Filtering by Tag: Middle Eastern,Celebrity Chef

“Iron Chef” Morimoto Opens Momosan Ramen & Sushi At Foxwoods

Restaurant Opening Foxwoods Japanese Celebrity Chef Ramen Sushi Homepage

Leeanne Griffin

It was technically about 17 years in the making, but Masaharu Morimoto officially has a restaurant in Connecticut. The renowned Japanese chef and restaurateur, known globally as the star of Iron Chef and Iron Chef America, officially opens Momosan at Foxwoods June 26

Momosan at Foxwoods, in the resort casino’s Great Cedar Food Court dining area, blends casual ramen and izakaya-style dining with what representatives call his “most expansive sushi program to date.” The menu features sashimi and nigiri, specialty sushi rolls, rice dishes like poke and bap, assorted ramen varieties and small plates.

Morimoto made an appearance at his latest location during a press preview Tuesday, playfully bantering with guests while he prepared signature dishes like hot oil-seared salmon carpaccio, sticky ribs tossed in hoisin chili sauce and a surf and turf sushi roll with A5 Wagyu beef, seared tableside with a torch.


BarVera Modern Mediterranean Restaurant Opens in Stamford

Restaurant Stamford Opening Mediterranean Homepage Middle Eastern

Jessica Ryan

Newly opened in the heart of Stamford’s Bedford Street, BarVera, brings us an authentic taste of the Mediterranean that might just be unmatched in the area. Celebrity chef, Chef Charbel Hayek, created the concept of this coastal Mediterranean culinary journey. Known for his West Coast restaurants Ladyhawk in West Hollywood and Laya in Los Angeles, the Lebanese chef won Bravo’s Top Chef Middle East and North Africa, and has authored the cookbook Lemon & Garlic: Middle Eastern Cuisine (2023). 


Martha Stewart's "The Bedford: To Open at Foxwoods in 2025

Features Celebrity Chef Opening Foxwoods American

CTbites Team

Foxwoods Resort Casino has announced a partnership with Martha Stewart and Marquee Brands, to bring Martha’s acclaimed restaurant concept, The Bedford by Martha Stewart, to the property. Opening in fall 2025, this unique dining experience will bring Martha’s celebrated style and hospitality to Foxwoods, offering guests an authentic culinary experience alongside the resort's exceptional offerings.

Designed to transport guests into Martha’s renowned 1925 country farmhouse located in Bedford, New York, The Bedford brings her signature blend of elegance, warmth and charm to life. Situated within the Grand Pequot Tower, this one-of-a-kind dining destination features a thoughtfully curated menu inspired by Martha's personal favorites, including her Kurobuta Pork Chop, Niçoise Salad, and Martha’s family recipe for Pierogies, as well as some of her famous cocktails  such as the Martha-tini and her frozen pomegranate Martha-rita. For the first time offering breakfast alongside brunch, lunch and dinner offerings. The restaurant will emphasize locally sourced ingredients to create unforgettable culinary dishes  with new additions planned each season.


WONDER Food Hall Opening in Stamford with José Andrés, Marcus Samuelsson & Bobby Flay

Features Stamford Opening Celebrity Chef Food Hall

Hey Stamford!

This just in from Hey Stamford!

José Andrés, Bobby Flay, and More Are Coming to Stamford as part of Revolutionary New Food Hall

Next-level dining experience where you can enjoy signature dishes from legendary chefs and celebrated eateries

Stamford foodies, get ready: some of the biggest names in the culinary world are about to make their mark on your city — but not in the way you might think. 

José Andrés, Marcus Samuelsson, Michael Symon, Bobby Flay, Marc Murphy, and a host of award-winning restaurants, like Tejas Barbeque and Di Fara Pizza, are joining forces as part of WONDER, a groundbreaking food hall concept opening in Stamford. 

Opening this week, WONDER isn’t your typical food court. It’s a next-level dining experience where you can enjoy signature dishes from these legendary chefs and other celebrated eateries — all in one place. Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining or casual comfort food, WONDER has something to satisfy every craving.

READ MORE AT HEY STAMFORD!


