Filtering by Tag: Homepage

Chef Carlos Perez Takes The Helm At Good News Restaurant & Bar in Woodbury

Restaurant Woodbury Litchfield County Opening American Global Cuisine Homepage

Jeff "jfood" Schlesinger May 23, 2026

The year was 1992. The Cold War ended with the collapse of the Soviet Union and apartheid in South Africa dissolved. At home, the Los Angeles riots erupted after four police officers were acquitted in the beating of Rodney King, Hurricane Andrew, a devastating Cat-5 storm, slammed into South Florida, Bill Clinton defeated incumbent George H.W. Bush in the presidential election, and completely below the radar, a new idea came to light when the first text message, “Merry Christmas Eve,” was sent.

Coincidentally, in the small town of Woodbury, Connecticut, Carol Peck opened the Good News Cafe.

Brass & Bone: Bringing Live Music + New Orleans Inspired Food to South Norwalk

Features Interview Restaurant Norwalk Music Live Music Cocktails Southern Food New Orleans Cuisine Homepage Interview

Andrew Dominick May 17, 2026

Third times a charm, right? That’s what the ownership quartet of Maxim Schiavone, Joseph Magrath, John McGraw, and Jonathan Ackerman is hoping for with Brass & Bone on Norwalk’s Washington Street. Replacing two short lived music venue, restaurant and bar concepts before it in Music & Industry and Washington Social, Brass & Bone’s foursome of friends believe they have the recipe to make it work, especially with their respective backgrounds. Schiavone is an entertainment guy, McGraw has a tech and marketing background, Ackerman is a veteran bartender, and Magrath is a chef.

jjStacks Gets New Life in Newtown: Epic Burgers + Comfort Food Menu

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Newtown Burgers Wings Fried Chicken Sandwich Sports Bar Family Friendly Opening Interview Homepage

Andrew Dominick May 15, 2026

“It wasn’t a decision made lightly with how the last two worked out,” says Joe Attonito, who’s talking about giving restaurant ownership another go after his Ridgefield sports bar, Tiger’s Den, had to close in 2018, and when he decided to shutter jjStacks in Brookfield at the end of 2023. While Tiger’s Den never got a second run, jjStacks never went away. Attonito operated it as a food truck while simultaneously running the brick-and-mortar and when it closed, the Stacks Mobile, its signature chicken wings, burgers, and hefty hot dogs included, kept the brand alive. The “decision” Attonito speaks of is the return of jjStacks, this time in Newtown, and so far, he’s been welcomed with open arms.

Connecticut Food Trucks Guide (2026 Edition)

Features Highlight Food Truck Guide Food Truck Catering Catering Guide Mobile Caterer Homepage

Carly Terzigni May 09, 2026

Warmer weather beckons us all to dine outside, and what could be more convenient than a food truck parked at your next gathering or at the corner as you take a stroll through town? The following food trucks can be found all around Connecticut, perfect for catering a wedding, graduation party, corporate event, or whatever special occassion calls for some yummy food! You can also keep your eyes peeled for these trucks at the local fair, festival, or town green this summer.

This guide is organized by food category. Head to the type of cuisine you’re in the mood for and see which food trucks offer the perfect menu.

Scroll down for food trucks organized by category:

Fast Casual Takeout Spot Hey Taco! Opens in Westport at Former Border Grill

Ingredients Interview Restaurant Tacos Mexican Opening Westport Fast Casual Takeout Interview Homepage

Andrew Dominick May 05, 2026

After over 20 years of slinging burritos, burgers, wraps, and Mexican fare, Border Grill, on Westport’s busy Post Road E, may have shut down, but in its place is another fast casual Mexican concept, Hey Taco! Behind Hey Taco! is Judd Malin, a commercial real estate professional, his wife, Edith Galvez, and Edith’s father, Hector. But make no mistake, Malin isn’t a restaurant newbie. In the past, he’s been a co-owner of four in the past, namely, F.I.S.H. Restaurant + Bar, Quattro Pazzi, Boca Oyster Bar, and Wish Café, all in Stamford. As for Hector, he’s the culinary talent.

