfortable visit for all patrons:

• Parking Availability: Guests benefit from both a free parking lot and the option of free street parking, which is a considerable convenience in a busy area like Norwalk.
• Full Wheelchair Accessibility: The restaurant is fully equipped for accessibility, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating.
• Transportation: Its central location off major routes makes it a straightforward destination for those traveling by car within Connecticut.

Colony Grill's service model is built to accommodate a wide variety of customer needs and dining preferences throughout the day and into the late evening:

• Dining Options: Available for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, with comfortable Seating and full Table Service provided.
• Dine-in, Takeout, and Outdoor Seating: Customers can enjoy the casual, cozy, and slightly trendy atmosphere indoors, take their meal to go, or dine al fresco with the available outdoor seating.
• Late-Night Food: The kitchen offers a late-night food service, catering to those looking for a quick bite or a full meal outside of typical dinner hours.
• Full Bar Service: A bar is onsite, offering a wide array of offerings including Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Hard Liquor, and Wine, complemented by Happy Hour Drinks specials.
• Reservations Accepted: The restaurant accepts reservations, an important feature for groups or during peak weekend hours, though customers are advised that there may still be a wait time due to the venue's popularity.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Recognized as 'Good for kids' and 'Good for kids birthday,' the restaurant provides high chairs to comfortably seat younger guests.
• Payments: Accepts modern payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments.
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian options are available on the menu, ensuring choice for all diners.

The experience at Colony Grill is distinguished by a collection of features that have cemented its status as a Connecticut dining institution:

• The Signature Pizza: Its most famous feature is the paper-thin, ultra-crispy 'Bar Pie' crust, a one-of-a-kind local specialty since 1935, offering a texture and flavor unparalleled in traditional pizza.
• Original Hot Oil Topping: The essential highlight is the house-made hot oil, a full-of-flavor, pepper-infused creation that adds a unique, zesty kick to the pizza, often drizzled on top of popular combinations like sausage or pepperoni.
• Creative Pizza Variations: The menu features unique options beyond the classic cheese pie, including the 'Signature Salad Pizza' ($13.95), which features the Colony crust topped with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette.
• All-Day Dining Specials: Specialty pies like the 'Breakfast Pies' ($13.95) with bacon or sausage, egg, and cheese, allow patrons to enjoy the iconic crust even in the morning or for an evening twist.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: The extensive drink menu is a major draw, featuring an impressive selection of Beers On Tap (including local favorites like Two Roads and New England Brewing Co. Seasonal), a variety of bottled and canned beers, and a well-curated selection of Wines and Cocktails.
• Lively Social Atmosphere: The venue is noted for its casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, with a bar onsite and the ability to watch sports, attracting a diverse crowd from college students to families.
• Fast Service: Despite the occasionally long wait for an order during peak times—a testament to its popularity—the overall experience is marked by 'Fast service' which helps move the dining process along efficiently once seated.

For Connecticut residents and visitors looking to plan their visit, place a takeout order, or inquire about reservations, here is the direct contact information for the Norwalk location:

• Address: 515 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850
• Phone: (203) 866-5252

For anyone in the Connecticut region, choosing Colony Grill means opting for a unique, authentic regional specialty over a generic pizza experience. What is truly worth choosing is the opportunity to taste the Original Hot Oil Bar Pie—a pizza style that has defined a Connecticut culinary tradition for nearly a century. The paper-thin, crispy crust with the signature hot oil topping provides a truly memorable 'great crunch' and flavor that is impossible to replicate elsewhere.

Beyond the pizza, the establishment offers a comprehensive and vibrant dining experience. The 'Great beer selection,' featuring local brews like Lawson's Sip of Sunshine Double IPA and New England Brewing Co. Seasonal, ensures a perfect pairing for your meal. The availability of diverse dining options—from a quick bite at lunch to a late-night cocktail with friends—makes it suitable for almost any occasion. While the popularity might occasionally result in a wait, as noted by customer reviews, the high-quality, flavorful pizza, the lively atmosphere, and the genuine sense of being at a local institution make Colony Grill a staple and a must-visit destination for true pizza enthusiasts in Connecticut.

Colony Grill

515 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850, USA