New Canaan-Darien Magazine, July/August 2020

let’s eat

CHEF DINNER BOXES, DELIVERED

love in a pandemic

RELATIONSHIP ADVICE YOU CAN REALLY USE

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

Celebrating Jeanne Bloom and Henri Helander, co-owners of To And From in Darien, winner of Best Mani/ Pedi and Best Massage

The

Best

175 + WINNERS,

REVEALED! Special pull-out section!

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Experts weigh in on the evolution of education..

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contents JUL/AUG 2020 vol. 20 | issue 4

Flour Water Salt’s dreamy chocolate croissants. Yum.

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST 2020 The results of our annual readers’ poll are in.

Here, the top spots for food, style and more

62

BEST OF NEW CANAAN, DARIEN AND ROWAYTON A detailed listing of the best of the best in our towns

10 EDITOR’S LETTER 13 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ To And From launches your go-to skincare collection SHOP Sweet and stylish finds for the littles GO Blackbridge Motors will customize your dream ride DO Stronger relationships; Step up that home workout EAT Chef-created dinner boxes, delivered DRINK A cool new spritzer FINANCE FIX Your perfect vacation home is calling

67 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 68 LAST WORD

c ov er ph ot o b y e ri n pe a rlma n

PLUS EDUCATION GUIDE Special pull-out section!

Experts weigh in on the evolution of education.

NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON JUL/AUG 2020, VOL. 20, NO. 4. NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON (ISSN 1942-1028) is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St, Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to NEW CANAAN PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues), $32.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $40/1 year, $66/2 years. newcanaandarienmag.com

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PETER WYNN THOMPSON

34

departments

features

64

THE BEST ORTHOPEDICS

BY FAR IS RIGHT HERE. Hospital for Special Surgery and Stamford Health have teamed up to bring world-class orthopedic care closer to you.

Our team of experts remains dedicated to making safe, responsible musculoskeletal care available – wherever you are.

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MASKS BY STEPHEN KEMPSON; WORKING FROM HOME BY ©PROSTOCK-STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; GARDEN BY CAM GOULD; SMARTPHONE BY ©I380632883310 - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Find a complete directory of this year’s winners online. Head to bestofgoldcoastct.com for all the reasons to celebrate at your fingertips.

Welcome to Better At William Raveis Real Estate, we’ve always been in the business of better. Providing our agents with better technology, tools, teamwork, and training to help them be the best that they can be. And providing homeowners with the best possible experience to maintain their loyalty to William Raveis when thinking about their home.

Better is a philosophy that’s been at the heart of our organization since we launched in 1974. It’s the inspiration that keeps us innovating, that compels us to compete, and maintains our market position as North America’s leading, independent real estate firm. Today, we’re investing in even better resources to support this commitment.

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VOLUME 20

ISSUE 4

JUL/AUG 2020

creative director Amy Vischio

publisher Jonathan W. Moffly

editorial

sales + marketing

executive editor Cristin Marandino editor Julee Kaplan

Jonathan W. Moffly

market editor Megan Gagnon

publisher, athome, greenwich, fairfield living

advisory editor Donna Moffly

jonathan.moffly@moffly.com

art

Gabriella Mays

senior art director Venera Alexandrova

publisher, westport

senior art director/status report Garvin Burke

gabriella.mays@moffly.com

production director Kerri Rak design assistant Taylor Stroili

Karen Kelly-Micka publisher, stamford

contributors editors

karen.kelly@moffly.com

Elizabeth Hole - editor, custom publishing

Jennifer Frank account executive

Diane Sembrot - editor, fairfield living; westport; stamford

jennifer.frank@moffly.com

writers Liz Ariola, Liz Barron, Tom Connor, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Malia McKinnon Frame

Rick Johnson account executive

rick.johnson@moffly.com

copy editors

Hilary Hotchkiss

Terry Christofferson, Kathy Satterfield

acount executive

editorial advisory board

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Robert Doran, Sue Frelinghuysen, David Genovese, Nancy Helle, Claire Hunter, Robyn Kammerer, Rita Kirby, George McEvoy, Julianna Spain, Amy Wilkinson, Torrance York

Jennifer Petersen acount executive

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digital

Kathleen Godbold

digital media manager Amber Scinto

partnership and big picture manager

digital editor Diane Sembrot

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business

Rachel Shorten

president Jonathan W. Moffly

events director

business manager Elena V. Moffly

rachel.shorten@moffly.com

cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

published by 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com Publishers of FAIRFIELD LIVING, GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN - DARIEN, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome Magazines advertising inquiries Lamuel Bandala email advertise@mofflymedia.com.

TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please e-mail us at subscribe@ncdmag.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to New Canaan - Darien magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues); $34.95/2 years (12 issues); $44.95/3 years (18 issues). Canada and foreign, US $36/year. Prices are subject to change without notice. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. Š2020 New Canaan - Darien magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media.

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The passion and heart that we have consistently put into creating memorable events is being poured into learning all we can about how to gather again in a safe and celebratory way.

In these challenging and uncertain times, we want to reassure you that your safety is our number one priority.

Our preparedness plan will address the issues we are all pondering these days: testing those around us for the virus, proper ventilation, social distancing and spacing, as well as optimal timing of events.

As always, our staff will create a delicious and delightful experience while adhering to impeccable standards of service and sanitation.

Please be reassured, we are in constant communication with the offices of the Mayor and Governor, police chiefs, and fire departments. Our priorities are to stay as informed as possible and to go above and beyond all safety protocols.

We realize that, while it may be a difficult time to plan an event, we will move forward together.

We are beyond proud to be the recipients of Moffly Media’s Best of the Gold Coast award for Best Wine List and Best of Stamford for Best Steaks. This is a huge honor.

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editor’s letter

SIMPLY THE BEST

L

iving through a pandemic was never anything most of us saw coming. Since March we have been adjusting to this “new normal” way of life—wearing face masks, washing, sanitizing, staying socially distant.

Because of our efforts we have all played a big part in doing what’s best for the greater good.

We’ve slowed this virus down. We’ve helped our health care workers to help those who are the sickest and most vulnerable. We’ve prevented the spread as much as we could.

And now, our shops are open. Our restaurants are open. Even our public pool, some summer camps and beaches are open.

While we do still need to play it safe and follow the guidance of local authorities and scientists working tirelessly to help us through this, we do need to help our local businesses and charities, too. They need us. And so, we present you with your local favorites. You voted and we are listing all of the winners in our annual Best of The Gold Coast readers’ poll.

You’ll find some delicious new places to dine, shop and support (page 34). Go get a newcanaandarienmag.com

10

haircut and grab a coffee at one of the best local spots. Speaking of best local spots, To And From (winner of the best mani/pedi) in Darien has some pretty big news, be sure to read all about it in our Buzz story (page 13).

Meet Scott Gilbert (page 20), a New Canaan resident who builds the coolest ever dream cars right here in Norwalk. Make sure not to miss our “Heart to Heart” (page 24) story where writer Liz Barron sits down with local marriage therapist Marion Green to give us practical tips on how to work towards stronger relationships with our significant others.

And, don’t miss Liz Ariola’s (aka Mrs. Nipple) Last Word column. She proves that there is still stuff to look forward to. And maybe—just maybe—the best is yet to come.

julee.kaplan@moffly.com

PHOTO BY KYLE NORTON

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JUL/AUG 2020 / JULEE KAPLAN

Home is where your healthcare is with Virtual Visits There’s promise in getting care anywhere Your place. Your time. Your peace of mind. Connecting to a primary care, urgent care or specialty doctor or clinician has never been easier. Whether you have allergies, cold/flu symptoms or need a follow-up appointment, Virtual Visits are a convenient way to get the care you need, wherever you are. It’s just one more way we’re here for you.

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winvianfarm.com

buzz STATUS REPORT

BEAUTY SCHOOL

TO AND FROM OWNERS LAUNCH VESSL, A NEW COLLECTION OF

COMPLETELY NON-TOXIC SKINCARE by julee kapl an

T

HELANDER AND BLOOM PHOTO BY ERIN PEARLMAN; PRODUCT CONTRIBUTED

above: To And From’s Henri Helander and Jeanne Bloom. below: A first look at the packaging for VESSL

“[Seaweed is] antiinflammatory which is so much of what people are looking for

in skincare.”

—henri helander, co-owner, to and from and vessl

JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

13

alk about turning lemons into lemonade.

It was a tough spring for salons.

Connecticut state law required them to close for three long months, forcing many into unemployment and devastating financial loss. But, for To And From owners Henri Helander and Jeanne Bloom, they weren’t going to let that happen. They were determined to keep paying employees in their Darien-based nail salon—something they were able to do successfully through sales of their popular nail emergency kits, online donations and a Paycheck Protection Program loan provided by the government.

“We didn’t have to lay off one single employee,” Helander says. “We pride ourselves on the fact that our girls make a living wage. Many of them have families to support so it was so important to us that they were taken care of during this time.”

Helander and Bloom also used their time in quarantine wisely—to push forward the development of their new skincare line they’re calling VESSL. The collection of completely non-toxic seaweed-based body care will launch this fall alongside the salt soak, which has been selling at the salon since late last year. Bloom says they will plan to use the products for all To And From services as well as wholesale them to retailers.

“We launched the salon with the idea that we would eventually have a product line that we could use in the salon and feel good about,” Helander says, who met Bloom years ago while attending fashion school in New York. He has a background working as a buyer with Barney’s New York and eventually a stylist.

Bloom grew up in Fairfield County and is a thirdgeneration oyster farmer with her family’s East Norwalk-based business, Copps Island Oysters.

Through that business, run by her father Norm Bloom, they’re one of the few licensed locally to grow and harvest kelp, a type of seaweed, in the Long Island Sound. Kelp farming is a relatively new industry that started in Connecticut only a few years ago. Helander and Bloom work closely with kelp farmer J.P. Vellotti who handles the harvesting once a year, in May and

buzz

June. Kelp farmers in the Sound must go through a rigorous permitting process, but when done correctly, growing kelp in the Sound can be good for the waters and its sea life and remain safe for boaters and swimmers.

In farming the kelp, Helander said they learned that this particular type they’re growing is too delicate to sell to restaurants, but still provides all the benefits of seaweed, making it ideal to use in skincare. Bloom and Helander said they’re continuing to work with a research and development team in order to ensure that all ingredients in the products they produce for VESSL are completely clean and totally non-toxic.

“We already know there are so many amazing benefits in seaweed, which is another reason we wanted this to be the main component in our line,” Helander explained. “It has amazing antioxidant properties; it’s hydrating and has the ability to pull out redness in the skin. It’s anti-inflammatory, which is so much of what people are looking for in skincare.”

The collection will begin with the launch of a body lotion and soon after roll out into more of what they use regularly in services at the salon. You’ll eventually be able to find a body scrub, wash, hand sanitizer and body oil. Helander said he wants the collection to contain “your go-to” for body care and will be priced right, too.

Most of the products will fall into the $35 to $40 range,

with a body oil retailing a bit higher, at about $68.

Since they’re working with the ocean to retrieve ingredients, Helander said it’s extremely important to them to keep the packaging as clean as its contents.

THE NEVER LIST When you purchase a VESSL product, you can be sure you will not find any of these toxic ingredients: Parabens Synthetic fragrances Colorants or synthetic dyes Silicone Aluminum Mineral oil Synthetic oil PEGs Sulfates Phthalates Phenoxyethanol 1, 4 dioxane Ethylene oxide EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) Hazardous or harsh ingredients

newcanaandarienmag.com

14

“When building the line, we have been almost overly cautious,” he says. “Everything will come in glass bottles, no plastic. And, eventually we would like to be able to formulate the seaweed into plastic-like bottles as well.”

The skincare collection will follow the same strict guidelines that Bloom and Helander have instilled in the salon since day one. Just like the product line’s ingredients, they’ve invested in top-notch cleanliness of the salon in order to create a safe environment for employees and clients. This was true even before the pandemic hit our area.

“We are sticklers for making sure every single thing is cleaned and disinfected properly,” Helander explains. “The girls have always worn masks, they’ve always worn gloves. We wipe down each table with medical-grade cleaning supplies, pedicure bowls are completely disinfected after each use, which is why we use bowls, so we can dump, clean and disinfect the entire bowl.”

