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Guide To Adult Cooking Classes in Connecticut: 2019 Edition

Features Cooking Cooking Classes Education Best of CT

April Guilbault June 23, 2019

You’ve arranged to keep the kids busy all summer long with camps and lessons, sleepovers and maybe a bit of volunteer work here and there, but what about some fun for YOU? Those kids shouldn’t get all the fun. And because we are, eh-hem, adults, learning a few new things alongside that good time is always a welcome bonus. Cooking classes are a unique way to have a memorable evening. You can go solo, with a friend or a group. Choose the flavors or the skills you are interesting in knowing more about. Then walk away with a full belly, new information and probably a few laughs under your chef’s apron. What the heck are you waiting for? Remember too, these are great gift ideas as well. Friend with a birthday during the summer? Treat them! It’s like dinner out but so much better. Pencil in some time for yourself this summer and treat yourself..like a kid.

Here is our Guide To Adult Cooking Classes in Connecticut.

Chef Emily Mingrone Opens Tavern on State in New Haven: A Delicious Take on Traditional Tavern Fare

Restaurant New Haven Gastropub Bar Cocktails Comfort Food Tavern Homepage

Jessica Ryan June 21, 2019

Tavern on State, owned by Chef Emily Mingrone, is the latest to join the dozens of exceptional restaurants in the New Haven area. I was fortunate to check out the new digs, sit down with Emily, and sample some of the exciting items on the menu.

The restaurant boasts a tavern vibe, but perhaps more in appearance than what’s on the plate. Rich, warm woods welcome you inside a space that seats about 45 (with an additional 45 outdoors) but this is where your notion of tavern starts and ends.

Traditional tavern fare might include burgers and fries, nachos and the like, but a menu that features a blue cheese & truffle burger with thick bacon & red onion on English muffin, Spicy crispy chicken skins & chicharrones, Fried cheese curds with smoked tomato dip, or chilled oysters with yuzu kosho & cucumber, is anything but traditional.

The menu here is as eclectic as it is sophisticated; it raises high the burger bar. It is tavern fare reimagined, and certainly for the more discerning palate that can see beyond a standard plate of fish and chips, jalapeño poppers, calamari, and pepperoni pizza. I have had plenty of tavern fare in my day, and tavern fare doesn’t look or taste like this.

Listen to Top Chef's Chris Scott on the CTbites Hot Dish Podcast

Features Interview Podcast Celebrity Chef

Stephanie Webster June 20, 2019

This week on The CTbites Hot Dish Podcast , we chat with Top Chef’s Chris Scott, who recently opened Birdman Juke Joint in the Black Rock, Bridgeport. Scott talks about his long road to TV's Top Chef, the importance of family and community, and the "Birdman," the inspiration for his new authentic Southern restaurant. You won’t wanna miss this episode. Listen here.

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Nibble: Tasty CT Food Events For June 23rd-30th

Features News Events

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson June 20, 2019

On Thursday June 27th, The Spread Greenwich will have their next Chef's Tasting! Join in for a 5-course culinary adventure served by award-wining Chef Carlos Baez! Limited seating available. Visit them online for details and call today to book your reservation.

The Meatball Shop in Westport, Conn. has a pre-opening party on June22nd! Wine, beer, and their famous meatballs and other favorites will be served to the public for the first time prior to their TBA opening date. All money raised from tickets is going to non-profit Westport Volunteer Emergency Medical Service. Tickets can be bought online, or at the door. Info here.

Artisan in West Hartford invites you to a garden party on June 27. From 5-7pm, sip on Artisan rose while enjoying a craft cocktail, light bites, and music. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online through Eventbrite or at the door.

Check out the Connecticut Taco Festival: Hartford County on Saturday June 29 at Auerfarm in Bloomfield. Admission covers access to the festival where you can purchase tacos on-site and vote for “Top Taco.” There will also be tequila, Mexican inspired drinks, beer, a taco eating contest, music, and more. Tickets start at $15.

Celebrate the summer with sips and samples and sharks and seals during the “Maritime with a Twist” adults-only evening event on Thursday, June 27th at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. Open to anyone age 21 and over, “Maritime with a Twist” features tastes from nearby restaurants in the South Norwalk neighborhood, as well as refreshments by artisanal distillers and distributors. Sample them all while enjoying the entire Aquarium for one price. Music for the evening will be provided by Big Yachty, Fairfield County’s premiere Yacht Rock cover band.

Bar Zorro, Evarito's Rooftop Bar in Downtown South Norwalk, Your New Summer Spot!

