Anchor Spa

My visits to Anchor Spa are an exceptional experience from start to finish. The vibrant Caribbean atmosphere sets the perfect backdrop for a night out, with colorful decor and lively music that immediately transports you to a tropical paradise. One of the standout features each time I go is the bartender, Bianca. She is truly outstanding—personable, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the drink menu. Her cocktail creations are not only delicious but also beautifully crafted, showcasing her skills and passion for mixology. I have to note that the happy hour Monday- Friday from 5-7 is a fantastic deal, offering a wide range of options that are both affordable and high-quality. From refreshing cocktails to tasty appetizers, it’s hard to go wrong! My go to drinks is the Jamaican breeze, it never disappoints! Overall, Anchor Spa is a gem that combines great drinks, a fun atmosphere, and superb service. I am regular and proud to call this establishment my “home bar”!!!

I had the pleasure of stopping by the Anchor Spa after an event at the Shubert. When you walk in this place you get the hole in the wall, bar type vibe. For a Friday night it was quaint and decadent. If you’re looking for an intimate chill spot this is the place to be. Not too loud, not too crowded, just right. The decor is different with a historical touch. I was disappointed as they were sold out of plantains but to me that just means they must be really good! Better luck next time. The food was hot, flavorful, and good sized portions. I had the pleasure to briefly chat with the owner and you could tell the pride he has in his establishment. The care shows in all aspects of the place. Will definitely be back with more friends and a designated driver because the drink menu looks divine!!!

My husband and I recently visited Anchor Spa and had the pleasure of sitting at the bar with Bianca as our bartender. She was incredibly friendly and attentive, making us feel welcome from the moment we sat down. I wasn’t sure what to order, but Bianca quickly made thoughtful recommendations based on the spirits I enjoy, and each drink she suggested was spot-on! Her knowledge and enthusiasm really enhanced our experience, and we can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend!

Reading about the history of Anchor Spa prior to my visit made me really excited to come check it out. When I walked in, I was really impressed by how it felt like I stepped back in time to a classy New Haven cocktail lounge. I truly felt like any one of their past sophisticated celebrity guests could’ve walked in the door at any moment. We sat in a cozy, rounded booth, surrounded by a wall of books and antiques, and placed our order. Their craft cocktails are phenomenal, and their Caribbean menu had some great choices. The salt fish fritters were very tasty, and are definitely salty! We also ordered the jerk chicken, which had a flavorful kick. The shrimp garlic fry bread and Anchor salad weren’t bad, and the Cajun popcorn was fun to munch on. Next time I definitely want to try the fried chicken, which they were unfortunately out of on this visit. I had to quickly switch to the salad as my choice after hearing the chicken was out, and I do wish I had been offered a protein option to make it a bit more filling. However, I will definitely be suggesting Anchor Spa to others as a great place to relax and have some drinks on a night out in New Haven!

Best bar in New Haven, with the best bartenders! Been coming here for years and will keep coming back. Best wings in the state and the drinks are always incredibly creative and well-made. And shout out to Bianca, who always makes the night special! And the best wing-man in town!

This place has really gone downhill, which is unfortunate because it used to be great. I visited with two others on a Sunday, right when they opened at 5 p.m., and we ended up waiting an hour for our food. When it finally came, my boyfriend's burger and fries were cold, my friend's rasta pasta was also cold, and my shrimp and grits were clumpy and way too salty. I asked for a burger instead, but after waiting another 30 minutes, I just told the waitress to forget it and asked for the check. After an hour and a half, all I had was a cocktail. The kitchen seemed completely off, with food coming out slowly for everyone. It was a really disappointing experience, and I wouldn't recommend this place based on how poorly things went.The only positive was our waitress who was super understanding about our complaints and was accommodating to our table.

As a new homeowner in CT my finance and I will never return back to this bar. This was actually our first night out since we moved here last year so we decided to go bar hoping and Anchor was our first stop. Walking into this establishment there was no hostess so we waited near the front door to be welcomed and told what to do which never happened. I walked to the bar and greeted the male bartender and asked where should we wait and he responded “behind the stanchions” but it was very dismissive. We did just that and about 5 minutes later a couple got up from the bar and that’s where we sat. It was on the side of the bar where there was a woman bartending and she displayed the worst service by far that I have ever experienced !! She rude from the beginning, she tossed my napkin in front of me, she also knocked over bar utensils in front of me and didn’t apologize and then 5 minutes later spilled water on me “accidentally” and again did not apologize. I saw her take several shots while behind the bars with “regular customers” however she was unable to socialize and remain professional !!!! I hope if anyone decides to try this place for the first time they have a better experience but for me the first impression is the one that matters the most and I refuse to spend my money with and establishment with customer service like this!

This is my FAVORITE spot in Downtown. From the songs, to the drinks, to the FOOD. It’s so GOOD. Bianca is the GOAT. Super warm and inviting, I always feel welcome. Try the sexy wings (yes that’s what they’re called lol) and the anchor mule. My go-to’s!