While the state of Connecticut is just beginning to require licensing for nail technicians, Helander said they personally require each of their technicians to attend licensing courses in New York, where they must take part in 250 hours of schooling. Helander and Bloom foot the bill at roughly $5,000 per person. He says it’s worth it for each employee to have the knowledge they need to keep everyone safe inside the salon.

©DAISUKE KURASHIMA/STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Kelp farming is a relatively new industry in Connecticut with only a handful of licensed farmers able to do it here.

shop by megan gagnon

Rylee + Cru little bow scrunchie set; $24 for three

SWEET SPOTS

BIG STYLE FOR TINY PEOPLE

Wee Mondine

left: Rylee + Cru Flower Field onepiece; $52 right: Kiko + gg retro wooden phone; $54 newcanaandarienmag.com

16

center: Inside Wee Mondine’s inviting shop top right and bottom: Looks from German clothing brand LiiLU

WEE MONDINE BY HEATHER STRICKER. IMAGES COURTESY OF BRANDS

A

mother to three young girls, ELIZABETH CROSBY has loved the brands she discovered while dressing her daughters over the years. But with her youngest growing up and out of onesies and bonnets, who would she have to share her precious finds with?

Lucky for us, she channeled her passion into Wee Mondine, a Darien shop that houses all of her collected treasures under one roof.

Visitors may not immediately recognize the global labels that line her shelves: Soor Ploom, Bobo Choses, Misha & Puff and Little Cotton Clothes to name a few, but that curation is part of what makes her selection special.

Each of the pieces she brings in are thoughtfully chosen for their hand-crafted quality, organic fabrics and timeless silhouettes (think Peter Pan collars, Liberty floral prints, muted color palettes, and cozy knits). Wooden, wicker and cloth toys and dolls from Maileg and Olli Ella are also available alongside recent additions that include women,s wear, pottery, linens, candles and clean beauty products. As if the petite pinafores and baby bathing suits were not enough of a draw, now you can get something for yourself too.

1921 Post Road, Darien weemondine.com

THANK YOU FOR THE VOTES!

PLEASE JOIN US ANY DAY OF THE WEEK AT EITHER LOCATION AND BECOME PART OF THE BJ RYAN’S GROUP. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU.

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shop

Coco + Lala

S

hannon Doherty, owner of Coco + Lala likes to have fun. You can tell by the way she stocks her store with sparkles and tutus, frames her front window with flower installations, and fills her social feed with videos of dance parties alongside her four adorable kids.

Her boutique for women and children began with a location in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, the idyllic beach town where Doherty and her family spent summers. Darien

Egg

W

ith its Manhattan roots, Egg New York was always going to be cool.

From its inception, the children’s line appealed to styleminded mothers both uptown and downtown, but the brand isn't just for city kids. As Michelle Smith, wholesale director and local mom says, “Egg New York is a brand that resonates with and appeals to the Connecticut family lifestyle. Many of our customers who shop in Darien have been loyal customers for many years, visiting our stores in Tribeca or Dumbo, and are excited to see us establish a presence in town.” A mix of prints that are preppy (summerready sailboats and ice cream cones) and playful (metallic and tie-dye) make for plenty of options, whether you’re looking for dress up or play time clothes. Matching sibling sets are hard to resist, especially when it comes to the pajamas and new season separates.

1060 Post Road, Darien eggnewyork.com

top: Whimsical Riya romper; $55

top: Styles from the latest collection right: Denim Oliver blazer; $99 newcanaandarienmag.com

18

is where she calls home, though, and it soon became clear that her community needed its own Coco + Lala. What started as a pop-up has now become a permanent fixture downtown, much to the delight of families who frequent her sunny shop. In addition to the colorful wardrobe staples and accessories for littles, be sure to check out the "Mommy and Me" options for twinning opportunities with your mini.

1090 Post Road, Darien cocoandlala.com

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go THE HIGH ROAD BLACKBRIDGE MOTORS can reimagine and build your dream car by tom c onnor

I

f you can afford to retire at 35, you can probably do whatever you want as a second act. Which is what Scott Gilbert did four years ago when he opened Blackbridge Motors, a high-end auto repair and restoration shop in a former warehouse in South Norwalk.

The New Canaan resident spent ten years at Goldman Sachs in Manhattan before leaving in 2016.

“I left to do this,” says Gilbert, 39. “It wasn’t an afterthought.

That job involved a lot of computer work and thinking, and there’s nothing wrong with that. But there’s a different level of satisfaction that comes from

working with your hands and building something.”

Growing up outside of Philadelphia, Gilbert tinkered with cars as a teenager.

“I liked the freedom a car gave me,” he says. “But I also liked the

complexity around it as a machine.

I always gravitated toward cars, for reasons that I probably can’t really explain to this day.”

That passion led him to start up Blackbridge Motors (“Black” connotes the seriousness of

newcanaandarienmag.com

20

the work, “bridge” the linkage between old school aesthetics and new world technology and engineering.) His business model was simple enough: Identify a need, then find a way to satisfy it.

Fairfield County is high-octane automobile country, with enough car fanciers and collectors— in New Canaan especially—to support an enterprise devoted to repairing and restoring them.

Gilbert has sponsored events for Caffeine & Carburetors, the gathering of auto enthusiasts that meets six times each year at Zumbach’s on Pine Street.

“You get a sense of scale when you go to one of these shows,” he

HEADSHOT BY ALEXANDER MAZZEI; CAR PHOTO BY JOE ADAMS

New Canaan resident Scott Gilbert opened Blackbridge Motors four years ago in South Norwalk.

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says. “New Canaan is a relatively small town in comparison to, say, Greenwich, but the turnout is exceptional. The cars are a very important part of a lot of people’s lives.”

Gilbert has called the service Blackbridge Motors provides “an expensive ticket,” and that’s an understatement. Labor—for jobs

ranging from brake repair and belt replacement to ground-up rebuilds and restorations—runs $150 an hour, with full restoration projects requiring as many 3,000 hours.

“It takes that,” he notes. “We take classic and vintage automobiles and make them modern. Our tag line is ‘Build Better Machines.’

It’s not just fixing cars—it’s

re-engineering them.”

Basically, what Gilbert’s crew does is restore or re-create classic shells around completely modern, technologically sophisticated and reliable systems, including new engines and electronics. If a part can’t be found in the global marketplace, the crew makes it.

“The DNA of these cars is

newcanaandarienmag.com

22

authentic—it’s just upgraded,” he insists. “You get the car you love to look at without sacrificing anything. That, I think, is what is resonating with our customers.”

Out in the cavernous, 12,000-square-foot main workspace, flags from the foreign countries of origin for many of the cars hang from the rafters.

Some dozen and a half vehicles sit parked in various stages of completion. Among them are a 1951 French-made Simca convertible, a French-made automobile, for a collector in Weston; a two-tone 1961 Nash Metropolitan; a rare 1974 2002 Turbo (only 1600 were produced); and several British-made Land Rover Defenders, one stripped to its bare frame.

Four years ago, Blackbridge Motors occupied just 2,500 square feet of the warehouse. Today, total rented space is approaching 25,000 square feet. And from a couple of mechanics, including Gilbert himself, the team of highly experienced and vetted employees numbers 20, including two whose only job is reupholstery. And then there are the classics he himself owns and drives.

Scott Gilbert lives with his wife, Noel, and their two young children on the West side of town, next door (read “garage”) to his other, vintage family of cars: a Land Rover Defender; a 1952 Chevy pickup truck with 600 horsepower and a 2015 Chevy pickup truck; a 1952 Daimler SP250 sports car; a 1987 Porsche 911.

JOE ADAMS

Blackbridge can totally restore or recreate classic shells around completely modern technology.

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1

But what about when conflicts arise?

How can we keep our partnerships strong during such an unprecedented time?

Always prioritize and protect the loving bond that exists between you. Your relationship is like a living, breathing “organism” that needs to be fed and preserved. What brings a couple together is the love they have for eachother and it needs to be ever present in all interactions.

This loving connection can never be overshadowed by content or a situation at hand. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a voice to speak up and work through conflicts, however; it is important to be aware that when the need to “be right” or “win” an argument becomes paramount, the “fight” (without mindfulness) can take over and inadvertently do damage to the safety of the connection. The sanctity of the relationship needs to always stay top of mind in order to keep the integrity of the bond intact.

3

How do you address these conflicts while keeping the peace at home?

Focus on building on the positive by starting from a place of giving the other person the benefit of the doubt. What your partner wants/ needs matters too. The more time we spend together the more chances there are to rub one another the wrong way. Often those exchanges can feel threatening and trigger fight or flight overreactions where the dynamic focuses on the problem at hand of whose fault it is, who’s right or wrong, who’s not listening, etc.

R

elationships can be tough.

Especially now.

Many of us have been quarantined for months with our partners, which has brought on new and previously unheard of challenges. Here, we examine FAMILY MEMBERS ACCUSTOMED TO HAVING THEIR INDIVIDUAL ROUTINES ARE SPENDING where couples are struggling ALMOST EVERY MOMENT TOGETHER, and seek to find ways to A SITUATION THAT COULD TEST EVEN THE make this new way of life STRONGEST OF RELATIONSHIPS work. Marion Green, by liz barron Stamford-based licensed marriage and family therapist, weighs in with her take.

HEART TO HEART

4

What’s the best approach to make sure my side is being heard?

Take a deep breath and notice the negative dynamic cycle that inadvertently gets fed into what fuels the escalation. Put the need to argue aside and brainstorm ideas to come up with solutions that could work for both of you. Replace any resistance to the other‘s point of view with sincere curiosity so the conversation can focus on gratifying collaboration and compromise instead of getting caught up in the tug of war.

5

Sometimes couples fight about the same thing without a resolution. Why? In order to have a successful exchange both sides need to be heard and considered. Couples who are having the same fight over and over again are only focused on being heard and understood and are typically not particularly interested in understanding and considering the other’s point of view. Fights only occur when each party stays stuck in their perspective creating an impasse with no room for compromise or resolution.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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6

How can we break that cycle?

Take turns sharing and actively listening with the intent to understand the other’s thoughts and feelings. Our brains can only be in the sharing mode or the receptive mode at any given time, so in order to receive someone else we need to put our needs to share aside for the moment and become openly curious and receptive to the other’s point of view. Only then can we hold both messages side by side in our awareness and consider a possible outcome that would consider both perspectives.

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do

HOME BODY

We checked in with a local fitness expert for advice on HOW TO KEEP IT SIMPLE BUT EFFECTIVE

by liz barron

G

Try HIIT

No Excuses Recognize ahead of time where you could be likely to make excuses for yourself, because it’s something we all do. Find the best time of day to schedule exercise and make it a daily priority so that it becomes part of your routine. And if you fall short, don’t beat yourself up, just start again tomorrow. Some exercise is always better than nothing.

Create Space Choose a place in your home and designate it as your personal fitness zone, it can even be your basement or garage. As long as you have a place to go and comfortably move, you’re more likely to go back to the same place each day.

Visualizing Helps Using visualization before you even start moving can be helpful with motivation. Think about yourself exercising daily and the benefits you’re looking to achieve. If you see yourself as successful, the chances of it happening are greater.

SET YOUR TIMING

2minutes 0/30 daily newcanaandarienmag.com

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Guttuso’s favorite workout is a HIIT(high-intensity interval training) format. This type of training includes cardio and strength training, requires little to no equipment and can be performed at any fitness level.

It is a fun and effective format that burns calories even after your workout is over. Whatever form of exercise appeals to you, Guttuso reminds us to strive for progress, not perfection and to “pick up a weight, drink enough water and just keep moving.”

At Home Eight rounds of each exercise, 20 seconds of an all-out effort, 10 seconds rest Jump rope

• • Squat jumps • Burpees • Mountain climbers Jumping jacks

WORKOUT EQUIPMENT AT OME BY ©PAUCHI /STOCK.ADOBE.COM; WOMAN WORKING OUT BY ©SNAPTITUDE /STOCK.ADOBE.COM

yms may have just opened up again (with restrictions, of course), but that doesn’t mean working out at home has to stop. Here, we checked in with Martha Guttuso, a Darienbased certified personal trainer, who has been leading online classes for those looking for a major sweat fest while in quarantine. “Just bring your body,” she says. “Your mind will follow.” Here’s what Guttuso suggests in order to get the most out of that at-home workout session:

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

eat b y julee k apl an

LET’S ORDER IN

W

hen restaurants were ordered to temporarily close their doors in March and forced to switch to takeout only, Elm chef and managing partner Luke Venner in New Canaan stepped up to the plate.

