Greenwich, CT October 2023

Foodie Issue

FOOD + BEVERAGE

MŌLÌ: CULINARY JOURNEY & TALK OF THE TOWN DINING EXPERIENCE

LOCAL AND AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD IN GREENWICH

REGISTERED DIETITIAN VS. NUTRITIONIST: UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE

TRAVEL INVITATION TO CURATED LUXURY: IN VILLAS VERITAS

Coconut Grove, FL

Offered

REVERSE SUN DAMAGE

with Cutting Edge Treatments

From skin discoloration to crepey, saggy skin, too much sun exposure causes premature aging. There are remarkable scientific innovations in the world of cosmetic dermatology to help reverse UV skin damage. Laser, light and chemical treatments range in downtime, but all are dramatically effective in results.

Book a consultation with our team of Board Certified Dermatologists to discuss the best treatment options for your skin.

Welcome fall!

With the changing seasons comes a change in what we are craving, and with fall that often means comfort food. October is our most delectable issue of the year, filled with some of our favorite dishes and beverages around town. We had the pleasure of sitting down with award-winning restaurateur K Dong and his business partner, Chef Steven Chen, MOLI. The newest hot spot restaurant to hit the avenue, and learned about what their newest restaurant will be boasting.—so get your tastebuds ready, you are in for a treat. We also included a few new recipes for you to try at home, whether you’re cooking for just your family or for entertaining guests.

There is definitely an art to creating a flavorful dish that not only satisfies our taste buds but evokes memories. As Dr. Cece Reeder says in our nutrition article this month, “food with great ingredients is only good if you enjoy it!” The aroma of certain spices and foods can bring us right back to our childhood, which can be incredibly powerful and comforting. Food brings us all together, and whether we are sharing a meal with loved ones or enjoying a night out on the town, the time spent while enjoying food is invaluable.

Remember to take time to experience the beauty of fall in New England, where the landscape transforms into a vivid tapestry of red, orange, and gold. As the weather cools down, seize the opportunity to immerse yourself in a plethora of seasonal activities. Take leisurely strolls through charming pumpkin patches, savor the aroma of freshly baked apple pies at local orchards, and revel in the excitement of vibrant fall festivals.

As always, thanks for reading, and we’ll see you around town!

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Laura Sabia | laura.sabia@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kristin Burnell | kristin.burnell@citylifestyle.com

PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Emma Parente | emma.parente@citylifestyle.com

MARKET SUPPORT MANAGER

Lydia Turner | greenwich@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Ashley Alt, Lucy Cullen, Dr. Kelsey Reeder

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Abby Cole, Esteban Gil Photography

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall

LAYOUT DESIGNER Eva Tucker

Proverbs 3:5-6

LAURA SABIA, PUBLISHER @GREENWICHLIFESTYLEMAG

Your Real Estate Advisor in Greenwich

Consistently recognized as one of the area’s top producing agents, Yashmin Lloyds was personally selected to become a founding member of the prestigious Compass team in Greenwich. With $350+ million in sales, her strong knowledge of the Greenwich market and years of professional sales and marketing experience have shaped a unique insight into the diverse needs of her clients. A full-time real estate expert, she is committed to meeting their goals and expectations in an ever-changing dynamic marketplace. She is known for not only helping find their dream home but for also guiding them throughout their transition to Greenwich.

As a mother, an active community member and top producing realtor, Yashmin is proud to partner with the Greenwich Historical Society for this year’s Tavern Garden Markets and Outdoor Living Tour. She is an avid believer in supporting local shop owners and artisans as it is their beautiful food, flowers and decor that truly make a house a home. Compass is thrilled to support an event that celebrates our shared history and strong community.

Select Wednesdays*

10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

May 17th – Oct 18th

Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation

Before After A C B A B C

LEARN MORE

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @greenwichlifestylemag

Jennifer Mais (Wilton) marries Salvatore Sabia Jr. (Greenwich) in a picture perfect ceremony at @theinnatlongshore in Westport.

3: Jennifer Sabia, Bride 5: Flower Girls - Shay Zaccagnini & Bella Sabia 7: Salvatore Sabia Jr, Groom Photography by Esteban Gil Photography

Abby Cole Photography

P r o f e s s i o n a l p h o t o g r a p h y f o r b u s i n e s s e s , e n t r e p r e n e u r s a n d c r e a t i v e s

B r a n d i n g • L i f e s t y l e • H e a d s h o t s • I n t e r i o r D e s i g n

F o o d + D r i n k • P r o d u c t s

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

The Greenwich Point Dermatology Team Welcomes

Dr. Alexandra Labiak!

