New Canaan, Darien + Rowayton - July/August 2025

VOTED ‘BEST GOURMET GROCER’

A toast to the Coast!

“Thank you for making Palmer’s your one-stop destination for groceries, catering, and all of life’s delicious moments! As a family-owned market, it’s our greatest privilege to serve and support this incredible community. From our family to yours...CHEERS!”

—MEGAN & TRAVIS PALMER, 5TH GENERATION

BUZZ Sam Ball’s custom creations; Kelley Franco connects with baseball fans; Darien residents design a new sailboat DO A Darien nutritionist takes control; new exhibit at The Glass House

EAT/DRINK Flour Water Salt Bread opens in New Canaan; Captain Zig Brewing keeps it all in the family HOME Entertaining tips and chic linens from Elizabeth Lake SHOP Road-ready customized carts cruise beyond the greens

NEXT TO HEAVEN

Once dubbed “America’s Most Notorious Author,” James Frey is back with a new novel set in a thinly veiled New Canaan. The page-turner has local residents curious to know where the line between fact and fiction lies.

by jill johnson mann

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST

For more than 20 years, we have celebrated the Best of the Gold Coast by compiling your top picks on where to dine, shop, primp, party and play in Fairfield County. Check out this year’s winners to see if your favorites made the list.

by megan gagnon

THE WORLD’S #1 IN ORTHOPEDICS IS LOCAL IN CONNECTICUT.

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editorial

editor Eileen Murphy eileen.murphy@moffly.com

contributing editors

editorial director Cristin Marandino

editor, athome Megan Gagnon

editor, westport Samantha Yanks

editor, custom publishing Elizabeth Hole

writers Liz Barron, Tom Connor, Jill Johnson Mann, Holly Paramelee, Georgette Yacoub

editorial intern Danielle O’Malley

copy editors Liz Britten, David Podgurski

art

senior art director Venera Alexandrova

production director Tim Carr

assistant art director Lisa Servidio

digital

digital marketing manager Rachel MacDonald

digital assistant Lloyd Gabi

digital assistant Jeffery Garay

business

president Jonathan W. Moffly

business manager Elena V. Moffly

cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

sales + marketing

publisher Gina Fusco gina.fusco@moffly.com

publisher, greenwich, athome, stamford, ocean house Jonathan W. Moffly jonathan@moffly.com

publisher, westport•weston•wilton Gabriella Mays gabriella.mays@moffly.com

acount executive

Hilary Hotchkiss hilary.hotchkiss@moffly.com

acount executive

Morgan Howell morgan.howell@moffly.com

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partnership and big picture manager Kathleen Dyke kathleen.godbold@moffly.com

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editor’s letter

JULY/AUGUST 2025 / EILEEN MURPHY

BUZZ ABOUT TOWN

There is a book that lives on my nightstand called Me Talk Pretty by the American humorist David Sedaris. I don’t bother to put it back on the shelf because something will remind me of one of the stories, and I will reach for it again and again.

Recently I reread a story in which Sedaris explains how he asks obscure and often silly questions to strangers while traveling because he finds they tend to start fascinating conversations. This reminded me of what has recently become my favorite question to ask people around New Canaan: “Have you heard about James Frey’s new book?”

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @NCDMAG enthusiasts, Eileen Murphy and James Frey at The Glass House Summer Party.

The replies have been varied and passionate. Frey and his books seem to evoke strong reactions in people. Some locals were excited that his novel, Next to Heaven, was set in New Canaan (or “New Bethlehem” as Frey calls it in the book). Others were skeptical about a book with dark themes and “swingers parties” being set in their hometown. Either way, once advance copies hit Elm Street Books in early June, it quickly became the talk of the town, with everyone wanting to know: Is it fact or fiction?

Frey addressed the rumors in a recent coversation with the actress Gina Gershon at the New Canaan Library. He assured the standing-room-only crowd that it is fiction,

not based on real people or events. He also said that it is his job as a writer to “hold up a mirror and tell a story about what I see.”

Regardless of how you feel about Frey or his portrayal of the town in the book, Next to Heaven is certainly a fun read for anyone familiar with New Canaan. Locals will recognize the parks, landmarks, restaurants and streets—even with slightly altered names (i.e. Elm Street becomes Maple, etc).

In our feature story about the author (page 48), you’ll also learn all the reasons he loves living here—from the schools and the sports to the generosity of the community. In his conversation with Gershon, he praised the beauty of the town, its cherished local independant bookstores, the incredible library and more.

Now that the book is out, I look forward to asking: Did you read it? Did you like it? Doesn’t this character remind you of so-andso? And, of course, do these kinds of parties actually exist?!

While you wait for your local bookstore to restock Next to Heaven, I hope you enjoy diving into all the other great content this issue has to offer. Discover the incredible spots our readers voted in as Best of the Gold Coast (page 56) and the best of New Canaan, Darien and Rowayton (page 82). We also profile numerous other talented residents— including an artist (page 13), a baker (page 28) and a sailboat maker (page 20).

So grab your beach chair and settle in— you have plenty of reading ahead!

eileen.murphy@moffly.com

A NEW ERA IN HEALTH CARE ALL FOR YOU

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founder’s page

“Oh, I never would’ve called the police if I’d known it was Charlie,” she said.”

JULY/AUGUST 2025 /

DONNA MOFFLY

OF DOG DAYS & A DOG

The idea of the “dog days” of August started with the Romans blaming Sirius, the brightest star in Canis Major (large dog), for hot, sticky weather and sacrificing a brown dog to appease it. Silly Romans.

For a July issue long ago, we did a story with Dick Cryer and his Golden Retriever on the cover. Our distributor said it would never sell. Something about dogs felt sweaty in the summer. But it sold big time. Silly man.

Anyway, my first dog was Charlie—formally, Penny’s Pride of Riverside—who grew to be a big handsome dark-red fellow with a huge head and chest.

We got him from Torchie Flinn, a nationally known breeder, who taught my duck-hunting husband how to make him a proper retriever. First, at her house by the reservoir, she lined up some old Goldens for an audience. Then, into the water she tossed a mallard, whose wings were tied down, and sent a young bitch to bring it to hand. When Charlie’s turn came, he dashed in, got pecked on the nose and backed away, barking. So, Torchie sent the female in again until Charlie, properly humbled, did it right.

He became a brilliant hunting dog.

Charlie was popular with people of all sizes. We had to put a hook-and-eye on the nursery door, because three-year-old Jonathan would climb out of bed at night to take his dog for a walk. One morning, the pair took off again, and we had neighbors on bikes shouting their names until our son appeared sobbing. “I was lost in the ferns!” Charlie could hear us calling but had never left his little master’s side.

Charlie was a lifeguard. When we swam off Willowmere dock, he’d jump into the water, put his big paws on our shoulders and push us back to shore. Once, he swam so far after our Sunfish that we had to pull the 90-pound dog into the cockpit. No easy feat.

Charlie was a therapist. Our Down Syndrome

nephew visiting from Cleveland was terrified of dogs but ended up kissing him goodbye— on the lips. We had to explain that a good ear scratch was an ample show of affection.

Charlie was a mother of sorts. He’d gently carry our kittens around in his mouth until they grew too heavy to hold.

Charlie could be mischievous. While the Burkes were away, they had a house fire. We took some of the kids and the sitter to our house, where a fireman interviewed her, leaving his boots on the doorstep. Except when he left, he found only one. Charlie had hidden the other in the bushes.

Then came the day I was sick in bed and got a call from the Greenwich Pound to come pick up my dog, who had been reported running through Ida Brace’s garden. Furious, I retrieved my Retriever and then called her. “Ida, if you ever have my dog arrested again, you’ll never be invited to another party at our house!” (She loved parties.) “Oh, I never would’ve called the police if I’d known it was Charlie,” she said. Within hours, McArdle’s delivered a huge bunch of gladiolas.

But Charlie was a hero, too. One night, we were robbed while Jack and I were on vacation. Unwittingly, the burglars had let Charlie out, and he barked on Bunny Nadel’s kitchen stoop next door until she put on a bathrobe and followed him home. The sitter found them standing at the front door, while the crooks escaped out the back.

