LIFESTYLE LETTER
As we step into June, it's a pleasure to present to you our annual Men’s Issue, celebrating the diverse stories and achievements of men in our community. This edition is particularly special as we delve into the lives of local figures whose contributions have left a lasting impact. In this issue, we are thrilled to feature two remarkable individuals, Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni have elevated and transformed their practice to the next level. Their innovative approach and commitment to excellence have set a benchmark for success, making them true pillars of our community. Additionally, we are excited to showcase Joshua Anthony Mesnik, the owner and operator at Josie & Tony’s. Alongside these inspiring profiles, our June issue is packed with thought-provoking articles exploring a range of topics relevant to men's health, lifestyle, and professional growth.
We hope this issue sparks conversations, ignites passions, and encourages everyone to embrace their unique journeys with courage and determination. Thank you for being part of our community, and we look forward to sharing more inspiring stories with you in the months to come.
LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @DARIENNEWCANAANLIFESTYLEMAG
PUBLISHER
Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Megan Schinella
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman
Proverbs 3:5-6
TIME TO GET IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT WITH A NEW GARAGE
It’s time to rev-up your garage with a custom design by Closet Factory. Turn your ordinary garage into a man cave celebration. Call (203) 616-5847 for a free in-home or virtual design consultation and estimate. Visit us online at closetfactory.com.
Showroom 100 Wooster St., Bethel, CT 06801
Showroom 110 Post Road, Darien, CT 06820
Since 1960, New Neighbors has aided newcomers in adjusting to town. Samantha Loomis, the representative, hosts New Neighbor Welcome Coffees monthly at Silvermine Market. She shares insights on New Canaan's offerings, drawing from her 10+ years of experience and local ties in the community. If you have moved to New Canaan in the past year or so and are interested in attending email Samantha.Loomis46@gmail.com or text 914-263-0730 so that she can share the upcoming coffee dates!
Picture this: four mom friends from Connecticut, each with her own perspective and parenting style, getting together to talk about pretty much anything you’d chat with your friends about over a cup of coffee. Room 4 Four is a podcast where four friends come together, not as experts, but as real women. The hosts, talk about it all - from careers and family life to selfcare, mental health, getting older and parenting in a changing world.
ARTICLE BY MEGAN SCHINELLA
Grab your guys and plan a relaxed or adrenaline-induced day, weekend, or guys night out with these local experiences!
1. ELICIT BREWING COMPANY: Brings brews together! A brewery, beer hall, cocktail bar, lounge, game room, and restaurant with 100tap taproom and social space. Fairfield CT.
2. TIKI AND LIME : Launches from Black Duck Cafe. A scenic tiki cruise for 6 guests at sunset, relax and unwind for 90 minutes down CT’s gold coast. Westport CT
3. CYCLE CO: This party bike seats 14 with a 4-bar itinerary for two-hour passenger bike tour, taking riders to four different bars while jamming to tunes. Stamford CT.
4. YANKEE PAINTBALL : Competitive team shooting sport, players eliminate opponents from play, with helpful referees to provide guidance with the ins and outs of the game. Oxford CT.
5. CUTTING EDGE AXE THROWING: A thrill that's sure to keep you entertained for hours with expert guidance and fun-filled atmosphere! Stamford CT.
“Susan Garnett has been an anchor for Isabelle since they bonded in her sixth-grade advisory. She was always there as a guide and support throughout Isabelle’s middle and high school years. SLS ensured both of my girls graduated with the confidence to meet any challenge.”
Susan and “Izzy“ in sixth-grade advisory
We're excited to unveil the winners of this year's Local Love Awards! From neighborhood cafes to innovative podcasts, fitness studios to eco-friendly initiatives, every winner was selected by YOU, our fantastic and engaged community. No algorithms, no random picks, just the genuine support of our readers. A big congratulations to all the deserving winners!
BEST WOMEN'S FASHION STORE HELEN AINSON helenainson.com | 15 Corbin Dr Darien, CT 06820 | @helenainson
Helen AInson is your one-stop shop for evening gowns, cocktail dresses, and casual clothing.
BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL
ST. LUKE’S SCHOOL stlukesct.org | 377 North Wilton Road New Canaan, CT 06840 | @stlukesct @stlukesstorm
St. Luke’s — a secular (non-religious) school for grades 5-12 — offers an engaging, challenging, and creative curriculum such as Leading with Humanity, Emerging Tech, and individualized coaching for students. Learn more at stlukesct.org.
BEST FAMILY BUSINESS DARIEN SPORT SHOP
dariensportshop.com | 1127 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @dariensportshop
BEST LOCAL INFLUENCER ANNA BARNES, BLISS & BELLINIS blissandbellinis.com | @bliss_and_bellinis
BEST KID’S HAIRCUT BONBON HAIR STUDIO
bonbonhairstudio.com | 841 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @bonbonhairstudio
BEST FLORIST FRESH FLOWER BAR freshflowerbar.com | 1301 Bronson Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824 | @freshflowerbar
BEST BRUNCH, BEST NEW RESTAURANT (2023), & BEST CASUAL FOOD SPOT THE GRANOLA BAR thegranolabar.com | 1020 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @thegranolabar
BEST BAR TEN TWENTY POST tentwentypost.com | 1020 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @tentwentypost
BEST YOGA STUDIO & BEST KIDS PROGRAM SAMA YOGA CENTER
samayogacenter.com | 45 Grove St, New Canaan, CT 06840 | @samayogacenter
OPPOSITE PAGE: (Clockwise from top left) Anna Barnes, Bliss & Bellinis, Darizen Spa & Wellness, Nina’s Got Good News, Sama Yoga Center, bartaco, NEAT Coffee, BARVIDA, Hammer & Nails,
BEST COFFEE SHOP NEAT COFFEE
neatcoffee.com | 20 Grove St, Darien, CT 06820 | @neatdarien
BEST DENTIST DENTAL ARTS OF DARIEN
dentalartsofdarien.com | 800 Post Rd 3rd floor, Darien, CT 06820 @dentalartsofdarien
BEST ACUPUNCTURE INTUITIVE WELLNESS
ACUPUNCTURE
intuitivewellnessacu.com | 5 Tokeneke Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @intuitive_wellness_acu
BEST DAY SPA NEW BEAUTY & WELLNESS
newbeautywellness.com | 1137 Post Rd E, Westport, CT 06880 @newbeautywellness
BEST REALTOR APRIL + KELLY TEAM
raveis.com/agent/aprilandkelly | 4 Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840 @aprilandkelly
BEST FINE JEWELRY
LUX BOND & GREEN
lbgreen.com | 136 Main St, Westport, CT 06880 | @luxbondgreen
BEST PEDIATRICIAN
DR. JULIE SWEENEY AT SPROUTWELL sproutwellpediatrics.com | 53 Old Kings Hwy N, Suite 203 Darien, CT 06820 @drjuliesweeney | @sproutwellpediatrics
Dr. Julie Sweeney specializes in pediatric integrative medicine. She offers personalized pediatric consults to elevate & expand your child's current care.
BEST LOCAL PODCAST
NINA'S GOT GOOD NEWS ninabradleyclarke.com | 194 Gregory Blvd, Norwalk, CT 06855 | @ninabclarke
Nina B. Clarke is an Emmy-award winning journalist. She is a storyteller at heart after working in TV news for 15 years. Nina is the founder and host of the toprated "Nina's Got Good News" Podcast available on all podcast platforms. She is also a popular lifestyle blogger, brand influencer and public speaker. Nina lives in coastal Connecticut with her husband and two children.
BEST MARTINI ELM
elmrestaurant.com | 73 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840 | @elmrestaurant
OPPOSITE PAGE: (Clockwise from top left) Flour Water Salt Bread, Dr. Julie Sweeney at SproutWell, Dental Arts of Darien, Townhouse, Fjord Fish Market tempos et od quae periatur. Quis dionsen.
BEST MASSAGE DARIZEN SPA & WELLNESS
darizenspa.com | 688 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @darizenspa
Darizen Spa & Wellness redefined the acupuncture experience by integrating traditional Chinese medicine, massage, and facial treatments with upscale pampering offering a holistic approach to wellness like no other.
