This story was reported by Brokk Tollefson and Gregory Gagliardi as part of Southern’s Multimedia Journalism course taught by Jodie Mozdzer Gil. The reporting was part of an interactive map detailing businesses in the New Haven area.
With their vegetarian, vegan, and above all, health-first menu, Claire’s Corner Copia in New Haven has found a home among college students and residents.
On the corner of College and Chapel streets in downtown New Haven, Claire’s is next to Yale University. This makes Claire’s a prime spot for many students, according to Claire Criscuolo, the owner and head chef. Claire’s serves many types of foods, from Mexican to Lithuanian, from Italian to Chinese, all being vegetarian or vegan.
“We do a little bit of everything, we do sandwiches, salads, we have a full breakfast menu, and we also have a variety of daily specials,” said Erin Gildea, a manager at Claire’s.
Claire’s not only does their best to treat the customers well, they make it a great environment for the workers, according to Criscuolo.
“We pay well, it’s a wonderful environment,” said Criscuolo. “People have respect for every, we have respect for everything, and that always equals just a happy mood.”
The restaurant opened in September 1975.
Featured image: A busy afternoon at Claire’s. Brokk Tollefson photo.