Sandra's Next Generation in New Haven

This was the best soul food spot that Ive experienced so far. In my town and in neighboring towns you cant get anything this good. It is definitely worth a 40 minute drive. Food was so good, I woke up and ate the leftovers for breakfast the next morning lol. Will definitely be back!

Best soul food Ive tried so far in hamden-NH area. Have tried three.When you order a two-entree meal, youll get a split amount of the individual entrees to equal the total amount of an entree meal (hope that makes sense).I could taste the salt water in the catfish. But not enough to throw it back in the sea.I could taste the low quality rice of The "Caribbean rice".The Mac n cheese is excellent! Almost as good as my wifes. 👀The barbecue sauce on the barbecue wings is pretty good. And the meat is well cooked.The candied yams are sweet, and texture made to perfection.Sweet plantains are nice and soft.Got food for 2 adults and 2 children. Spent $70.

Food was great. Super busy place with a long wait but I understand why because the food was really great! Staff was nice and friendly and we enjoyed our meals as well!

The food here is just as amazing as the staff!! EVERYTHING WAS GOOD!!! Ill take that 45 min drive anytime for their food!!!

Definitely worth the wait food went down a lil pricey could give a lil bit more but definitely could been more tender on the ribs the bbq game was ok the collard green was hitting the wait was more lil to bit $26 for this food I couldn’t complain should of been more thou don’t trust the prices on the menu they gave they owe prices rice was good to top off the corn bread the Mac and cheese went down ribs definitely could of been better thou not enough for the buck the blacken shrimp was definitely good with the sauce the customer service definitely needs some help

Food is great amazing it’s a little busy so it’s best to call ahead of time or order online been going here for years

Use to be a great price now it’s like 10 extra dollars than it use to be and it just doesn’t make sense. They want you to pay 27$ for a plate you can get at Popeyes for 10$ s

My first and last visit.The wait was 45 minutes for take out. I figured It would’ve been worth the wait and I was disappointed. Fried cat fish, cabbage and Mac and cheese. All around disgusting and not fresh for a 45 minute wait. Even the lemonade was nasty and had some leaves in the drink. Tasteless and no salt or pepper packs Never again. Ugh to the mac and cheese and cabbage especially 🙏🏿🤮. The corn bread was a little ok but never agin!!!!

What can I say, Sandra, her family, her workers all make you feel like family. Oh did I mention the food is fabulous? Cookie Reshenk.

I have never left a review for anything I’ve eaten in my life. This food was so good that it made me leave a review. This food is truly some of the most exceptional soul food I’ve ever eaten. I would HIGHLY recommend eating here, or making the drive to get a taste. There wasn’t a single item that we ordered that we weren’t over the moon about. Don’t even bother debating menu options. It’s all good.

First of all, let me say that this is one of the most authentic Southern places that Ive been in a long time. Not only did they have amazing peach cobbler, they had an amazing staff that were very attentive and very, very helpful. I love the atmosphere. I love the people that work here and Ive been here many times in the past. I used to live in the area. You will not be disappointed if you come here to eat.

Second time eating here after several years and gotta say it was a pretty delicious lunch. Ordered the blackened catfish and some fried wings. Both were nicely cooked and perfectly seasoned. Very happy this place is no longer cash only. I look forward to coming back soon to try other menu items.

UPDATE: Im lowering review from 5 stars to 2 stars after todays experience. As the original review indicates (see below), they used to honor the $10 lunch special for vegetarians, which consisted of 4 sides. I wouldve been okay if they raised the price since my last visit a year or so ago (like most retailers). But not today, in fact every side dish, 4-8oz container, was $5 each. Quick math, carry the one...and you get $20 for the same $10 lunch a year ago.ORIGINAL REVIEW:Excellent meal of 4 vegetables since I dont eat meat, just fish sometimes. Ill be back. And the Desserts look amazing too. Bring cash

The customer service lady at the door handling the pickuporders ( Jul/20/ 2022 @1300Hrswas very rude .Spoke to delivery driver in a very condescending and accusing manner.I call store to speak with a manager,but kept getting their voicemail .I would hate to think that this kind of behavior is tolerated by those who are in charge of managing this establishment. Two thumbs down from me

I found this place when I googled restaurants in New Haven CT. A few popped up and I saw this Soul Food place. We decided to go on over and give it a try. Upon arrival the line was out the door. As we approached we discovered all the people outside had already ordered and there were no seating inside. I placed our orders and she said the wait would be about 45 minutes. I almost hit the dloor...but I knew that our food was going to be cooked to order. Which meant a lot to know that my salmon is not j ust sitting in some tray waiting for someone to come along and order it. The chicken wings had to be cooked as well. We ordered oxtail, collards and Mac & cheese, creamy jerk salmon, yams & potato salad and fried chicken wings with cabbage and Mac & cheese. Everything tastes sooooo good. My husband is a cook and once owned a Soul Food restaurant, so we are bit critical of "soul food" restaurants. Sandras did not disappoint we were happy with everything. The food was seasoned to perfection and cooked just right. Its a two hour drive and worth it. We will be back to try other dishes as well. I merely the owner who was a sweetheart and she pointed out whos who working in her establishment. Thanks for the great tasting meal.