It was then when he flipped Elm’s normally chic dining room into a small warehouse in order to quickly launch a whole new business, Branchbox

by Elm. The idea was to provide the same delicious, well balanced, high quality food that Elm is known for, but in a newly affordable and family-friendly way. These new meals he and his team were creating had to travel well and pass the freshness test, even after a potential re-heat at home.

“I knew there would be an immediate need for something that was easy, affordable and most importantly safe,” Venner says. “I saw the long lines at grocery stores and heard people,s mounting concerns about restaurant takeout that probably hadn,t been part of their weekly expenses before.”

Branchboxes are what Venner explains as a “chef ,s take on a home cooked meal.” Each box feeds two adults and likely two small children. Venner said that customers have been ordering more than one box in order to feed larger families.

Try the Campfire Box with smoked St. Louis ribs, cabbage slaw, black beans, chipotle deviled eggs and rocky road cookies or the Recovery Box with grilled salmon, quinoa and vegetable ragout, falafel and hummus and a berry cup.

There’s the Sunday Supper Box (offered any day of the week) with a whole lemon rosemary “ th e i nt e nt i on was t o cre at e somet h i ng t hat wou ld h ope f u lly re ma i n i n de ma nd eve n a f t e r w e a re a ble t o re ope n knowi ng pe ople wi ll a lways have de ma ndi ng s ch e du le s .”

– LUKE VENNER

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roasted chicken, Bibb lettuce and beet salad, potato puree and asparagus with snickerdoodle cookies. Check out the website for special boxes like the Taco Tuesday Box (it comes with a margarita mix!) and on Sundays the Southern Comfort Box with fried chicken, peas and carrots, mac and cheese, cucumber salad and berry and rhubarb cheesecakes.

Boxes are exclusively available for order on elmrestaurant.com/branchbox and are delivered straight to your home with a delivery area that reaches from Greenwich to Westport (and every town in between). Boxes range between $46-$49 and you can add red, white or rose wine to any box for $19-$24 per bottle.

While Branchbox was launched in order to meet the needs of local families in quarantine, Venner said that he intends to keep it going, even after restaurants are allowed to go back to business as usual.

CONTRIBUTED

FAMILY DINNER DILEMMAS SOLVED WITH BRANCHBOX BY ELM

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A CHIC NEW WINE SPRITZER IS COMING SOON TO A BAR, BEACH AND PARTY NEAR YOU

T

are available in Original and Citrus flavors, have 150 calories and are gluten free. The Original, slightly sweet with a little kick, is made with elderflower, mint and lime, and was inspired by a drink Venneri fell in love with while vacationing in Europe. The Citrus flavor is a refreshing combo of various tropical flavors and pairs well with any food. Both are made with a dry pinot base, carbonated water and natural flavorings and may be consumed alone or used as a mixer with your favorite, say, vodka or tequila.

Be sure to check out the two signature cocktail recipes on Instagram, @drinkcoolcat: The Citrus Crush and Margarita. In addition to branded swag, Cool Cat has some fun playlists on Spotify to stream while imbibing. The spritzers are available now at Stewart's Wine & Spirits in New Canaan and BevMax stores in Stamford and Norwalk. You can also snag them on drinkcoolcat.com or sussexwine.com.

“We hope the free-spirited, on-the-go Cool Cat lifestyle, which encompasses adventure and following your true path, will speak to everyone,” says Venneri. “It’s a movement people are going to want to buy into and be a part of.” newcanaandarienmag.com

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Cool Cat spritzers come in two refreshing flavors.

CONTRIBUTED

he term “Cool Cat” may conjure up images of the old Looney Tunes character, Chet Baker’s famous jazz LP or even Netflix star Carole Baskin. But this summer there’s a new reason to use the expression and the best part is—you can drink it.

Cool Cat wine spritzers were created by New Canaan born brothers Rocco Venneri and Michael James­—along with friend Tavio Laudisio. “What started as an idea Mike shared with me at a Mother's Day barbeque in 2018 grew into a refreshing drink and lifestyle brand,” explains Venneri, ceo of Cool Cat who led the product launch in April.

Two years ago, the brothers noticed a boom in the health and wellness arena and wanted to produce a portable drink that was flavorful, calorie-conscious and went hand-in-hand with a way of life that was all-inclusive and free-spirited.

“We chose the name because it lends itself to the idea of owning who you are and being an original and fearless leader driven by heart, instinct and talent,” remembers Venneri. The owners decided on a spritzer as opposed to just wine because a mixed cocktail seemed more fun, celebratory and didn’t take itself too seriously, a reflection of the Cool Cat vibe and also Venneri’s take on everyday life.

While working with a California-based company to develop the two initial flavors, he called upon his previous career experience in fashion marketing and designed a hip line of hoodies, tees and baseball hats with the brand’s name and logo, causing buzz on social media about the brand before the spritzer even hit the shelves.

“I see this drink at backyard barbeques, on the beach, at parties and music festivals, but also popular among creative types,” he explains.

Cool Cat spritzers have 6.9 percent alcohol (compared to 5 percent in most spiked seltzers),

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Roost

Cava

Coast is prominently displayed in the main dining room, “ensconced in a wine-cellar-like setting,” to provide the ideal temperature all year round for the storage of wine and the enjoyment of guests, from which the venue takes its name. The Siguenzas’ passion for fresh food, fine wine and hospitality has facilitated this family-oriented restaurant to become the American Dream.

2 FOREST STREET • NEW CANAAN 203.966.6946 • CAVAWINEBAR.COM

Bob Capazzo Photography

Long before they were American citizens, siblings Kleber, Nube and Vicente Siguenza developed Cava Wine Bar, a modern Italian restaurant with a Latin twist and generous wine selection.

Executive Chef Nube marries her passion for food and her classical training to innovate while remaining true to her Italian inspiration and Latin American roots. No strangers to the intricacies of the palate, the siblings have received The Best of the Gold Coast Award, where Cava’s wine list was highlighted as one of the region’s best. The distinguished history that connects the building to the Connecticut Gold

Roost opened its doors earlier this year and has quickly become a fixture in the local Darien food scene. From the creators of Ada’s Kitchen + Coffee in Greenwich, Roost is a chef-driven, quick-service eatery, located at 1950 Post Road.

When looking to expand their reach beyond Greenwich, owners Mike and Krista Pietrafeso felt their concept of scratch-made food from fresh and local ingredients would be a great fit for the local community.

Having a young family of their own, Mike and Krista understand the importance of having

healthy and delicious food available in a fast and convenient way. Roost offers something for everyone, including tasty smoothies, sandwiches and salads and incredible coffee and teas.

Both born and raised in Greenwich, Mike and Krista started dating in their senior year at Greenwich High School and will be married 11 years in October.

1950 POST ROAD • DARIEN 203.309.5549 • ROOSTDARIEN.COM

Bob Capazzo Photography

Mike and Krista Pietrafeso

Nube Siguenza, Vicente Siguenza and Kleber Siguenza

PUT YOUR FACE IN THE SPOTLIGHT! IS YOUR BUSINESS THE “FACE OF” farm to table, craft brews, lashes and lips?

Now is your chance to let your community know who you are and WHAT MAKES YOUR BRAND SPECIAL! People love to do business with those they know, like and trust, so put your best face forward and make sure YOU STAND OUT as a leader in your community.

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MAKE YOUR MOVE

Ryan Raveis

A

s summer heats up and you yearn to escape the surreal season of Covid-19, perhaps it’s time to consider buying a vacation home —here, in Connecticut. Fun fact: Many Fairfield County residents are purchasing second homes in the Nutmeg state, sometimes in their very own town.

“If I were to buy a summer house, now would be the time to do it. Interest rates are as low as they’ve ever been, and housing prices—particularly on a summer home on the Fairfield beach and the Westport beach—are very affordable right now,” says Ryan Raveis, co-president of William Raveis Inc. Beware, though. Inventory is going fast; you might need to elbow your way through a line of New Yorkers at a showing, cash in hand.

“The Connecticut shoreline is seeing a lot, a lot, a lot of activity,” Raveis says. “For both buying and

for rentals, we are having lines at the door twenty people deep.”

There are two main reasons to buy a vacation home, either because it’s in a place you know and love or to rent it out as an investment, says Raveis. Both apply now, and they need not be exclusive.

People tend to rent in a vacation area before they buy, all the better to get to know it.

If you live in Fairfield County, you already know Connecticut.

You know about our parks and woods, our beaches and boating, our golf and shopping—in short, many of the things you seek out on vacation. And everything in our state falls within a three-hour drive, which experts say is the ideal maximum drive time to reach a summer vacation home.

An added bonus: That proximity also means you’re close enough to check on the property if trouble arises, and it can be a lifesaver if disaster strikes and you need to get home.

“If I love a little bit of space, lawn, privacy and community, Connecticut becomes very appealing. And if I love the shoreline…I have a couple of friends who have beach houses on Fairfield Beach and live no further than ten miles away. They use it as an escape,” says Raveis.

Thousands of New Yorkers came to Connecticut back in March in search of a spacious place to hunker down during

the pandemic. Many landed in Connecticut-shoreline properties normally not inhabited until summertime. They worked from home, played outside and, as the weather warmed, so too did their appreciation for our little state and its coastline. Says Raveis, “There were people willing to spend $25,000 to $30,000 a month for a 3,000-square-foot house in a town like Fairfield.”

Many of those same renters stayed put. Gov. Ned Lamont reported in May that phones were “ringing off the hook” from New Yorkers interested in moving to Connecticut. He said they realized that telecommuting to their New York job did not have to happen from a home in New York City.

These potential buyers are not meandering through twenty open houses before making a decision. Says Raveis, they do their homework online, research virtual open houses and narrow their visits to five or six properties. And when they show up, they act.

During the pandemic, mortgage rates fell to the lowest on record, according to mortgage corporation Freddie Mac. Mortgages are still hovering around 3.25 percent. While the stock market may rise and fall like a summertime roller coaster, real estate is holding steady. Says Raveis, a summer vacation home nearby could be “a great way to diversify your assets and protect your nest egg.”

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO FINANCING YOUR MOVE

// Before you go house shopping, have a mortgage broker or loan officer prequalify you for a loan. He or she will tally your monthly obligations and income; pull your credit report; lay out your interest rate, loan amount and repayment options; and hand you a certified preapproval. If you plan to rent out the property, have a real estate agent estimate your rental income as well as your carrying costs, including taxes, insurance, mortgage payments, homeowners association fees, utility costs and more. //

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PHOTOGRAPH OF RYAN RAVEIS BY KYLE NORTON; CALCULATIONS BY © PHILIP STEURY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

IS NOW THE TIME TO CONSIDER BUYING/RENTING A VACATION HOME?

Will it matter in 30 years?

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For some of life’s questions, you’re not alone.

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celebrating

THE BEST Cheers all around! Congratulations to the winners of our annual readers’ poll. These are the places you told us were your favorites for drinks, food, shopping and services. You know who else wins? You do! Just turn the page to review the complete results of all the votes, then head out to try or revisit these places for yourself. You may even discover a new favorite eatery, bar, shop, salon, fitness studio and more.

Who’s ready to celebrate the love?

FOOD + DRINK

SHOP + STYLE

SERVICES + TO-DO’S

PG. 36

PG. 46

PG. 54

a note about the new normal: In the time of COVID, we have done our best to deliver these results even as our winners are experiencing immense transition. If a winner has closed, we have simply removed it from the list. This list is accurate, to the best of our ability, as of June 19. We suggest you check winners’s websites for the most up-to-date information about business hours.

JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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FOOD+ DRINK

Local restaurants and bars for deliciously good times

TACO DADDY

WINNER OF NEW RESTAURANT

When life is just too serious, there’s a place you can go to decompress: Taco Daddy. It’s a fun and welcoming vibe, and you’ll feel like you’re with friends from the get-go. The menu turns tacos on their head, with new twists (like red curry duck or chicken bolognese) as well as burgers, bowls and small bites. Leave room for creative cocktails and sweet treats, too.

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READERS’ PICKS

W

hen our readers get hungry or thirsty, they know exactly where they want to go—look, we have the actual list of their favorite places. From high cuisine and world-class wine to burgers and beer, there’s a tasty choice for everyone. Dig in.