Dr. Labiak possesses clinical expertise in all areas of dermatology and enjoys employing a compassionate and patient-focused approach. She consistently helps her patients achieve their desired skin outcomes, whether it's through medical management or skilled procedural interventions, boosting their confidence about their skin's health and appearance. "Dermatology is my passion. I absolutely love seeing patients of all ages and performing a variety of procedures," said Dr. Labiak.

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Greenwich

Ron

Fanish Joins Ornare Greenwich as Co-Owner

Ornare, one of the most sophisticated brands of high-end made-tomeasure home interiors, announced the addition of Ron Fanish as co-owner of its Greenwich location. Fanish joins fellow partners Mylene Del Nero and Stefan Schattan to lead the East Putnam Avenue showroom.

“I am thrilled to join Ornare Greenwich...I look forward to collaborating with the talented team at Ornare Greenwich as we continue to elevate the standard of luxury design," said Ron Fanish.

Make-Modern Crafting Studio Now Open in Cos Cob!

Make-Modern crafting studio is now open in Cos Cob and offers weekly classes for kids and adults. Does your child love creative projects?

Make-Modern offers machine sewing and crafting classes for all ages from K-12th grades. Students learn new skills, build confidence, make friends, and have fun doing so. Register now!

If you’re a guy who’s developed a nasty curve where you didn’t used to have one, you have Peyronie’s Disease (PD). It’s a condition that’s often painful and can interfere with your sex life. In fact, 20% of men suffering with PD see their relationships break down, and 25% aren’t sexually active at all. Thankfully, the medical experts at Maze Men’s Health take a comprehensive approach to PD that can straighten things out and get you back in the game.

THE SEARCH FOR THE PERFECT BITE

For the entire month of October, we are inviting readers to vote and support our local restaurants to find THE PERFECT BITE

Sponsored by

Help us choose the winner of THE BEST BITE throughout all of Greenwich by voting with the QR code.

20

OCTOBER

local experiences

Our community is brimming with incredible food and drinks to indulge in and we’ve selected some of our picks that you must experience for yourself. Bon appetit and cheers!

ELM STREET OYSTER HOUSE: If you love seafood, give Elm Street Oyster House a visit for unbeatable food, craft beers, and service. Of course, try their Pan Fried Oysters! 11 West Elm Street Greenwich, CT

POLPO RESTAURANT & SALOON: Polpo Restaurant & Saloon serves traditional Tuscan cuisine. Enjoy and pair your entree with a glass, or bottle, of wine from their extensive wine list. 554 Old Post Road Greenwich, CT

LE PENGUIN: At Le Penguin, a French bistro, aims to deliver local seasonal ingredients with farm-to-table freshness. Enjoy your meal in this charming, convivial space! 61 Lewis Street Greenwich, CT

CAFE SILVIUM : A family-friendly restaurant, with recipes from the brothers’ hometown of Gravina Di Puglia, Bari, Italy. Everything is made fresh daily, and in-house, including the hand-made pastas, particularly the cavatelli, which is the chef’s specialty. 371 Shippan Avenue, Stamford, CT

BOXCAR CANTINA: If you're looking for a bustling, family-friendly atmosphere with fresh chips, guac, and salsa to start your meal, Boxcar Cantina is the place to be! 44 Old Field Point Rd, Greenwich, CT

for more photos and the full list.

Want to recommend a local experience?

MŌLÌ: CULINARY JOURNEY & TALK OF THE TOWN DINING EXPERIENCE

An elevated twist on contemporary Chinese cuisine paired with master mixology

Greenwich is now home to a captivating culinary addition that promises to tantalize taste buds and transport diners to the vibrant era of 1940s Shanghai. Created by award-winning restaurateur K Dong and his business partner, Chef Steven Chen, MOLI restaurant and speakeasy-style, Bar MOLI, located at the entrance, are two remarkable destinations under one roof. These two concepts offer slightly different immersive experiences, each showcasing the diverse flavors and traditions of Chinese culture and master mixology.

Pronounced Mô Lì, the restaurant's name means jasmine flower and has symbolic meanings in southern Chinese culture. The flower is commonly found in many areas of everyday life. Owners chose the name because of the nostalgia it evoked for their childhoods growing up in China. Coincidentally, the location is a beloved Greenwich landmark and impacted many in a profound way. “Since opening, I’ve heard so many endearing stories from customers about memorable experiences at past restaurants in this location,” said K. He continued, “It’s beyond my wildest dreams to have a restaurant that we are so passionate about in a space that holds so many fond memories for our customers. I never imagined it would be a place where so many, like us, feel a strong connection.”