In the Sixties, there were very few Goldens in town. Now there are many—rarely trained to be working dogs, which they love—plus lots of designer dogs like Pugles, Cockapoos, Schnoodles, Chorkies and Pomskys. Even Goldendoodles. Hmmm.

In any case, our Charlie had it all. We just called him Charlie, but Jack’s mother called him “a noble beast.”

STATUS REPORT

buzz

by malia mckinnon frame

COLORING OUTSIDE THE LINES

DARIEN ARTIST SAM BALL IS PAINTING HER WAY TO THE TOP

WHEN DID YOU START PAINTING?

Not many 24-year-olds can say they run their own business, set their own schedule and get to work for a handful of global luxury brands with offices in New York, Nantucket and the Hamptons. Meet Sam Ball, a Darien resident taking our world by storm, one paintbrush at a time. We sat down with the artist to discuss her process, what motivates her and what she thinks of those trending $2.99 Trader Joe’s grocery bags.

I’ve been an artist at heart since I was little—I was always doodling and painting on things. I didn’t go to art school because I don’t love conventional art classes, but I always loved to draw and paint. Through trial and error I was able to teach myself and develop my brand, and now I just do my own thing.

TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS?

I can paint on anything, but my favorite surfaces to paint on are leather and canvas. Most of my painting is freehand, but sometimes I sketch first with a pencil if word or letter placement needs to be specific.

I’ve learned how to make my painted products durable by

making mistakes and then redoing something until I find what works. If I’m ever painting a new item for someone, I do a few samples first and I feel like I learn with each new job.

WHAT DID YOU STUDY AT SCHOOL, AND DID YOUR EDUCATION INFLUENCE HOW YOU RUN YOUR COMPANY?

above Sam Ball brings her signature style to global and local brands: painting perfume bottles at LoveShackFancy, bags at Penny Linn and a mural at lil sweet teat in New York City.

buzz

After graduating from Darien High School, I went to the University of Alabama and studied marketing in their business school. The marketing degree has been helpful because it taught me basics, such as how to format an appropriate email and be an effective communicator. On a more advanced level, I learned how to approach brands, get their attention and develop a relationship with them. Sometimes just by commenting on a post I’ll receive a response from a potential client that allows me to introduce myself and start a conversation. I’ve also really learned to lean in to my personal connections and I use Linked In a lot.

Another advantage of having a marketing degree is my ability to successfully look at a brand’s logo, understand their vibe and emulate this into a pitch. I wouldn’t say I have a specific artistic style, but I keep up with general trends and this is helpful when trying to approach potential employers with an idea I’ve based off of their artwork and logos.

WHAT KINDS OF THINGS DO YOU PAINT, AND WHO ARE YOUR CLIENTS?

I usually paint on bags and pouches, water bottles and sneakers—I started off painting Vans sneakers for all my high school friends when we were accepted to college. I also customize luggage tags, passport covers, perfume and champagne bottles, hats and reusable bags. I’ve even done a couple of murals for Magnolia clothing boutique in Darien Commons and two for Lil Sweet Treat in New York. Individual clients often ask me to personalize gifts for graduations, couples’ trips, weddings and more.

The main brands I work with are LoveShackFancy, Stoney Clover Lane, Roller Rabbit, alice + olivia, lil sweet treat and Penny Linn Designs, the Rowayton needlepoint store. I’ve also done projects for R+Co, Batik Chicago, TRVL Design, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, Altesse Studio and Soul Cycle.

For Stoney Clover Lane, I’ve painted on site in their Manhattan store. I love in-person events because I get to meet fun people and see everyone’s reactions! For Roller Rabbit’s pop-ups in Boston,

New York and Nantucket, I prepainted their popular monkey and heart patterns on travel cups and customized them for each location. Right now, the L.L. Bean boat totes are trending, as well as those Trader Joe’s reusable grocery bags— everyone wants me to paint on those, but they are often hard to find!

WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING PROJECT YOU’VE WORKED ON?

The collage-style mural for the candy store lil sweet treat in the West Village was probably the toughest given the large scale. I didn’t really classify myself as a muralist at first and I had never painted on brick, but the owner trusted me. The mural has become kind of an icon in the West Village, and I see people post pics of it all the time on Instagram, which is fun. I also did all the artwork inside the store and since all the candy is imported, I tried to capture the idea of travel and bringing things to New York City.

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR SOMEONE WHO MIGHT BE TRYING TO START THEIR OWN BUSINESS?

One of my favorite things to do is to buy a sample of the item I want to make for a company, paint it and send it to them. Not only are you practicing your art, you’re delivering them a finished product, which can be persuasive. Also, use social media to your advantage to get your name out there!

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THIS GIRL ON FIRE?

I have some exciting things coming up this summer, including some fun collabs on site in Nantucket and the Hamptons with LoveShackFancy, Roller Rabbit and Stoney Clover Lane. I’m also working on the interiors for a private New York City gym. In the future, I look forward to expanding my clientele and having new opportunities to paint on things I haven’t painted on before.

HOW CAN PEOPLE REACH OUT TO YOU ABOUT PROJECTS?

I love to do custom work when my time permits. They can contact me via my website artbysamball.com or DM me on Instagram @artbysamball.

above Ball often works with clients like Stoney Clover Lane.

above Ball started off painting Vans seakers as gifts for her childhood friends in Darien when they were accepted to college. below Ball is often asked to paint personlized cups for corporate clients and weddings.

BEYOND THE BASES

HOW A CHILDHOOD CARD COLLECTION LED A NEW CANAAN-BASED ATTORNEY TO BUILD A BASEBALL MEDIA BUSINESS by

liz barron

ANew Canaan native now living in Rowayton, Kelley Franco jokes that she’s finally achieved dual-citizenship status. Growing up in New Canaan as the youngest of 11, “if you were born between 1950 and 1970 and went to St. Aloysius or New Canaan High, chances are you had a Franco in your class,” says Franco. Living in New Canaan, sports were a big part of the family’s lives. They would frequent all kinds of high school games, but baseball was always Kelley’s favorite. So, while also owning and operating her own law practice with brother Michael, Kelley has found a way to channel her lifelong passion for the game into a growing baseball media business called “Three Inning Fan.”

I understand that you’ve had a passion for all things baseball since you were young, what first sparked your interest?

My brother Rick bought me these complete sets of baseball cards when I was ten. In the 1980s

when the doorbell rang and there was someone standing there with a package for you, it was exciting. It wasn’t like today when we get deliveries all the time. I still have every one of those cards. My family definitely played a big part in fueling my love of baseball. I used to read the sports section every day and cut out articles that interested me. My mother thought maybe I’d grow up to be a sportswriter and always encouraged my interest.

Can you explain Three Inning Fan and how it has evolved over the years?

I created Baseball 101 as a precursor to Three Inning Fan. It was a class that I designed to teach novice fans the basics of game in under an hour. I covered rules, the structure of Major League

“when i first started out, i didn’t really know if anyone would be intersted in what i had to say—but they were, and the more people were seeking my opinion, the more assertive i became.”

– kelley franco

Baseball, the ways that teams advance in the playoffs, and at the end, I included ten pieces of baseball history that I felt every fan needed to know. I taught it locally as a continuing-ed class and it started to get some press, which led me to being invited to teach at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown. I ended up on CNN Financial Network for a few gigs as part of a daytime show. A few years ago, I formed Three Inning Fan, which is my baseball media business. I started it as a way to keep fans informed and entertained using a variety of content. Between my podcast, live lectures and social media (@threeinningfan on Instagram and X) I’m able to reach a large audience and post a lot during the season. I have built a community with thousands of followers, a mix of fans and some huge names in baseball. My followers include Mike Piazza, David Cone, Howie Rose, the Mets Booth, Chris Russo, Jack Curry of the YES Network, Clint Hurdle, Larry Bowa and Wade Boggs, to name a few.

To be honest, when I first started out, I didn’t really know if anyone would be interested in what I had to say—but they were, and the more people were seeking my opinion, the more assertive I became. The name “Three Inning Fan” was inspired by my belief that you don’t need to watch all nine innings to call yourself a baseball fan. There’s nothing wrong with just watching a few innings. Anyone can enjoy a game, even without knowing all the players’ names and stats.