Favorite toppings, like guacamole and jalapeños, add extra flavor

GOLDEN ADVICE

RESTAURANTS Best Service Table 104 299 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-388-8898; table104stamford.com Creative Menu The Whelk 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-0902; thewhelkwestport.com

TACO DADDY BY MORGAN MACHETTE; FLIPSIDE BURGERS & BAR, CONTRIBUTED

Hotel Restaurant Artisan Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-307-4222; artisansouthport.com New Restaurant Taco Daddy 121 Towne St., Stamford, 203-541-5770; tacodaddystamford.com Outdoor Dining Prime Restaurant 78 Southfield Ave., Stamford, 203-817-0700; restaurantprime.com Special Occasion/Date Night Tavern at GrayBarns 194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900 tavernatgraybarns.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India 68 Broad St., Stamford, 203-964-1010 | 25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203-662-1213; see all locations at coromandelcuisine.com

American Flipside Burgers & Bar 1125 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8233; flipsiderestaurant.com

Italian Café Silvium 371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651; cafesilviumct.com

Asian Fusion Mecha Noodle Bar 151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., S. Norwalk, 203-2958718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; mechanoodlebar.com

Japanese Sakura 680 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-0802; sakurarestaurant.com

Chinese The Little Kitchen of Westport 423 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-5540; littlekitchenwestport.com

Latin American + Mexican Bodega Taco Bar 980 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-8500 | 1700 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9590; bodegatacobar.com

French Chez Vous Bistro 188 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-504-8770; chezvousbistro.com

Mediterranean Mediterraneo 366 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-4747 | 353 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-229-0000; zhospitalitygroup.com

Greek Kouzina Taverna 223 Main St., Stamford, 203-588-0110; kouzinataverna.com

JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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3 creative twists on the All-American burger from Flipside, winner of best American food.

1 MAC ’ N’ CHEESE BURGER Can’t decide how to satisfy a big hunger? This favorite combines two American favorites: a burger and mac ’n’ cheese. Flipside adds bacon and fresh pico to this grilled six-ounce ground sirloin.

2 CHIP & DIP BURGER Everything is right with Flipside Burgers & Bar’s layering of Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, potato chips and French onion dip with your burger (or grilled chicken if you prefer). This hearty choice has lots of flavor.

3 GOAT BURGER Here’s a great twist on a cheeseburger—it’s goat cheese with sundried tomatoes, caramelized onions, balsamic glaze and honey. Just add french fries or onion rings and a cold beer for a filling meal.

M O F F LY M E D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

READERS’ PICKS The Whelk’s Kohlrabi and radish with trout roe and brown butter

THE WHELK WINNER OF CREATIVE MENU

“The Whelk is coastal Connecticut cuisine. A mixture of locally sourced seafood, meats and vegetables that are on-trend and seasonally inspired.”

BILL TAIBE, executive chef and owner

WHO’S HUNGRY? EVEN IF YOU’RE NOT SURE WHAT’S FOR DINNER, YOU’RE IN LUCK. LOCAL RESTAURANTS HAVE PLENTY OF CREATIVE DISHES YOU’VE NEVER TASTED BEFORE AS WELL AS NEW TWISTS ON YOUR ALL-TIME FAVORITES.

BODEGA TACO BAR WINNER OF BEST LATIN AMERICAN + MEXICAN CUISINE

“Bodega is open for curbside pickup and patio dining in Fairfield and Darien serving freshly made tacos, guac, sides and hand-crafted Margaritas. Additionally, the truck is out and about, serving fresh food from our Guac on the Block menu.”

Tacos, chips with guacamole and salsa and plenty of other fresh-made options from Bodega.

MARIO FONTANA, owner

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WHELK BY CHEF ANTHONY KOSTELIS; TAIBE HEADSHOT BY DAVID CURTIS; BODEGA FOOD BY NOAH FECKS; OPPOSITE PAGE; PRIME BY JULIE BIDWELL

GOLD COAST

PRIME RESTAURANT

T

WINNER OF OUTDOOR DINING + OUTDOOR BAR

here may be nothing more relaxing than enjoying freshly prepared spicy tuna rolls or a medium-rare boneless ribeye with a glass of wine—all with a water view. It was worth the wait to get the all clear. Meanwhile, Prime Restaurant had served up dishes to go with online ordering, making it easy to pick up your food curbside. Be sure to take a long, lingering look at the views and feel that breeze off the water as you enjoy a expertly prepared meal that will transport you from the everyday.

Enjoy summer warm breezes at Prime Restaurant waterside location.

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

READERS’ PICKS

MEDITERRANEO WINNER OF BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD

S

above: Frutti di mare below: Jumbo sea scallops, on point.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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CONTRIBUTED

eafood— grilled, tossed in salads, topped with sauce, paired with spinach, in soup—is the heart of Mediterraneo. You see it in every part of the restaurant, with its dark glossy wood and deep sea blue wall color and dots of lights like stars in an evening sky. On the menu, of course, there are plenty of options, but Mediterranean food is at its best with mussels, octopus, fish and other fresh catches from the sea—just add rice, broth or a bed of greens and present it elegantly. Be sure to try dessert.

M O F F LY M E D I A

READERS’ PICKS

Spanish Valencia Luncheria 164 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-8009; valencialuncheria.com

Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles 219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-817-0707 | 1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841; 16handles.com

Thai Rainbow Thai 5 Bridge Sq., Westport, 203-557-9000; rainbowthaict.com

Ribs/Barbecue Walrus Alley 90 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-333-2733; walrusalley.com

Hamburgers Shake Shack 1340 Post Rd., Darien, 203-614-1411 | 1849 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-682-6570; shakeshack.com

COMFORT FOOD

OPPOSITE: PHOTOGRAPHS, CONTRIBUTED BY MEDITERRANEO; CONROY, CONTRIBUTED; OCTOPUS BY MORGAN IONE YEAGER; ELM STREET DINER BREAKFASTS BY @CHEATDAYEATS

Pizza Letizia’s Pizza 666 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-6022; letiziaspizza.com

Bagels Liz Sue Bagels 63 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-323-4611 | 120 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk, 203-849-1322; lizsuebagelsinc.com Breakfast Food Elm Street Diner 463 Elm St., Stamford, 203-325-1141; elmstreetdiner.com

Seafood The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood 89 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-866-4488; rowaytonseafood.com

Hot Dogs Super Duper Weenie 306 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-334-3647; superduperweenie.com

Steak The Capital Grille 230 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203-967-0000; thecapitalgrille.com

Ice Cream/Gelato Milkcraft 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 475-888-9091; milkcraftca.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

GOLDEN ADVICE

Elm Street Diner, winner of best breakfast food, on breaking traditions.

1 STRAWBERRY FIELDS Open for takeout, an Elm Street Diner breakfast is worth getting up early for. They do it big. Take, for example, Greek Yogurt French Toast with granola, honey and a field of fresh berries.

Sushi OKO 6 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-557-8404; okokitchen.com

2 WHO’S CHICKEN? Here’s an eye-opener: Jumbo pieces of fried chicken stacked atop French toast with cinnamon and sugar, ready to be doused with Vermont maple syrup.

THE RESTAURANT WINNER OF BEST SEAFOOD

“We can’t wait for our guests to try the amazing seafood we are preparing for our summer menu. One of my favorite appetizers is the Charred Octopus.

One bite and it transports you to seaside dining. A chilled Rosé is the perfect complement.”

3 LET’S MAKE WAFFLES New on the summer menu: charred octopus with white beans, chorizo,. charred pepper sauce and chive oil

KEVIN CONROY owner JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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Waffles can be topped with maple syrup, like always, or they can have fresh blueberries. Just wait for the butter to melt into the squares before digging in.

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GOLDEN ADVICE

Give your favorite juices from Green & Tonic the boozy home treatment.

Tapas Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; barcelonawinebar.com

Deli Gaetano’s Deli 1713 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-955-1852; gaetanosdelis.com

CASUAL SPOTS Brunch + Café/Bistro Terrain Garden Cafe 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2732; shopterrain.com Coffee Shop Lorca 125 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-504-2847; lorcacoffeebar.com

Diner Orem’s Diner 167 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7370; oremsdiner.com

Juice Bar Green & Tonic 7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-1376 | 85 Railroad Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-1479 | 1098 Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-1036 | 5 Burtis Ave., New Canaan, 203-920-1395 | 17 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-557-6392; greenandtonic.com

Family-Friendly Restaurant Chips Family Restaurant 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-332-3370 | see all locations at chipsrestaurants.com

Lunch Spot Valencia Luncheria 164 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-8009; valencialuncheria.com

Food Truck The Tasty Yolk 1916 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-726-6520 | 999 Brookside Dr., Fairfield, 203-5269745 | storefront, 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311; thetastyyolk.com

Vegetarian The Lime Restaurant 168 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-9240; limerestaurant.com

1 GREEN

A tasty pick-me-up duo: cortados and alfajores

Salads, bowls, wraps and more are for pick up or delivery—but also check out the bottled juices to stock up at home. Jungle Juice is made of delicious greens—and G&T suggests adding some white rum, coconut water, jalapeño and a bit of cucumber.

LORCA

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“Being part of the Stamford community has brought me so much joy. Walking into our local restaurants and over to Mill River Park and bumping into a bunch of our regular customers to chat about life will never get old, and it’s what’s fulfilled me most about opening Lorca.”

ORANGE Take your Tumeric Tonic straight— or try G&T’s recipe: adding white rum and seltzer water. Pour over ice and use an orange slice as a garnish for your cocktail.

3 PINK This starts with tequila, then adds in G&T’s Melon cooler, lime juice, agave, sea salt and mint freshly picked from the home garden.

Recipes at greenandtonic.com.

LEYLA JENKINS owner newcanaandarienmag.com

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LORCA BY GARVIN BURKE; ALL OTHERS, CONTRIBUTED

WINNER OF COFFEE SHOP

THE TASTY YOLK

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WINNER OF BEST FOOD TRUCK

ere’s the great thing about The Tasty Yolk: You can pick up food from the truck or from the Fairfield location. Head to its website to choose and you’ll see the specials offered for each. Here, for example, are the made-in-shop buttermilk pancakes with wild berry sauce, citrus mascarpone, crumbled bacon and Vermont maple syrup (ask for The Berry Tasty). On the run, try an egg sandwich, like The Banker—brisket, two eggs, spicy aioli and Swiss. Be sure to grab a few napkins, too.

A stack of buttermilk pancakes with berry sauce and bacon bits

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READERS’ PICKS

MARKETS + MORE

Pan-seared salmon with snow peas and asparagus

Bakery + Cupcakes + Desserts DiMare Pastry Shop 1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781 | 12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253; dimarepastry.com Butcher Shop + Liquor Store + Wine Shop Stew Leonard’s 100 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-7214; stewleonards.com Candy Store Saugatuck Sweets 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-642-4615 | 28 Reef Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8550 Caterer Marcia Selden Catering & Events 65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000; marciaselden.com Chocolate Shop Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti 190 Main St., Westport, 203-293-6106; lerougebyaarti.com Fish Market Superior Seafood 999 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-0844; westportsuperiorseafood.com Gourmet Grocery Palmer’s Market 264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-2077; palmersdarien.com Gourmet To-Go The Pantry 1580 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-0400; thepantry.net

MARCIA SELDEN

WINNER OF BEST CATERER

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hen it comes to the food and drinks presented by caterer Marcia Selden, bring on the close up. Everything is always in place, and the promise made by the artful presentation is followed up with the fulfillment of great taste. The ingredients are top quality. Marcia Selden has proven over the years that they can handle any party, big or intimate. Getting the big picture and every detail, the team even introduced Party in a Box catered meals for parties to enjoy at home.

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Health Food The Organic Market 285 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-9007; organicmarketct.com

FOOD PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENT PLANNING

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READERS’ PICKS

Personal Chef Services A Dash of Salt 971 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-354-8174; adashofsaltcatering.com

BAR BOASTS Beer Selection + Sports Bar/ Big Game Day The Blind Rhino 15 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-956-7243 |3425 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-362-5001; theblindrhino.com Girls’ Night Out Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; barcelonawinebar.com

Happy Hour Troupe429 3 Wall St., Norwalk; troupe429.com

Pub Tigín Irish Pub 175 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-353-8444; tiginirishpub.com

Margaritas + Restaurant Bar bartaco 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226; bartaco.com

Singles Scene (Under 35) Sign of the Whale 6 Harbor Point Rd., Stamford, 203-883-8282; signofthewhalect.com

Martinis Washington Prime 141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314 washingtonprimect.com

Singles Scene (Over 35) The Gray Goose Cafe 246 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-292-8779; thegraygoosecafe.com

Microbrewery Half Full Brewery 43 Homestead Ave., Stamford, 203-658-3631; halffullbrewery.com

Wine List The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s 2748 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-325-9979; watersedgeatgiovannis.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

GOLDEN ADVICE

Two picks from Half Full Brewery, winner of best microbrewery, for summer.