CT Guide To Cinco De Mayo 2026 Events, Bars, Specials, & Catering

Features Cinco de Mayo Mexican Holiday Cocktails Tequila Homepage

Hannah Goodman April 29, 2026

Cinco de Mayo is less than a week away and it just so happens to land on a Tuesday, aka TACO TUESDAY! How perfect is that?! This year it’s a Cinco de Mayo-Taco Tuesday extravaganza and whether you’re staying in or going out, this list has got everything you may need to make the holiday special. Several places throughout Connecticut offer taco kits, pre-made margaritas, apps, and sides – making it easy to stay in and party it up with your friends, family, cats, dogs, etc…we don’t discriminate here. You can also hit the town (any town!) all weekend long leading up to the big day. As long as you’re decked out in your best party hat and dancing shoes – the heels that are too tall and you swore you’d never wear them again because the last time you wound up twisting your ankle on the dance floor but you didn’t even feel the pain because of all the great tequila shots…yeah, you know the ones. We hope everyone has fun and enjoys the holiday responsibly. Get out there and show your local small businesses the utmost support!

Bar Naan Welcomes Acclaimed Chef Valice Francis and Opens Monkey Bar Speakeasy in Brookfield

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Brookfield Indian Speakeasy Cocktails Bar Homepage Interview

Andrew Dominick April 24, 2026

Despite being open since the end of 2023 and a positive reception from the get go, Brookfield’s Bar Naan was missing something. If you ask its sibling duo owners, Regal and Renal Patel, and they’re honest about that. “We’re not restaurant people,” Regal says. “My sister, my mom, and I were doing it. When we started, it was decent. Then, my mom came to help us, and it was good. Now? It’s much, much better.” Coming from their family’s hotel business (and Regal was formerly an investor in Pieology Pizzeria), the Patels knew, even with limited restaurant experience, was that they needed a chef.

How Crust Issues Evolved from a Local Takeout Spot to Destination Dining

Features Interview Restaurant Crust Issues Norwalk Pizza Sandwiches Supper Club Breakfast Interview Homepage

Andrew Dominick April 19, 2026

When John Nealon opened Crust Issues, three years ago, he wondered if he’d be able to pay the electric bill each month. He knew going in that giving it another go as an owner after Fortina and after Taco Daddy, The Lila Rose, and Cugine’s Italian, that the restaurant game is a gamble. And he was already up against it by taking a lease across the street from Bob’s Discount Furniture, next to a car wash, and in a spot in a strip mall next to a hair salon, a tattoo parlor, and an adult novelty store. Oh, and the parking there, it sucks. But Nealon’s early mornings slaving over his dough recipe wouldn’t be for nothing. He kept at it and kept pushing, daring to create pizza, pasta, and sandwich combinations that not many others would attempt.

Ore Hill in Kent: Tasting Menu Dining Celebrating Local CT Farming

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Ore Hill Ore Hill & Swyft Kent Fine Dining Tasting Menu Farm To Table Homepage Interview Chef

Andrew Dominick April 11, 2026

When Swyft opened in Kent at the very end of 2017, it was met with instant fanfare. Right out of the gate, they did things most taverns couldn’t, firing up perfect sourdough Neapolitan pizzas, creative small plates, and nearly every ingredient was homegrown by their own Rock Cobble Farm, located a few miles away in South Kent. It didn’t hurt that they also had a name chef and partner and a well-known owner in philanthropist, Anne Bass. The restaurant being inside of a historic and respectfully restored circa 1781 house didn’t hurt either. But the full name of the restaurant when it debuted was “Ore Hill & Swyft” and a promise of two concepts under one roof. Swyft would be casual and approachable. Ore Hill would be its more intimate, fine dining side. Both would be farm-focused.

Gruel Britannia Opens 2nd Spot in Westport With Events + Pop Ups Coming Soon

Features Interview Restaurant British Cuisine British Westport Interview Gruel Britannia Karen Hubrich Opening Homepage Prime Rib

Andrew Dominick April 08, 2026

Karen Hubrich isn’t shy about telling anyone she’s a late bloomer. After a long career cooking in country clubs and as a private chef for Michael Bolton, she emerged on the Connecticut food scene in 2019 when she opened her Fairfield flagship, Gruel Britannia. Now a young 69-years-old, she’s opted for a second helping of Gruel, not too far away from the original, in Westport’s Coleytown neighborhood that debuted last July.