The Bridge at Saugatuck Opens in Westport With Chef Lewandowski

Restaurant Westport Opening American Celebrity Chef Waterfront Outdoor Dining

Jessica Ryan

Inside the newly renovated historic building The Main Bar is the restaurant’s focal point where a horseshoe-shaped bar takes center stage with its saffron-colored backdrop juxtaposed by dark navy walls which boast subtle architectural details that pay homage to the nearby Saugatuck Bridge. During the daytime the tall widows and high ceilings allow the light to flood in. The same room at night embraces a much moodier scene. The space gives off both coastal and industrial vibes which is also carried through the upstairs to the dining room which offers fine dining without formality. The restaurant sets the stage; at its center is the food created and executed by Chef Stephen Lewandowski whose culinary style is best described as modern, elevated American. His layers of flavor and use of sometimes esoteric and unusual ingredients are the result of his over two decades of experience. 


Momosan by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto Opening at Foxwoods

Features Opening Celebrity Chef Foxwoods Ramen Japanese

CTbites Team

Foxwoods Resort Casino today announced the opening of Momosan by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, set to debut in spring 2025. The new addition brings the globally renowned chef’s celebrated Japanese cuisine to Foxwoods, marking the seventh location of his acclaimed ramen restaurant. The partnership between Foxwoods and Chef Morimoto continues the resort casino’s commitment to delivering world-class, diverse culinary experiences in a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape.


Chef Tyler Anderson Announces Friends Collaboration Dinner Series

Features Events Events Celebrity Chef Chef Collab Dinner Series

CTbites Team

Chef Tyler Anderson & Millwright’s have just announced a special series of 4 collaboration dinners with Chef Tyler and his friends. Guest Chefs are Chef Prasad (Indian Kitchen), Chef Billy Grant (Bricco), Chef Renee Touponce (Oyster Club/Port of Call), and Chef David Standridge (Shipwright’s Daughter). All dinners are 5 courses with wine pairings for $150 per person (not including tax and gratuity). These dinners will begin promptly at 6pm.

Anderson says, “Chefs work a lot. Sometimes the only way we get to hang out is doing a dinner together. It's a great way for us to reconnect and to learn from each other. I'm excited to be cooking alongside some of the best in the state and we will have more to come!”

Score your seat here, and act quickly. These will sell out!


Kabab & Hummus House Opens in Southport with Focus on Egyptian and Moroccan Fare

Restaurant Middle Eastern Mediterranean Westport Opening Homepage

Hannah Goodman

As a resident of Westport and a lover of Mediterranean cuisine, I often notice the lack of such restaurants available in Fairfield County. Fortunately for you (and me), a great new spot just opened up, serving mainly Middle Eastern food, with a focus on Egyptian and Moroccan fare. Fairfield County, meet your new tasty resident: Kabab and Hummus House!

Yasser Khedewe opened Kabab & Hummus House in December of last year. With its prime location on Post Road in Southport, Yasser is excited about all of the food lovers he’ll meet, especially those that are new to this type of cuisine. 

Yasser Khedewe’s occupation was originally that of a computer scientist, though he always had a deep passion for food and cooking. While he is originally from Egypt, Khedewe spent a favorable amount of time working and living in Dubai, which is primarily when his food journey began, as he loved cooking for his friends as a way to share his culture. He eventually moved to the United States in 2015 and then to Connecticut in 2016, where he gained culinary experience by working in restaurants and kitchens. 


Sofra Turkish Grill: Delicious Authentic Turkish Cuisine in Waterbury

Restaurant Turkish Waterbury Turkey Meats Middle Eastern Homepage

Jessica Ryan

Executive Chef Eren Polat and his wife Nigjar invite you to their newest restaurant, Sofra Turkish Grill a cozy neighborhood restaurant in Waterbury, Connecticut. The restaurant, which opened in late July 2023, has been drawing healthy crowds from Cheshire to Fairfield. No stranger to the restaurant world, Chef has over 25 years of experience in prominent restaurants in Turkey and Greece before opening his own Eren’s Grill in Fairfield. He opened Sofra to be closer to home and his family.

Chef hails from Adana, Turkey’s fourth largest city, located in the south where the Seyhan River meets the Mediterranean. One of the oldest cities in the world, it’s a major agricultural area and known for its distinctive cuisine, specifically the “Adana Kebabi,” a unique dish comprised of hand-minced meat prepared with a special knife called a Satir that closely resembles a machete. Authenticity is paramount as Chef remains true to his roots using the skills and techniques so prevalent in his country. So determined is he to do this, that many ingredients are imported directly from Turkey, some from Adana specifically. 