BEST GOURMET GROCERY PALMER'S MARKET
palmersdarien.com | 264 Heights Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @palmersmarket
Considered a trendsetter in the industry, Palmer’s Market has been recognized in both national and international publications and has won over 31 ‘Best of’ awards.
BEST ART GALLERY MOCA WESTPORT
(MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART)
mocawestport.org | 19 Newtown Turnpike, Westport, CT 06880 | @mocawestport
MoCA Westport offers contemporary art exhibitions, performing arts events & award winning educational programs that build a deeper understanding and passion for the arts.
BEST EVENT VENUE TOWNHOUSE
townhousegreenwich.com | 35 Church St, Greenwich, CT 06830 | @townhousegreenwich
Step into our chic venue, where multiple dining rooms await to host you for lunch, dinner or your next event.
BEST EVENT PLANNER
SHELBY GREY EVENTS
shelbygreyevents.com | @shelbygreyevents
BEST COSMETIC SURGEON & BEST DERMATOLOGIST DR. KIM NICHOLS, NICHOLSMD
kimnicholsmd.com | 50 Old Field Point Road, 3rd Floor, Greenwich, CT 06830 @skinlabnicholsmd
BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER
GAELLE DUDLEY, GL DESIGN gldesignhome.com | @gldesignhome
BEST CUSTOM HOME BUILDER ARENA DEVELOPMENT
arenadevelopments.com | 1475 Newfield Ave, Stamford, CT 06905 | @arena_development
BEST REAL ESTATE AGENCY WILLIAM PITT SOTHEBY'S REALTY
williampitt.com | 1057 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @williampittsir
BEST MEN'S SALON HAMMER & NAILS
hammerandnailsgrooming.com | 88 Heights Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @hammerandnails_darien
BEST JEWELER
LUX BOND & GREEN
lbgreen.com | 136 Main St, Westport, CT 06880 | @luxbondgreen
BEST SMOOTHIE BARVIDA
thebarvida.com | 879 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @barvidajuicebar
BEST FINE DINING RESTAURANT L'OSTAL
restaurantlostal.com | 22 Center St, Darien, CT 06820 | @restaurant__lostal
BEST MEAL DELIVERY & BEST HEALTH FOOD KINNEY LANE kinneylane.com | @kinneylanefoods
BEST MARGARITA BARTACO bartaco.com | 222 Summer St, Stamford, CT 06901 | @bartacolife
BEST BAKERY FLOUR WATER SALT BREAD flourwatersaltbread.com | 20 Grove St, Darien, CT 06820 | @flourwatersaltbread
BEST BURGER
BURGERS SHAKES AND FRIES burgersshakesnfries.com | 800 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @burgersshakesnfries
BEST BLOW DRY BLOW & GLOW blowandglowdrybar.com | 160 Main St, New Canaan, CT 06840 @blowandglow.drybar
BEST FITNESS STUDIO/ GYM & BEST BARRE STUDIO PURE BARRE
purebarre.com | 1958 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @purebarredarien
BEST FITNESS INSTRUCTOR JESS GISONDI, PURE BARRE 1958 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @purebarredarien
BEST OUTDOOR SEATING & BEST LOBSTER ROWAYTON SEAFOOD
rowaytonseafood.com | 89 Rowayton Ave, Norwalk, CT 06853 | @rowaytonseafood
BEST PIZZA RIKO'S PIZZA
rikospizza.com | 934 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 | @rikospizzaofficial
BEST ICE CREAM SHOP & BEST NEW BUSINESS (2023) VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM vanleeuwenicecream.com | 114 Heights Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @vanleeuwenicecream
BEST SUSHI FJORD FISH MARKET
fjordfishmarket.com | 1015 Boston Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 @fjordfishmarket
OPPOSITE PAGE: (Clockwise from top left) Pure Barre, Pure Barre, Burgers Shakes and Fries
And its importance with the exceptional team at ONE ENDO
ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELLDNCL: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ONE ENDO. If you’re a part of ONE ENDO, you’re a part of a family. With four locations and growing at a fast pace, ONE ENDO makes it easy and convenient for patients to access top quality care. Serving your local communities in the greater Fairfield County areas,
"At ONE ENDO, our mission is simple: to create fear-free endodontic care."
Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni have elevated and transformed their practice to the next level.
As you take your first step into any of our chic offices, you can expect to be pleasantly surprised as modern luxury is met with cutting-edge technology. Say goodbye to dreadful trips to the dentist as we welcome you to a spa-like atmosphere that will ultimately leave you with a smile on your face. The standard practice of approaching a front desk is no longer existent in our office; You will be welcomed by a concierge, who will guide you through your visit and assure you are taken care of with the incomparable and unmatched standard of compassion for which Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni are well known for.
DNCL: WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT ENDODONTIC CARE?
ONE ENDO Endodontists are here to relieve your pain! Visits to any of our top-tier offices dressed with beautiful amenities will leave you pleased with no fear and relief. Endodontic therapy is not painful thanks to the advanced technology and highest standards of care we rely on. We want to share this with everyone so trips to the dentist are no longer feared, but looked forward to, especially at ONE ENDO. Drs. Mastroianni and Saccomanno have built their practice on the foundation of the highest form of specialty care for which they want to share. Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni have broken down barriers in the endodontic industry, empowering CONTINUED >
entrepreneurial endodontists to start their own practice, For Doctors, By Doctors. Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni make it look easy, as they offer unparalleled specialty care while revolutionizing the patient experience for practitioners around the country.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BUSINESS UNIQUE AND DIFFERENT FROM OTHERS IN THE AREA? WHAT IS YOUR MISSION FOR THE COMMUNITY?
Nationally-known, technologically-driven, locally available. The ONE ENDO team of dental root canal specialists, led by Drs. Dean Saccomanno and Nicholas Mastroianni, is proudly serving your community. With 4 easily accessible spa-like locations in Fairfield and Westchester counties, 8 compassionate and highly skilled endodontists, and a concierge-like team, you will experience the unparalleled care offered at our practice. Nobody wants a root canal, but if you need one, then ONE ENDO is the place to be. At ONE ENDO, our mission is simple: to create fear-free endodontic care. We strive to empower our patients to take steps toward achieving their healthiest smile. Getting your dental health back on track should be something you’re proud of, not afraid of. We are here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible.
"Nationally-known, technologically-driven, locally available. The ONE ENDO team of dental root canal specialists, led by Drs. Dean Saccomanno and Nicholas Mastroianni, is proudly serving your community."
DNCL:
ONE ENDO currently has four convenient locations in the greater Fairfield County and Westchester County areas. ONE ENDO is proud to offer appointment visits in our Mamaroneck, NY location as well as our Greenwich, Norwalk, and Stamford, CT locations. Each of our facilities is fully equipped with the state-of-the-art technology needed to provide exceptional endodontic care. From 3D CBCT imaging and intraoral cameras to microscopes and enhanced irrigation techniques, you can be assured of the highest quality of care in a relaxing atmosphere. Stepping into our office is a breath of fresh air as Drs. Saccomanno and Mastroianni have completely revolutionized the endodontic specialty by combining modern luxury with excellent dentistry.
Our primary goal is to put our patients first. We do this by ensuring our practice is equipped with the latest technology and offering flexible scheduling for your convenience. Our team aims to provide comprehensive endodontic care with the highest level of quality, comfort, and compassion. At ONE ENDO, we understand that visiting an endodontist for the first time can be a stressful experience. That is why we strive to make sure your visit to our practice is as stress-free and comfortable as possible by keeping all new patient resources in one convenient location. From new patient forms and financial information to tips for healing and aftercare, we have everything you need to make your first visit a success.
JOSH MESNIK INTRODUCES A MEMBERSHIPBASED SUPPER CLUB IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY
Josie & Tony’s is part “Arthur Avenue” style deli, part restaurant, part membership club - with a menu inspired by Italian American classics passed down through generations, a top-tier international beverage program, and thoughtfully executed service.
Meet Joshua Anthony Mesnik, the owner and operator at Josie & Tony’s. Josh got his start in the restaurant industry waiting tables at Cafe Luxembourg in between auditions in New York City in the 90s. A theater kid at heart and General Manager by training, Josh brings over two decades of experience to his first restaurant concept that pays tribute to his grandparents, Josephine and Anthony Aronica.