"It's A Woman's World" Awards Semi-Finalist Announced

Features It's A Woman's World Awards Homepage

Stephanie Webster April 07, 2026

e are pleased to announce the semi-finalists for the “It’s A Woman’s World” awards, celebrating CT’s women in culinary.

Four thousand people voted in eleven categories. The top three nominees can be viewed below.

Finalists in each category will be announced at the event on April 27th at Hotel Marcel in New Haven. If you still need tickets to the event, you can purchase tix here. The $50 ticket covers the cost of the event. This is non-for-profit community event.

Congratulations to all of our semi-finalists. We hope to see you on April 27th when we announce the award winners and celebrate ALL of Connecticut’s amazing women in culinary.

TICKETS ON SALE: Join Us To Celebrate CT's Women in Culinary April 27th

Features Events EVENT It's A Woman's World Homepage

Stephanie Webster March 30, 2026

On April 27th, CTbites will host “It’s A Woman’s World: An Evening To Inspire, Connect & Celebrate CT's Women in Culinary“ honoring the many inspiring and trailblazing females in Connecticut’s culinary industry. TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW.

The evening will include great food, signature cocktails created by Banfi Wine & Sprits, tastings from Fifth State Distillery, awards, and of course, plenty of time to mingle and meet the women in our community at the beautiful Hotel Marcel in New Haven.

Award winners will be announced at the event in 11 categories, and we NEED YOU to VOTE for the women whose work and influence have shaped the industry in meaningful ways.

THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE WOMEN IN CULINARY-from chefs & restaurateurs to farmers and winemakers, artisans, bartenders, cheesemongers, and influencers. PUBLIC VOTING IS NOW LIVE HERE

Hotaru Opens in Southport Featuring an Affordable, Intimate Omakase Experience

Features Interview Ingredients Restaurant Omakase Sushi Japanese Opening Interview Southport Homepage

Andrew Dominick March 24, 2026

3363 Post Road in Southport is no longer the home of the $5 footlong, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a deal to be had. In the bones of a former Subway franchise, right next to Dunkin’, is Hotaru, a predominantly Japanese restaurant where the star of their show is a very affordable omakase experience. Hotaru opened very quietly to friends, family, and random curious customer walk-ins on March 16 with an abbreviated menu that’ll soon expand. The team behind Hotaru is Yingying Yan, who owns Gingko Sichuan Cuisine in Fairfield, her chef at Ginkgo, Jerry, and Ken Piao, the owner of Yuki Kitchen in Westport.

Masa Taco Bar + Chicho's Cocina in Stamford: Rooted in Family Tradition and Travels

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Tacos Stamford Masa Taco Bar Chicho's Cocina Interview Homepage Mexican

Andrew Dominick March 17, 2026

Almost 10 years to the day, CTbites found itself covering La Esquina Latin Grill in Stamford, where chef-owner Robert Monegro served up classic Latin American dishes. In the present, the Stamford-raised Monegro is still pretty busy. La Esquina is well behind him, though, and you’ll see him bouncing back and forth between his two popular taqueria’s, Chico’s Cocina, and as of 2024, Masa Taco Bar. For Monegro, his culinary journey didn’t start 10 years ago at his first restaurant. It actually began in 1995 at his father’s Dominican restaurant, Flamboyant Chico Cocina.

Guide to Kids Cooking Camps & Classes (2026 Edition)

Features Kids Cooking Camp kids activity kids cooking party Cooking Classes Summer Camp Education Homepage

Carly Terzigni March 11, 2026

It may be hard to believe, but we’re weeks away from spring, which means warmer weather is right around the corner. That also means it’s time to start planning your summer camp schedule, and if you have budding home chefs in the family, a cooking camp may be the perfect option! In addition, we have provided a list of businesses across the state that are offering kids' cooking classes this spring. These classes and camps range from one-day classes to week-long (sometimes longer!) camps for kids of all ages. You’ll find several private chef-led cooking parties here as well.

