Sneak Peek at Boothbay Lobster Company in Stamford, Something Wicked Fresh This Way Comes Restaurant Lobster Seafood Stamford Lunch Lou Gorfain July 20, 2016 Every start-up dream begins with two words: what if? Once upon a time, David Galin and his buddy George Craig fantasized opening their own unique restaurant. But they were young and fate was very fickle. So each forged a highly successful non-culinary career -- in academics (David) and finance (George). A generation later, the two pals found themselves fishing up in Maine; and on a sudden whim, once-upon-a-time magically became now. What if they brought the seaside Maine Lobster Shack experience -- and all its Wharf to Table freshness -- to Fairfield County? Voila: The Boothbay Lobster Company, a unique concept restaurant at Harbor Point in Stamford, which opens for real next week. Galin and Willie Craig (George’s son, a partner in Boothbay, and himself fresh out of college) offered CTBites an exclusive sneak peek at a dream come true. “’Wicked Fresh’ is our pledge,” Willie told us. Pulled fresh from clean, cold Maine waters, the seafood will be rushed by BLC’s refrigerated vehicle down the coast to Stamford. “We don’t believe in tanking our lobster,” David added, explaining that holding crustaceans in tanks causes the meat to deteriorate, affecting its fresh texture and taste. “This is why we source from day boats rather than commercial vessels,” he said. That way he can guarantee that his lobsters haven’t been stressed for a time in the ship’s hold. Read More
Community Table & Kent Falls Brewing Co. Host Beer Dinner July 26 Restaurant Beer Dinner Brewery Washington Amy Kundrat July 20, 2016 Community Table & Kent Falls Brewing Co. are teaming up for a special evening of food and beer on July 26. Executive Chef Marcell Davidsen has collaborated with Barry and Derek at Kent Falls Brewing Co. on a summer-inspired menu fit for Connecticut locavore beer lovers. "We are very excited to host this event, and share some great beers and great food. And there might be a few surprises too," said Marcell Davidsen. We have a sneak peek of the menu, which at last count is 7 courses and 6 beers, and as many reasons to get excited for this evening at Community Table. Tickets are $75 per person. Reservations are available on OpenTable.com. July 26 Menu Sourdough Bread Toasted hay butter Smoked Trout & Squash Blossom Hazelnut crème Beer: Lade Øl 4.8 % Abv. A farmhouse ale brewed with smoked hay. This beer takes on delicate notes of sweet grass, vanilla and spice notes from the hay complementing our house yeast culture. Read More
Foraging with Chef Bun Lai of Miya’s Sushi in New Haven Restaurant Chef Chef Talk Seafood New Haven Sushi ellen bowen July 19, 2016 To Forage: The word forage means to use wander or search for food or provisions. So when I was invited to James Beard nominated and passionate foraging chef, Bun Lai’s farm in upstate Connecticut for lunch, I half expected we would forage for much of our meal. When I saw on Instagram that Bun and his friend, Greg Grinberg from Actual Food had been diving the prior day for clams for lunch, I knew I was in for a treat. Chef Bun Lai is a passionate advocate for sustainable farming and eating and sources much of the food he serves at his New Haven sushi restaurant, Miya’s, from his own gardens, from the wooded forest around his 10 acre farm in Woodbridge, CT and from Long Island Sound. His popular restaurant has been a New Haven destination for over 35 years, originally opened by his mother, who is still involved today. To visit with Bun is a lesson in locally sourced produce, with no pesticides or flavor or color enhancements. He and Greg described foraging as, “the most natural way of eating… the “gathering” part of the hunter/gatherer”. Read More
Mezón Tapas Bar and Restaurant in Danbury – From the Heart, From the Home Restaurant Caribbean Danbury Tapas Latin American Lou Gorfain July 17, 2016 Even though it’s one of the largest cities in Connecticut, Danbury was once regarded as a restaurant wasteland. The downtown eateries catered to a family demographic who sought a reasonably priced menu that took few culinary chances. Very mid-century. However, in the past few years, a vibrant international food scene has burgeoned on the city’s west side. The cuisines are sophisticated, diverse, and creative, reflective of 21st Century dining. Many credit Richard Reyes’s Mezón Tapas Bar and Restaurant with transforming Mill Plain Road into destination dining. The year was 2011. Reyes was then a