1 RISE & GRIND Half Full Brewery paired up with Rise Nitro RISE Brewing Co. to serve up this new and unique beverage brewed with organic coffee and malt. It has 90 mg of caffeine for blastoff in cans to go (available for delivery).

Outdoor Bar Prime Restaurant 78 Southfield Ave., Stamford, 203-817-0700; restaurantprime.com

WASHINGTON PRIME WINNER OF BEST MARTINIS

MARTINI AND BEER, CONTRIBUTED

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hen it comes to high summer, everyone just wants to chill out.

Take the slow lane and sip your favorite martini— possibly the coolest drink ever—at Washington Prime. This is the kind of place to linger outdoors on a nice day, where you can people watch, enjoy a meal—maybe starting with Pt. Judith Calamari, followed by Shrimp Scampi, Mahi Mahi, or a Prime Filet Mignon with charred asparagus. All of the options at this upscale restaurant are winners.

Just don’t skip the martinis.

Cucumber Basil Martini with Tito’s vodka

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2 STAM VEGAS Welcome to Fabulous Stam Vegas. The sour IPA, in collaboration with Lock City Brewing, is a hazy, juicy beer with tropical fruit and lemon flavors—sweet and snappy, just like its namesake.

STYLE+ SHOP

Dress the part, live the part, love the part: fashion, home, weddings

left: Tom Ford charcoal gray striped wool and silk peak lapel suit with silver cottonand-silk dress shirt and silver tie; plus, Tom Ford Eyewear black polarized sunglasses middle: Salvatore Ferragamo leather shoes right: Kiton floral sleeveless sheath dress and silk-blend floral jacket

MITCHELLS/RICHARDS

WINNER OF GALA BLACK TIE ATTIRE + MEN’S FASHION + MEN’S SHOES

Part of feeling your best is looking your best. The fashion-savvy pros at Mitchells and Richards help keep Fairfield County in the world’s best designer styles, from head to toe. Feel good in your clothes, with great cuts and luxurious fabrics, knowing you’re making the best impression, from business meetings to date night. newcanaandarienmag.com

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READERS’ PICKS

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hether making an impression at a meeting, soaking up the sun at home or cheering the newlyweds, you have plenty of stylish options to prep your closet and home.

Be your true self, live fully and celebrate love beautifully.

MARILYNN LIPTON BLOTNER co-owner

SOLEIL TOILE WINNER OF BEST LINGERIE + SWIMWEAR

FASHION Accessories + Jeans + Teen Fashion Apricot Lane 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888; apricotlaneboutique.com Children’s Clothes Groove 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111 | 115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-920-1700; shopgroove.net

PHOTOS: OPPOSITE PAGE BY SERGIO KURHAJEC: PORTRAIT CONTRIBUTED

Cocktail Attire Katie Fong 60 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-717-1660; katiefong.com Consignment Roundabout 48 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-552-0787 | 606 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4334; roundaboutcouture.com Department Store + Women’s Fashion Saks Fifth Avenue The Collective, 200 Greenwich Ave. | The Vault, 205 Greenwich Ave., 203-862-5300 | Saks Greenwich Shoe, 20 E. Elm St., Greenwich; saksfifthavenue.com

JEWELRY

Designer Boutique B Chic 78 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-210-7037

Anniversary & Special Occasion Jewelry Henry C. Reid 1591 Post Road, Fairfield, 203-255-0447; hcreidjewelers.com

Eyewear Warby Parker 344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-433-7701 | The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689; warbyparker.com

Designer Jewelry Lux Bond & Green 136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com Estate Jewelry Peter Suchy 1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-0024; petersuchyjewelers.com

Gala Black Tie Attire + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

Everyday Jewelry Apricot Lane 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888; apricotlaneboutique.com

Lingerie + Swimwear Soleil Toile 44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-2887 | 14 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-8688; soleiltoile.com

Fine Jewelry Betteridge 239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124; betteridge.com

Women’s Shoes Nordstrom The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-642-2634; shop.nordstrom.com

Local Jewelry Boutique R. Hollander Master Goldsmith 154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200; ringart.com

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“This summer is all about easy pieces, covers in which you can lounge at the beach or relax at home.

We are excited to now have an e-commerce site where you can shop from home and even call our associates for advice.”

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MANFREDI JEWELS WINNER OF BEST MEN’S + WOMEN’S WATCHES

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The time is always right to up your watch game, and Manfredi Jewels has you covered.

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ith its iconic yellow awning, Manfredi Jewels has long been a go-to for gorgeous arm candy. We asked manager Robert Weintraub what’s hot in the watch world for both the ladies and gents.

“For men, steel sport watches continue to be in demand as well as modern recreations of classic iconic watches from the 1960s and 70s,” he says. “The Chronomaster El Primero A384 Revival by Zenith is a faithful reproduction of the very first Zenith watch from 1969 to feature the El Primero high-frequency automatic chronograph caliber.

And The Laureato by GirrardPerregaux has a history dating back to 1975. Its timeless design appeals to today’s current tastes for an elegant sport watch with an integrated bracelet. It is available in many dial colors and sizes.”

And for the ladies? “The Serpenti Seduttori by Bulgari is a fantastic new addition to its line,” says Robert. “It combines the iconic Serpenti shape with a chic link bracelet that not only looks great, but is one of the most comfortable watch bracelets on the market today. It’s available in steel, steel/rose gold, rose gold, yellow gold, both with and without diamonds.” He also points out another hot newcomer, the Marine Dame by Breguet. “This stainless steel version of the watch features a marble blue lacquer dial that is made using a unique process that creates a one-of-a-kind image on each watch dial.”

M O F F LY M E D I A

READERS’ PICKS A 2.51 carat emerald cut in a special-blend rose gold engagement ring hand-forged in shop in Fairfield.

HENRY C. REID & SON JEWELERS WINNER OF BEST ANNIVERSARY & SPECIAL OCCASION JEWELRY

“We’re thrilled to be honored by the readers for a Best of the Gold Coast. During these unprecedented times, we’re very grateful to our customers who continue to inspire us to create memorable, hand-crafted jewelry pieces that transcend time.

While taste and trends can change, anniversaries and special occasions are important reminders of the past and give hope for the future.”

GREG FRENCH, president

SHINING MOMENT

GREG FRENCH BY KYLE NORTON; ALL OTHER IMAGES, CONTRIBUTED

SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL, WHETHER IN A BOLD WATCH OR A GRACEFUL RING, IS ALWAYS A WINNING LOOK. THESE THREE “BEST OF” JEWELERS HELP BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY.

LUX BOND & GREEN WINNER OF DESIGNER JEWELRY

Round Diamond ring, 2.00 cts., with a tapered diamond shank, in platinum, $34,350.

“Our talented gemologists and designers’ recommendations and your approvals make the experience exceptional—and have done so, with one family guiding the team, since 1898. Quality, value and selection top our list as we create your gorgeous jewelry with the most brilliant diamonds and unique designs.”

JOHN GREEN, owner JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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SERENA & LILY WINNER OF BEST FURNITURE + LINENS + RUGS

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ny time, but especially these days, we can appreciate the soothing qualities of Serena & Lily’s home items. From soft rugs underfoot to a silky pillow under our head at night, there’s always a calming ease that comes with their luxurious bedding, furniture and decor. Plus, we love the fresh take on the ever-popular coastal vibe that suits today’s style. It’s time to sit back and relax in pure comfort at home.

SPLURGE WINNER OF BEST HOME ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE

“We have lots of fun things for summer, but one of the most popular is the Swig insulateddrinkware collection.

They keep beverages cold for up to twenty-four hours, and they’re dishwashersafe.”

The Soho duvet cover in Fog and White, with sheet set and shams, and white Riviera backless bench, Stonebridge rug and Soho Sconce

SONIA MALLOY owner newcanaandarienmag.com

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READERS’ PICKS

Men’s + Women’s Watches Manfredi Jewels 121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 866-610-0705 | 72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705; manfredijewels.com

Baby Store She La La 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-9798 | 281 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8365; shopshelala.com

On Trend Jewelry + Selection of Local Designers JL Rocks 292 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-4541; jlrocks.com

Bookstore Barrett Bookstore 6 Corbin Dr., Darien, 203-655-2712; barrettbookstore.com

HOME Antiques/Vintage Store Fairfield County Antique and Design Center 39 Knight St., Norwalk 203-826-8575; fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

OPPOSITE PAGE: SPLURGE BY JULIE BIDWELL; SERENA AND LILY, CONTRIBUTED; THIS PAGE; CAMCHE AND COHEN BY JEN GOLDBERG PRIVATE PORTRAITS; JL ROCKS RINGS BY HEATHER DESMOND; CHLOE WINSTON LIGHTING, CONTRIBUTED

Appliances Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471; aitoro.com

Furniture + Linens + Rugs Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com Home Accessories Boutique Splurge 39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-869-7600; splurgegifts.com Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-663-3768; chloewinstonlighting.com

China Hoagland’s of Greenwich 175 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 888-640-9577; hoaglands.com

Luxury Imports Bungalow 4 Sconset Sq., Westport, 203-227-4406; bungalowdecor.com

Contemporary Furnishings Crate & Barrel 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-9500; crateandbarrel.com

JL ROCKS FINE JEWELRY WINNER OF BEST ON-TREND JEWELRY + SELECTION BY LOCAL DESIGNERS

Ring stack from The City Of Lights Collection— available in 14K yellow, white and rose gold and five ring styles— inspired by Parisian landmarks

“I was inspired on a trip to Paris, meandering through the streets in the Left Bank, lunching close to Parisian beauties in crowded cafes.

I felt a lightness and carefree spirit, where less was more. I collaborated with JL Rocks to capture the simple yet sophisticated flair that is both stylish and unassuming—the feeling I get from the City of Lights.”

WENDE COHEN, owner of Bungalow, on her collaboration with Jamie Camche, owner of JL Rocks JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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GOLDEN ADVICE

Bright ideas from Chloe Winston, winner of best lighting.

1 STRIKING “We love to find fixtures that have movement, mixed metals and unique glass,” says Candace Pereira of Tempest by Corbett Lighting.

This lighting features eye-catching javelins, glass shades and a satin silver-leaf finish.”

2 SOOTHING “We would love to see this sconce in a fancy powder room, over a wet bar or scattered down a long corridor,“ says Candace about this mixed-metal camellia flower in Corbett’s Magic Garden collection.

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READERS’ PICKS

Outdoor Furniture Terrain 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2750; shopterrain.com

Golf Equipment Golf Galaxy 595 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 203-855-0500; golfgalaxy.com

Wedding Cakes Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes 3 Field Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-9545; sweetlisas.com

Wedding Photographer Melani Lust Photography 203-454-5878; melanilustphotography.com

Toy Store HobbyTown 847 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-0773; hobbytown.com

Sports Gear REI 189 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 203-838-1938; rei.com

Wedding Deejay Kunjan Collective 652 Glenbrook Rd., Stamford; 855-881-7700; kunjancollective.com

Wedding Planner Ashley Douglass Events Greenwich, 917-748-6281; ashleydouglassevents.com

WEDDINGS

Wedding Floral Design McArdle’s 48 Arch St., Greenwich, 203-661-5600; mcardles.com

FITNESS GEAR Bicycle Shop Cycle Dynamics 971 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-3790; cycledynamics.com Fitness Wear lululemon 151 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-5046 | 69 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1378; shop.lululemon.com

Bridal Gowns + Bridesmaid Dress Boutique Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich; mariettac.com

Wedding Reception Venue Inn at Longshore 260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, 203-226-3316; innatlongshore.com

Wedding Gifts Hoagland’s of Greenwich 175 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 888-640-9577; hoaglands.com

Menswear Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

Wedding Invitations/ Stationery MK & T Design and Print 250 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-295-8211; mkatdesign.com

The inns waterviews, sunsets and rolling lawns create a romantic setting.

Wedding Registry Williams-Sonoma Bedford Square, 25 Church Ln., Westport, 203-221-1065; williams-sonoma.com Wedding + Engagement Rings Betteridge 239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124; betteridge.com

INN AT LONGSHORE WINNER OF BEST WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

“The Inn at Longshore is the perfect ‘Destination Location’ at your doorstep. Just one hour from New York City, it offers the best views of the water, incredible food and impeccable service.

