To our readers:

To say it’s been a long year would be an understatement. This time last March, we were just entering the first days of the pandemic, and in the ensuing weeks and months, we lost so much. There have been a few silver linings along the way, though—think of the quality, and quantity, of time we have been able to spend with our families, the new skills or career we may have acquired, and the ways we have helped those in need.

Governor Ned Lamont announced plans to purportedly ease some COVID-19 restrictions in Connecticut on March 19. Please visit portal.ct.gov for the latest updates and be sure to follow all COVID-19 protocols.

Now, with hope on the horizon, we can gradually return to the business of living, and thanks to you, what follows is a comprehensive list of businesses in the Greater New Haven area that are tops, according to those that voted. We applaud these readers’ favorites and encourage you to shop with them safely (most businesses are operating at a normal, or near normal level, with many offering the options of curbside pick-up or delivery for those who are not yet comfortable going into a public setting). Please remember to support all our local businesses, whether they comprise our Best of New Haven 2021 list or not.

While we are thankful that these businesses are open and will hopefully continue to flourish, we also want to take a moment to remember those that were forced to close due to the pandemic… they will be sorely missed.

Shutterstock Businesses and restaurants in Downtown New Haven and the Greater New Haven area are anticipating a busy summer season, particularly as COVID-19 restrictions are eased in Connecticut.