Kelley Franco recording “Three Inning Fan.”

What’s your favorite part about what you do?

I would say it’s my Three Inning Fan Podcasts (which can be found on YouTube, Spotify and Apple). I record weekly or biweekly and, while I always cover both New York teams, I also go outside the bubble a little and cover other MLB goings-on as well. I try to keep all shows to 20 minutes because the attorney in me values brevity. My goal with both the podcast and my presence on social media is to disrupt how baseball is covered. Part of me wondered at first if a 50-something-year-old woman could actually do that, but I wouldn’t have known unless I tried. A lot of baseball media is consumed by stats and the notion that if you don’t know the numbers, you don’t know the game. I don’t dispute the importance of data in constructing a team, but as a fan, I prefer the stories of the game and the action on the field. I search for the thrill in the game that the statistics don’t deliver.

Can you tell us more about your speaking engagements?

I’ve lectured everywhere from The Baseball Hall of Fame to the Cornell Club of New York to corporate venues and public and private fundraisers. I’ve spoken at the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion with Ron Darling. Last year when the Mets and Phillies played in London, I gave a lecture to the British Baseball Federation, which is like their MLB. We

had a strong showing and it was fantastic to share our National pastime with the Brits. I have spoken at the Greenwich Retired Men’s Association, the Y’s Men of Westport/Weston, New Canaan Men’s Club, Darien Men’s Club, and I was invited to speak to the physicians at Greenwich Hospital last year.

How does your career as an attorney and Three Inning Fan complement one another?

There’s always a lot going on with MLB from a legal perspective, and my background in law has been extremely helpful. From dissecting things like Shohei Ohtani's contract, which had massive deferrals of income, to analyzing contentious issues between the Players’ Unions and owners, or owners versus owners—there’s so much to uncover. Understanding contract issues, how options work and how teams decide whether to insure players are all areas of interest. I have found that there are a large number of fans who love having this info distilled and presented to them in a clear and concise manner.

What are you most excited about during the 2025 baseball season?

Both New York teams look really good and I’m excited about that! I grew up a Yankees fan but married a Mets fan, so when they play each other, things can sometimes get a little dicey. The

Yankees have been ravaged by injuries and I’m wondering if the younger guys will be able to step up and fill the bill. For the Mets, the big question is how long it will take Juan Soto to play to his contract. Once he gets his footing, he will excel in the limelight.

Any predictions on who will win it all this year?

MLB instituted an expanded postseason structure in 2022 with six teams making the playoffs, almost making it more of a tournament-type structure, so trying to pick a winner is really a fool’s errand. You’re best off buckling up and enjoying.

When Kelley Franco isn’t working at her law firm or educating people on baseball, she can be found running the streets of Rowayton or swimming at the crack of dawn at the Darien Y. Franco, her husband Thomas Throop, and their series of dogs have resided in Rowayton since 1996 and love their beachside community. You can follow Franco on X or Instagram @threeinningfan, Facebook at Three Inning Fan LLC, or online at ThreeInningFan.com.

As a lifelong baseball fan, Franco spends a lot of time on the field for business and pleasure. Followers of her podcast include some big names in baseball—like New Canaan’s own Chris Russo (of “Mike and the Mad Dog” fame) and New York Mets radio announcer Howie Rose (above right), seen here with Franco in the booth.

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TAKING THE SOUND BY STORM

A NEW BOAT DESIGNED BY TWO DARIEN SAILING ENTHUSIASTS AIMS TO MAKE THE SPORT MORE ACCESSIBLE by tom

connor

Few images capture summer on Fairfield County’s Gold Coast better than brilliant white sails and sleek, gleaming sailboats dotting the horizon. From Greenwich to Bridgeport, a thousand or more sailboats of every size and style ply the blue waters of Long Island Sound—in fact, all year round!

Supporting novice and experienced sailors are dozens of public and private boat clubs that provide education, community spirit and access to resources. In addition, active sailing programs are offered at a dozen secondary schools throughout Fairfield County—from public schools like Darien and Brien McMahon to private schools like Brunswick and Sacred Heart Greenwich.

The clubs and programs are crucial to providing sailing experiences that are both safe and fun.

Yet the problem, says Darien resident Karl Ziegler, is that “there hasn’t been a new learnto-sail boat introduced to the market since the Ideal 18 over 30 years ago.”

He and fellow resident Bill Crane believe they have the solution.

The two grew up sailing out of the Noroton Yacht Club, where they not only honed their sailing skills but developed an eye for the details that enable a boat to move with greater speed and efficiency.

Ziegler’s first job after graduating from Yale was to coach the university’s sailing team.

Crane served as CEO of a major manufacturer and distributor of dinghy sailboats whose North American office was in Norwalk. There, he had proposed a small keelboat as an evolution of the Ideal 18, an iconic keelboat “ideal” for beginners, as well as seasoned sailors, due to its safety and simplicity as well as its speed and maneuverability.

When the board at Crane’s company passed on the project, the idea lay like ballast in his mind until reconnecting with Ziegler several years ago.

“The whole idea was that there is an opportunity to give back to

The

or "sit

allows for sailors to feel comfortable, regardless of their experience level.

“The whole idea was that there is an opportunity to give back to sailing by creating an institutional boat for yacht clubs, colleges and sailing schools.” – bill crane

sailing by creating an institutional boat for yacht clubs, colleges and sailing schools,” Crane says.

In 2023, the two friends cofounded the Storm Marine Group to produce Storm 18—a fiberglass lifting keel sloop that fulfills the requirements of boat and yacht clubs, sailing schools and high school and university programs as well as for individual sailors. (The boat and company name come from Crane’s belief that the new company will take the industry by storm.)

The listing keel allows Storm 18 to be easily transportable and maintained by club or school staff. What’s more, with real estate on the Gold Coast prohibitively expensive and harbors on the Sound filling up and increasingly costly to dredge, a lifting keel allows clubs without access to hoists or ramps the ability to raise the keel into an upright position in shallow waters.

"sit in"

out" cockpit

The boat was designed with different sails to allow for two types of learning: basic sailing and racing.

The Storm 18 is a lifting keel sloop, where the keel can be adjusted for stability and for shallow water.

“It’s

hard to get yourself into trouble and easy to get yourself out of trouble. it’s a really fun boat!”

– karl ziegler, on the boat’s responsiveness

The Storm 18 is also highly stable and fun, appealing to freshcheeked junior sailors.

“It’s really very forgiving,” notes Ziegler. “It’s hard to get yourself into trouble and easy to get yourself out of trouble. And he adds, “It’s a really fun boat!”

Meanwhile, the boat’s

nimbleness and responsiveness, quick acceleration and exceptional maneuverability make it marketable to sun-and-wind beaten old team-racers.

For them, there’s plenty of shop talk in Storm 18’s product copy, like 2:1 jib sheets with adjustable leads, traditional boom vang, ratchet

blocks for spinnakers, jib halyard controls and so on.

What these and other features add up to is a sleek, modern sailboat that can hold as many as four people and serves a multitude of purposes.

This summer and fall, prototypes of Storm 18 will be demonstrated on beaches here and in several other states.

For more information visit stormmarinegroup.com or to schedule a demonstration, call 914-329-5047.

The many different phases of creating the Storm 18. Clockwise from above left: The boat builder starts by cutting and shaping the hull before sealing it with epoxy and applying fiberglass in layers, The cockpit is then created, sealed and shaped. The finished hull includes the keel, which can be lifted to navigate shallow water without running aground.

do

THRIVING, NOT JUST SURVIVING

HOW

ONE FAIRFIELD COUNTY WOMAN TURNED CHRONIC ILLNESS

INTO A HOLISTIC MISSION by georgette

yacoub

Pamela Byrne had just returned to her Darien home from another late-day doctor’s appointment in Manhattan. After walking through the door, she went straight for her familiar comforts: red wine and a brownie. But her hands, stiff and inflamed from undiagnosed autoimmune disease, wouldn’t cooperate.

Pam’s health had been unraveling for years. First, it was overwhelming fatigue and low mood levels; then later, it was things like the complete loss of her menstrual cycle. “At first, I blamed it on stress, winter, little kids—but something felt really off,” she says.