The iconic space, conveniently located at 253 Greenwich Avenue, was originally designed as the Putnam Trust Bank by architect F.A. Wright in 1915. K and Chef Steve were drawn to the location because of its distinct vaults and domes created by the Spanish architect and master tile craftsman Rafael Guastavino. The restaurateurs worked together to purposefully design the interior to maintain and honor the integrity of the historic architecture. Today, the reimagined space draws in locals and visitors alike with one-of-a-kind lunch, dinner, and drink menus juxtaposed with elevated service and whimsical interiors.

MŌLÌ: A GASTRONOMIC EXPEDITION TO CHINA

General Manager Liam Zhang oversees the restaurant's front of house alongside Beverage Director Anthony Carerra at the bar. Since opening on Father’s Day weekend, the restaurant has been touted as a “celebrity hotspot” and has hosted iconic guests including Martha Stewart, Clive Davis, and Mariah Carey to name a few. Due to its popularity, a reservation is strongly advised.

Once inside, guests find themselves in a realm where traditional Chinese flavors are transformed into modern culinary masterpieces. Tin Huynh is the acclaimed Executive Chef. His menus reflect a hub of creativity, where classic Chinese dishes are reimagined with a contemporary twist. Dishes pay homage to China's culinary heritage with a dash of Latin, American, and European influences. As a graduate of the French Culinary Institute, Chef Tin has worked at several top Michelin-star restaurants and lent his innovative approach to New York and Miami hotspots like Tao, Hutong, Avoce, and Minetta Tavern.

From mouthwatering dim sum to aromatic stir-fries that evoke the Beijing street markets, every dish at MOLI tells a story. Chef Tin's commitment to using top-quality ingredients ensures that the flavors are both authentic and exhilarating. Popular dishes include the Rainbow Soup Dumplings, Heirloom Beet Salad, Kung Pao chicken, Black Pepper Prime Filet Mignon, and Miso Cod Claypot. Popular cocktails include the signature gin-based MŌLÌ MŌLÌ, Dragon Dance, and mezcal/tequila-based Red Lantern.

One of the restaurant's standout features is the tableside Peking Duck experience designed for small groups seeking a

multi-sensory adventure. MOLI elevates the experience by offering exceptional wine pairings. Additional menu items featuring fiery spices of Sichuan and delicate Cantonese flavors complement the duck. There is an intimate dining room available on the second floor that can seat up to 16 people for a more private experience. The entire restaurant can also be reserved to host private events through the restaurant's Event Director and Sommelier, Isaiah Levy.

BAR MŌLÌ: WHERE TRADITION MEETS MODERNITY

At the entrance of MOLI is Bar MOLI, a lively and vibrant space that mixes modern chic and old-world charm. This bar and lounge serve as the perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and indulge in exquisitely handcrafted drinks inspired by Chinese flavors. A large print replica of a cave mural found along the Silk Road dating back to the 5th century sits above a sleek booth area. Historically preserved columns are cleverly worked into the dark marble and oak wood bar set in front of wooden shelves that climb two stories. The giant shelves are adorned with a rare collection of hard-to-find spirits. An antique wooden totem of a Buddhist statue sits in the center. Complimenting the ambiance and design, Bar MOLI’s cocktail menu is a testament to the art of mixology. Each cocktail is infused with innovative details, using impurity-free ice and ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and pandan.

A FUSION OF FLAVOR AND CULTURE

MOLI and Bar MOLI go beyond being just places to dine; they are spaces that celebrate the rich tapestry of Chinese culture and cuisine inspired by Western influence. The location also holds decades of fond memories for many of its customers. From the stylish interiors that blend tradition with nostalgia to the expertly crafted dishes that honor centuries-old recipes, this restaurant and bar are a testament to the power of culinary exploration and storytelling.

Whether you're a Greenwich local looking for a taste of China or a traveler seeking an unforgettable dining experience, MOLI and Bar MOLI are destinations that promise to transport you on a culinary journey across China's diverse culinary traditions.

“FROM MOUTHWATERING DIM SUM TO AROMATIC STIR-FRIES THAT EVOKE THE BEIJING STREET MARKETS, EVERY DISH AT MOLI TELLS A STORY.”

ARTICLE BY KRISTIN BURNELL

Featuring Dr. Kelsey Reeder, DCN, RD, CDN

Dr. Cece Reeder

GL: WHAT IS A COMMON MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT THE NUTRITION INDUSTRY?

CR: The biggest misconception of the health and nutrition industry is that there is a “magic bullet” solution; when in reality, there is no one specific answer as nutrition requires an individualized approach. Other misconceptions exist amongst claims of certain foods. Somehow, we have gotten to a point where there is a belief that fruit is too high in sugar, coconut oil is superior, and would rather swallow a pill to get nutrients than eat food.

The reality is, fruit is a healthy option that provides essential nutrients and sugar that our brain needs to function. Coconut oil is not the best choice of oil – it is actually high in saturated fat (the “bad fat”) and is comparable to lard. Most are shocked I am not a fan of general and frequent consumption of nutrition supplements. For some individuals, supplements are necessary and I would endorse the recommendation for a specific supplement.