Some of the following classes are offered as early as this month, with others not kicking off until later this summer, but, as with any summer camp, slots fill up quickly! Don’t delay in signing your kids up for the following programs.

60+ CT Spots to Celebrate St. Patrick's Day 2026

Features Restaurant Events St. Patrick's Day Guide Homepage Events

Carly Terzigni March 06, 2026

Could this long, cold, and snowy winter finally be coming to a close? It looks like things are heating up fast! Not only do I detect warmer days on the horizon, but St. Patrick’s Day is right around the corner. I, for one, am ready to swap the cold gray for some bright green! Restaurants across the state are feeling the same and are ready to celebrate. With towns hosting parades over the next couple of weeks, there are multiple opportunities to gather with friends and family and spread some Irish cheer. This guide is organized by county to help you easily find a restaurant near you celebrating. Simply scroll to your local county and see where you can enjoy some corned beef and a Guinness this March!

Via Emilia: An Italian Love Letter Written in Mystic

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Italian Interview Espresso Martini Fresh Pasta Mystic Homepage

Andrew Dominick March 03, 2026

Love letters aren’t always inked on parchment, sometimes they’re cooked in a kitchen and served to hungry customers. That’s the case at Mystic’s Via Emilia where co-owners Shaun Golan and Jakub Andros are dishing out Italian comfort food that’s uncomplicated and pays respect to Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region since it opened in 2020. On the brink of celebrating six years at the very end of Coastal Connecticut, how Via Emilia came to be, what they’re cooking and why they’re cooking it, and the tale behind their popular espresso martini is a story that should be told.

Vyne Restaurant & Bar: Fine Dining Meets Comfort Classics in Middlebury

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Middlebury Mediterranean Italian Interview Cocktails Fine Dining Homepage

Andrew Dominick February 24, 2026

Unless you live near or in Middlebury, there’s a very real chance you’ve never dined there. Ask a few guys who now work in Middlebury at Vyne Restaurant & Bar and they’ll tell you that before they got there, they hadn’t either. “I had never even heard of Middlebury and I spent a lot of my life in Hartford,” says Vyne’s general manager Justin Morales. What Morales, an industry veteran both behind the bar and as a GM (and most recently of Fire by Forge), and executive chef James Piccolo are doing in this part of Connecticut is putting their stamp on a restaurant idea that began many years ago as a small cafe inside of a furniture store, Middlebury Consignment.

Coracora Peruvian Cuisine Opens Flagship Location in West Hartford’s Blue Back Square

Restaurant West Hartford Blue Back Square Hartford County Peruvian Opening Lunch Homepage

Leeanne Griffin February 22, 2026

Back in 2011, Hector Ludena and Luisa Jimenez took a chance and opened their first restaurant in West Hartford’s Shield Street Plaza, naming it for the Peruvian city they hailed from.

Coracora took over a former McDonald’s building, its kitchen turning out pollo a la brasa and lomo saltado instead of Chicken McNuggets and Quarter Pounders. It became another local international favorite in the plaza that’s also home to Pho Boston, Shu and the A Dong Asian supermarket. The staff even ended up using the former fast-food drive-through window during the pandemic to offer minimal contact takeout.

Then in 2022, things shifted in a way the Ludena family still says is surreal and hard to grasp. Coracora was named as a nominee for the James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Restaurant award, and Macarena Ludena, Hector and Luisa’s daughter, was a semifinalist in the Best Chef: Northeast award category. Suddenly, the local spot was on a national stage.

First Look: Norwalk's Valencia Luncheria Reopens as Valencia Cocina

Features Ingredients Interview Restaurant Valencia Norwalk Valencia Luncheria Venezuelan Latin American Reopening Interview Homepage

Andrew Dominick February 18, 2026

After a little over three weeks closed for menu changes and renovations, Valencia Luncheria is back in action! Only now you have to call it by its changed name, Valencia Cocina, representing it’s new chapter that we teased you about at the beginning of the year. Now reopened with a sexier, but still chill vibe, a brand-new bar, and a reimagined menu, founder Michael Young, co-owner Luis Chavez, and executive chef Marv Bryce are ready to welcome you back in.