Her intuition was right. Over the next two and a half years, Pam received diagnoses for a laundry list of diseases—celiac disease, premature ovarian failure, scleroderma. “But not one doctor ever asked what I was eating,” she says. “Not even at the Mayo Clinic.”

That was Pam’s turning point, and she started by making small changes to her diet. “I already couldn’t eat gluten, but I was still living on processed junk food,” she says. So I started cooking, drastically reducing my sugar intake, eating real meals, adding more vegetables and focusing on protein.”

By 2014, she says she started eating vegetables “like it was my job,” and enrolled in a nutrition program to deepen her knowledge. In 2016, she went off all her medications—and hasn’t gone back since.

Today, Pam is the founder of Byrne Health & Wellness, where she supports women across the country, including those

navigating perimenopause and hormonal imbalance.

“Everybody’s goals differ,” she says. “But basically people just want to be happier about not only how they feel in their own skin, but about their day-to-day habits.”

Her approach is rooted in simplicity and sustainability.

“Slow and steady wins the race,” she says. She starts clients off with the basics: drinking enough water, sitting down for three balanced meals, improving sleep.

“Something as simple as drinking half your body weight in ounces of water can be life-changing. It reduces hunger, sugar cravings, constipation—just from hydration.”

Pam also uses continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) with many clients to show how their bodies respond to food. “We’ll look at a lunch that seems totally healthy—tuna with vegetables and Ezekiel bread—and it’s spiking blood sugar for two hours. Or someone drinking coffee on an empty stomach and they have no idea it’s triggering a cortisol response.”

Her work is bio-individual, meaning it’s tailored to the person, and rooted in helping clients replace guilt and confusion with clarity. “It depends on where they are in their journey and how much

food noise they have,” she says. “For some, we take out the sweet treats entirely for a few weeks to create a safe environment. For others, it’s about planning those moments—making it part of a balanced meal, enjoying it without guilt and moving on.”

Her advice is especially resonant in communities like those in lower Fairfield County, where pressure to be productive often overrides self-care. “It’s human nature to want to comfort

ourselves,” she says. “Food is legal, it’s easy, it’s there. But when we find other practices that soothe us, that’s when real health happens.”

Pam is clear-eyed about the work it takes to make lasting change—but also deeply hopeful. “It doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy, but we can always create change,” she says. “But when you feel good, there’s nothing better— the wine, the sweets, they just don’t have the same pull anymore.”

A CANVAS TRANSFORMED:

This year, the iconic Glass House becomes a living canvas for celebrated artist Barbara Kasten. e exhibition, “Structure, Light, Land,” spans the entire 49-acre site, activating not just the architecture of Philip Johnson’s 1949 Glass House, but also its surrounding structures with Kasten’s signature interplay of abstraction, architecture and optical experimentation.

Kasten is best known for transforming photography into a three-dimensional experience.

Drawing from her background in sculpture and set design, she constructs geometric compositions using light, mirrors, colored plexiglass and industrial materials. Over her five-decade career, she has developed multiple iconic series, several of which are featured in this exhibition alongside new pieces made expressly for The Glass House.

“She created new iterations of digital projections, cyanotypes and sculptures located throughout the site,” says Christa Carr, Director of Communications at The Glass House.

The main house features a transparent sculpture, created to respond directly to the building’s seamless boundaries between inside and out. In the Brick House and Painting Gallery, viewers encounter Kasten’s intimate, saturated paintings, adding a new

layer of interior abstraction. Inside Da Monsta, Kasten has installed a grouping of vivid geometric blocks that assert their presence against the expressive curves and all-white interior of Johnson’s postmodern structure. The Sculpture Gallery features colorful I-beams stretched across the tiered interior, creating a contrast between the site’s permanent exhibit and Kasten’s pieces. I-beams are also positioned throughout the landscape, creating lines of tension between nature and industry.

Through color, reflection and scale, “Structure, Light, Land” reframes The Glass House as both subject and stage.

The Glass House is proud to present this collection on display through December 15. Tickets to The Glass House can be purchased at theglasshouse.org

above The collection will be on display at The Glass House through December 15.

above Artist Barbara Kasten

by danielle o’malley • photography by michael biondo

eat&drink

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Rising to the Occasion

After working his way up the ladder from a clerk on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange to a trader, Rob VanKeuren was shocked when in 2012 he was suddenly laid off from the firm where he had worked for more than a decade. But the universe works in mysterious ways, and shortly after, VanKeuren was presented with an offer to travel to India with a close friend for some soul searching. The trip centered around yoga, creative writing and the mantra that “the lives we

live are what write each of our stories.”

This opportunity to pause and reevaluate helped VanKeuren realize that the career path he had been on was not the right one. “I knew that I wanted to do something that brought me joy and also brought joy to other people, but I didn’t yet know what that was,” says VanKeuren. Recalling fond memories of his college days working in the bustling restaurant scene, VanKeuren began to wonder if it was he should trade in his career in finance for one in food.

above Devotees of Rob VanKeuren's Flour Water Salt Bread bakery know that even though a slice of his crumb cake may be the size of a brick, it is soft, airy and absolutely delicious.

BACK TO BASICS

Upon his return from India, VanKeuren walked into a local booksture and picked up a book about making bread. He made his first sourdough loaf that day and was surprised how good it turned out, and how calming the process was. “Baking let me feel like I could focus on something more than the anxiety that came from being out of work,” recalls VanKeuren. “I was able to get out of my thoughts and just say to myself, ‘this is what I’ll do today, and I’ll figure tomorrow out tomorrow.”

Completely self-taught, VanKeuren began selling his sourdough bread out of the little red carriage house in Silvermine where he was living, and it quickly began garnering interest from friends and neighbors looking to support him during a difficult time. He would post on Facebook when he was making bread and ask followers to comment if they wanted to place an order. “It all sounds so weird and archaic now, but it was a system that really worked at the time,” says VanKeuren.

THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS

To keep up with his growing popularity, VanKeuren needed a bigger space to bake. He arranged to trade pizzamaking shifts at Lombardi's in Georgetown for access to their oven during off-hours. After his shift was over, he’d mix the

dough, let it rise, shape it and then come back in the morning to bake it in the wood-fired pizza oven. That’s when the number of followers on his Facebook page began to skyrocket, and so did the orders.

In 2018, things came fullcircle back in Silvermine, when VanKeuren connected with the incoming chef at the recently restored GrayBarns, who had first tasted VanKeuren’s bread while eating dinner at Jesup Hall in Westport. “He said that it was unlike any bread he’d ever eaten and that he had to put it on their menu,” recalls VanKeuren. “He also offered me space and time to bake in the GrayBarns kitchen during off hours and a place to sell my bread in the antique barn across the street.”

In November of the same year, VanKeuren opened his first standalone bakery, Flour, Water, Salt, Bread at 20 Grove Street in Darien. Launching the day before Thanksgiving brought an immediate boom: “We sold out in about an hour that day and that was when I knew that I needed to hire more people and quickly,” recalls VanKeuren.

Fast forward to 2025 and Flour, Water, Salt, Bread is serving more customers than ever with a bakery in Cos Cob and the newest location on East Avenue in New Cannan. VanKeuren has also expanded the menu to include much more than just delicious bread, with pastries, take-and-bake items,

sandwiches and specialty honey, butter and jams.

KEEPING IT FRESH AND LOCAL

For VanKeuren, quality ingrediants are paramount. “All my ingredients are natural and things that can be easily pronounced. When you see sourdough breads in stores, there’s not really ever an official definition of what’s in the product; unless it’s being mixed and baked fresh every day it’s usually pretty adulterated,” says VanKeuren.

VanKeuren also believes in the value of the local bakery experience. “Our customers like that they have a connection with the people making their

food and buying products with authenticity,” says VanKeuren. “That’s what has allowed us to be successful, we have 15 people on our team and every single one of them is food obsessed just like me. They are all so passionate and want to keep making our products better."

VanKeuren resides in Darien with his wife and six-year-old son. When he’s not baking, he enjoys playing the guitar and making music with his wife, who sings and plays the piano. Pop into any of VanKeuren’s locations to taste his fresh fare for yourself or check out flourwatersaltbread. com to learn more about his menu and product offerings.

