On Main Street
Mr. D’s: Mr. D’s, located just a five minute walk from campus, is high on the list of campus favorites. Michael DiCostanzo ’23 said, “As a returning student who hadn’t ever gone to Mr. D’s until this year, my first thought upon walking inside was my realization of what I’d been missing out on last year.” Mr. D’s is a bakery that offers everything from delicious cupcakes to 12 different flavors of ice cream and sorbets to boba tea. For those looking for something a little less sweet, the store also sells savory delicacies like grilled cheese sandwiches and nachos. Mr D’s is quintessentially local, found just a short walk down Main Street. Kathleen McClatchie ’23 advised any newcomers to try the Oreo cupcakes: “They are amazing.”
Wallingford Public Library: The Wallingford Public Library is a storied institution that has served its community since 1881. One hundred and forty years later, it has remained a popular place for Choaties to relax and find a good book to read. Arjun Singh ’22, a leader of the Interact Club, a community service organization that partners with the library, described the library environment as “incredibly supportive.” Singh went on to say that “The librarians are always willing to help the community, whether it be helping to pick out a book or organize an event. The library is not only a great place to find books; it’s also an amazing place to engage with the Wallingford community. They work hard to keep the library operating smoothly and I think that’s a wonderful way they give back to the community.”
Archie Moore’s: Archie Moore’s Bar & Restaurant, another Choate classic, has taken an interesting path to North Main Street. Archibald Moore, an Irish immigrant, settled in New Haven and established a watering hole — also known as a saloon — on Willow Street in 1898. It wasn’t until 1982 that the restaurant began serving their award-winning buffalo chicken wings to Wallingfordians. “The first year I discovered Archie Moore’s, for a month and a half straight, I went there for breakfast every Sunday,” said Dylan Allen ’22. Only a few blocks away from campus, the Archie Moore’s boasts a classic bar atmosphere. “The wings are amazing,” Allen ’22 recalls. “The berry raspberry bourbon peach chipotle sauce makes them the best wings ever.”
On North Colony Road
Holiday Cinemas: Holiday Cinemas 14 is a long-time hotspot for Choate students. “We are a local family-owned movie theater that has been around for almost 20 years,” said Mr. Austen Washington, the manager at Holiday Cinemas. After a year of Netflix and Hulu, many Choate students are excited to experience going to the movie theater with their friends again. “Watching movies with friends is always a good bonding experience.” said Nathan Lang ’22. “I recall going to see Green Book freshman year, the movie was so good and deep,” he added. Located on North Colony Road, the movie theater is within walking distance of campus, making it a convenient selection for a night out. “We love to bring a good, comfortable atmosphere [for our customers] to enjoy … and stay safe and healthy,” said Mr. Washington.
Colony Diner: Established in 2004, Colony Diner, is an all-day, family-owned breakfast eatery located on Colony Road. This mom and pop diner was established by owner Mr. Eric Selic after he immigrated from Turkey. Many of the restaurant’s employees are also part of his own extended family, giving the establishment its homey atmosphere. The menu offers a wide selection of dining options throughout the day. “You could come here at night and get breakfast or come in at nine o’clock in the morning and get dinner,” said Mr. Selic. The dining options are diverse, with Mediterranean, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free meals available. “The pancakes were always a move on a Sunday brunch date with friends,” said Lara Prakash ’22. Frequented by students, and a common option for ordering in, the Colony Diner stands amongst the well-loved attractions of Wallingford and Choate.