former Wall Street Executive who decided to come home to Connecticut and open a restaurant where people could dine on food prepared in the Latin tradition of his family. From the heart. From the home. Richard was all of 25 … and Mezón posed far more of a risk than even the stock market. At the time, Mill Plain Road was dotted with a string of mostly red-sauce Italian/American restaurants. “Sure, we were taking a chance,” he recently told us, “But we helped break the mold.” Rich invited CTbites to sample some of the Latin and Caribbean fare that has attracted Mezón’s diverse and discerning clientele from across the region. Though the Paella and the Churrasco are the most popular dishes on the menu, Reyes had other ideas for our feast. Read More
Save the Date: Taste of Fairfield October 9, 2016 Restaurant Fairfield CTbites Team July 16, 2016 Fairfield is home to so many terrific restaurants and talented chefs. TownVibe and Fairfield Magazine have announced plans to celebrate Fairfield’s dynamic food scene by organizing Taste of Fairfield on Sunday, October 9, 2016, from 1pm to 5pm, held in the outdoor tented patio area of Southport’s Delamar Hotel. Guests will enjoy tastes and sips from more than two dozen restaurants and specialty markets from the Fairfield area, all in the courtyard of the Delamar and Artisan Restaurant. In addition to fine cuisine, craft cocktails, artisanal wine, craft beer, and sweets, there will be live music and roving entertainment. Read More
Rose’s Berry Farm Blueberry Streusel Recipe + Westport Farmers’ Market Ingredients Recipe Farmers Market Recipe Lynn Felici-Gallant July 15, 2016 Farmers and gardeners in the Northeast sometimes lament the inability to grow plants in acidic soil. A low pH in soil affects a plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. But there is one genus of plants that thrives in acidic soil and this season, we are the better for it. Vaccinium (pronounced vak- SIN- ee- um) – the genus that produces cranberries, lingonberries, and huckleberries – brings us an abundant crop this year of everybody’s favorite: high-bush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum). And the folks at Rose’s Berry Farm are elated. With over 42 acres of blueberry fields in South Glastonbury, Rose’s is the largest berry producer in Connecticut. Lucky for us, they’ll bring their bounty to the Westport Farmers’ Market this week. Blueberries are one of the most nutrient-dense foods we can eat; they boost heart, brain, and eye health and are known cancer fighters. Of course, there is practically no limit to recipes for blueberries, either. Why not simmer a simple compote of berries and maple syrup or honey to serve over Nutty Bunny frozen vanilla or chocolate dessert? Read More
Holbrook Farm Dinners Summer 2016 CTbites Team July 14, 2016 Updated July 13 to reflect new dinner dates and chefs. Holbrook Farm in Bethel will be hosting a series of farm dinners this summer in collaboration with local chefs and farms. Farm dinners will be announced each month, and tickets can be ordered online. June events and chefs have been announced but July and August are forthcoming. July Dinners Saturday, July 23 Chefs: Chefs Morgan & Tony (Mezon, Danbury, CT and Mecha, Fairfield & South Norwalk, CT) Theme: Fresh, locally caught Seafood Sunday July 24 Chef: Chef Matt Stanzcak (formerly, Stanziato's) Theme: Fresh, locally caught Seafood Read More
Weekly Nibble: CT Food Events & Happenings For July 17-23 Emma Jane-Doody Stetson July 14, 2016 Chef Danielle Hartog of Paleo & Plate is excited to announce her next private dinner. It will take place on Friday July 22 at 7pm in Westport. The evening, aptly entitled “Summer Time Bliss,” features a carrot turmeric shooter, shrimp ceviche, braised short ribs, and peaches and cream. For the complete menu, additional details, and to reserve, click here. Fortina in Stamford invites you to “Chrismukkah in July!” The zany fundraiser, replete with crazy delicious eats and whimsical winter drinks, takes place July 20 at Fortina Stamford. The party is being thrown by the Junior Board of Domus, a non-profit organization that serves struggling youth in the region. At their charter schools in Stamford and New Haven, Domus creates programs that allow vulnerable kids to forge a pathway to health, opportunity, and satisfying lives. John Nealon of Fortina will providing space and labor at no cost while local purveyors are donating product. As a result, 100% of the proceeds will go to the organization. The Stamford Nature Center invites us to learn about “A Day in a Farmer’s Life” every Monday through August 22. Hands-on programs include milking, grooming, caring for baby animals, and more. It lasts from 11-11:30am. The event is free for members or free with gate admission for non-members. Rizzuto's Oyster Bar & Restaurant, with locations in Bethel, Westport, and West Hartford, invites you to a lobster feast every Tuesday through August 30 Read More
