Havenly is one of those places I passed by so often while I was in downtown New Haven and wondered what they served - I always thought the sign was unique but didn’t know a thing about them. We finally made a visit and I’m so glad we did - I had no idea that our meal would be towards a greater purpose! I really loved the space itself. It was super cozy, bright, and inviting. The juices we had were very fresh, and the baklava was a stand out. The wraps were delicious, and all of the menu items were healthy and nourishing. Though overall I feel that I’ve had better Middle Eastern food, everything was still good, and to me, it’s worth it to go knowing that I’m supporting a non-profit with a learning environment. Love this cause and I’m so glad I finally know what Havenly is all about!
Overview
Located in the heart of New Haven, Connecticut, Havenly is a vibrant eatery at 25 Temple St that offers a unique dining experience for those looking to savor quality meals in a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its innovative fusion of contemporary flavors and local ingredients, Havenly is the perfect spot for casual dining with a touch of elegance. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, this restaurant provides an inviting space for friends, families, and colleagues to enjoy exceptional food.
The moment you step inside Havenly, you're greeted with an ambiance that blends modern charm with cozy touches. The spacious interior features warm lighting, comfortable seating, and an open kitchen where you can watch skilled chefs prepare your meal. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, making it ideal for both a casual lunch or a more intimate dinner.
The menu at Havenly is a delightful mix of fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with globally inspired dishes. One of the standout features of the menu is its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish is both flavorful and sustainable. From fresh seafood options to vibrant plant-based dishes, there’s something for everyone. Popular menu items include their signature handmade pasta, grilled seafood platters, and a range of creative salads and appetizers.
For those who enjoy a robust, hearty meal, Havenly’s main courses will not disappoint. The braised short ribs are tender and rich in flavor, while the seared salmon provides a healthy yet indulgent choice. Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty to love, with options like roasted vegetable risotto and avocado toast topped with house-made hummus. Each dish is prepared with meticulous care, showcasing the kitchen's attention to detail and dedication to high-quality dining.
When it comes to drinks, Havenly excels in offering a curated selection of craft cocktails, local brews, and a well-rounded wine list. The cocktail menu is a highlight, featuring expertly mixed drinks that balance flavors beautifully. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic martini or a more experimental concoction, the bar team is ready to serve up something special. For wine lovers, the selection offers a range of reds, whites, and sparkling wines that pair perfectly with the menu’s diverse offerings.
As for dessert, Havenly has some indulgent options that will satisfy any sweet tooth. The chocolate lava cake is a crowd favorite, while the panna cotta with fresh berries provides a lighter, refreshing way to end your meal. Each dessert is crafted to perfection, offering just the right balance of sweetness and texture.
The service at Havenly is consistently praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. The staff is well-versed in the menu, offering helpful recommendations and ensuring that each guest feels welcome. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular patron, the team at Havenly makes sure your experience is nothing short of excellent. The attention to detail in both service and food quality is what sets this restaurant apart in New Haven’s competitive dining scene.
One of the aspects that make Havenly stand out is its commitment to creating a memorable dining experience. It’s not just about the food-it's about the overall ambiance, service, and atmosphere that make guests feel at home. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meal with friends, Havenly offers a versatile space where guests can relax, unwind, and indulge in some of the finest dishes New Haven has to offer.
In addition to its impressive menu, Havenly regularly hosts special events, such as wine tastings, live music, and themed dinners, adding an extra layer of excitement for those looking to enjoy something unique. These events are a great way to experience the restaurant in a new light, while also supporting local artists and businesses.
If you’re in New Haven and seeking a restaurant that offers both exceptional food and a welcoming environment, Havenly should be at the top of your list. Whether you're coming in for a quick bite or planning a special evening out, you’ll leave feeling satisfied, with a desire to return and try even more from their diverse and delicious menu.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ No-contact delivery ✓ Delivery ✓ On-site services ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inHighlights
✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessertPopular for
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Catering ✓ Dessert ✓ SeatingAmenities
✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Quiet ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ University studentsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile paymentsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Paid multi-storey car park ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Havenly isn’t just a café—it’s a mission-driven space rooted in empowerment, culture, and community. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the care behind every detail. Chef Nieda, inspired by her journey from Iraq to Syria to Turkey and now New Haven, creates wholesome, healthy meals that reflect the love she put into cooking for her own children. The food is flavorful, comforting, and deeply nourishing. It’s amazing to support a place that not only serves delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dishes but also uplifts refugee and immigrant women in the process. If you're in New Haven, this spot is an absolute gem.
come here if you want to support their social cause of helping refugee women AND have time to spare. food was alright. lentil soup and falafel wrap were not bad. would not recommend the baghdad bowl - chicken and rice lacked flavor, and does not come with any gravy or sauce. their purported social mission is admirable and worth getting behind. our food took a long time, at least 30-40mins, to arrive, presumably because the staff were under training, as per their mission. but still that’s pushing it. they have wifi, great spot for people to study/work at and slowly wait for their food.
It feels good to eat here. The food is delicious and it’s for a good cause. We tried one of each thing on the menu and they were all good. I especially enjoyed the lentil soup.
Havenly is such a gem! The space is beautifully decorated, creating a warm and welcoming vibe. The food is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced—definitely worth it. I especially loved the baklava, which was absolutely delicious. What makes this place even better is that they support a meaningful cause, so you can feel good about your visit. I’ll definitely be back!
Very fresh food. I ordered falafel and hummus. It was super fresh and tasted good. I would suggest to add salt and some more flavor, it will take it to really next level. Vibe of the place is super cool. Also place is run for the very good cause. Highly recommend! Good veg, vegan and gluten free options.
What a warm and wholesome vibe, and very authentic middle eastern food! The staff is so friendly and the Arabic coffee wakes me up like nothing else. Even being a customer at Havenly makes you a part of their commendable mission - to create space for international cultures