Their food is delicious. Food plate size is large. Definitely would return back to Sandra’s Next Generation when I return to New Haven. Sandra and her staff’s great service and kindness reminds me of the southern hospitality I received in Atlanta, Georgia. 5 stars!

I was very disappointed with the food I received, the prices that were displayed, werent the prices I payed. I was excited to try the black owned business and they let me down.Hello again. It seems to me like you are focusing on the wrong thing. Im always happy to do business with black owned business. Black dollars matter. I checked the website and looked at the display in the store for the prices. Both read the same price but when rung up now its subject to change. Wouldnt it make since you have the most current price up in the store.The food was most definitely old and tasted like it was. Not here to go back and forth have a fantastic day.

Since moving to New Haven, Sandra’s has been a staple for my family when we are in the mood for delicious, home cooked meals. The staff has always made us feel welcome and like family. We recently ordered catering for my son’s birthday and Sandra personally called me to talk about details, even when reaching out less than 24 hours before. We love coming here not only for the amazing food but also for the friendly and warm service.

Everything I tried so far was delicious. I had the Mac and cheese , the blacken catfish , the bbq chicken wing all delicious . I brought a friend and she tried the Mac and cheese and greens. Understand there will be a wait during peak times but it is worth it.

Used to much sugar in food!No soul in that food. What a waste of money. Collard greens to sweet and corn bread tasted like it was a week old. Sweet potatoes tasted like nutmeg in sugar. Meat to greasy. No more!

Listen, I was having a bad day and one thing about me some food is going to make me feel better. So I decided to treat myself to Sandra’s after I heard on the radio that people are taking buses to get their chicken. So not only was their food AMAZING!! The customer service was ON POINT, they are so welcoming, helpful and friendly. The girl who took my order gave me her honest opinion on the food with a smile. I ordered 2 entrees, 2 sides and dessert. Everything was delicious and flavorful and I will definitely be going back. Thank you for making my day Sandra’s !!

Customer service was great, the employees were very nice and helpful however, this food is not good. The fried catfish has no crunch and has a “fresh out the water” aftertaste. The mac and cheese has no salt and isn’t baked enough, the candied yams have no candy. The fried chicken is meh, and they give one piece of cold cornbread. Just bland and soft. The portion sizes are poor. $20 for two meats and two sides and got 1 piece of soft catfish and two chicken wings boiled in grease cause this isn’t fried. I’m not even tryna be funny but these are easy improvements.

This was a great find. The sides were delicious, I wish they were a little larger. The beef ribs were pretty good, the fried chicken was ok. Will definitely try again to taste different options. There is no place to dine in.

I understand there is a pandemic and a shortage of workers but I’ve never gotten my food on time. There is always a wait.I never get my confirmation that my food is ready until 2 hours after pick up. I’m always waiting 20-30 minutes after my pick up time. Last time few times I ordered from here, the chicken was old and reheated and the fry chicken empanada made me sick. So I’ve been driving to Bridgeport instead to go to Thelma’s.Today, I am at work and I decided to try again. Its been awhile so maybe they have listened to the reviews of their customers and made some adjustments. So, I ordered chicken and waffles and after 15 minutes of waiting outside I left. I called to cancel the order and I was placed on hold twice. The young lady seemed to have an attitude. When I was placed on hold the second time, I was talking but I guess she didn’t want to hear because she just put the call on hold.I will not be back. I’ve been going here for over 8 years constantly. I will not spend another dime to support establishments. I work hard for my money and I deserve better service. I support Black Business and I will continue to do so, just not this one. I noticed some negative reviews and not one reply from the owner but can reply on a review that gives positive feedback. That says a lot. The food taste better when it was bought with food stamps….

Im not sure if they put their foot in this food or if they sprinkle it with love, but this is by far the best home cooking soul food Ive ever had. The food was hot and fresh, and the girl who took our order was kind and helpful.There arent seats inside, so we scarfed the food down in the car. I am so glad we went here on our trip to New Haven.If you like soul food or even just fresh hot food with a comfort vibe, get yo self to this spot asap. Tastes almost exactly like the home cooking my granny made me in the South as a little girl. 10/10

There are two faults that I find with your business.The prices are high for the neighborhood. Secondly... Why does it take an hour to pick up take-out? There is a squad of folks behind the counter, what r they doing? Apparently, there are inefficiencies regarding the delivery process which is frustrating! I am so sure you have lost business because of your issues with timeliness. You have a quality product with a delivery system that needs an overhaul!!

