Artichoke Basille’s Pizza has officially opened doors at its newest outpost in downtown Hartford, Connecticut. The authentic, New York-style concept is located at 114 Asylum Street in the former McKinnon’s Pub space and will feature daily specials and events that will roll out in the coming weeks.
“We’re thrilled to be open in downtown Hartford so close to the XL Center and in the heart of the city,” says Matt Rusconi, long-time Artichoke fan and Connecticut franchisee. “We’re ready to serve hungry basketball and hockey fans, concert-goers, and those who live and work in the area. We know Artichoke will be a welcome addition to the neighborhood and to the city of Hartford as a whole.”
The Hartford restaurant features a full bar, as well as a menu starring Artichoke’s authentic New York slices and whole pies topped with signature flavors like the namesake Artichoke Pie, Crab Pie, and Staten Island Pie. The restaurant’s interior features NYC-inspired design elements like exposed brick and tin, which pay homage to Artichoke’s Manhattan roots.
Founded in 2008 by cousins Francis Garcia and Sal Basille, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza specializes in serving an authentic style of pizza born and bred from fourth generation New York City pizzaiolos. Artichoke’s signature slices and whole pies feature a variety of toppings that range from the unique (artichoke cream sauce and Surimi crab meat) to more traditional favorites like pepperoni, meatball, ricotta, and more. Unlike other fast casual pizza concepts, Artichoke’s pies are never made in a conveyor belt oven, and instead, cooked to perfection in a deck oven. Their award-winning offerings have attracted a cult-like fanbase of local New Yorkers, tourists, and celebrities alike, and founders Fran & Sal have garnered national recognition with appearances on The Rachael Ray Show, Fox & Friends, late night TV shows, and two of their own Cooking Channel series: Pizza Masters and Pizza Cuz.