Restaurant Norwalk South Norwalk RoofTop Bar Cocktails Mexican Opening

Andrew Dominick June 18, 2019

If you’re strolling around South Norwalk, flip your Ray-Ban aviators on and glance up at the corner of N Main and Washington streets. You see that? The string lights, and oh, wait, there are people up there! And they’re drinking! They’re clearly having fun but you’re down there being lame. Go into Evarito’s and take the elevator to the roof. The doors open, you walk up the ramp’s slight incline, and you’re instantly transported to a tropical oasis. Brightly colored drinks are flowing, cans of Corona are being popped open, and tacos are getting crushed in three bites or less. I bet you feel the opposite of lame. Your cool factor just increased tenfold.

Welcome to Bar Zorro!

Bear's Smokehouse BBQ Opens In-House Brewery in New Haven w/ Black Hog Brewing Co

Restaurant Brewery BBQ New Haven Beer CT Beer Live Music Opening

CTbites Team June 18, 2019

Bear’s Restaurant Group, which includes Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ in Windsor, Hartford, and South Windsor, and Blind Pig Pizza in Hartford, today announced the official opening of its in-house brewery. This past week, in partnership with Black Hog Brewing Co., the on-site brewery debuted its first five beers brewed in-house and will now be offering them for consumption on-site or to-go in 32-ounce crowlers.

Pair these new brews with Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ favorites, smoked in the Kansas-City style that McDonald enjoyed growing up in Kansas City, Missouri. Some of these tasty morsels include: Baby Back Ribs, Pulled Pork, Pulled Chicken, Kielbasa, Turkey, Texas Sausage, Brisket and Burnt Ends served as a Sandwich, Entrée or Combo Plate.

Birdman Juke joint Opens in Black Rock From Top Chef Chris Scott

Restaurant Bridgeport Black Rock Southern Food Celebrity Chef Comfort Food Kid Friendly Homepage Opening

Kristin L. Wolfe June 14, 2019

Connecticut are you ready? I mean really ready. You may have fallen under the spell of what others have told you is Soul Food, but Chef Chris Scott, of TV’s Top Chef Season 15 and beloved Brooklyn restaurants Butterfunk and Sumner’s Luncheonette, is not playing around. He is giving you the real deal, with seasoning to the nth power, and a history lesson to boot. In just 48 hours of opening, the reception has been tremendous. So much so, Chef says, “I might just have to sleep down stairs for awhile.” The lines have been long and the orders have been flying out the window. Birdman Juke Joint is on everyone’s list to try. But that is the thing. You can’t, or won’t just try it. You will be swept away. Or, as the fellers I sat with at the bar did, ….you might just use every curse word imaginable to convey your newfound love.

Nibble: Fun-licious CT Food Events For June 16-23

Features News Events

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson June 14, 2019

Chef Brian Lewis & The Cottage are delighted to offer a Summer Market Menu, celebrating local farmers, fishermen and artisans throughout the region. The prix fixe options costs $45 for 3 courses. Selections rotate.

Two Roads’s “Road Jam Music Fest” takes place on June 21 and June 22. Each ticket gets you entrance to the concerts as well as your first pint of beer. The namesake of the Road Jam Festival, Two Roads Road Jam Raspberry Wheat with Lemongrass will be pouring in addition to other select Two Roads’ beers.

Jesup Hall has launched the “Splendid Table,” a special Happy Hour every Wednesday on the patio from 5:30-6:30PM. Their communal table will be filled with a bounty of great dishes to go along with our cocktail, beer and wine specials. Come in and grab a plate, visit the table as much as you would like. $25 per person.

On Sunday June 23, The Hickories & Wood Fire Food presents “Farm & Sea,” a woodfire multi-course meal with wine pairings. It starts at 5pm with a cocktail reception and continues with dinner. Tickets are $160.

The Epitome of Cool Sub-Zero’s Bold New Look Fits in Almost Any Kitchen (sponsored post)

Features Kitchen Gear Design Kitchen Design

CTbites Team June 13, 2019

PRO refrigeration, Sub-Zero’s boldest, most iconic design, was an instant hit when it came on the scene several years ago. Its 48” wide all stainless or stainless with glass refrigerator door designs changed the face of kitchens throughout the country. Now this bold, professional look is finally available in a 36-inch-wide model. This means the stunning PRO look and unparalleled features can fit into almost any kitchen.

“Everything about this new Sub-Zero is spectacular,” explained Marco Barallon, the corporate showroom director for New England’s Official Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove Showroom and Test Kitchen. “For designers who are looking for a new way to make a stunning kitchen statement, you can create a six-foot-wide food preservation armoire by placing two 36” PRO units side by side – one with a left hinge, the other with a right – with the glass doors, this is like nothing you’ve ever seen in kitchen design. Beyond the show-stopping look, discerning homeowners love the features.”

Chef-at-the-Market Competition @ Westport Farmers' Market

Features Farmers Market Chef

Maddie Phelps June 13, 2019

Watching the chefs of the hit TV show “Chopped” scramble to cook up their finest creations while the clock ticks away is truly entertaining. But watching such a competition in real life takes the cake. While the Westport Farmers’ Market didn’t bring the cast, crew, and chefs of “Chopped” to downtown Westport, they did emulate the cook-off with their very own version: “The Chef at the Market Competition.” Here’s a recap of the first “Chef At The Market” throw down, but there are many more to come. Check out the schedule below.