Stick with the Burgers At Bareburger Jeff "jfood" Schlesinger July 13, 2016 The second Connecticut location for Bareburger, in Harbor Point, opened six months ago, its second Fairfield County location (the first opened in downtown Ridgefield in 2013) as the micro-chain-gone-global expands its Connecticut offerings. For an overview of Bareburger and an exclusive interview with its founder, Euripides Pelekanos, click here. Several months ago CTbites was invited to a media event at Bareburger in Stamford. Downpours and personnel issues left a less than favorable impression of the cuisine. After a three-month hiatus CTbites was invited back and treated to several appetizers, a few burgers and a dessert. Visit number two left a better impression; Bareburger serves very good burgers, with bold flavors and combinations; unfortunately, the appetizers are still a challenge. Read More
The Nook in Black Rock: Communal Private Dining...The Secret's Out Restaurant Black Rock Bridgeport Pop-Up Dinner Jessica Ryan July 12, 2016 Along came Carol, and then she opened The Nook, a private dining experience in Black Rock. The secret is about to get leaked. All who’ve visited The Nook can’t stop singing its praises - they’ll say how wonderful it is. What, exactly, is The Nook? And, if all these people have heard of The Nook, why hadn’t I? The concept was created by chef and caterer Carol Lentini and her husband and partner Mark Mojcher. Located in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport, it is best described as a communal private dining experience. The eatery features one community table set in the middle of a long room offering an artistic and whimsical air with walls painted in a cheery bright pink, on which hang large colorful paintings. More private dining room, less public restaurant, we felt like guests, not customers. While you wait for dinner you can mingle with the others and introduce yourself; you’ll meet your neighbor and maybe even become fast friends. Two things should be noted - This isn’t the place for a quiet romantic evening out, and it’s BYOB. Read More
CHRISMUKKAH IN JULY -- FORTINA-STYLE Lou Gorfain July 11, 2016 The Dog Days of Summer. Time to dream of sugar plums, dine on turkey and knishes, sip a hot toddy or two and maybe steal a kiss under the mistletoe. And it all happens at a one-of-a-kind summer party called “Chrismukkah in July,” a Merry Mish Mash that will make the real December holidays happier for a special group of local teens. The zany fundraiser, replete with crazy delicious eats and whimsical winter drinks, takes place July 20that Fortina Stamford. (For entry to a bash that only the Fortina boys could concoct, click the ticket link at the end of this article.) The party is being thrown by the Junior Board of Domus, a non-profit organization that serves struggling youth in the region. At their charter schools in Stamford and New Haven, Domus creates programs that allow vulnerable kids to forge a pathway to health, opportunity, and satisfying lives. This year, Domus seniors achieved a 100% high school graduation rate. (Click http://domuskids.org/ to learn more of their amazing success stories.) Domus has always enjoyed a productive partnership with the food community. In the past, their Trafigura Work and Learn program has sold garden and greenhouse produce at local farmers markets and to restaurants like The Whelk in Westport and Columbus Park Trattoria in Stamford as well as David’s Catering. Read More
Pizza Excellence and More at Mondo in Middletown Hope Simmons July 10, 2016 Growing up, we had no shortage of good pizza in Middletown. Not surprising, given the number of Italians who call this city home. But over time, many of the old favorites I loved as a kid—Marino's, Giovanni's, D&S (for scacciata)—were no more. Then Mondo came to town in 2010. “Great, another Italian place,” I thought. And apparently, I wasn’t alone. I recently met with Keith Vibert, owner of Mondo. “Before we were even open, a woman stuck her head in and asked, What kind of restaurant is this going to be? When we told her it was going to be an Italian/pizza place, she threw her hands in the air and walked out.” But once we had a taste, we were sold. From creative salads and appetizers to panini and pizza, Mondo offers something for everyone. There are no bad choices here. And though it just happens to be my pizza home away from home, people come from everywhere to enjoy a meal with friends and family—or on a date. That’s pretty much what Mondo is all about. Read More