This food is amazing 100000/10 I would eat every meal from here if I could. I highly recommend to everyone to try this place out if you haven’t already.

The food was really good . I ordered rice and peas , man and cheese , bbq chicken, bbq pork ribs and candied yams . Everything tasted so gd . Very well seasoned. I’m from NY , bx and it’s hard to find a good soul food in ct and this place has it . But it would’ve been nice to get served a little more . Their portions are really small to be that expensive.

Food was really good, and it was authentic. I liked that I was able to place the order online. I do wish they put a sign within their restaurant indicating where to go for online order pickup. When I went in the first employee told me to wait on the regular line, which I did. 10 minutes later, the cashier told me the pickup section was somewhere else. Turned out ny food was ready and I was waiting for nothing. Better communication would have been nice. Other than that, was a nice pitstop for yummy soul food.

The food at Sandra’s is the bomb!! Sadly It’s only takeout and it does take about 20minutes for them to prepare the food but the wait was worth it. I had the salmon with collard greens, yams, and rice (the rice was included). I added a little jerk sauce on the side because I love my food to be extra saucy.

Food was great. But could have portion it out a bit better. My souse literally had a spoon full of Mac n cheese. Don’t advertise 4 sides and then the portions aren’t side sizes. Food was tasty overall.

Fantastic soul food right in the middle of New Haven. The fried chicken, oxtail empanada, plantains, BBQ platter and everything else was amazing. Cant wait to go back on a summer day and eat outside.

My lovely gf paid for the convenience to have our families thanksgiving dinner made - exactly $260 later, with the scheduled pick up time being, 7pm. I arrived early from cities away. Arrived to a huge crowd, confused on how they’d pick up orders, etc. it is now 9:54 and I’m still sitting outside in my car with my 3 year old, with nothing but promised times that can’t be met. I was also told if I like I could leave and have it delivered. My $260 was taken in advance and, that to me should have ensured tonight service, despite the occasion. As a business owner myself. I know to never over book, because I can’t possibly met the needs I advertise or promise. Not one apology or accommodation. My plans have been pushed back. My money didn’t take 3 hours to receive…no excuse is good enough, nothing is ever too busy to address paying, hardworking people. This definitely was a major set back in my day, and I wouldn’t recommend spending on holidays.Oh she also had to pay a $25 late fee for ordering, but I’m still in my car (it’s 10:14).It’s now 11:20 and I made it home and I discover raw chicken, not cooked and I was told my last hour of waiting, this is what I was waiting for…just wowThe second photo, was their way of saying sorry and honestly the drinks we didn’t want or need, and we the dessert could have been kept as well…not okay

Wow! Food is always amazing at Sandra’s! I’ve literally tried almost every entree selection and nothing has disappointed me. Great desserts too especially the coconut pineapple cake and banana pudding. This place is always busy, for good reason! Call ahead, place your order and they’ll text you when ready. Easy! Thank god for Sandra’s!

It was so good. The Mac and cheese was excellent. It had so much flavor. And the chicken was not too salty plus it was nice and crispy. I drove all the way from Windsor to try it. I was not disappointed. Im usually not a big fan of soul food. Sandra made me one now.

Went here for the first time and we really enjoyed the food. The banana pudding cake was awsome. The fried chicken was crispy, juicy and flavourful. Lemonade was sweet and tart and the mint added a nice touch. We ate outside because we had a two hour drive back home. It was worth the trip. Thank you

It was overall a great experience. Being from the south, I was very excited to get food from a soul food restaurant. Soul food restaurants are scarce in the area Im located. I got the soul empanadas-delicious! The deviled eggs were good. The 2 meat combo and the veggie plate was plentiful. The cornbread that came with the dinners were good as well. I got several desserts and they were delicious as well. The only negative I purchased was the pork chop sandwich. Im used to pork chop sandwiches with 2 slices of white bread, with mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, and optional mustard for about $6.50. I purchased their pork chop sandwich for $8.50 that came with two slices of bread and a pork chop. 🤬 No good. Overall I enjoyed the food and being it was my first time there, the cashier was patient with helping me order. If Im in the area I would order again.

The chicken and red velvet waffle as well as the seafood mac n cheese was absolutely delicious! My only issue was the wait time to pick up my food after placing my order online hours in advance. I was greeted by such friendly service upon my arrival which helped make up for the wait time.

This food was amazing!! We drove two hours just to try it. The store is very small so I assume there is no indoor seating. I had the salmon rasta pasta and my wife had beef ribs. The mac and cheese was my favorite.

It was really busy, but Sandra did her best to keep the line moving. The bbq sauce is amazing. The banana pudding cake. OMG.... I live in Danbury and its quite a drive from me. We will definitely go back!!