"Max Chef to Farm" Pop-Up Dinners At The Farm June-August 2019 Schedule

Features Farm Dinner Pop-Up Dinner CT Farms Farm to Table

CTbites Team June 12, 2019

Max Chef to Farm, an award-winning group of events that celebrate the amazing food grown in our backyard, is heading into their 12th year. Guests are transported directly to the farm to experience seasonal and local food. Their dinners are multi-course feasts showcasing the delicious bounty of Connecticut-grown produce and other locally-sourced ingredients prepared on site by Chef Steve Michalewicz of Max Catering & Events, Chef Hunter Morton, Culinary Director of the Max Restaurant Group, and the entire Max Chef to Farm team.

Max Chef to Farm dinners are adventurous events that celebrate and support CT-grown products. Their host farm for most events this season is the 160-acre Rosedale Farms, located in Simsbury, CT. They have many things in common with the Max Restaurant Group including a commitment to using sustainable farming and business practices. Speaking of support...

The Blind Rhino Sports Bar Opens In Black Rock

Restaurant Sports Bar Bar lunch Bridgeport Black Rock Comfort Food Opening

James Gribbon June 12, 2019

When the Blind Rhino opened in South Norwalk in 2015 it made waves both as the first dedicated sports bar in a nightlife-intensive district which was somehow devoid of one, and for making quality food and drink the focus, rather than an afterthought to bats and balls. Do they have beer and wings? Yep, but their beers are two dozen taps' worth of Connecticut focused craft, and their wings come with flavors like Togarashi dry rub and won multiple medals at the last year's National Buffalo Wing Festival in Buffalo, NY. Is there such a thing as a gastro sports bar? Yes, actually, there are two - and you can now find the second one just over the Fairfield town line in the Black Rock neighborhood of Bridgeport.

Chef Billy Grant Hosts Pop-Up Farm Dinner Series at Rose's Berry Farm

Features Farm Dinner Pop-Up Dinner South Glastonbury CT Farms Italian

CTbites Team June 11, 2019

Chef Billy Grant and his Chefs Corey Cannon of Bricco Trattoria, and Jon Gyles of Bricco West Hartford invite you to join them for their Summer 2019 Farm Dinner series at Rose’s Berry Farm, in South Glastonbury. Every Farm dinner features a creative menu with ingredients sourced from a multitude of CT farms, and includes passed and stationed hors d’ oeuvres, multi-course dinner, dessert, creative cocktails, craft beers, and vino!

Price per person is $89 plus 18% tax and gratuity (all alcohol is included). Reservations recommended and can be purchased online at www.billygrant.com or by emailing catering director Michelle McMahon at michelle@billygrant.com.

Sherkaan Indian Restaurant Opens in New Haven—Totally Bindaas

Restaurant New Haven Indian Lunch Cocktails Bar Homepage Opening

Frank Cohen June 09, 2019

If Sherkaan, the name given the Indian restaurant that succeeded vegetarian Thali Too (2008-2018) in New Haven’s Broadway District in the space behind the Apple store, sounds strangely familiar, it should. The name is taken from Mowgli’s chief antagonist in Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, the sly Bengal tiger—Shere Khan.

Owners Ankit Harpaldas and Puneet “Pete” Ramchandani are experienced restaurateurs with a playful streak that runs as deep as the mean streak in Kipling’s menacing tiger. Harpaldas and Ramchandani also own Taprock Beer Bar & Refuge in the Unionville section of Farmington, a restaurant with an affinity for modern design, unusual drink options and quirky fun food sensibilities.

Pokéworks Opens In Westport: Hawaiian Poké Bowls & Burritos for All!

Restaurant Westport Seafood Sushi Lunch Asian Hawaiian Opening

Maddie Phelps June 07, 2019

Those who loved a bowl or burrito packed with fresh meat, rice, and veggies were nothing short of devastated when Chipotle closed its Westport location this past winter. Thankfully, I can be the bearer of some good news for those who are still heartbroken. There’s a new place in town with plenty of fresh meat, rice, and veggies galore for any burrito or bowl you desire. And this time, there’s a Hawaiian twist to it.

Pokéworks, a Hawaiian restaurant whose business took the country by storm upon opening in 2015, recently made its debut in Westport’s Compo Acres Shopping Center. The original founders sought to bring a taste of Hawaii to the public through poké, which is the diced raw fish that is considered one of the main dishes of native Hawaiian cuisine. Committed to offering the freshest of seafood, Pokéworks also emphasizes their sustainable practices and efforts to preserve the world’s oceans in a time when many are not.

