Taste of Manchester: Rocco's

As part of the Taste of Manchester 2014 Marketing Committee, Amy has volunteered to write short features on the participating restaurants and share them via our blog here.This year's Taste of Manchester will be held on Tuesday, May 13th from 5:30 to 9 p.m. See the TOM webpage, Facebook page, or Twitter @TastyTownCT (#TOMCT2014) for more information.

“Eat At Rocco’s.” That’s not just the website address; it’s our advice to you, as Rocco’s is the place to be most nights, including the night of the Taste of Manchester. In fact, Rocco’s has been a part of the TOM since the very beginning, and is one of the four Golden Ticket locations in this year’s event. Always showing great support of community events, the staff at Rocco’s is committed to giving back whenever, and however, they can, having donated thousands of dollars to local non-profit organizations.

Boneless Wings

We visited Rocco’s last Monday for their weekly “Half Price Wings and Cheap Beer” night, and as we feasted on delightfully crispy and flavorful boneless wings (half Cajun dry rub, half mild Buffalo sauce), we spoke to Chef “G” about his plans for the Taste of Manchester. Not only will they be serving up those famous wings (which come in a dozen different flavors), but also some Italian favorites from the Rocco’s menu including Sausage with House-Roasted Peppers, Chicken Francaise, Penne  with House Vodka Sauce,  and Eggplant Rollatini. It’s the ultimate Italian tasting menu!

Crab Cakes (photo by Holly)

French Onion Soup (photo by Holly)

Rocco’s is a Manchester mainstay not only because they serve great food at great prices, but also because they strive for excellence in pleasing each and every guest. There are weekly specials posted online and on their Facebook page. They are known for their delicious pizzas, which come in red or white or a variety of specialty styles, with over three dozen toppings available, as well as stromboli and calzones. 

Chicken Francaise (photo by Holly)

Fish and Chips (photo by Holly)

Shrimp Scampi (photo by Holly)

In addition to pizza and wings, the menu is vast and able to be personalized in many ways. There are appetizers, salads, Italian classics, fish entrees, BBQ ribs, chops, steaks, sandwiches and a kids’ menu. From make-your-own pasta-bowls, to choosing from a dozen burger toppings, to customizing your entrée with a choice of add-ins and/or proteins, Rocco’s aims to please.

Chicken Marsala (Photo by Holly)

Ravioli (Photo by Holly)

Baked Haddock (Photo by Holly)

The atmosphere is casual, comfortable and welcoming, with friendly service and plenty of regular customers. While we were there, regulars lined the entire bar, and we overheard one say to another that the Rocco’s Reuben was “out of this world” and so big she had to save half for lunch the next day. The neighborhood clientele and the friendly bartenders and servers make it a great place to hang out. One can choose to sit in the bar area (where you can snack on free peanuts), the pub-style seating area with high-top tables, or the dining room which consists of a mix of both booths and tables.

Rocco’s is open Monday-Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is closed on Sundays. There is a parking lot out back and small counter for take-out orders located in back as well. Their menu, including weekly specials, is available on their website, and they can be reached at 860.645.7777. They also do party portions for large events. Eat at Rocco's! We'll see you there!

Special thanks to server Holly for taking photos for us!

Cannoli