Food lovers and community champions alike, mark your calendars: the beloved New Haven Appetizer & Dessert Crawls are back in downtown, and this year’s lineup is better than ever.
If spending an afternoon wandering New Haven’s vibrant streets, sampling unique small bites and decadent sweets from some of the city’s most buzzworthy restaurants sounds like fun to you, then you won’t want to miss this. And did we mention that every ticket sold supports local nonprofits making a difference?
New Haven Appetizer & Dessert Crawls Details
The Shops at Yale are hosting three crawls this spring and summer—April 26, June 7, and August 2—each featuring a rotating menu from 12 of downtown’s best eateries.
From Strega’s indulgent cacio e pepe to Union League Café’s delicate macarons, and Cookie39’s perfectly chewy chocolate chip cookies, these events are designed to show off the creative culinary talent that has put New Haven on the map. For just $25, you’ll also enjoy free parking, exclusive shopping deals, and even a chic tote bag — perfect for carrying those sweets home (if you have any left, that is).
But the crawls aren’t just about savoring great food. They’re also a celebration of community spirit.
Proceeds from ticket sales to this year’s crawls will go directly to the New Haven Free Public Library, Fellowship Place, and the Robin I. Kroogman New Haven Animal Shelter.
Over the years, these events have raised tens of thousands of dollars for local nonprofits, and with expanded ticket availability this time around, organizers are aiming to make an even bigger impact in 2025.
And let’s not forget about the extras.
On August 2, the fun spills beyond the table with a dog adoption event at Broadway Island. Live jazz, face painting, and the chance to meet some adorable adoptable dogs add a lively, family-friendly twist to an already irresistible day. This will be a great thing to do with your kids!
Whether you’re a foodie eager to discover new flavors, a longtime fan of New Haven’s culinary scene, or someone looking to do good while indulging your sweet tooth, these crawls offer something truly special.
While this is a great chance to explore some fantastic local restaurants, it’s also about supporting your local community. This is a great opportunity to come together, enjoy delicious bites, and make meaningful connections in one of Connecticut’s most dynamic downtown districts.
For more info, visit the official website of the New Haven Appetizer & Dessert Crawls.