However, I prefer to take a “Food First” approach. Unless there is a physiological issue in absorption or a particular metabolic process, we should first try to increase a particular micronutrient by adding foods in that vitamin or mineral to our diet. For some nutrients, such as Vitamins

A, D, E, and K, there are associated health consequences with taking excess amounts. This amount is difficult to reach from food alone, but without carefully considering supplement doses, along with an analysis of foods that are typically consumed, the excessive amount could be approached.

For vitamins like B and C, we actually just excrete any excess through our urine – which is why sometimes people note that their urine is a different color when they take certain supplements! It is a sign that your body has enough to function. A great example of utilizing the “Food First” approach would be if someone came to me for help to improve his or her iron status, instead of starting by suggesting an iron supplement, I would provide interventions to see if increasing iron rich foods and foods with vitamin C (which assist with the absorption of iron), or maybe consuming these iron and vitamin C foods at a different time than foods rich in calcium (since calcium actually interferes with the absorption of iron).

After a period of time adapting these changes, I’d look for indications of improvement in iron status and would make further adjustments accordingly.

GL: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RD AND NUTRITIONIST, WHAT DOES A DIETITIAN DO?

CR: Registered dietitians (RD) are the food and nutrition experts. A RD utilizes evidenced based practices to provide individualized, medical nutrition therapy. All RDs are nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians. The biggest differentiating factor is education. To become a dietitian, courses such as organic chemistry, pathophysiology, food science, medical nutrition therapy, and counseling must be taken; this is followed by a minimum of 1,000 supervised practice hours to permit eligibility to sit for the national board exam. Starting in 2024,

CONTINUED >

“Registered dietitians (RD) are the food and nutrition experts. A RD utilizes evidenced based practices to provide individualized, medical nutrition therapy. All RDs are nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians.”

a minimum of a Master’s degree will be required for exam eligibility.

GL: WHAT IS YOUR AREA OF INTEREST IN THIS FIELD?

CR: My focus is in sports and performance nutrition. I grew up as a dancer and currently work as a group fitness instructor which helped develop my

passion for this area of nutrition. I have an affinity to the philosophies of intuitive and mindful eating, as well as helping individuals improve their relationships with food, which actually ties to sports and performance nutrition. Many people might be unaware of this term “performance nutrition”, but it is similar to sports nutrition in that it looks to help individuals improve their performance. This

DR. KELSEY REEDER: Dr. Kelsey Reeder, DCN, RD, CDN holds a doctorate in clinical nutrition from Fairfield University and is a certified registered dietitian here in Connecticut.Kelsey, known to many as Cece, works closely with clients to help achieve individual related goals pertaining to performance nutrition, improving relationships with food, and more! Cece is currently the in-house dietitian at Club Sweat Westport.

“I try to help people feel comfortable in their own skin and help them create a body that feels best for them!”

would be appropriate for adults who participate in endurance events and are looking to help improve their times, individuals that frequently attend group fitness classes, or even those who are just starting out on a fitness routine. The populations that benefit from sports and performance nutrition guidance are, unfortunately, oftentimes the population that is being provided false nutrition information; which is all the more reason why I love working in this area.

GL: MANY HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, SUCH AS YOURSELF HAVE RECENTLY DISCUSSED THE “ANTI-DIET” MENTALITY, WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

CR: I certainly have adapted an “anti-diet” mentality given that research continues to prove that diets are not effective in achieving weight loss and even indicate that dieting is associated with weight gain. My advice can simply be broken down to the fact that all foods fit! It’s interesting, we love to personify foods as being “good” or “bad,” but at the end of the day, it is just food. Food has no emotion, no personality, it’s just an item. Sure, some foods might have more added sugar, but if that food is a slice of cake to celebrate a birthday, it isn’t necessarily the healthiest decision for us to opt out on that piece of cake! That one small piece of cake is not as unhealthy as depriving yourself from it. Not only are you diminishing the joy and the community aspect that is associated with this, but you are also not satisfying the craving and desire for that piece of cake – ultimately leading you to seek it out later.

GL: WHAT ARE SOME POPULAR HEALTHY ALTERNATIVES FOR COMMON FOODS?

CR: Fortunately, there are some great products on the market! Rather than rattling a list of

products, here are my three tips when looking to make a healthy choice:

1. Look to build a complete meal or snack – that means adding a carbohydrate, protein, with fruits and/or vegetables.

2. Look at the nutrition label rather than relying on the marketing to be your guide.

3. Ensure that you actually like the food! A food with great ingredients is only good if you enjoy it.

GL: OFTENTIMES, WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR PEOPLE WHEN TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE HEALTH INDUSTRY AND FINDING WHAT WORKS BEST FOR THEM?