CAPTAIN ZIG’S SUPERHERO SPIRIT

What started as a FUN WEDDING GIFT has BLOSSOMED into a LOCAL BREWING COMPANY that’s building a league of followers in Fairfield County.

by eileen murphy

Mike and Alex Spellman’s journey into commercial brewing is as unique and personal as their beer. The couple both grew up in New Canaan but didn’t connect until after college. In the early days of their relationship, they found they both had a passion for craft beer and enjoyed visiting small breweries during trips to Vermont. It was that shared interest that inspired a friend to gift them an at-home brewing kit as a wedding gift that would one day lead to the founding of Captain Zig Brewing Company.

SOWING THE SEEDS

The couple’s first brewing experiments took place in their garage, the basement or even on the kitchen counter. Early brews included stouts, porters and IPAs, which they kept tweaking to their liking. They began sharing their creations with friends and family at their eldest daughter’s first birthday party. The response was overwhelmingly positive.

When they moved into their Darien home in 2010, they installed a permanent tap system and brewing became a regular affair. The couple would often bottle and hand-label their small-batch creations and give them as gifts. But because the growlers were not vacuum-sealed, there was no way to keep the beer fresh. “We would bring growlers to friends’ houses, but they would have to drink it that day,” Mike explains. They began thinking about canning the beer, so that recipients could enjoy at their leisure.

BIG BREWING LEAP

Their research brought them to Massachusetts, where they found a company that allowed homebrewers to scale up production. The pandemic ultimately disrupted that plan, so they started calling breweries closer to home. Many had large minimums, but Nod Hill in Ridgefield agreed to work with them during their slow season in January. The first brew at Nod Hill resulted in 75 cases and a dozen kegs—a significant jump from their five-gallon home setup. It was time to start thinking commercial.

CAPTAIN ZIG IS BORN

The search for a company name came from an unexpected moment. “ Our youngest daughter came down to breakfast wearing a superhero mask one day and declared, ‘I’m Captain Zig!’” explains Alex. This playful alter-ego captured their family-centric vibe perfectly. Their older daughter’s nickname, “Goosecake,” would eventually become the name of their flagship IPA and their second beer was the Sidekick Pilsner, named after the family dog. The girls even contributed the colorful, light-hearted drawings that adorn the cans.

“our

brand speaks volumes, and we want to get that out there.”

– alex spellman, captain zig

LOCAL SUPPORT

The initial commercial batches, brewed in early 2023, sold quickly, and production was moved to a larger brewer in New Haven. Captain Zig increased the batch size to 30 barrels (more than 900 gallons), a scale they maintain today.

In addition to the IPA and Pilsner, they have since added a seasonal summer beer. However, they deliberately limit their range, focusing on quality over quantity. “We don't want to keep pushing it with just adding more and more,” Mike emphasizes.

Distribution is primarily focused on Fairfield County, with a strong emphasis on local partnerships. The Goose, Hammer & Nails, Leary's, 314 Beer Garden, Palmers and Rowayton Wine Shop were early and consistent supporters. Local restaurants, like Granola Bar and Rikos in Darien (and the new location on the Norwalk/New Canaan border), have also embraced their brews, often featuring them on tap.

GIVING BACK

Captain Zig isn’t just about crafting great beer; the Spellmans are also committed to giving back to the community by donating a part of the proceeds to charities—which their daughters help choose. They also funded a local CPR course for Post 53, partnered with the Darien Toy Box to donate toys to the Yale Pediatric Cancer Center, and contributed to numerous charity golf tournaments and community events. They’re exploring new initiatives, including a fundraiser tied to their Sidekick beer, benefiting animal rescue.“Our brand speaks volumes, and we want to get that out there,” says Alex.

From homebrewing adventures to a burgeoning local brand, Captain Zig embodies the spirit of community, family and a genuine love for well-crafted beer—proving that passion, persistence and a dash of superhero inspiration can create something truly special.

above and right The Spellmans recently hosted a launch party for the Sound Summer IPA at 314 Beer Garden.

by holly parmelee

FINE LINENS JUST GOT A Little More Festive home

A NEW CANAAN-BASED DESIGNER BRINGS A FRESH PERSPECTIVE TO TABLETOP LINENS WITH HER BRAND, ELIZABETH LAKE

Alove for entertaining runs deep in tabletop linen designer Lily Lanahan’s veins. Raised in Texas and now living in New Canaan, Lanahan grew up immersed in a culture where parties were grand, colorful and planned to perfection—complete with calligraphy and curated party favors. “Everything is bigger in Texas,” she laughs. From backyard barbecues to elegant holiday dinners, the joy of gathering was woven into her childhood and ultimately became the foundation for her creative journey.

In 2020, she launched Elizabeth Lake, her namesake lifestyle label, with the motto: Use regularly, celebrate often, and pass down the good stuff. “I gravitated toward linens specifically using appliqué, because it’s a chance to apply an old-world technique in a sophisticated, fun way for the

modern-day host,” she explains.

Her passion for handmade craftsmanship began while studying decorative arts in London and working at Sotheby’s, where she fell in love with antiques, traditional techniques and especially needlework. Appliqué— an Old-World art of layering fabric—quickly became a favorite. “Appliqué is hand-layering fabric, a traditional, dying craft I’ve always admired. Linens were the perfect canvas to bring it back in a fresh, modern way,” she says. The tactile process, the texture and the meticulous attention to detail spoke to her desire to celebrate the everyday with beauty and meaning.

above Lily Lanahan studied decorative arts in London before founding Elizabeth Lake. left Lanahan loves to pair bold colors to create a fresh, playful table setting.

Lily’s Entertaining Tips

IT’S IN THE DETAILS

Rather than using formal place cards at your next dinner party, source something thoughtful or funny to place at each place setting: a packet of flower seeds, cheap statement sunglasses, a childhood photo or a favorite book wrapped in pretty paper. These details go a long way.

MIX HIGH AND LOW

Pair handcrafted Madeiran linens with supermarket flowers. Family-style BBQ served on your wedding china, or a seated dinner with place cards penned by toddlers.

FRESHEN UP

Linens offer an entirely new lens to your same old china or simple white dinner plates. Arrange them with something surprising for a bold color pairing. Our dinner napkins are designed to be mixed and matched with several placemat styles, so it always looks fresh.

UP YOUR GAME WITH COCKTAIL NAPKINS

Cocktail napkins are like charms. They’re highly collectible and meant to be enjoyed over the years before being passed down. They make guests feel special—it’s as simple as that!

SURPRISE YOUR GUESTS:

Channel childhood summers for a sense of wonder and surprise— serve Push Pops for dessert or set up an ice cream sundae bar with old-fashioned candies.

DIVIDE AND CONQUER

Outsource the parts of hosting you don’t enjoy so that you can be a guest at your own party. Staff the bar and order takeout or maybe an over-the-top grazing board—this will give you more time to dive into the fun details.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR LINEN: I throw them in the wash! I use OxiClean for spot treatment—it works wonders for red wine. Lay them dry and then press. It takes a bit of time but it’s worth it!

Elizabeth Lake linens are handcrafted on the Portuguese island of Madeira by skilled artisans who sew each piece stitch by stitch. Lanahan designs every item herself, sourcing premium linens from mills in Belgium, Italy and Ireland before they’re sent to Madeira for appliqué. The result?

A collection that’s playful and polished—never stuffy. “What sets us apart is our blend of craftsmanship and character. Our designs are cheeky, bright and a little glamorous—a fresh take on a timeless tradition.”

The brand has quickly gained a devoted following, appealing to

those who value thoughtful details and the joy of hosting. Whether it’s a casual brunch or a formal affair, Elizabeth Lake linens infuse any table with warmth, wit and elegance.

Looking to elevate your table? The Elizabeth Lake collection offers everything from napkins and placemats to tablecloths and hand towels. Sold direct-toconsumer, every bespoke piece is available on the brand’s website. Set the bar (and the table) high with her timeless entertaining essentials. It’s time to set the table and start celebrating! elizabethlake.com

above and below Appliqués on tablecloths, placemats and napkins are hand-stitched by skilled artisans on the island of Madeira. right Lanahan sources her linens from premium mills in Belgium, Italy and Ireland.