New Haven's Historic Bar Reopens: Welcome Back Anchor Spa Restaurant Cocktails New Haven Amy Kundrat July 08, 2016 It's back. Anchor Spa, one of New Haven's most iconic drinking establishments has been brought back to life thanks to Yale alumnus and restauranteur Karl Franz Williams (67 Orange Street, Solomon & Kuff). Renovated with an emphasis on evoking the 1930's spirit of the original Anchor Spa while infusing the space with thoughtful modern touches, Anchor Spa is poised to take its place among Connecticut's most stylish and storied bars. Read More
Three Mason Jar Layered Salad Cups via Marcia Selden Catering CTbites Team July 08, 2016 Photo credit - Robin Selden for Marcia Selden Catering This is an anything-but-boring (and super easy!) way to serve a salad on the go. Perfect for picnics or beach BBQ’s. Buy a case of inexpensive mason jars at the grocery store and start layering with your favorite ingredients and dressings! Kale Shrimp Caesar Yield: 6 Mason Jars Ingredients 9 C Shredded Kale (1.5 C per Jar) 3 C Shaved Parmesan (1/2 C per Jar) 3 C Croutons (1/2 C per Jar) 24 21/25 Shrimp, Tail Off (4 per Jar) 3 Cloves Garlic, Minced 4 T Lemon Juice 8 T EVOO 3 T Parsley, Chopped 3 T Chives, Thinly Sliced Salt & Pepper Caesar Dressing Read More
Weekly Nibble: CT Food Events & Happenings For July 10-16 Emma Jane-Doody Stetson July 07, 2016 Stonebridge Restaurant and Wines and More Milford are teaming up for a 6-Course Wine Dinner on Tuesday July 12. Dishes include local cheeses, charcuterie, and pine nut pesto salmon. Some of the wine selections are Mionetto Gran Rosé, Château Les Tourelles de Longueville Pauillac, and Orin Swift Abstract. It costs $75 per person (tax and gratuity included). For the full menu, wine list, and details, please see: http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ecqxzoouaac61956&llr=lmve7pkab Fleishers Craft Butchery in Westport is pleased to announce a new Summer Grilling Series! Each class includes an explanation about cuts of meat, a hands-on burger making tutorial, a look at seasonings and sauces, and of course… eating! You’ll even enjoy a summer beer. The first class takes place on Tuesday July 12 at 7pm. It costs $100 and tickets are available online: https://fleishers.yapsody.com/event/book/42829/207112 Wednesday July 13 is National Yoga Day. Celebrate with Half Full Brewery in Stamford at their “Yoga for Hoptimists” evening. A $16 ticket includes a 50 minute yoga class and open beer taps. Bonus: Some proceeds will go to help NGO AFESIP Cambodia start a yoga program for women and girls. http://halffullbrewery.com/event-calendar/ Read More
CTbites Invites: Happy Hour on the Kawa Ni Rooftop for $39 Restaurant CTbites Invites ellen bowen July 06, 2016 Are you still kicking yourself for missing the CTbites Happy Hour on the Patio at Artisan last month? No worries… CTbites is excited to offer a second chance to celebrate Summer 2016, this time on the wonderful outdoor rooftop patio of Kawa Ni Westport on Wednesday July 13th from 5:30-7:30 pm ( Raindate Thursday July 14th ) Buy your tickets here http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2566107 Overlooking the Saugatuck River, and watching the boats, kayaks and paddleboarders drift by is a special bonus to the evening which for $39 includes Chef Jeff Taibe's creative and delicious appetizers and two beverages of your choice. Enhancing the patio experience are two familiar faces, Carissa and Maddy, from The Stand Juice Bar. They bring with them both their sparkling personalities, as well as some of The Stands juices and a specialty cocktail blend called "Pick Your Poison", to enjoy while nibbling Kawa Ni's Izakaya appetizers like : Pork Spring Rolls Mini Tofu Pockets Peekytoe Crab Rangoon Ebi Sticks Kani Salad Broccoli Salad Read More
