I second the vote for Hot Tomatoes -be sure to order the garlic bread, it's killer! If you like true NY Deli and have a car, visit Rein's Deli in Vernon, Ct. - about 20 minutes outside Hartford. Pierpont's was ok - I was not impressed. Haven't been to Max's, but have heard good things about it. If you like blues / jazz, I hear Black Eyed Sally's (near the Goodwin and Hot Tomatoes) is good too.

Since the Goodwin is my corporate hotel, I have stayed there many times. It is a historic property (i.e. - it has "character", but the walls are thin, it can take a long time to get hot water, and the furniture is worn). The rooms range from large to small - so you may want to ask at the front desk for a larger room. Since it is downtown, none of the rooms have great views.

The bar is mediocre - service ranges from decent to awful.

If you need a cab, call down to the bell desk about 10 minutes prior. Last time we were there, it took as long as 20 minutes to get a cab in the mornings.

Hope this review of the Goodwin helps.