Tix On Sale: Catskill Cuisine 2024- Celebrity Chefs, Food Festival & Mother's Day Brunch! sponsored post

Features Homepage Food Festival Catskills Celebrity Chef Chef's Tasting

CTbites Team

In addition to the Food Festival, the event will feature a Charity Golf Tournament and exclusive Mother’s Day Brunch both featuring culinary offerings curated by the celebrity chefs. Catskill Cuisine will bring visitors, entertainment, and cuisine together while allowing Sullivan Catskills culinary experts to shine and promote the region’s agritourism and local farms, craft food, and beverage makers.

Thousands of Food Festival attendees will be able to explore Bethel Woods Center for the Arts’ iconic grounds, and take part in tastings, demos, meet and greets, book signings, and a local producer marketplace– all representing the Sullivan Catskills' diverse and delicious bounty. Confirmed celebrity chefs include Andrew Zimmern, Michael Symon, Scott Conant, Marcus Samuelsson, Anne Burrell, Melba Wilson and Geoffrey Zakarian, amongst others.


Lunch with Chef Lidia Bastianich for A Great Cause

Features Celebrity Chef EVENT

CTbites Team

Have you always wanted to meet the culinary legend, Lidia Bastianich? Well now is your chance.

The Westport Young Woman’s League is pleased to announce that it will be hosting their Grants Awards Luncheon featuring celebrity chef and guest speaker, Lidia Bastianich. The fundraiser luncheon will be held on April 29, 2024, from 11:30 am – 2:30pm at the beautiful Branson Hall at Christ & Holy Trinity Church, 75 Church Lane in Westport, CT. Get your ticket here.

Lidia Bastianich is an Emmy award-winning public television host, best-selling cookbook author, successful restaurateur and the owner of a flourishing food and entertainment business. She has published numerous cookbooks in addition to hosting her Emmy-winning television series Lidia’s Kitchen, Lidia’s Italy in America, and Lidia’s Italy.  Among the numerous awards and accolades, Lidia has earned seven James Beard Awards and two Emmy Awards. In 2022, Lidia received the Silver Award from APT for 25 years on Public Television. 


Litchfield Inn Hosts Chef Pop-Up Dinner Series in March & April

Features Celebrity Chef Pop-Up Dinner Litchfield County Litchfield

CTbites Team

The Litchfield Inn, a family-owned, luxury boutique hotel in Connecticut's idyllic countryside, is partnering with two talented New England chefs for pop-up dinners in March and April.

Known for his role as Executive Chef and owner of Chef's Table at Little Dipper in Brooklyn, Connecticut, Chef Brian Paszko is excited to bring beloved his farm-to-table dining experience to The Litchfield Inn for two very special dinners on Saturday, March 16 and Saturday, March 23. Ticket holders can look forward to a multi-course tasting menu with beverage pairings with complimentary canape and prosecco upon arrival. Tickets are priced at $110 per person, excluding tax and gratuity, with 25 tickets available. Vegetarian substitutions will be available, as well as non-alcoholic beverage pairings.

On Friday, April 5 and Saturday, April 6, 2014 James Beard Semifinalist and 3x Chopped Champion Evan Hennessey, Executive Chef and owner of Stages at One Washington and The Living Room in Dover, New Hampshire, will be offering a dining experience similar to the one found at Stages at One Washington. Guests can expect a multi-course tasting menu consisting of dishes that showcase the bounty of ingredients native to New Hampshire that are prepared with traditional Scandinavian and Japanese techniques. Canape and prosecco will also be provided upon arrival. Tickets are priced at $110 per person, excluding taxes, gratuity, and beverage pairings, with 12 tickets available. Optional wine pairings and non-alcoholic pairings will be available for an additional fee. Please note that Gluten-free allergies can be accomodated, however, vegan, dairy-free, and shellfish allergies cannot be accommodated for Evan's events.


Best Bowls in CT: Acai, Poke, Middle Eastern, Korean, BBQ & More!

Restaurant Features Bowls Acai Bowl Korean BBQ Best of CT Highlight Healthy Eats Vegetarian Middle Eastern Build Your Own Bowl Greek Homepage

April Guilbault

Whether it’s the dog days of summer or life just has you too busy to be bothered with cooking, some of the simplest, and often the most delicious meals, come in bowls. Chock full of healthy and delicious ingredients like grains, veggies, meats and fish or brimming with fresh fruits and icy smoothy-ness, bowls in all shapes and sizes make eating fun. They are convenient, interesting and delicious-what a trifecta! Here are some of our favorite bowls in Connecticut. Go build one for yourself!