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CRUISING IN STYLE

A new law paves the way for these fun ELECTRIC CRUISERS IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Fior Lostumbo didn’t set out to change laws in Connecticut. It started innocently enough in 2022, when he was vacationing in Florida and noticed people zipping around in electric carts. Intrigued, he thought they’d be perfect for Norwalk, so he bought one, shipped it home, and took it for a spin. The reaction was immediate—neighbors flagged him down during grocery runs at Stew Leonard’s or on quiet streets, asking: What’s that and

how do I get one? That’s when he realized this could be more than just a fun joyride.

By March 2023, he’d teamed up with his cousin Phil Dacunto to launch CT Custom Carts. “Phil was retiring as a fireman and looking for something new,” Lostumbo recalls. Lostumbo shared his idea and together, they began importing the Low-Speed Vehicles (LSVs)—electric carts equipped with seatbelts, DOT windshields and a 25-mph top speed.

The touble was, Connecticut

“they slow down traffic, and neighborhoods embrace that.” we’ve had no accidents, no injuries—it’s been very positive.” whether it’s for a quick grocery run, a beach day, or a wedding venue shuttle, the carts are proving to be more than a novelty. they’re a new mode of connection—and connecticut’s streets are finally catching up.

by georgette yacoub • photography by venera alexandrova

above Now that Connecticut made low-speed vehicles street legal, you are starting to see them buzzing around marinas, beaches and local neighborhoods.

wouldn’t allow them to be driven on the roads and Norwalk turned down their proposal for a local trial. But the cousins didn’t give up. Encouraged by a friend to think bigger, they brought the idea to Hartford. A supportive state legislator got them on the agenda, and momentum grew from there. According to Lostumbo, Hartford embraced the inexpensive EVs because of their ability to calm traffic and save on parking space. Their persistence helped usher in Public Act 24-70, which was passed in May 2024 and becamse effective on October 1. The act allows LSVs on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, which is about about 60% of the state’s streets. Since then, demand has skyrocketed at their base at Cove Marina. “We can’t get products fast enough,” Lostumbo says. Their clients include families, seniors, boaters and more. In Rowayton, carts replace minivans for school drop-offs. In Darien, they’re a casual ride to Weed Beach. New Canaan residents take them around their neighborhood or up to the bus stop. Buyers gravitate toward three main models: the more affordable Evolution ($6,695), the mid-range Tomberlin, and the high-end Moke (which can get up to a price point of up to $27,000). “Moke is the Ferrari of LSVs—not for speed, but for luxury and comfort,” Lostumbo explains.

People are drawn to their convenience and charm. “It’s easy—out of the garage in ten seconds, no need for a big car,” he says. Parents love the forwardfacing or rear-facing seats for kids; riders love the Bluetooth sound systems and backup cameras. And because all models are electric, they’re as eco-conscious as they are practical.

The carts are also changing the tone of neighborhood life. “They slow down traffic, and neighborhoods embrace that,” says Lostumbo. “We’ve had no accidents, no injuries—it’s been very positive.” Whether it’s for a quick grocery run, a beach day, or a wedding venue shuttle, the carts are proving to be more than a novelty. They’re a new mode of connection—and Connecticut’s streets are finally catching up.

right: CT Carts is located near Sunset Grill at Norwalk Cove Marina

right The Moke comes in 12 colors and can be customized with a bimini top, wooden steering wheel and a bench in the back. below CT Custom Carts in Norwalk

people&PLACES

French Twist

Serving up 30 years of love and guidance, Grassroots Tennis & Education celebrated its anniversary with a French Open-style gala, Rendez-vous at Roland-Garros. Guests were treated to dinner, cocktails, and a live and silent auction, with proceeds helping Grassroots support more than 250 students in need on an annual basis. grassrootste.org »

1 Nicole Brady, Catherine McNear, Serina Dansker, Lori

Leckliter, Lisa Dale 2 Sue and Jon Stone, Jane and Rick Meyer 3 Maureen Vlak, Shelby Smith, Nicole Brady, Lori

Leckliter 4 Bill Brady, Greg and Cecilia McCall 5 Grassroots gala committee 6 Gillian Imbriglia, Heather Tucker, Katie Adams, Bambi Riegel, Maureen Vlak 7 Hailee and Brian Jay 8 Event Co-Chairs Kendra Seth, Rachel Greenspon, Michelle Mauboussin

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE / BOB CAPAZZO

Path to Success

Known for welcoming clients with open arms, Open Doors Shelter hosted its annual gala at The Loading Dock to support programs that “bridge the gap between homelessness and housing.” Guests mingled over dinner and participated in a lively auction to raise funds for the cause. The nonprofit recognized two Luminary Award winners, Nancy Meany and Sarah Fox, for ongoing service and commitment to the organization. opendoorsct.org »

1 Trisha Rinaldi, Magen Schmidt, Dana Stewart (back) Andy Stewart, Nancy Meany, Meghan and Jim Allen 2 Brian and Liz Schwin, Jim and Ginge Cabrera 3 Jen Wagner, Zoe Hamann, Jenny Friedman, Liz Beinfield 4 Robert Burgess, Minnie Spindler, Mary, Nate and Andrew Yordon 5 Michelle Conderino, Sarah Fox, Kersten Rivas 6 Brenda Townsend, Nancy and Dennis Meany 7 Ashley Vola, Lisa Joseph 8 Kersten Rivas, Rob Leighton 9 Christy Bonner, John Fusek 10 Lee Hanson, Lauren O’Malley 11 David Keelin, Christina Lake 12 Maria and Jordan Davis 13 Lauren Viccaro, Bani Birnbaum

OPEN DOORS SHELTER / The Loading Dock

Nominations being accepted in the following categories:

Most Involved in the Arts

Most Dedicated Committee Member

Outstanding Philanthropist

Outstanding Teen Volunteer

Best Friend to Children

Best Health Advocate

Lifetime Achievement

Best Friend to Seniors

Most Involved Couple

Corporate Good Neighbor

Run for the Roses

Derby fanfare, big hats and colorful bowties were in full effect at New Canaan Mounted Troop’s (NCMT) Breeches and Bowties Gala at Wee Burn Beach Club. Revelers enjoyed fine dining, mint juleps and entertainment, while cheering on their favorite horse and trying their luck at blackjack and roulette. The event raised money for NCMT’s work in youth horsemanship programs and equine therapy for horse lovers with special needs. newcanaanmountedtroop.org »

1 Sandra Pratt, Melissa Malone, Sara Tucker, Tom Herbig, Eileen Thomas 2 Tom and Raquel Hudson, Jane Xiao, Greg Woodie 3 Jeanna and Dennis Podlesak, Eileen Thomas, Laura and Eric Dobbin

4 The talented members of NCMT 5 Monica, Lena and Justin Aronson 6 Margo Ehrenberg, Autumn Terrill 7 Julie Conlon, Jessica Merrill 8 Sorely and Apolo Caguao 9 Marcie and Georgia Meyer

10 Dr. Sarah Lechanski, Caitlin Trainor 11 Rachel and Morgan Kelley 12 Andrea and Adam Kessner

NEW CANAAN MOUNTED TROOP / Wee Burn Beach Club

DOUGLAS WRIGHT Douglas C. Wright Architects HEIDE HENDRICKS Hendricks Churchill

JOSH GREENE Josh Greene Design

MELISSA REAVIS Hollander Design

1 Maeve O’Connell, Amy Ravenesi, Shannon Goetz, Amy Ravanesi

2 Ian Schermann, Kate Schermann, Pedro Santos, Bianca Chiappelloni Santos, Alyssa Aubuchon, Adam Goldman 3 Brielle and Dina Connelly, Jamie Ferrera, Courtney White

4 David Cox, Marc Pierre, Rodney Yarty, Elijah Westbrook, Tracey Masella, Alicia C. Meyer, Khanisha Denise Moore 5 Shiva Sarram, Mike Dinan, Monica Capela, Jessica Knowles