The Inn hosts one event at a time, so the focus is on you and your guests.”

CHRISTINE HUSSEY director of sales and marketing newcanaandarienmag.com

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INN AT LONGSHORE BY JOANNA FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY|CONNECTICUT

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

GOLDEN ADVICE

Truly dazzling beauties: 8.06 carat Asscher-cut diamond ring, 3.06 carat emerald-cut diamond ring, and 6.45 carat oval-cut diamond engagement ring

Timelessly beautiful flowers by Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes, winner of best wedding cakes.

BETTERIDGE WINNER OF BEST WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT RINGS + FINE JEWELRY

For five generations the Betteridge family has been putting a smile on the faces of brides. From intricate and delicate to stunning and bold, the rings that come out of the Betteridge workshop are as unique and beautiful as the women who wear them.

1 WHITE ROSES All of the artwork on Sweet Lisa’s cakes is done by cake designers, so if you’re not sure what you want for your cake, talk to them. Maybe it starts with your favorite flower, such as a pure white rose for new beginnings and everlasting love.

LOVE STORY WEDDING MEMORIES LAST A LIFETIME. THE EXPERTS CAN HELP YOU CREATE ONE OF THE BIGGEST MOMENTS OF YOUR LIFE, DOWN TO THE SMALLEST DETAIL.

MCARDLE’S CAKE 2 BY MICHELLE-LANGE-PHOTOGRAPHY; ALL OTHER IMAGES, CONTRIBUTED

WINNER OF BEST WEDDING FLORAL DESIGN

“McArdle’s gives a classic white-and-ivory bridal bouquet a modern update with sunny peach garden roses and wisps of wildflowers and jasmine vine, infusing the silhouette with carefree and effortless charm.”

CAITLIN CLONAN creative director

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2 PINK ROSES Roses are associated with romance in many ways.

Pink roses are said to symbolize gratitude, grace and joy. Sweet Lisa’s added pink roses as delicate and soft as a bride’s blush.

SERVICES +TO DO’S Add it to the To-Do List, and call on these handy helpers

NOBLE SALON

WINNER OF WOMEN’S HAIRSTYLING

Put down the scissors. Because of social distancing, we all had to take drastic measures, like maybe trim out-of-control bangs. But when Noble opened its doors, we once again turned to its professionals for a cut, maybe some highlights and a relaxing blow dry. Because the stylists work on hair all day, every day, they can fix even the worst home-styled bangs. newcanaandarienmag.com

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OPPOSITE PAGE, SALON BY RONALD GLASSMAN; THIS PAGE: CELLPHONE HAND ROBOT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; BARBELLS ©DJMILIC - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; JUMP ROPE ©NEW AFRICA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; SNEAKERS ©2DMOLIER - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

ou do not have to do everything yourself. Really. You have options, like plenty of local pros who will help you look and feel your best, keep the car running, take care of the kids and pamper the pooch. Your time is yours again.

PAMPERING Blow Out/Updo + Waxing Hair 39 South Pine Creek Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-1041; blog.cthair.com Color The Color Cafe 23 Benedict Pl., Greenwich, 203-769-1929; colorcafestudio.com Day Spa + Facial Versailles Medical Spa 106 Noroton Ave., Darien, 203-344-7687; versaillesmedicalspa.com Kids’ Haircuts Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids 1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8700; sharkeyscutsforkids.com Makeup Application Lindsey Trop Weddings 203-550-3769; lindseytropweddings.com

Makeup Boutique Sephora 75 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-422-2191 | 100 Greyrock Pl., Stamford, 203-388-3824 | The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., Norwalk, 203-842-5990; sephora.com

Women’s Hairstyling Noble Salon 848 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-8483; noblesalon.com

FITNESS

Mani/Pedi To and From 975 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-769-1171; toandfromnails.com

Barre The Bar Method 800 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7975 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Ste. V, Fairfield, 203-259-8825; barmethod.com

Massage Massage Mavens 203-340-2518; massagemavens.com

Crossfit Crossfit Stamford 75 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-569-2906; crossfitstamford.com

Men’s Hairstyling H Salon 2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsaloncolorcutdesign.com Spray Tan Zen Bronze 1081 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0209 | 179 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-940-0667; zenbronze.com

Dance Fitness Blanks Studio 6 Lewis St., Greenwich, 818-669-5177; blanksstudios.com

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GOLDENE ADesVtreIaCming

Liv , classes fitness t home ra good fo he go. or on t

1 THE BAR METHOD No, the screen is not frozen— you actually have to keep holding that pose. When not in studio, try a leg-shaking streaming class at home or on the road. See sample classes online.

2 CLUB PILATES Try out a thirty-minute intro session online. All of the instructors have hundreds of hours of training.

3 UPPER DECK FITNESS Livestream a class, so you never miss a session, no matter where you are. Plus, it’s membership-free and a virtual coach will even keep an eye on your form.

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

READERS’ PICKS

Fitness Club Upper Deck Fitness 72 Camp Ave., Stamford | 8 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-309-6231; upperdeckfitness.com Gym Orangetheory Fitness 1101 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-9518 | 364 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-2669 | 205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-883-6070 | 645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262 | 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-883-8220; orangetheoryfitness.com

ORANGETHEORY FITNESS WINNER OF BEST GYM

O

rangetheory Fitness wants to help you reach your fitness goals through coached small-group classes.

During quarantine, those classes got really small— like, solo at home. Yet, the club provided daily video workouts. Just like in-studio sessions, the coaches explained and demonstrated the workout: a mix of strength, power and endurance training through running, rowing, and weights or bands. You could even get heart-rate data for the class or when you did your own thing (say, a mind-clearing morning run).

OTF may get results based off science and technology, but their response to the COVID crisis also showed a lot of heart, which made us miss the in-person classes even more.

Indoor Cycling JoyRide Cycling + Fitness 25 Old Kings Hwy. N. (Goodwives Shopping Center), Darien, 203-202-9712 | 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454 | 62 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield, 203-403-6874; joyridestudio.com Kids’ Fitness/ Sports Training Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1200; chelseapiersct.com Outdoor Sports Greenwich Community Sailing 203-698-0599; greenwichsailing.com Pilates Club Pilates 70 Main St., New Canaan, 203-405-8050 | 1063 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-4394670 | 427 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-990-1011 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Sportsplex, Fairfield, 203-659-0090; clubpilates.com Yoga Stamford Yoga Center 13 Spring St., 2nd Fl., Stamford, 203-274-5235; stamfordyogacenter.com

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READERS’ PICKS

ERRANDS

Car Wash Splash Car Wash 203-324-5400; see all locations at splashcarwashes.com Dog Groomer/Pet Spa All Fur Paws 209 Bruce Park Ave., Greenwich, 203-542-5181; allfurpawsct.com

ORANGETHEORY FITNESS, CONTRIBUTED; HAND AND CELLPHONE ©PROSTOCK-STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; JOYRIDE BY DAVE DELLINGER: DOG © WWW.SVETOGRAPHY.COM/ADOBESTOCK.COM ; GONZALEZ, CONTRIBUTED

Dry Cleaners Sanda’s Cleaners 59 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-992-1515 | 78 Pine St., New Canaan, 203-966-3962 | 178 Heights Rd., Darien,

Florist Nielsen’s Florist 1405 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2541; nielsensflorist.com

Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing Earth Animal 925 Post Rd.,E., Westport, 203-222-7173; earthanimal.com

Garden Center Designs by Lee 129 Interlaken Rd., Stamford, 203-322-2206 and 203-322-4744 designsbylee.com

Shoe Repair Westfair Shoe Repair 1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587 Storage Facility Westy Self Storage 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000 | 50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234 | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7600 | 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777; westy.com

Livery Service Hoyt Livery, Inc. 21 Cross St., New Canaan, 203-966-5466; hoytlivery.com

JOYRIDE WINNER OF BEST INDOOR CYCLING

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

Local Hotel Delamar Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800; delamar.com/southport

203-656-3539 | 160 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-1500; ​ sandascleaners.com

Auto Repair Shop Pray Body Shop 336 Elm St., Stamford, 203-359-3025; praybodyshop.com

GOLD COAST

Rhodie Lorenz, co-owner of JoyRide Cycling + Fitness Studio, and longtime fitness instructor Mo Prester

GOLDEN ADVICE

Watch out for your dog’s paws when summer heats up streets and fields.

ALL FUR PAWS

“JoyRide’s indoor cycling classes offer a fiftyminute calorie-torching, high-intensity workout that combines rhythm riding and athletic drills. Our instructors inspire riders to join the team effort and work harder in and out of the saddle than they could work alone.

The group energy in the darkness, set to amazing playlists, ensures that you will have the best sweat while enjoying the ride.”

“If you can’t hold your hand on tarmac or artificial grass for seven seconds, then it’s too hot for your doggy’s paws— they may get burned.

This ‘Seven Second Rule’ is so important.

Dog’s paws get burned quickly when temperatures are high.”

RHODIE LORENZ

JEIDE GONZALEZ

co-owner

of All Fur Paws

Winner of Dog Groomer/ Pet Spa

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READERS’ PICKS

CARNEGIE PREP WINNER OF BEST COLLEGE PREP COURSES

LYNN CARNEGIE founder and CEO

“Summer, this year in particular, is an ideal time for students to commit to thoroughly preparing for the fall test dates, especially rising seniors whose spring tests were cancelled and rising juniors who have yet to make the SAT vs. ACT decision. Students generally have much more time than during the school year, to both focus on test prep and begin work on their college applications and essays, and, of course, figure out what it is that drives their passion!”

Tailor Ted the Tailor 2 Church St., Greenwich, 203-869-5699

College Prep Courses Carnegie Prep 203-352-3500; carnegieprep.com

Veterinarian Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768; spotonvet.com

Cooking Classes AMG Catering & Events 196 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-227-5535; amgcatering.com

TRY IT / TUNE IN Art Classes Silvermine Arts Center 1037 Silvermine Rd., New Canaan, 203-966-9700; silvermineart.org Art Gallery Rene Soto Gallery 1 Wall St, Norwalk, 203-609-5024; renesotogallery.com Children’s Music Lessons + Music Lessons Fairfield |Trumbull School of Music 338 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-690-1888; ftsmusic.org

GOLDEN ADVICE

Can small parties be fun? Of course!

Just get creative with art.

HANDS ON POTTERY Pottery to go (curbside or free delivery) and Zoom birthday parties, Hands On Pottery kept the fun of painting pottery going. Kits include everything you need to help little ones celebrate with friends or just enjoy a rainy day.

Museum Maritime Aquarium 10 North Water St., Norwalk, 203-852-0700; maritimeaquarium.org Museum for Children Stepping Stones Museum for Children 303 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-0606; steppingstonesmuseum.org

Language Classes Alliance Française of Greenwich 299 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-1340; afgreenwich.org

Nanny/Babysitting Services Nannies As Needed see all locations at nanniesasneeded.com Performing Arts Norwalk Symphony 125 East Ave., Norwalk, 203-956-6771; norwalksymphony.org

Live Music Spot + Performing Arts Venue Fairfield Theatre Company 70 Sanford St., Fairfield, 203-259-1036; fairfieldtheatre.org

Radio Station AM - Local WSHU 1260 wshu.org

Local Cover Band Tangled Vine tangledvine.com

Radio Station FM - Local WEBE 108 webe108.com

Local Rock Band The Straightjackets thestraightjacketsband.com

Radio Station Personality The Anna & Raven Show/Star 99.9 star999.com

Children’s Parties Hands On Pottery 15 Tokeneke Rd., Darien, 203-656-3995 | 1700 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-319-1273; hopct.com

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PORTRAIT OF LYNN © MEREDITH EVES FLYNN; ALL POTTERY, CONTRIBUTED BY HANDS ON POTTERY

GOLD COAST

M O F F LY M E D I A

EDITORS’ PICKS

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

FROM THE EDITORS

YALE NEW HAVEN HEALTH ON INSTAGRAM @ YALENEWHAVENHEALTH; STAMFORD HEALTH BY RICH FREEDA; NUVANCE HEALTH/NORWALK ON INSTAGRAM @NUVANCEHEALTH; HARTFORD HEALTHCARE/ ST. VINCENT’S MEDICAL CENTER ON INSTAGRAM @ HARTFORD_HEALTHCARE

OUR READERS CAST THEIR VOTES FOR RESTAURANTS, BARS, SHOPS, SALONS, GYMS AND MORE ACROSS FAIRFIELD COUNTY—WE WANTED TO HIGHLIGHT SOME OF THE LOCAL HOSPITALS THAT WERE THE FRONT LINES DURING THIS COVID-19 HEALTH CRISIS. HERE’S OUR WAY OF SAYING: YOU’RE THE BEST!