CR: Marketing in the food industry can be misleading, with added misinformation from untrained individuals speaking on products and diets through various platforms – it is a recipe for failure. Instead of helping people create the body they want to see, I try to help people feel comfortable in their own skin and help them create a body that feels best for them! My advice would be to:

• Find joyful movement –exercise should be something that you look forward to doing! Now, this certainly may take time if it has been a while since starting with a fitness routine, or if you are seeking something new; however, this is a way for you to take time for yourself and celebrate what your body can do!

• Seek out advice from a registered dietitian! We are trained to be the food and nutrition experts and work to provide an individualized approach to help you achieve your goals.

CONTINUED >

• Don’t worry about the number on the scale. It is just a number and does not take into consideration your ratio of lean muscle mass to fat. That common adage, muscle weighs more than fat, has truth to it. Muscle is denser than fat so one pound of muscle is going to be more condensed than one pound of fat. Because of this, if you are starting a new fitness routine and are building muscle, you are actually going to start to see an increase in your weight first because you are building muscle. This number can also fluctuate day to day just based on water retention, so it isn’t always reliable.

• Reduce stress – stressing about the number on the scale or stressing about not losing weight as fast as you had hoped is just going to impede you on this journey. Give yourself time and remind yourself that going about this journey the correct way (i.e. without fad diets, medically unnecessary medications, etc.) will help provide the most long-term success. Think about it this way, the faster you lose the weight, the faster you are likely to gain it back. However, with making proper changes, the weight loss is likely to be a slower process, and you will see more sustainability.

As we enter "comfort food season," this can be a challenging time for many people; it is a high stress time with many seasonal treats that are readily available. The most general pieces of advice would be to find ways to manage stress and focus on nutrition by addition.

1. Stress Management: During stressful periods, it is common that our relationships with food start to change. This might mean we start to seek food for comfort or our appetite is suppressed and we start to skip meals. Both of these changes disrupt our ability to listen to our hunger cues, eat intuitively, and make the choices that would support our bodies the best. To prevent disrupting our eating patterns, I recommend finding an activity that aids in stress reduction. This could incorporate joyful movement, breathing exercises, or listening to meditation clips on apps such as Calm.

2. Nutrition by Addition: Instead of feeling the need to restrict and not allow yourself to enjoy the foods that are available during the holidays, ask yourself – what can I add to make this a more filling option? For instance, if you are craving that slice of pumpkin bread, allow yourself to have it, but consider pairing it with protein. This addition will allow you to feel fuller for longer, help you satisfy your craving, and can potentially prevent you from “overdoing it” with the pumpkin bread!

“My advice can simply be broken down to the fact that all foods fit! It’s interesting, we love to personify foods as being ‘good’ or “bad,” but at the end of the day, it is just food.”

Dr. Cece Reeder

Rob Johnson

Rob is a full time agent, with the energy, enthusiasm, and drive to help all his clients achieve their real estate goals. Through a combination of hard work, innovative marketing, and great communication, Rob continues to be a resource for all clients beyond the transaction. Rob has experience in local construction, and investment projects that have provided invaluable advice to his client base.

Born and raised in the UK, Rob has worked in London, NYC, Sydney, and Hong Kong, and feels comfortable working and advising both international and local buyers and sellers.

Three generations of family live in Greenwich, giving him strong links to town through all ages. Rob and his wife, Katie live in Riverside with their three children.

Mastery of the Craft. It’s Timeless.

1. 97 Pecksland Road, Greenwich $33.8M. Web#117631

2. 53 Keofferam Road, Old Greenwich $4.9M. Web#118211

3. 226 Riversville Road, Greenwich $2.29M. Web#118081

4. 24 Calhoun Drive, Greenwich 4.995M. Web#118793

RECENTLY CLOSED:

5. 22 Wyngate Road, Greenwich

6. 6 Cherry Lane, Old Greenwich

7. 23 Meadow Lane, Greenwich

October Produce Guide

PLUS THE PERFECT RECIPE TO TRY THIS MONTH!

October’s Produce Guide:

Apples, Beets, Blackberries, Broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, Chicory, Cranberries, Figs, Grapes, Leeks, Parsnips,Peppers, Pumpkins, Shallots, Star Fruit, Sweet Potatoes

Pumpkin bread recipe three ways!

• 1.5 cup sugar

• 0.5 cup vegetable oil

• 2 eggs (or 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds with ½ cup of water)

• 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour (or 100% whole wheat flour)

• 7.5 ounces of pumpkin purée

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 0.5 teaspoon baking powder

• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice

• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/3 cup of water

October is also the perfect time to make pumpkin bread! Here’s my favorite pumpkin bread recipe three ways!