6 Kiana O’Reilly , Kristen Hall, Nancy Shullman, Elizabeth Boccaccio

7 Tim Valz, Alex Tuff, Dylan Amswache Mike Shullman 8 Jim and Denise Wartinbee, Mimi and Pat Leahy

9 Maria Magliciano, Emily Candee, Anne Schimmeck, Jen Fishman, Meaghan Kupchak, Amy Fields 10 Amy Fields, Sarah Haddad, Tracy Goldman, Eileen Hojnaki, Anne George, Elizabeth Detmer 11 Benefit committee

Supporting Scholars

Giving students a better chance, ABC New Canaan held a spring fundraiser to benefit its college-prep program. Enjoying an evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing at the annual fete, the close-knit group of scholars, host families, board members, staff and volunteers celebrated the success of its talented students. The family-oriented organization, which provides educational opportunities to young men of color, covers academic and living expenses for all ABC students. abchouseofnc.org »

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY SOCIAL MEDIA

Moffly Media is one of the leading providers of professional event photography and marketing services in Fairfield County. We capture compelling, high-quality images of individuals and groups at meaningful events. With our wide range of capabilities from video to social media, Moffly will customize a marketing program that’s just right for you.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: BOB CAPAZZO, KRISTIN HYNES, MELANI LUST & MARSIN MOGIELSKI

1 Horizons executive director Renee Rosenbluh with students Isaiah Constant, Esmeralda Robles and program manager Karen Marin 2 Mackie Spadaccini, Tyler Drexler, Charlotte Lamb 3 Stephanie Trotta 4 Monika Lazaro, Renee Rosenbluh, Karen Marin 5 Kay Garrett, Marybeth Rockwell, Allison Oakford, Charlotte Lamb, Kate Brame, Alex Shriner

6 Tricia Dudley, Ashley Fisher, Tyler Drexler, Mackie Spadaccini, Charlotte Lamb, Meg O’Neil 7 Tyler Drexler, Isaiah Constant, Katherine Duggan

8 Event hosts Ashley Fisher, Tricia Dudley, Meg O’Neil 9/10 Guests enjoying Rowayton Seafood

11 Horizons Team, Board Members and event hosts with Isaiah Constant and Esmeralda Robles

Focus on Education

Horizons at CT State Norwalk hosted a dinner on Rowayton Seafood’s patio to promote educational equity. Coming from New Canaan, Darien, Rowayton and nearby towns, 70 women came to hear Horizons graduate Esmeralda Robles speak. The sold-out event will help fund academic and enrichment programs for underserved Norwalk students. horizonsctsn.org »

HORIZONS / Rowayton Seafood

DARIEN LAND TRUST

presents an elegant and sustainable evening to

Celebrate the andL

6 SATURDAY SEPTEMBER (rain date sept. 7) 5:30 PM COCKTAILS 6:30 PM AL FRESCO DINNER

WATERBURY FIELD DARIEN, CT

SCAN HERE FOR TICKETS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE EMAIL INFO@DARIENLANDTRUST.ORG Land doesn't protect itself. People do.

Nature Meets Design

Friends of New Canaan Nature Center came out to support the eighth annual Lecture and Luncheon fundraiser at Country Club of New Canaan. More than 250 guests attended the spring soirée featuring keynote speaker Amanda Lindroth, an acclaimed interior designer and author inspired by the islands and natural world. Bringing people together to “respect, protect and enjoy the world of nature,” the nonprofit provides environmental education and special programming to serve the community. newcanaannature.org

1 Mariko LeBaron, Jane Schoenholtz, Maria Magliacano, Tom Turrentine, Britta Pemberton, Lindsay Regan 2 Amanda Lindroth, Bill Flynn, Lesley Rotchford 3 Sally Brown, Alex Bonach 4 Guest check-in at the beautiful Country Club of New Canaan 5 Patricia Mee, Molly Winn, Molly Reilly, Laura Catherwood, Nicky Dunlop, Brenna Mastropaolo 6 Peggy Toce, Caroline Toce 7 Alexandria Sillo, Marni Nichols, Christina Munger, Chelsea Holden 8 Caroline Toche, Mary Wolfe, Nora Decembrele, Jorie Toce 9 Mingling before lunch 10 Sarah Arestia, Laura Jenkins, Nadina Casullo, Allison Marschalk, Jennie DiFiorie, Samantha Hamilton, Cait Newman

NEW CANAAN NATURE CENTER / Country Club of New Canaan

THE APPROACH TO JAMES FREY’S HOUSE FEELS LIKE A DRIVE THROUGH THE PAGES OF HIS LATEST BOOK

The landscape unfolds with rambling farmhouses and faux French chateaus—each boasting a dozen bathrooms and perimeters marked by quaint fieldstone walls that quiet the opulence. It’s particularly picturesque in the bloom of spring, as perfect as New Bethlehem, the fictional town where Frey’s book, Next to Heaven, is set.

It’s no secret that the setting is modeled on New Canaan; the town's history, outlined in detail by Frey, and its shops, landmarks and parks mirror our own. But are the characters ours, too? That’s the question that left some residents sleepless in their Frette linens as they anticipated the book’s release in June. And now that the juicy novel is out, reading lights are burning bright across the “Next Station to Heaven.”

In his newest release, Frey draws from the salacious novels of Jackie Collins and Danielle Steele—surprising inspirations for an author who says he pursued writing because of men like Henry Miller, Jack Kerouac and Kurt Vonnegut. But Frey is not what one might expect from a man quick to give the world the middle finger.

Frey’s neighborhood is dotted with the occasional modern home, placing us squarely in The Ice Storm country. New Canaan was also the setting for Ang Lee’s 1997 film based on Rick Moody’s eponymous novel about a key party that wreaks havoc on its characters’ lives and community. Next to Heaven features its own spouse-swapping shindig. It’s the kind of thing that can make a small town edgy. Was it based on an actual swingers party? My mission would be to find out.

Next to Heaven is poised to be a hit, delivering "rich people behaving badly" drama, similar to White Lotus and The Perfect Couple

”I'M SURE PEOPLE ARE GOING TO READ THE BOOK AND THINK I DON'T LIKE IT HERE. BUT IT'S THE OPPOSITE. I LOVE NEW CANAAN."

BEYOND ”THE BIRD”

Frey’s modern home, with its expanse of windows inviting in the surrounding wooded serenity, has been compared to Cameron Frye’s house in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. On Frey’s lawn are a modern sculpture by Alma Allen and a Nike of Samothrace, goddess of victory. He appreciates art and he appreciates women—in a deeper way than the men at his fictional swingers party do.

Frey has many female friends, including Sarah Hoover, whom he met when she worked at the Gagosian Gallery in New York. She recently wrote a book, Motherload , which lays bare the underbelly of pregnancy and new motherhood. There are plenty of references to “pussies,” but not about getting some, more about stuff that can happen down there that no man wants to hear about. Yet James read the book with relish and moderated Hoover’s book talk at Darien's Barrett Books in April with sensitivity and an appreciation for both his rookie memoirist friend’s writing and the ordeal she went through with postpartum depression.

Given that empathy, you might assume Frey grew up with sisters. Actually, no girls have graced the family in generations. He has a brother and 12 cousins, all boys. Perhaps because of that, his female friends are ballsy. When he poses for a photo at the talk, his middle finger goes up, and Hoover joins in with gusto. The bird is, after all, Frey’s signature move.

BREAKING THE MOLD

For our interview, Frey is dressed down: paintsplotched khakis, a white tee over a white thermal, black work socks. He seats me in a whirly chair that looks like a spinning seat in a playground. Next to us are shelves of books—nearly all autographed copies. “This bookshelf is organized by influence,” Frey explains, gesturing. “Here are the first copies and manuscripts of all the books I’ve written.” He has penned 20, including multiple global bestsellers, selling 30 million copies worldwide.

The next shelf is devoted to Henry Miller. “I still remember when I read Tropic of Cancer; I

couldn’t believe it existed,” says Frey, who was studying film at Denison in Ohio at the time. “A big part of my childhood was reading books. But I had never really believed until I read Henry Miller that I could be a writer. Until then, writers were always these sort of magical people with fancy educations and degrees or crazy backgrounds, crazy stories.” Frey, it turns out, would certainly compile his share of the latter.