A classic throwback with a modern twist!
By day, an Arthur Avenue-style sandwich shop. By night, an elevated dining destination and private membership club.
His early career included front-of-house roles in Manhattan-based high-volume luxury concepts such as Sushi Samba and Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill. Along the way, he discovered a passion for wine and was lucky to intern under the guidance of Virginia Philip, the Master Sommelier at the Breakers in Palm Beach, FL. As his career developed, he served as the Lead Sommelier at The Standard Highline, The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, and the White Elephant on Nantucket.
After moving to Connecticut in 2020, Josh quickly established a reputation as the energetic and wine-savvy General Manager at a nearby popular seafood restaurant where he achieved a 2-glass Wine Spectator award.
Josie & Tony's opened last December with 50 founding members. Member perks include guaranteed reservations, access to private wine dinners, and luxury experiences. Portraits of founding members by caricature artist Mark Hill are displayed on the walls of the restaurant. The South Norwalk-based supper club has plans to open up new levels of membership in the future and applications are available online. Until then, limited reservations are available to non-members.
josieandtonys.com
JUNE 7TH - JUNE 23RD
EURYDICE by Sarah Ruhl
Powerhouse Theatre Performing Arts Center | 8:00 PM
Town Players of New Canaan presents Eurydice, by playwright Sarah Ruhl, reimagining the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. This contemporary play delves into memory, love, and loss, inviting audiences on a lyrical journey into the dreamlike underworld. With contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breathtaking visual effects, this performance is a fresh look at a timeless love.
JUNE 7TH
New Canaan - Energy Group Friday
Darien Diner | 7:00 AM
NCS New Canaan is the founding chapter of the New Canaan Society. It is a movement of men, for men. At its most foundational level, NCS is about friendship, and Energy Groups are where lasting and transparent NCS friendships develop. Don't miss out on a chance to get real, speak truth and “show up” for each other!
JUNE 16TH
Pine & Elm Street, New Canaan CT | 8:00 AM
Caffeine & Carburetors is a gathering of automotive enthusiasts. These Sundays start around 8 am to gather and enjoy a cup of coffee, followed by a drive through the countryside, drawing town residents and families (and their dogs!) as well as visitors from neighboring municipalities and states to enjoy the cars and the charm of New Canaan.
JUNE 17TH
The Mather Homestead | 8:30 AM
The Pink Rhubarb returns to the Mather Homestead with summer workshops for kids in cooking, gardening and crafts! Children will be able to relax, learn, and explore both in the kitchen and the garden.
JUNE 19TH
The Kenn Morr Band
Waveny House | 7:30 PM
The Kenn Morr Band is returning to their favorite outdoor venue this month! Enjoy these local performers playing original Americana/ Folk/Rock music. Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, you won't want to miss this! In the event of rain, the concert will be Thursday June 20th.
JUNE 28TH
Palace Theatre, Stamford CT | 7:00 PM
KIDZ BOP is taking over the Palace Theatre in Stamford! Make memories that will last a lifetime at the ultimate pop concert for kids, and their grown-ups too! Sing and dance along as the KIDZ BOP Kids tear up the stage with your favorite songs like Dance The Night, Cruel Summer, Dance Monkey and more. Want to be featured?
TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE FILL OUT A NEW CLIENT COLOR/ EXTENSIONS FORM ON OUR WEBSITE:
WWW.THEVAULTNEWCANAAN.COM
There’s nothing wrong with getting a little help to get there!
Discerning men and women from all over the world flock to Dr Kirwan’s office for his unparalleled expertise in plastic surgery for the face and body.
Dr Kirwan is a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society, a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, and the author of several books on plastic surgery.
Indoor Lighting | Photographs | Artwork Dining Rooms | Kitchens | Patching & Painting
Design Lighting by Marks has been installing indoor and outdoor lighting for 40 years transforming a room or outside area into a magical space.
Dark foyers & hallways brought to life, making it enjoyable and welcoming. Hundreds and hundreds of installations throughout the tri-state area. Our team is neat, clean, safe, and organized!
We come as close to natural lighting as possible, installing lighting that blends into your environment making it understated and welcoming. When lighting is installed properly, you can’t tell where it’s coming from!