ARTICLE BY DR. KELSEY REEDER, DCN, RD, CDN

Option #1: Traditional Pumpkin Loaf

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF and line loaf pans with parchment paper

2. Combine and whisk sugar and oil, then whisk eggs and pumpkin purée

3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon, and cloves. Once combined, slowly add about half of the dry ingredients to pumpkin mixture, followed by half the water. Once combined, continue with remaining portions.

4. Pour batter in loaf pans for about one hour, once golden. Let cool in pans for 15 minutes and cool out of pan for about 1 hour.

Option #2: Replace 2 Eggs with Ground Flaxseeds Mixture

Ground flaxseeds with water can serve as an egg substitute. This can be a great way to include omega three fatty acids while adding a nutty flavor to this delicious pumpkin loaf recipe! The directions for this recipe are the same as above, with the substitution of adding the ground flaxseeds mixture rather than the 2 eggs.

Ground Flaxseeds Mixture: *note: flaxseeds must be ground in order to be absorbed in our body. Combine 3 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds with ½ cup of water until thick. If doing this by hand, it can be a long process. I recommend using a hand mixer to expedite the process!

Option #3: Replace All Purpose Flour with 100% Whole Wheat Flour

This substitution creates a denser bread, while also incorporating more nutrients in each bite!

Our team offers premiere barre classes–Forme Fitness, the 2023 Greenwich Love award winners of “Best Barre Studio, Best Fitness studio. Best Instructor.” Synergize your Mind and Body, and come transform with us!

Our method fuses intense muscle sculpting and density building with intentional stretch phases that will result in a long, sculpted and lean physique, and our esteemed teaching team will personalize each class for you in a group setting. We also specialize in injury modifications, as well as modifications for every trimester for the expecting mother.

(203) 625-7616 | formebarre.com | digitalstudio.formebarre.com 141 W. Putnam Avenue (in the Greenwich Commons Shopping Plaza)

INVITATION TO CURATED LUXURY

THE IVV EXPERIENCE WITH LAURA BLAIR

Laura Blair is no stranger to travel, as her experience is what has led to her success in the travel industry for more than 20 years. Born and raised abroad, she has been living in the United States since college. One summer, she decided to rent a villa in Provence, France with family and friends, after finding herself missing Europe. From that experience her business, Villas Veritas, was born. When asked what makes her company unique, she says, "My company was always based on the truth about our properties, because we have always personally vetted them. Thus the ‘In Villas Veritas’. What you see is what you get but actually it’s always much better!"

Blair has expanded her business over the years to include many areas beyond Europe alongside her experienced team. Their mission remains the same. "To know and vet every property we represent as well as the regions so as to best service our VVIP clientele. We have clients who have rented villas for years elsewhere before finding us and who tell us that their experience booking a villa with us has been their best ever,” she says.

Blair’s friends describe her as ‘the villa guru,’ often joining her villa trips whenever she organizes them for their own holidays. This love and passion carries into the

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

work she does for clients. When asked her favorite destination to plan trips for her clients she tells us, "Europe is always fun as so rich in experience but tropical vacations are fun as well for the ultimate Rest and Relaxation. Africa is really amazing to organize as it's also so rich in experience and has so many wonderful options."

She explains that her and her team always love to work together and curate trips for special occasions, organizing amazing excursions and parties in and out of the villas.

One of Blair's most recent favorites included planning a trip for a group for a 50th birthday, who had rented in Italy. She booked an after hours tour and dinner at the Uffizi in Florence and another day wine tasting on the Tuscan coast. This all followed by a tour of a private castle and lunch with one of the owners, a count with family dating back to Ugolino in Dante inferno.  She says, "These were just two special things they did that week and a great party with entertainment and fireworks."

Blair and the rest of the In Villas Veritas team are there to help you book your next trip, that will create timeless memories for you and loved ones to last a lifetime.

When asked what are some common misconceptions of booking vacations, she shared this advice, “The key is to have a great villa specialist who really knows what they are doing and understands how to put together a seamless trip. Even making sure it’s not too packed with events so the group can enjoy the

properties, which are all amazing. I think often people also feel daunted by long journeys like Africa. But there again the process is completely taken in hand with a specialist and the journey is really not daunting at

“When booking your next vacation, finding the right specialist takes away any worry or fear factor and makes it all easy and fabulous for the client.”

- Laura Blair, Founder of In Villas Veritas.

all despite the distance and exotic unknown. The point is the right specialist takes away any worry or fear factor and makes it all easy and fabulous for the client."

So, why book a villa?

