A Change of Eatery

Earlier this week, my friend Allison and I met up for lunch at Tinker’s Seafood in Hartford. Tucked away on Park Street, this combined eatery and fish market is such a delightful local find that I can’t believe it flew under my radar until now. In any case, it’s high time to crawl out from the rock I live beneath and eat some fried seafood.

With its hanging menu boards, counter service and take-out/eat-in options, the casual, no-frills atmosphere at Tinker’s is somewhat reminiscent of a fast food spot (with better food). But beyond the plastic utensils and self-serve sodas, the mural-adorned walls, huge saltwater fishtank, and adjoining seafood market are unique to Tinker’s alone.

The restaurant menu offers tons of fried seafood combos, steamed shellfish, chowders & bisques, pasta, broiled seafood, and, of course, lobster. Tinker’s also has a great list of starters, sandwiches, and salads with add-ins like grilled swordfish, tuna, and salmon.

I started lunch with a small (which translated to plate-sized) caesar salad while Allison began with a cup of the tasty New England clam chowder. At this point, I should mention that the prices at Tinker’s are fantastic and the portions are pretty generous- the salad was $2.95 & the chowder was $2.50.

I also enjoyed a platter of fried catfish ($8.95), which was super meaty, not overwhelmingly breaded, and wonderfully satisfying. I cheerfully doused every last one of my fries in malt vinegar…mmm… Allison opted for a fried oyster po’ boy sandwich from the list of daily lunch specials. It looked and apparently tasted amazing. Needless to say, we parted ways with our fair share of leftovers.

So, pay a visit to Tinker’s if you’re in the mood for seafood. Eat in, take out, or stop by their fish market and cook something at home.

2074 Park Street

Hartford, CT 06106-2055

(860) 232-1382