YALE NEW HAVEN HEALTH/GREENWICH HOSPITAL

STAMFORD HEALTH

1

2

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES

VIRTUAL VISITS

When every moment counts, as it does during the COVID-19 crisis, Yale New Haven Health EMS providers were able to get to people, and provide care, quickly.

They include the pediatric and neonatal, SkyHealth and the adult Critical Care teams. The health system, including Greenwich Hospital and Bridgeport Hospital, treated and discharged more than 3,000 COVID-19 patients since the surge hit locally from mid-March through mid-June.

It also set up a dedicated digital space for COVID-related information, including testing, visitor restrictions, prevention methods, support for caregivers, clinical resources and more. In a time like this, information and guidance helped not only patients, but the community at large. When care is critical, they can respond fast. ynhhs.org

On the front line of the COVID-19 crisis, Stamford Health doctors and nurses helped patients battle a new virus; and its scientists prepared nasopharyngeal swabs for a new molecular SARS CoV-2 test, tested COVID-19 samples, and prepared clinical lab testing to help inform diagnosis and treatment decisions. As part of the clinical trial, the hospital was first in the state to treat patients with convalescent plasma. Despite the extraordinary pressure of the health crisis, the hospital still found ways to treat other health conditions—it used telemedicine, “Stamford Health On Call Care,” to take care of common concerns, such as food poisoning and tick bites without a trip to the hospital. Patients can remain at home and still get proper and timely care. stamfordhealth.org

NUVANCE HEALTH/ NORWALK

3

4

COMMUNICATION

CONVALESCENT PLASMA DONATIONS

Having treated and released Connecticut’s first COVID-19 patient at Danbury Hospital, Nuvance Health immediately began alerting their communities about safety and prevention via its social media channels. As the pandemic spread and hospitals were running low on essential supplies, Nuvance’s fleet of seven hospitals shifted distribution of personal protective equipment and other critically needed supplies where they needed them most.

Thanks to an efficient supply chain team, they quickly moved to find new ways to get supplies to first responders—fast. Locally, Norwalk Hospital offers drive-through testing, virtual and in-person visits. Thanks to a decrease in infection rates, all Nuvance hospitals have been cleared to resume more procedures, surgeries and routine healthcare. nuvancehealth.org

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HARTFORD HEALTHCARE/ ST. VINCENT’S MEDICAL CENTER

As the world eagerly awaits a vaccine for COVID-19, hospitals are hard at work on a promising therapy that uses blood from recovered coronavirus patients.

St. Vincent’s is one of the area hospitals involved in Convalescent Plasma Therapy. The treatment was authorized for emergency use by the FDA for seriously ill patients. It provides patients antibodies that the immune system uses to fight off the virus.

Though research on the efficacy is ongoing, anecdotal evidence is very encouraging. One plasma donation can treat up to four patients. We are all waiting to see what the fall months bring in terms of a resurgence and this groundbreaking therapy may just allow us to breathe a little easier. stvincents.org

M O F F LY M E D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

C O P I N G W I T H C O R O N AV I R U S 1

THE NEW NORMAL A FEW BEST OF WINNERS ON ADAPTING TO THE DEMANDS OF THE PANDEMIC by diane sembrot

E

ven as the Best of the Gold Coast CT votes were filling up the editors’ in-boxes—revealing that locals loved certain restaurants, shops and services—some of those cherished businesses were faced with a new reality.

They had to adapt swiftly to a set of rules that seemed to change on a whim, courtesy of a oncein-a-century pandemic. We checked in with a few of our Best Of winners to ask how they pivoted to these strange days.

3

CARNEGIE PREP

We have been offering one-on-one tutoring remotely for years, so we were able to seamlessly pivot all of our services to online learning, including our courses and practice tests. Our tutors, teachers and staff have gone above and beyond to reimagine the collaborative learning environment, maintaining our commitment to individualized feedback.

Students can meet in an interactive virtual classroom, work in small groups, and receive personalized attention with the convenience of being anywhere in the world.

—Lynn Carnegie, founder and CEO, carnegieprep.com

2

WATERS EDGE AT GIOVANNI’S

We have always butchered our own meats on premise.

We believe that hand butchering meats to order creates a superb tasting cut of beef, veal or lamb. When COVID-19 began, we started selling these hand-cut steaks and chops.

This allowed our customers to experience hand-cut meats at home on their grills.

—Stacy Lindsey, art director, watersedgeatgiovannis.com.

CHLOE WINSTON

4

In these last few months, we’ve realized how lucky we are to have worked for many years with both local and remote customers by phone and FaceTime to help them with their lighting design and selections. We didn’t realize at the time we were preparing for the future.

Working in this way is second nature for us. Of course, we much prefer showing off the beauty of all we have to offer in person, but when that is not possible, we handhold our customers virtually.

—Candace Pereira, owner, chloewinstonlighting.com

THE PERFECT PAIR

I was able to keep my store up and running by recently launching a new website where I showcase all of my new items. I am offering a discount off all items and free shipping, and I do free door-to-door delivery to people in lower Fairfield County.

—Carrie Bocian, owner, theperfectpairct.com

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PHOTOGRAPHS: PENCIL ©VITALYZORKIN - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; GRILLED MEATS ©KUCHERAV - STOCK.ADOBE.COM OPPOSITE PAGE; SWEET LISA CAKE FROM THEIR INSTAGRAM FEED; COFFEE STAINS ©BREAKINGTHEWALLS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

GOLD COAST

M O F F LY M E D I A

C O P I N G W I T H C O R O N AV I R U S

SWEET LISA’S EXQUISITE CAKES 5

We are doing our best to maintain our personalized service during this unusual time in our history.

We are doing more communication via the internet and have adapted our product line into smaller orders for our clients who still realize how important it is to celebrate the special moments in life even during hard times.

—Lisa Maronian, owner, sweetlisas.com

6

UPPER DECK FITNESS

As a business that addresses our clients’ unmet needs, the pandemic presented an opportunity to deliver. We realized that it would not be enough to simply replicate the service we provide in an at-home environment. Our clients wanted their sense of community and the interaction that comes along with it, which we’ve successfully been able to deliver through our virtual gym.

— Suzanne Palazzo, owner, upperdeckfitness.com

7

JOYRIDE

Three things come to mind. First, offering multiple daily online classes through ZOOM, Forte and Instagram LIVE. Also, ‘Rhodie’s Leaders in JOY’ series on IGTV highlighting local leaders in our community and their tools for creating joy during challenging times. Finally, staying connected through weekly Zoom staff and instructor happy hours.

—Rhodie Lorenz, cofounder joyridestudio.com

10

8

APRICOT LANE

We closed in March and reopened on May 20. We post on Instagram and Facebook every day. We did videos several times a week showing our product. We also sent emails. We offered FaceTime appointments and curbside pickup. For two months we tried to stay in touch with our customers. Since we opened, we are having a good reaction from our customers, which I am grateful for. We require masks, very high levels of cleaning, etc.

—Diane Holtz, owner of the Fairfield location, apricotlaneboutique.com

9

SOLEIL TOILE

We have created a safe and clean environment in our stores and are excited to now have an e-commerce site where you can shop from home and even call our associates for advice. Items can be picked up curbside, shipped or delivered locally.

–Stacey Schumer, co-owner, soleiltoile.com

JL ROCKS

With a newly designed website, we boosted online inventory and launched e-gift cards. We also offered curbside pickup, free shipping and concierge drop-off for Fairfield County customers. We worked hard to re-create the customer service we’re known for in a virtual experience. We offered FaceTime consultations and sent frequent correspondence to our email list so that customers knew we were open and finding solutions. We’re keeping the online momentum while reopening brickand-mortar in an omnichannel approach. We’ll soon open a location in Greenwich.”

—Jamie Camche, owner, jlrocks.com JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2020

TOWN WINNERS

PHOTOGRAPH BY ©DASHA PETRENKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

After a rough few months, we raise our glasses and celebrate the best of the best in our towns

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READERS’ PICKS

FOOD+ DRINK

GOLDEN ADVICE

RESTAURANTS

After a busy few months at the market, how will you relax this summer?

New Restaurant Bruxelles Brasserie bruxellessono.com Best Service Bistro Baldanza baldanzarestaurants.com Creative Menu Match matchsono.com Hotel Restaurant + Mediterranean Mediterraneo Norwalk zhospitalitygroup.com Outdoor Dining + Mexican Evarito’s Mexican Kitchen & Bar evaritos.com American Match matchsono.com

BRUXELLES BRASSERIE BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; CONTRIBUTED

Greek Pontos Taverna pontostaverna.com

TRES BIEN Bruxelles Brasserie may have opened its doors just before the pandemic hit, but it has still managed to become a loved local spot in SONO. Owner and chef Roland Olah (pictured with Angela Gorgan, director of operations) says his recipe for Beef Bourguignon is a must try and is his absolute specialty.

Italian Papa Joe’s Ristorante Italiano papajoesdarien.com

Thai Little Thai Kitchen littlethaikitchen.com

Ice Cream/Gelato Gelatissimo Artisan Gelato gelatissimoartisangelato.com

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India coromandelcuisine.com

COMFORT FOOD

Noodle Bar Mecha Noodle Bar mechanoodlebar.com

Japanese Habachi Sushiya hibachisushiyact.com

Bagels Upper Crust ucbcnewcanaan.com or ucbcdarien.com

Pizza Letizia’s Pizza letiziaspizza.com

Asian Fusion Ching’s Table chingsct.com Chinese Village Gourmet villagegourmetnorwalk.com Spanish Paella Tapas Wine Bar paellarestaurantnorwalkct.com French Bruxelles Brasserie bruxellessono.com

Ribs/Barbeque BJ Ryan’s B.AN.C House bjryans.com

Breakfast Food Rosie rosienewcanaan.com Frozen Yogurt Stew Leonard’s stewleonards.com

Seafood The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood rowaytonseafood.com

Hamburgers BJ Ryan’s bjryans.com

Steak Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Hot Dogs Press Burger thepressburger.com

Sushi Oisho Sushi & Izakaya oishisono.com

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“I plan on spending my summer with my granddaughters, my mom and our family at our house on Lake Winnepasaukee. It’s been a crazy few months so our entire family is looking forward to spending some relaxing time together.”

CINDY PALMER DEAN Owner/Creative Director Palmer’s Market

READERS’ PICKS

If we were to try one thing at the bakery, what should it be?

Tacos Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Pub O’Neill’s Irish Pub oneillsono.com

CASUAL SPOTS

Microbrewery Iron Brewing Co. ironbrewing.com

Bar Dining Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Singles Scene (Over 35) The Goose American Bistro & Bar thegoosedarien.com

Brunch Valencia Luncheria valencialuncheria.com

Singles Scene (Under 35) Evarito’s Mexican Kitchen evaritos.com

Café/Bistro Roost Kitchen + Coffee roostdarien.com

“The pain au chocolat (chocolatine). We use a naturally leavened (sourdough) croissant dough and laminate it with a European style butter to 16 layers, each 0.25mm thick. They contain three bars of Valrhona 55 percent dark chocolate and are baked hot for a crunchy crust and fluffy interior.”

ROB VANKEUREN, Owner/Baker Flour Water Salt

BUT FIRST, COFFEE Caffe Nero’s delicous coffees might be what it’s known for, but be sure to try some of the healthy lunch and snack items too. There’s plenty of cozy seating inside and outside so grab a book and stay a while.

