Filipek's Market, Meriden, CT

This is the strange and wonderful Filipek's Market. Located in a residential district (262 Elm Street) in Meriden, this fascinating slice of Americana - a family run market - used to be the rule, not the exception. Now you have to know where to find these little miracles (the sign is barely recognizable). Filipek's has so much to recommend it, but what it is most famous for is kielbasa. The home made kielbasa will greet you as you walk in, tempting and tasty. They have several different preparations...the spicy one is the best. I have a photo of their wonderful kielbasa, but I'm saving it for A History of Connecticut Food, out this spring.