Words can’t even explain the goodness in this food. The chicken is so flavorful, & mouth watering! Even in the south I’ve never had soul food like this! The sweet potato cornbread...shoot, I never knew existed. It was so exquisite nothing like it flavorful and of course some sweetness. The sweet tea and the pink lemonade is made in house. The only thing I don’t Understand Why this place is so small and is located where it is. The neighborhood is not greatest and little rundown. But the food is so worth it it’s worth the drive and the time.

Summary: A warm and welcoming family run restaurant serving the best soul food in the area. Each menu item is flavorful and reminiscent of the best home cooking. Although the entrees are delicious, the side dishes are all home runs and the stars of the restaurant.Must Try: Fried catfish, BBQ pork ribs, mac and cheese, and fried okra.Also recommended: Ox tails with rice and collard greens.Avoid: N/A⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Great, worth a detour

The Soul Food Is Amazing, But I Really Love The Dessert Strawberry Shortcake And Banana Pudding Cake. Both Are Simple Delicious. Get You Some...

Close your eyes and youd think you were sitting at your own familys kitchen or dining room table! Intimate, very busy restaurant--universal sign that the food is good. Server took our order while we waited so when we sat, our food was on the table in less than 10 minutes. The 20-25 minute wait was well worth it! Get yourself to Sandras!

This place has a good vibe before you enter with outdoor seating, and aromas floating from the kitchen. The jerk chicken is seasoned just right, and the collard greens were packed onto my plate. They have homemade lemonades, and plenty of other items on the menu to choose from...enjoy the music while you wait, or chat with the staff.

Sandras never disappoints. I love this place and can not wait until they are on Uber Eats. The Church Plate is everything. Mac N Cheese is so good, greens are delicious, and they have the best fried chicken too. I usually get take out because their sitting area is always at capacity, and for food reason. Totally worth the drive and the wait in line. The owner always makes it a point to greet you and thank you for your patience. What more can you ask for.😊 Im a happy customer.

I absolutely love this place. Everyone is so pleasant, including Sandra herself! They get busy, and know what they are doing, getting you in and out, in perfect timing! Soo satisfying! I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for some food for the soul!

Small place but clean and the staff was very friendly. The food was good the sweetpotatoes are amazing. The fried chicken was crispy but it couldve use some seasoning, the smothered porkchop was really good but it was tuff and a little pink for my liking but the gravy was spot on. They have a sweet potato cornbread its different but also really good and so was the regular cornbread. All and all I was full and will be going back to try some of their other selections.

Food was absolutely fantastic, all the servers were pleasant. It was nice to even see the actual owner around. It did take a long time to get our drinks though which was just water and a Pepsi, otherwise it wouldve been a 5. Will definitely be back!Might even check out their catering.

Two stars because who doesnt love overly buttered cornbread and service with a smile! My guest had the fried chicken, mac n cheese, candied yams while I ordered the "vegetarian" option of black eyed peas, mac n cheese and collard greens.Complete disappointment. Chicken although fried and cooked well barely had seasoning, candid yams had about 1lb too much sugar and the mac n cheese was just bland, bland, bland! Somehow they failed to add cheese and flavor to this dish. Why were the collard greens SO sweet?! The black eyed peas were actually ok, although sweet as well after many bites. Perhaps the cooks mistook sugar for salt today, Ive certainly done that!If for some reason I did return, it would be carry out only! This place is chaotic and everyone is confused. After being seated at a dirty table and waiting 10 min, I had to walk up to the counter and ask for menus. Server finally came for our order and it was smooth sailing after that (for usalthough we were there for 1.5 hours, way too long imo, but it was busy. I noticed the table next to us, while some of the folks were served entrees, the other person had to wait about five min for her meal. As that party left and tables were cleared, cleaning was blindly done (with a very dirty rag I assume). There were still crumbs all over the table and another couple was seated. Dont even bother with the bathroom, toilet paper all over the floor, overfilled trash and a bunch of hair in the sink.*Wow owners great response. Perhaps take a bit of accountability for this establishment. We walked in, saw the wait to be seated sign and waited. I spoke with the man behind the counter who then gestered to the gentleman sitting down on the stool to the left and said he would seat us, which he did, at a dirty table. After the 10 min of waiting for a waitress I went and asked him for menus and he apologized and said someone would be right with us. I saw with my own eyes how this man cleaned the tables with that disgusting rag! Basically gave it a swipe and left crumbs everywhere for the next customer. While paying my friend was asked how everything was and she told the man processing the payment how we felt about the food, to which we received an apology. Im guessing that version isnt on your video. I also took photos of your disgusting bathroom but chose not to post feeling it impolite, but can certainly do so if youre in denial about that as well.I think the takeaways of reviews should be how can you incorporate suggestions and make your place even better, not attacking the reviewer. Best wishes for another wonderful 30 yrs!