Coffee Shop Caffe Nero caffenero.com/us/stores/darien Deli Uncle’s Deli unclesdeli.com

Gourmet To Go Aux Delices auxdelicesfoods.com

Diner Driftwood Diner driftwooddiner.com

Chocolate Shop Chocolate Works chocolateworks.com/darien-ct

Juice Bar Green & Tonic greenandtonic.com

Fish Market Fjord Fish Market fjordfishmarket.com

Lunch Spot Organika organikakitchen.com Family Friendly Sugar Bowl Luncheonette sugarbowlofdarien.com Vegetarian/Health Food The Lime Restaurant limerestaurant.com

MARKETS + MORE

FASHION Accessories + Women’s Fashion She La La shopshelala.com Cocktail Attire + Gala Black Tie Attire Helen Ainson helenainson.com

Health Food New Canaan Healthfare newcanaanhealthfare.com

Consignment Double Exposure Boutique doubleexposureboutique.com Department Store + Designer Boutique + Men’s Fashion Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com

Liquor + Wine Shop Sipstirs sipstirs.com

Eyewear Specs specsforyou.com

BAR BOASTS

Lingerie + Swimwear Soleil Toile soleiltoile.com

Beer Selection + Big Game Day The Blind Rhino theblindrhino.com

Bakery Flour Water Salt flourwatersaltbread.com

SHOP + STYLE

Jeans Bloomingdale’s bloomingdales.com

Cupcakes Forever Sweet Bakery foreversweetbakery.com

Girls Night Out + Margaritas + Outdoor Bar Evarito’s Mexican Kitchen evaritos.com

Men’s Shoes The Shoemart theshoemart.com

Butcher Shop Darien Butcher Shop darienbutchershop.com

Happy Hour Troupe429 troupe429.com

Teen Fashion Groove grooveforkids.com

Gourmet Grocery Palmer’s Market palmersdarien.com

Restaurant Bar + Martinis Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Children’s + Baby Clothing Wiggles & Giggles wigglesandgigglesshop.com

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CAFFE NERO BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA

GOLDEN ADVICE

READERS’ PICKS Women’s Shoes Shoes ‘N’ More shoesnmore.com

JEWELRY

SPORTS GEAR

Wedding Floral Design Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck flowersandflowers.com

Bicycle Shop Danny’s Cycles dannycycles.com

Wedding Gifts Everything is Rosey everythingisrosey.com

Anniversary & Special Occasion + Fine + Women’s Watches Manfredi manfredijewels.com

Wedding Registry Bloomingdale’s bloomingdales.com

Local Boutique + Designer + Estate Brad & Vandy Reh Fine Jewelry bradreh.com

Everyday/Costume She La La shopshelala.com

HOME Antique/Vintage Store Fairfield County Antique and Design Center fairfieldcountyantiqueanddesign.com Bookstore Barrett Bookstore barrettbookstore.com Contemporary Furnishings + Furniture + Luxury Imports + Outdoor Furniture + Rugs Lillian August Design Center lillianaugust.com

DANNY’S CYCLES BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; CONTRIBUTED

Home Accessories Found foundanddesign.com Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design chloewinstonlighting.com

What’s the must-try summer menu item at Organika?

Wedding Invitations/Stationary MK&T Design and Print mkatdesign.com

Men’s Watches David Harvey Jewelers davidharvey.com On Trend Pennyweights pennyweightscom

GOLDEN ADVICE

Wedding Photographer Melani Lust Photography melanilustphotography.com Wedding Planner Ashley Douglas Events ashleydouglassevents.com

ON THE ROAD AGAIN Bike sales have risen dramatically over the last few months and Danny’s has been there for us all. They’re experts on fitting you into your perfect ride and making sure you’re safe on the road or your trail of choice.

Wedding Reception Venue The Darien CommunityAssociation dariendca.com Wedding & Engagement Rings Manfredi manfredijewels.com

Fitnesswear Attitude Dance & Active Wear attitudenorwalk.com Golf Equipment Golf Galaxy stores.golfgalaxy.com/ct/norwalk

SERVICES + TO DO’S

Sports Gear Store REI rei.com

PAMPERING

WEDDINGS

Blow Out/Updo + Makeup Application + Women’s Salon Andrew Stefanou Salon & Spa andrewstefanousalonandspa.com

Bridal Gowns + Bridesmaid Dress Boutique A Little Something White alittlesomethingwhite.com

Color + Men’s Styling Julia’s Salon & Company juliassalonandcompany.com

Menswear Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com

China The Whitney Shop thewhitneyshop.com

Wedding Cakes Palmer’s Market palmersdarien.com

Linens The Linen Shop thelinenshopct.com

Wedding Deejay/Live Music Kunjan Collective kunjancollective.com

Toy Store Darien Toy Box darientoybox.com

Makeup Application Andrew Stefanou Salon & Spa andrewstefanousalonandspa.com

Manicure + Pedicure + Massage To And From toandfromnails.com Day Spa + Facial Versailles Medical Spa versaillesmedicalspa.com Women’s Salon + Makeup Boutique + Waxing + Kid’s Haircuts LANPHIER lanphier.us

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“The Plant Burger. It’s a fairly new addition to the menu and so far customers are raving about it. It’s made from a beet, lentil and veggie blend and topped with lettuce, tomato, provolone cheese and a delicious truffle sauce. Also, try the mock tuna sandwich made with chickpeas.”

GINO RICCIO OWNER/FOUNDER, Organika Kitchen

READERS’ PICKS

What’s your favorite dish to make in summer?

TRY IT / TUNE IN Art Gallery Geary Gallery gearygallery.com

FITNESS

Children’s Music Lessons The Ewald Suzuki Guitar Method ewaldsuzukiguitar.com

Barre The Bar Method barmethod.com Indoor Cycling Classes JoyRide Cycling + Fitness joyridestudio.com/darien

Children’s Parties Stepping Stones Museum for Children steppingstonesmuseum.org

Crossfit CrossFit Norwalk crossfitnorwalk.com

“One of my favorite summer foods is the classic grilled cheeseburger, my guilty pleasure.

But being a health conscious person, one of my favorite healthy summer meals is grilling cornon the cob, cutting it off the cob and adding to cubed watermelon, blueberries, feta, mint, basil and arugula and then topping that heavenly salad with a citrus garlic grilled shrimp.

So delicious!”

JAMIESON VAN LOAN

OWNER/CHEF MAIKANA

SLEEP TIGHT Gray Barns is known for its modern simple chic decor and perfectly relaxing setting along the Silvermine River. With top notch service, spacious suites and delicious food, why stay anywhere else?

Dance Fitness Norwalk Academy of Dance norwalkdance.com Fitness Club F45 Training South Norwalk f45training.com

Pet Supplies The Pawprint Market pawprintmarket.com

Gym Orangetheory Fitness orangetheoryfitness.com

Dry Cleaners Fabricare Cleaners fabricarecleaners.net

Pilates The Edge Fitness theedgefitnessclubs.com

Florist Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck flowersandflowers.com

Kids’ Fitness/Sports Training Darien YMCA darien-ymca.com

Garden Center Nielsen’s Florist & Garden Shop nielsensflorist.com

Yoga Saraswati’s Yoga Joint syjyoga.com

ERRANDS

Livery Service Hoyt Livery Inc. hoytlivery.com

Appliance Aitoro Appliance aitoro.com

Local Hotel The Inn at Gray Barns graybarns.com

Auto Repair Shop Fedor Auto Body Works fedorautobody.com

Storage Facility Hollow Tree Self Storage hollowtreestorage.com

Car Wash Splash Car Wash splashcarwashes.com

Tailor Sokayri Atelier and Boutique Custom Clothing facebook.com/sokayri

Dog Groomer/Pet Spa Dog Gone Smart doggonesmart.com

Veterinarian Norwalk Veterinary Hospital thenorwalkvethospital.com

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Language Classes Maria’s Friend’s LLC mariasfriends.com College Prep Cources C2 Education of Darien c2educate.com Cooking Classes Chef Prasad chefprasad.com Personal Chef Services Maikana Foods maikanafoods.com Local Cover Band Tangled Vine tangledvine.com Local Rock Band The Straightjackets thestraightjacketsband.com Museum Stepping Stones Museum for Children steppingstonesmuseum.org Performing Arts Summer Theater of New Canaan stonc.org Radio Station AM - Local WSHU AM 1260 wshu.org Radio Station FM - Local WEBE FM 107.9 webe108.com Radio Station Personality The Anna & Raven Show/ Star 99.9 star999.com

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AUTOMOTIVE

Splash Car Wash ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT

California Closets ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 7 Grand Entrance Gates ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 21 Hobbs, Inc. ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������23 Michael Smith Architects �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Cover 3 Thompson Raissis Architects ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 15

BUSINESS & FINANCE

Cummings & Lockwood LLC �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25 Davidson, Dawson & Clark LLP �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25 UBS Financial Services Inc./ The Shantz Mantione Group �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������33

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Stamford Tent & Event Services �������������������������������������������������������������������������������Cover 2

EVENTS

A-list Awards ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 29

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING

B.J. Ryan's ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 B.J. Ryan's Banc House BBQ & Crab �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 B.J. Ryan's Magnolia Room �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Table 104 Osteria & Bar ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 19 The Waters Edge at Giovanni's ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8, 9 Winvian Farm ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 12

JEWELRY

Lux Bond & Green ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������1 Manfredi............................................................................................................................ Cover 4 Rolex .................................................................................................................................. Cover 4

LANDSCAPING, NURSERY & FLORISTS

Evergreen Lawn & Tree Services, LLC �������������������������������������������������������������������������������27

REAL ESTATE

William Raveis ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5

SPORTS & FITNESS

JoyRide ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������27

MISCELLANEOUS

Hollow Tree Self Storage �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������25 Westy Self Storage �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������27 JULY/AUGUST 2020 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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Hospital for Special Surgery/ Stamford Health ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3 Nuvance Health ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������11 Paul D. Harbottle, D.D.S ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������23

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

We welcome wedding announcements together with candid photographs.

Weddings should have a current New Canaan, Darien or Rowayton family connection and must be submitted within three months of the wedding day. Regretfully, we are unable to run every wedding submitted.

Send Information to: weddings@ncdmag.com New Canaan • Darien Magazine 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

last word by liz ariol a

A SILVER LINING D

ay 68. I,m writing this on day 68 of quarantine.

As I scroll through social feeds, I’m seeing so many references to silver linings.

Although I’m a big believer in silver linings, they seem hard for me to grasp today, while still in this moment. As this pandemic continues to hit so many, it's hard to see the lessons—or any positives, really. I will say though, a theme that has presented itself more than ever since quarantine began has been family size. I,m in my mid-30s and adding more children to the mix has been a big topic of conversation for my family during this chapter of our lives. Some of my friends seemed to know from the start how many kids they want, but I am not one of those people. What,s the right number of kids for our family? It’s a tough question. For many, the answer depends in what stage of life you are going through.

Before kids it might be four, then during the baby stage it may drop down to one or two.

As your babies become children, it can jump to three or more. At least that was how our baby count changed throughout our stages.

I,ve heard from many grandmas

that when their own children became adults, they had a totally different perspective and wished they had tried for more. I guess that's easy to say when you’re 50 years out of the diaper stage. And, I must note—I absolutely realize that for some of you out there, this conversation sounds like a miracle as couples can face so many heartbreaking challenges while attempting to conceive. I’ve always said I wanted a big family, but I was never completely sure it would happen. Then, when this pandemic sent us all into quarantine, I noticed some pretty big families quarantining together.

I watched these grown children come back to their roots. Their family units picked up where they left off and it looked so...fun.

During what felt to me as a lonely time, their time didn,t appear lonely at all, because they were surrounded by family. It,s been a common theme for me throughout this experience and it has made me re-evaluate our lifestyle and pointed to what,s most important.

My husband and I were thinking about trying for a third baby but decided to put that idea on hold when our quarantine

began. Back when we decided on a third child, I didn,t want to wait that long to start trying, so it was disappointing to postpone.

However, it also felt like the right thing all at the same time. As I watch other families bond, I ultimately wondered if it was in our cards for a third.

It was only a few weeks into quarantine when we realized that God had other plans for our family.

We were actually already pregnant when we made that tough decision

to hold off on having another baby.

Though it is clearly a crazy time to be pregnant, as we are due in late November and not sure what the future will look like, we are feeling nothing but blessed to be able to watch our family grow.

And, to parents in those large families that have endured sibling rivalry, exhaustion, zero privacy and so much more over these past few months, just know that so many others would give anything to be in your shoes.

LIZ ARIOLA is the creator of Mrs. Nipple, a lifestyle blog to inspire and connect women through practical motherhood advice.

She lives in New Canaan with her husband, Ray, and two sons, Charlie and Ford. mrsnipple.com, @mrsnipple_

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PHOTO BY JULIA DAGS

JUST WHEN WE DECIDED TO HOLD OFF ON HAVING MORE CHILDREN, MOTHER NATURE HAD OTHER PLANS

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