Prime Opens in Stamford - A First Look Emma Jane-Doody Stetson July 05, 2016 On Saturday July 3, bursts of fireworks illuminated the Stamford sky in honor of the Fourth of July. Stamford residents also had something else to celebrate; the opening of Prime restaurant. CTbites reported in January that the Huntington, NY restaurant had secured a second location in Stamford. Now, five months later, Prime is bringing its steak, seafood, sushi, and signature dishes to Connecticut. The Fourth of July is a fitting time for Prime to open its doors. The holiday embodies summer sun and surf. Those same elements lie at the heart of Prime. The flagship Huntington, NY restaurant boasts harbor views, dock space, and outdoor seating. The new Stamford location promises the same. Situated in the waterfront space that once housed Dolce Cubano, Prime Stamford is embracing everything that Long Island Sound has to offer. “Boating will be a big factor for us,” says Michael Bohlsen of Bohlsen Restaurant Group, the team behind Prime. He revealed that the Stamford location obtained ten dock slips. Boaters can make a reservation (separate fee may apply) and bring their vessels directly to Prime. They also hired a dock master to oversee the boats. Bohlsen Restaurant Group believes in exceptional service and crafting a fine dining experience. As a result, they are taking their time to ensure that every aspect of the restaurant runs smoothly. Their Stamford debut has taken the form of a series of soft openings so that they can perfect their approach. They gave a sneak peek to the community with a cocktail party for local neighbors and members of the Chamber of Commerce. They followed up with two days of friends and family dining, for guests of the staff. Prime’s first dinner service took place on Wednesday June 29. Until July 13, Prime will give diners 50% of what they spend (pre-tax and pre-gratuity) on a gift card that can be redeemed in the fall. “We recognize that it’s only a first or second week. There are a lot of moving pieces and it’s not yet perfect,” says Bohlsen. “The people coming now are a lot of the local people. This is a way to introduce ourselves.” Read More
Guide To The Best Dive Bars In Southwest Connecticut c. 2016 Restaurant Delicious Dives Bar Lou Gorfain July 03, 2016 Dive Bars aren’t necessarily dives. Take Casey’s Tavern in Stamford. Secluded on a dead end side street just off downtown, its windows are veiled, its entrance shadowy. What’s behind the curtains? Well, step inside and be amazed. The crowd is convivial, the decor beguiling, and the joint jumping. A song blasts on the juke, but it’s buried under the laughter and yak. Behind a highly polished hardwood bar, mirrors and bottles glisten. Out the back door, a sun-splashed patio beckons. And on each table – there’s an extensive menu to ponder. So is Casey’s a dive? “No, no,” Seamus Costigan tells us. ”We don’t attract trouble.” He should know. Costigan is not only the guy behind the stick, but the affable owner of this Irish pub. It is said once Seamus meets you, he never forgets your name or your drink. These days the term “Dive Bar” doesn’t imply bikers, broken bottles and bloody bathrooms. Rather, a true Dive serves as a neighborhood gathering place, where regulars can dive in*, grab a quick (or long) one at an affordable price, shoot pool or darts, argue sports and politics, or just b,s. about life and love. No one comes in to be lonely … or leaves broke. When you belly up to the bar, there’s no need to order. The ‘keep is already pouring. Seamus nods and grins. “I guess we’re a dive bar, then. I know exactly what time my regulars come in, their drink, and what they eat.” In a modern Dive, the food is as much a draw as the liquor and the laughter. So forget about microwaved burgers and dogs, stale chips, or soggy Slices. The new breed Dive caters to customers who aren’t just thirsty, but hungry for a tasty meal without breaking the bank. Gourmet dining? At times. Complexity, not really. But solid eats, definitely. In fact, some dishes are farm fresh and healthy. Herewith, we curate the best eats we found at some selected SW Connecticut Dives … Read More
Instabites: Brunch in Niantic, Fleisher's Burger, Kent Falls Brewing, Fairfield Farmers' Market, Bill's Seafood Restaurant Fairfield Kent Niantic Shoreline East Westport Amy Kundrat June 30, 2016 A few of our recent snackable moments from Instagram: What a gem! Niantic's @labelleaurorect is a terrific farm-to-table find (brunch to dinner) if you're on the Connecticut shoreline. (Pictured is their smores French toast but I also highly recommend the farm fresh vegetable hash). #ctbites #farmtotable #niantic #brunch A photo posted by CTbites (@ctbites) on Jun 26, 2016 at 10:01am PDT #lamb #burger @fleisherscraftkitchen #lambburger #burgers #comfortfood #summer #craftbutchery #butcher #photobomb Read More