30+ CT Restaurants, Farm Dinners & Special Events for Father's Day 2019

Features Father's Day Special Occasion Homepage

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson June 05, 2019

Last month we celebrated Mom... now it's time to celebrate Dad! Connecticut restaurants, breweries, wineries, and caterers are getting creative with special ways to honor fathers. From al fresco feasts to beer dinners to vineyard festivals to BBQ, here is a list of over 30 places with celebrations on Father's Day and Father's Day weekend. Be sure to make your reservations now. Seats fill up quickly!

Goshen Stampede, Goshen: Just in time for Father’s Day, the 14th Annual Goshen Stampede takes place from June 14th - 16th at The Goshen Fair Grounds. There will be live music, demolition derbies, truck pulls, rodeos, barrel racing, music, rides, food, and more.

Bear’s Smokehouse @ Alvarium, New Britain: Alvarium and Bear's Smokehouse are teaming up for Father’s Day. Bear's Smokehouse will serve up the best authentic Kansas City Barbeque on the patio while Alvarium pours brews to go with the meal.

Untiled Bistro @ Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Hartford: On, Sunday, June 16 treat Dad with a special Jazz Brunch. There are two seatings available: 10:30am & 12:30pm. In addition to live music by Sarah Rose Nunes and Joe Carter, tickets include a buffet, museum admission, and one complimentary bloody mary or mimosa.

Match & Match Burger Lobster, Norwalk & Westport: Match and Match Burger Lobster will be open on Sunday 6/16 and serving their regular menus.

Adults Only "Maritime With A Twist" June 27: Sip & Sample at The Maritime Aquarium (sponsored post)

Features Events

CTbites Team June 05, 2019

Celebrate the summer with sips and samples and sharks and seals during the “Maritime with a Twist” adults-only evening event on Thurs., June 27th at The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. Get your tickets here.

Open to anyone age 21 and over, “Maritime with a Twist” features tastes from nearby restaurants in the South Norwalk (or SoNo) neighborhood, as well as refreshments by artisanal distillers and distributors. Sample them all while enjoying the entire Aquarium for one price. Music for the evening will be provided by Big Yachty, Fairfield County’s premiere Yacht Rock cover band.

Participating restaurants and retailers include: Bandido, Evarito’s, CulinArt, Local, La Dolce, Saltwater, Tablao, Blind Rhino

Pouring the tastings will be from: KRAKEN Rum, Total Wine, Thimble Island Brewery, Owl’s Brew, Asylum Vodka, Eder Brothers Wine

Nibble: Tasty CT Food Events For Week of June 9-16

Features News Events

Emma Jane-Doody Stetson June 04, 2019

On Tuesday June 11, Porron join Missing Link Wine Company, the Wise Old Dog, Finca Volvoreta Winery, and Chef Tyler Anderson for Porron’s very first vegetarian Pop Up Supper. Begin with a reception of Txakoli and then sit for a tasting menu with wine for each course.

On Thursday June 13, Kala Bistro is celebrating women with a “Wine Dinner with a Focus on Female Winemakers.” The 5 course meal will be complemented with wines from Spain and France. It is $69 per person, inclusive, and begins at 6:30pm.

The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield presents “A Place at the Table” farm-to-table dinner on Friday June 14. Enjoy a locally sources 3 course dinner prepared by Hayfields Market. Members can participate in an exclusive chef’s tasting before dinner.

The 10th Annual Hartford Rib Off is back and returning to Hartford’s Riverside Park from June 14-15, 2019. This year's festival will begin on June 14th with the Hartford Rib Off Kick-Off Party where guests can enjoy live music, beer samples from 20 different breweries,

Recap: Marcia Selden Hosts Wakeman Town Farm Spring Dinner

Features Events Catering

Kristin L. Wolfe June 04, 2019

There’s no doubt that spring finally sprung at Wakeman Town Farm with a cooking demo and three-course dinner from Marcia Selden Catering. It might have been a bit misty and grey outside, but each table was adorned with flowers, cocktails flowed into every glass, and some of the adorable goats, chickens, and ducks could be seen in the distance from the dining room, called “Tim’s Kitchen,” inside.

Boca Oyster Bar Opens On Bridgeport's Steelpointe Harbor

Restaurant Bridgeport Black Rock Seafood Oysters Oyster Bar Homepage Opening

James Gribbon June 02, 2019

Drivers casting their eyes randomly about, desperate for a diversionary glance at anything besides traffic and out of state plates between the concrete shoulders of I-95 may settle their gaze on a new brick building on the waterfront of Bridgeport harbor. Slightly reminiscent of a lighthouse, it sits at the other side of the new development in Steelpointe Harbor from Bass Pro Shops, and - as of this week - houses the new Boca Oyster Bar. CTBites hit the bar during their soft open at the end of May to give you this first look.