Montauk House Cafe

111 Montauk Ave., New London

I love uncovering a hidden foodie gem, and earlier this summer Montauk House Cafe in New London became my latest. To look at the little cafe, one might not expect that big-deal eats are coming out its kitchen. But venture inside and take a look at the menu: a variety of tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, Asian noodle salad, falafel and more awaits the hungry visitor.

I sampled all of those things and more at Montauk House and every last one of them was remarkable and worth getting again. I'd rank the tacos as my favorite item for their freshness, smart choice of ingredients and overall flavor punch.

The best part about finding a hidden gem is telling everybody to run, not walk, to said gem and start enjoying its cuisine. The second best part in this scenario is crossing off the list of several other items you want to try but didn't have time or room to sample before. Montauk House will keep your lunch and dinner options varied and delicious for the near future, so start that list now!

— Marisa Nadolny

Castello of Niantic

11 E Pattagansett Roadd, Niantic

Though a block off the main drag in Niantic, this house-type structure at the corner of Pattanansett and Hope is familiar to local citizenry because it's been so many come-and-go restaurants over the years. Castello, though, deserves to be here a long time. This is a terrific place with a menu that amiably contrasts classic Italian fare with visionary newer creations — and it's all done with love and skill.

Do not cheat yourself out of trying the creamy Polenta Portabella Stack ($16), with the chewy and flavorful 'shroom augmented by eggplant, mozzarella and asparagus. And a massive bowl of Lobster Pappardelle ($23) was a rich, buttery, velvety amalgam of toothsome pasta, white beans, coins of potato, peas and gorgeous hunks of sweet lobster tail and claw meat. Throw in outstanding service and a comfy atmosphere that works as a casual setting or "big night out," and Castello of Niantic is a sure bet to become an area staple.

— Rick Koster

Mirsina's

162 Main St., Old Saybrook

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so it's a good idea to partake in choice victuals upon breaking one's fast. Mirsina's in Old Saybrook — right next to Liv's Oyster Bar— is one place I can recommend for a delicious breakfast or lunch (or both).

I sampled a hearty egg and cheese wrap and spectacular strawberry pancakes from Mirsina's breakfast menu and was satisfied with and loved each dish, respectively. Lunch is pretty important, too, though, and that's where Mirsina's knocks it out of the park, thanks in part to its selection of Greek dishes on the lunch menu. Souvlaki anyone? I recommend it, because it's fabulous and comes with the best tzatziki I've tasted in a long time.

But as I think a little more, dessert might trump breakfast as the most important meal of the day — it certainly does at Mirsina's. Sample the house-made rice pudding and you'll quickly concur. Hmmm. Seems like you can get a lot of your daily dietary needs met well at Mirsina's. I call that a win for this cute little cafe on Main Street.

— Marisa Nadolny