NYC Road Trip: Breakfast at Tiffany’s Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud

Restaurant Road Trip Breakfast Sandwich TEA New York City Lunch Celebrity Chef

ellen bowen

May and June in New York City are a special time. The long winter and the soggy April showers give way to sunny days and warmer temps. New York City is a walking city, and on a perfect Spring day, I donned my pearls and a “little black dress” and headed into the city for a visit to the newly reopened Tiffany & Co on Fifth Ave. to check out the Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud for my version of Breakfast at Tiffany’s.


maman, NYC’s Beloved French Bakery & Café Opening in Greenwich June 18th

Restaurant Opening Greenwich Bakery Celebrity Chef Dessert Baked Goods Cookies Bread Shop Tea And Coffee

CTbites Team

maman, NYC’s beloved French Bakery & Café, is expanding to Connecticut with its first location in Greenwich (98 Greenwich Ave). Opening June 18th, the Provençal-inspired café, created by co-founders Elisa Marshall and Benjamin Sormonte, will bring its fan-favorite salads, sandwiches, made-famous-by-Oprah Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies to the Greenwich community. 

In true maman fashion, the decor will feature florals, signature toile print, and vintage and antique furniture, all drawing inspiration from the South of France. Brokered by Brand Urban, Greenwich’s full-service real estate advisory and brokerage company, maman Greenwich is the perfect spot to savor a morning coffee or pastry or grab brunch or lunch with friends. With 2,300 sqft of space, maman Greenwich is also the perfect spot to host events with your closest friends and family. 

Maman Greenwich will be open Monday - Friday from 7:30am - 6pm and Saturday-Sunday from 8am - 6pm. On opening day, Maman will have a cookbook signing with Elisa from 10am-12pm, and a Father’s Day Special, serving a complimentary S’mores A La Minute Cookie for dads with any purchase! 


NYC's Fast Casual NAYA Middle Eastern Counter & Grill Brings Middle Eastern Cuisine to Darien

Restaurant Darien Fast Casual Opening Middle Eastern

CTbites Team

In just a few short weeks, the Fairfield County dining scene will welcome NAYA Middle Eastern Counter & Grill opens its doors on June 23rd in Darien, CT. Originating from the heart of New York City, NAYA has gained widespread acclaim for its Middle Eastern flavors. Renowned for drawing long lines during the bustling lunch hour in NYC, NAYA is now set to captivate the vibrant community of Darien, nestled within the lively Darien Commons at 146 Heights Road, Darien, CT 06820. With a commitment to delivering an unparalleled fast casual dining experience, perfected in the Big Apple, NAYA is poised to serve the Fairfield County community.


The Blondinit: Israeli Restaurant Coming To Westport

Features Openings Westport Mediterranean Israeli Middle Eastern

Dan Woog

If you want authentic Israeli food, go to Israel.

Or Brooklyn.

Soon though, dishes like shakshuka (poached eggs in a simmering tomato sauce with vegetables and spices) and deep-fried matzo stuffed with cheese will be available in Westport.

On, ironically, Church Lane, in Westport.

The Blondinit will fill the space vacated this winter by Manna Toast. It’s the first restaurant venture for Solomon and Inda Sade, who own several other businesses already. Her background is in retail and fashion.

But this is their passion project. They love food and entertaining. And they’re putting their money where their, um, mouths are: They’re funding it themselves.

While not Israeli, the Sades have strong ties there. Solomon’s parents were born in Israel. His father had 10 siblings, his mother, 8.

Growing up on Long Island, his family visited there every summer. More recently, he and his wife honeymooned in Israel.

When COVID struck, they and their 1-year-old left New York for their second home in the Poconos. But after 6 months of boredom — “the event of the day was standing outside Walmart with rubber gloves,” Solomon recalls — they moved to suburban New Jersey.

The Blondinit’s meats, pitas, pickled goods and beers will all be “authentic” from Brooklyn.

It will be delivered fresh daily. The Sades will not use freezers or microwaves. All leftover food will be donated to pantries and food rescue organizations.

Read the complete article on Dan Woog’s 06880.


Gordon Ramsay To Open New Restaurant At Foxwoods Resort Casino

Features Openings Foxwoods Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay

CTbites Team

Foxwoods Resort Casino announced Friday celebrity chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay will open a new Hell's Kitchen restaurant location at Foxwoods in summer 2023. Get ready for some of his signature Beef Wellington people.

This location is Ramsay's sixth Hell's Kitchen dining establishment and the first in New England.

The restaurant will be conveniently located in the casino's Grand Pequot Concourse, and will seat nearly 260 guests, featuring a chef's counter and 40-seat private dining room, according to Foxwoods.