About Countryside Pizza Restaurant

Countryside Pizza Restaurant is a family-friendly spot in Harwinton that draws regulars for generous breakfasts and straightforward American and Greek plates.

Reviewers praise the friendly, efficient service and a menu built on comfort — omelettes, biscuits and gravy, and house-made focaccia sandwiches come up often.

The atmosphere leans warm and unpretentious, with painted river scenes on the walls and a cozy dining room.

Diners often mention quick, attentive staff and consistent, well-cooked portions that keep locals coming back.

Location & Contact

What to Expect

Breakfast dominates the buzz here: omelettes (western and countryside varieties) and biscuits & gravy are frequently singled out for being filling and well seasoned.

The French toast sandwich, complete with eggs, cheese and bacon, is another breakfast standout noted by diners.

Lunch and dinner bring Greek notes — a gyro and Greek burger appear alongside focaccia ham and bacon sandwiches made on homemade bread, crispy fries, onion rings, wings and classic burgers.

Reviewers also remark on well-cooked burgers, fresh fries and a BLT that impressed.

Hashtag Breakfast Fact's

From Porridge to Pancakes

Breakfast in Connecticut has transformed remarkably over the centuries. In early colonial times, the day often began with simple porridge made from grains like corn or oats, a hearty way to fuel farmers for a day of hard work. As the 19th century arrived, breakfast began to reflect growing affluence, with families enjoying pancakes, waffles, and even pastries. This shift marked a cultural move toward more elaborate morning meals, influenced by European traditions. The evolution of breakfast showcases how Connecticut's morning rituals adapted, reflecting the changing tastes and lifestyles of its residents. Today, while the basics remain beloved, the options are far more varied.

History

From the Community

Countryside Pizza Restaurant has built a steady reputation in Harwinton as a reliable family-run stop for breakfast and Greek-influenced lunches.

Regulars emphasize hearty portions and friendly service; one frequent visitor sums it up plainly: "Love this place.

it's a must stop when I am back in CT to see my son," says Chris Smith, reflecting the kind of repeat business the kitchen attracts.

Reviewers point to standout breakfast plates — omelettes, biscuits and gravy and a French toast sandwich — as anchors of the menu, while Greek options such as gyro and a Greek burger offer a different, well-loved lane.

Patrons also praise sandwich work on the house focaccia: "made on their own homemade bread," Mary Mak notes, highlighting the kitchen’s touch on handhelds.

The dining room’s painted river scenes and comfortable vibe earn nods from visitors — Jay M calls it a "Cozy and "countryside" place to eat." Staff are routinely described as quick and friendly, and simple sides like crispy fries and onion rings repeatedly draw positive mention.

For travelers and locals alike, Countryside balances familiar comfort food with a few regional favorites that keep people returning.

Why Locals Love It

Chris Smith ★★★★★

Chris Smith calls it a must-stop when he returns to Connecticut: "Love this place. it's a must stop when I am back in CT to see my son." That steady loyalty matters to the community because it shows the kitchen delivers reliable, crowd-pleasing breakfasts — omelettes and classic diner plates — the kind of comfortable morning meal neighbors expect and savor together.

Mary Mak ★★★★★

Mary Mak dubs Countryside Pizza Restaurant "This place is a hidden gem," after enjoying a gyro and a chicken parm focaccia made on the restaurant’s own homemade bread. Her comment matters to locals because it highlights the kitchen’s attention to sandwiches and Greek fare, offering homemade elements that elevate everyday lunch choices for families and visitors passing through.

Jay M ★★★★★

Jay M described the spot as a "Cozy and "countryside" place to eat," praising a footlong beef dog with sautéed mushrooms, peppers and onions. That description resonates locally: it captures the relaxed, familiar atmosphere and straightforward, well-seasoned comfort dishes — onion rings, fries and diner-style sandwiches — that make this a go-to for post-hike meals and neighborhood outings.

Customer Reviews

Chris Smith
★★★★★ 4 months ago

"Love this place. it's a must stop when I am back in CT to see my son. This has been our go-to spot for breakfast for over 10 years. Food and service have always been fantastic. Highly recommend if you're in the area you stop in. He gets the countryside omlette, and I always get a western with mozzarella cheese in it."

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Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Kelly Thompson
★★★★★ Edited a year ago

"Went to a late breakfast this am with the family. Food was delicious and had left overs too!! I had the triple play w/ rye (I already ate the bacon before I remembered to snap a photo) The kids had breakfast sandwiches and did not disappoint, lots of flavor and cooked perfectly. Service is always friendly and quick. We are happy customers...😃"

Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
George DeVita
★★★★ a year ago

"Stopped here for a quick bite at lunch time. Ordered the Greek burger with a side of Greek fries. The service was quick and attentive. The burger was cooked perfectly. The portion size was just enough to fill me up. The fries were tasty as well. A good All-American lunch spot. If you're driving through Harrington, you won't be disappointed stopping in at this local hotspot.."

Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo
Restaurant review photo

Hashtag Breakfast Fact's

A Taste of Farm Life

Connecticut's breakfast scene has deep roots in its agricultural history. In the 18th and 19th centuries, many families relied on what they could grow or raise themselves. Breakfast menus often included fresh eggs, local fruits, and homemade breads, highlighting the connection to the land. Communities took pride in their seasonal produce, and meals were crafted from ingredients that were fresh from the farm. This connection to agriculture not only shaped the flavors of breakfast but also fostered a sense of community as families gathered to eat before a long day of work. Today, local farms continue to influence breakfast choices, reminding us of this enduring heritage.

Culture

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the omelette taste like?

Their omelettes are thick and fluffy, filled with melted cheese and toppings like bacon or green peppers. The texture is soft inside with a gentle golden edge, so each bite mixes eggy creaminess and salty fillings.

Is the French toast sandwich sweet or savory?

The French toast sandwich is both: the bread is sweet and soaked like French toast but it also holds eggs, cheese and bacon. You get syrup sweetness if you dip or pour, plus salty bacon and melty cheese for balance.

How are the fries and onion rings?

Reviewers say the fries come out fresh and crispy, and the onion rings are superior and crunchy. They pair well with burgers, sandwiches or as a standalone side for dipping.

What’s special about the focaccia sandwiches?

The focaccia sandwiches are made on the restaurant’s own homemade bread and come with hearty fillings like ham or chicken parm. The bread adds a denser, slightly chewy bite that soaks up sauces without falling apart.

Are the Greek dishes tangy or heavy?

The Greek options, including the gyro and Greek burger, balance savory meat with bright toppings. Expect tangy notes from traditional condiments and a satisfying, not overly heavy, plate.

How is the gyro seasoned?

Reviewers enjoyed the gyro, which tastes seasoned and balanced: savory meat with classic gyro toppings. The filling is juicy, with the pita and accompaniments adding fresh and tangy contrasts.

Is the BLT and bacon strong or mild?

The BLT gets praise for clear bacon flavor; reviewers noted the bacon is prominent and satisfying. Expect a salty, smoky bite that stands out against fresh lettuce and tomato.

Do they offer wings and pizza, and how are they?

Both wings and pizza are mentioned by diners as looking and tasting good. Wings are presented as part of the wider casual menu, and pizza appears alongside classic comfort plates.

Is Countryside Pizza a good place for a Harwinton breakfast?

Yes. Locals and visitors call it a reliable breakfast spot in Harwinton with generous portions, friendly service and classic morning dishes like omelettes, biscuits & gravy and French toast options.

What pizzas are most popular at Countryside Pizza Restaurant?

From the menu, people often pick Greek Burger, Omelette, Biscuits & Gravy, French Toast Sandwich, Ham Club Sandwich, Focaccia Bacon and Cheese. Reviews highlight consistency more than novelty, so these are safe, crowd-pleasing choices.

Beer for Breakfast?!

An unusual breakfast trend in early America was the consumption of beer. In colonial Connecticut, it wasn't uncommon for adults to enjoy a small beer or ale with their morning meal. This practice stemmed from both cultural acceptance and the safety of such beverages compared to often-contaminated water sources. While this may seem surprising to modern diners, it reflected the norms of the time when alcohol was a regular part of daily life. This tradition faded as health movements gained popularity in the 19th century, promoting lighter and healthier breakfast options, but it certainly highlights the fascinating complexities of breakfast customs throughout history.

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Connecticut's Premier Pizza Destinations

Current location in red, 8 nearest in blue, all others in gray

Countryside Pizza Restaurant

521 Burlington Rd, Harwinton, CT 06791
4.6
(287 reviews)

The Rise of Coffee Culture

In Connecticut, coffee has become a breakfast staple, symbolizing the shift toward a more social morning ritual. By the early 20th century, coffeehouses started to emerge, offering a cozy place for friends and families to gather over a warm cup. This trend reflected broader changes in American society, where the pace of life began to quicken, and breakfast evolved into a more communal experience. Coffee not only fueled busy mornings but also fostered conversations and connections, making it an essential part of the breakfast experience. Today, coffee continues to be celebrated as a vital ingredient in morning routines across the state.

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Brunch: A Modern Tradition

The modern brunch phenomenon has taken hold in Connecticut, reflecting both changing lifestyles and social trends. Emerging in the late 20th century, brunch combines breakfast and lunch, allowing people to enjoy a leisurely meal while socializing with friends and family. This trend was influenced by the rise of weekend leisure, as people sought to slow down and savor their time together. Iconic brunch items like eggs Benedict and mimosas became popular, showcasing a fusion of flavors and cultures. Today, brunch is more than just a meal; it’s a social event that highlights togetherness and the joy of sharing food.

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