"A villa is the ultimate exclusive luxury because you have all the property and the staff and services

In Villas Veritas

Laura Blair founded In Villas Veritas in 1997 to provide a service to friends and referrals who knew she was the go-to for beautiful villas. Laura Blair and her experienced staff, each with over 20 years in the luxury travel business, set themselves apart by providing firsthand knowledge of each and every property and region they represent and by working closely with their clients to ensure a seamless and enjoyable vacation.

WHERE TO FIND LAURA AND LEARN MORE ABOUT HER SERVICES :  www.invillas.com

203-987-4280

Email: info@invillas.com

to yourself, just for you, and the whole experience tailored to what you desire. Even in the best hotels you may still have to wait for the concierge to be available or the bartender. Our villa services are extremely full on. Our clients are busy and work hard, their vacations should be relaxing and better than expected."

Local and Authentic Thai Food in Greenwich

A LOOK INTO GREENWICH’S NIT NOI

ARTICLE BY LUCY CULLEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

In 2016, North and Jillian Shutsharwan debuted their authentic Thai cuisine with customers of the Westport Farmers Market. While traveling during the prior years, the couple realized they had a lack of clean, healthy food. Inspired by North’s Thai heritage, they used his mother’s and grandmother’s recipes to make broths and soups. In Westport, they found locally sourced meat and bones from Fleishers Craft Butchery to use in their products. They started selling their clean, healthy Thai food, and now, seven years later, Nit Noi Provisions has two locations in Fairfield County and is wildly popular. Known for its broths, soups, and dumplings, Nit Noi has given Fairfield County a place to discover a real, authentic taste of Thailand.

What makes Nit Noi stand out among other Thai restaurants in the surrounding area is the way in which customers receive their food and the quality of the food they receive. The menu ranges from rice dishes, noodles, soups and broths. In describing the menu, North stated, “We do a lot of fried rice too, we just do a cleaner fried rice.”

Customers can have a traditional in-restaurant experience while also having the ability to take a part of Nit Noi home with them. The broths and frozen dumplings, along with other menu items, offered at Nit Noi are meant to be bought and used across all kitchens, allowing all customers to explore different facets of Thai cuisine. “Many of [our dishes] are naturally vegan or accommodative of vegan lifestyle and also gluten and dairy free, not because we’re sacrificing quality or ingredients…they’re just naturally occurring features of this healthy food that we serve,” added Jillian.

Literally translated, “nit noi” means “a little bit” in Thai. Defining it in his own terms, North stated, “When we started in the markets and learning about how people eat our food and use our broth and spices, they’re not going to make a whole Thai meal, but they could use a little bit of our flavors to enhance what they’re making at home.”

Jillian stated that the concept of “nit noi” makes their restaurant and how customers can use Thai flavors and ingredients much more approachable.

“An approachable Thai phrase that helps to make our food more approachable as well.”

Nit Noi’s authenticity derives from North’s grandmother, whose recipes are honored through the restaurant. Food as it relates to family is inherently important, representing togetherness and connection. As a business rooted in family, Nit Noi extends that familial connection to its customers through its food and fosters a sense of community among its patrons. “We’ve figured out, or at least have a better understanding of, the neighborhood that we’re in, where we are, and how people order,” North said.

In addition to dining in, Nit Noi offers takeout and delivery services all week. They also provide catering services, event hosting opportunities, and cooking classes. Looking to the future, Nit Noi intends on increasing the number of offered classes and bringing in guest chefs to introduce new dishes to customers. Learning about how Nit Noi makes its clean, authentic cuisine and how each dish is uniquely crafted will only increase the connection customers develop with the food they purchase, proving that “a little bit” goes a long way.

Where to find out more about Nit Noi and visit:

www.nitnoiprovisions.com

203-485-9303

“We’ve figured out, or at least have a better understanding of, the neighborhood that we’re in, where we are, and how people order.”

Raising The Barre with Expert Instructors

ARTICLE BY ASHLEY ALT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY

Your form is in great hands with Forme Barre Fitness

Tyler Ingram and Mabel Modrono purchased Forme Barre Fitness in June of 2022 when an opportunity came up to buy the Greenwich and New Canaan brick and mortar studios, as well as the digital studio. "As we were already working at both studios as directors and very much enjoying our clientele, amazing staff and supportive communities, the transition just seemed to make sense," the pair, who happen to be husband and wife, explained.

As former professional classical dancers as well as former fitness professionals in New York City, to Tyler and Mabel, Forme Barre represented an organic extension of who they individually are as artists and teachers of both fitness and ballet.

For those unfamiliar, the Forme Method is a dynamic, 60-minute class that combines elements of classical ballet, yoga, pilates and strength training. The entrepreneurs explain the class mixes

intense muscle training with stretching which results in a "long, lean physique with gorgeous muscle tonicity." They declare the method is "constantly evolving," and actually has its own syllabus to adhere to, not unlike a premiere method in any discipline.

"We consider the benefits of this upper-echelon fitness to be as much mental as physical — literally a panacea on so many levels," they state. “When practiced regularly, the method improves

posture, bone density, core strength, muscle density and flexibility," not to mention the injury prevention that is built right into this most effective method. "We actually think of our method as physical therapy, but on steroids," they declare.

Tyler and Mabel, along with their certified team of instructors, offer both in-studio and digital classes. Their digital library is approaching 1,000 classes of all modalities including cardio, mat pilates and cross-training classes. Equipment needed for classes include hand weights, special abdominal support mats, playground balls, resistance bands and static bands which are designed to enhance the stretching that is intrinsic to every class. "Going back to the pandemic, we always offer prop options when teaching the digital classes," the owners say, encouraging their clients to use daily household items for their props if they don't have studio equipment handy.

Every instructor a part of their teaching staff has had a minimum of 10 years of training and teaching experience. "And at Forme Barre," the couple says, "This is an ongoing process so as to maintain the highest quality of barre teaching.”

The business owners recognize Barre as "the perfect blend of physical therapy and fitness," as their whole emphasis is first on proper alignment, then proper positioning, and then the movement. "This leads to less injury and targets muscle groups in a pragmatic progression that challenges the muscles more, and lends itself to a much greater result, and in turn, a much greater workout," the two clarify.

Speaking on a more personal note, midway through her career, Mabel suffered a string of serious dance injuries. It was through barre classes that she "healed those injuries, recovered, became stronger and went on to have a wonderful renaissance in the second half of her career," Tyler spoke of his wife.

As relatively new business owners, Tyler and Mabel have really enjoyed connecting with their clients and students. They intentionally designed offers that allow for a new member to "figure things out" without too much of a financial outlay, including reduced rates for teachers and students as well as one-week and one-month special offers for new clients.

"We consider ourselves a wellness facility," they explain. "Not just a boutique fitness studio. We strive to enhance the mind and body through wellness and connection in our beloved community of Greenwich."

WEBSITE: formebarre.com

IG: @formebarre

events

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 4TH

Greenwich Historical Society's Tavern Garden Market

GREENWICH HISTORICAL SOCIETY | 10:00 AM

Greenwich Historical Society’s Tavern Garden Market returns to its Cos Cob campus! Inspirational talks by Wellness experts kick off the Markets on timely topics for personal enrichment and wellness. Following the free Morning Market Talks at 9:30, attendees can browse and shop a selection of locally sourced farm-to-table produce, prepared foods, baked goods, seasonal flowers, and one-of-a-kind accessories and crafts.

OCTOBER 7TH

Bruce Museum's 42nd Annual Outdoor Arts Festival

BRUCE MUSEUM | 10:00 AM

Each year the Bruce Museum sponsors two outdoor festivals on the Museum grounds that feature original work by some of the best artists and craftspeople from around the country. During the Annual Outdoor Arts Festival, all artists will be present, and all works will be for sale.

OCTOBER 14TH

Greenwich United Way 90th Anniversary Gala

GREENWICH COUNTRY CLUB | 6:00 PM

Toast to the Golden Age of Hollywood at the Greenwich United Way's 90th Celebration Gala! The Greenwich United Way will honor Greenwich visionaries Karen Keegan and Ken Mifflin. Each has worked tirelessly to benefit so many of Greenwich's most beloved and essential nonprofits and were key in shaping the Greenwich United Way into the organization that it is today.

OCTOBER 15TH

Greenwich Land Trust: Go Wild!

GREENWICH POLO CLUB | 2:00 PM

Go Wild! Family Field Day is an event designed for families to come together and experience an unforgettable day of fun, excitement, and adventure in support of Greenwich Land Trust. This action-packed extravaganza promises an array of interactive games, a magnificent Ferris Wheel, food trucks, live performances by talented artists, and a variety of entertainment options to keep everyone engaged!

OCTOBER 15TH

18th Annual Walk/Run for Abilis

GREENWICH POINT PARK, TOD’S DRIFTWAY | 7:30 AM

Mark your calendars for the 18th Annual Walk/Run for Abilis! Participants can walk 1-mile or run a 5k in-person, or participate virtually from anywhere in the world! Walk/Run for Abilis provides a fun opportunity for family, friends and Abilis community members to join together for a morning of physical fitness and to enjoy the beauty of Greenwich Point Park.

OCTOBER 28TH

Stamford Downtown Farmers Market

VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK | 9:00 AM

The Stamford Downtown Farmers Market offers a wide variety of locally grown fruits, vegetables and flowers. You’ll also find breads, jams, baked goods, cheeses, oils and more! Straight from the farm to your home!

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