Now Frey spends most of his time in his living room. “I live a really quiet, solitary life,” he says. “This is a pretty typical day for me: in this chair, in this house, on this land—reading, writing, listening to music by myself.” He is crosslegged. Tunes from his childhood in the 1970s play. (He was born in ’69.)

This quiet existence, however, belies a past rooted in youthful daring. “A day after I finished Denison, I moved to Paris,” Frey recounts. “I didn’t know anybody, I didn’t have any money, I didn’t have a job. I just went and figured I’d figure it out, same as Henry Miller did.” Miller’s raw, unvarnished prose deeply impacted Frey. “He inspired me to become a writer because he was just a shit talker. The book read like a dude talking shit,” he says. “It was just about life. It was about, you know, going for a walk, reading a book, looking at a painting, meeting a girl, having a drink, fucking. Just simple adventures of a man, of a human. And I believed I could do that.”

Frey spent his twenties developing a “hyperspecific way of writing.” His idiosyncrasies included no paragraph indents, no quotation marks and sentences that could compete in a run-on race with Saul Bellow’s—all indicative of a general disregard for conventional rules. “I think of what I do much more in a way that a painter does,” he explains. Frey generally doesn’t outline or edit. “All of my books are first drafts,” he says. He doesn’t read them either: “That way I remember the process of writing them the best. It’s what matters most to me: that feeling of absolute total focus, of absolute intellectual and emotional focus, and the appearance of the words is always just like kind of a weird joy, seeing pages show up.”

At age 30, Frey wrote his first book, A Million Little Pieces. His bird-flipping habit may have originated in its aftermath. The book was initially marketed as a memoir and even selected by Oprah for her book club, only later to be found to contain fabrications. The ensuing scandal included a public lambasting by Oprah herself and a refund offer to buyers who felt deceived. Yet Frey gave this advice to a fellow writer who was worried about the critique of his partially autobiographical book: “If a book is cool, and entertaining, and moving, then get your middle finger ready and raise it often.” Even if the path was rocky, Frey achieved his

”IF I WRITE A BOOK THAT'S PUBLISHED AS NONFICTION, EVERYBODY TEARS IT APART TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT'S NOT TRUE. AND IF I WRITE A BOOK THAT'S FICTION, EVERYBODY TEARS

dream of a bestseller. Being named “America’s Most Notorious Author” by Time was a bonus.

AN ALTERNATE REALITY

Next to Heaven portrays a world entirely different from A Million Little Pieces. While Million depicts the white-hot pain of a broke rehab patient enduring ordeals like having a cheek sutured and root canals drilled without pain medication, Next to Heaven reveals the gray pain of upper-class malaise, but in the can’tlook-away technicolor of shows like White Lotus and The Perfect Couple, complete with a murder mystery. In Million, the tears of a vulnerable man eventually draw Frey back to rehab from the slippery edge of suicide. It’s as tender as those un-numbed gums.

Next to Heaven is not tender. The book, published by Authors Equity and distributed by Simon & Schuster, is billed as “a satirical thrill ride through the dark heart of privilege.” It’s well-timed to be this summer’s beach read, with a limited-series deal already in the works.

“Somebody asked me to read Hollywood Wives by Jackie Collins to consider adapting it for Hollywood,” says Frey. “I didn’t end up doing that job, but I loved that book. I thought it was so funny and dirty and ridiculous. I started thinking, ‘What would a Jackie Collins’ book look like in today’s world in Connecticut?’ I think we take for granted the extreme bubble we live in, in Fairfield County, and the extreme privilege. I am in no way criticizing those things. I love those things, but it’s not the real world here. And I thought it was just a spectacular setting for a book and one that I hadn’t really ever seen.”

It’s ironic that Frey’s early memoir leaned toward fiction and this novel leans toward reality (at least the reality of a rarified ultra-rich set). Still, he assures that it is fiction. “There’s not a character in the book based on a real person,” Frey states. “There are so many characters around; you can take a little from this person, a little from that person and just use your imagination. But calling it New Bethlehem instead of New Canaan gave me freedom to do whatever I wanted. I think it also gives the town a little freedom to not bear the responsibility of what I write.

There’s plausible deniability for everybody.”

He continues, “If I write a book that’s published as nonfiction, everybody tears it apart trying to figure out what’s not true. And if I write a book that’s fiction, everybody tears it apart trying to figure out what is true. Either way, it doesn't matter to me at all. I sit here, I write these books. They’re an expression of my mind and my soul, and that’s it. I hope people love it. I hope people laugh. I hope people pick it up and once they start, they can’t stop.”

Frey admits some plot points may be inspired by real events. He doesn’t say who or what specifically fed his sexy page-turner. I ask if swingers parties are still a thing or a relic of the swinging ’70s. I’m surprised when he claims they are still a thing. “Well, you live in fucking Westport,” Frey responds, not missing a beat.

For those worried about tarnishing the reputation of our little slice of heaven, he says, “It’s a book. It’s a dirty, funny, dark comedy. We’re all gonna be okay.”

PRIVILEGE AND PARENTING

The author has no reason to bash New Canaan. “I came out here in 2013, honestly, to give my kids the kind of childhood I didn’t have, which was in one place within a community. A place where they could grow and thrive and become whoever they wanted to become,” says Frey, who was born in Cleveland and had a peripatetic boyhood. His 20-year-old daughter is at Barnard, and he has a 17-year-old son and 15-year-old daughter at New Canaan High School. He and their mother are divorced. They lost a newborn to spinal muscular atrophy, he told me, at the book event where Hoover laid bare her postpartum distress. Parenting pain is something he understands.

Despite the fictional portrayal in his new novel, Frey genuinely cherishes his adopted home. “I’m sure people are going to read the book and think I don’t like it here. But it’s the opposite. I love New Canaan,” says Frey, who enjoys daily walks in town and plays hockey— two pastimes that seep into the book. “I love Fairfield County. I think, as much as it is this bubble, it’s this beautiful bubble. It has been a magnificent place to raise kids. It’s safe. It’s got elite education. It’s got great sports programs.

I love that it’s cool to be a successful kid here. So the cool kids aren’t the troublemakers or the drug dealers. The cool kids are the kids who get good grades and are good athletes and go to good colleges and are good people. As a parent, I can express those messages, but to have them constantly reinforced by the community and the culture of the community—it has been a joy to live here.”

He acknowledges the inherent pressures: the pressure to be successful, the pressure on kids and the pressure on women especially, “to be thin and beautiful and wear the right clothes and say the right thing and eat at the right restaurants with the right people.” While these pressures exist everywhere, Frey believes they are amplified here: “The competitiveness both creates this place and also sometimes hurts it. The focus on money can be destructive. I think money is a drug—the most powerful, addictive, destructive drug in the world.” To counterbalance this environment, he sends his kids to his parents in Wisconsin for a week every summer. “It’s good for them. It’s not all rich people,” he says.

THE UNCONVENTIONAL MENTOR

Beyond schools, sports and affluence, another

positive of our community bubble is the culture of giving back—and Frey is no exception. He mentors people discreetly, not for credit, but because people helped him. Bret Easton Ellis and Pat Conroy were the first to read A Million Little Pieces. “They were both really kind and generous and cool,” Frey recalls. “So with young writers, or any writer, there are probably three or four people I help at any given time— I’m just like, listen, man, people take care of me, so, yeah, I’m down to do it with you.” He especially appreciates a group of Gen Z writers in New York at Dream Baby Press who reached out to him. “It was extremely gratifying,” he says. “They said, ‘We know the Millennials hate you, but you’re our fucking hero.’” Frey also helps because he hopes “the world of literature, especially boundary-pushing literature, especially controversial troublemaking literature, continues to exist.”

Sarah Hoover says, “As a fellow writer, James is insanely generous and helpful and encouraging. He’s also the kind of solid and supportive friend you feel lucky to have in your orbit. I tell him all the time he’s a mensch. He’s always been that way. He treated me the same when I was an assistant as he does now that I’m a grown up, with my own name on my own book.” She adds, “He loves the phone. He’s one of my favorite people to girl talk with!”

What’s next? Frey just wrote a movie about Charles Bukowski, and he enjoyed writing Next to Heaven so much that he has four more murder mysteries planned, set in the wealthiest parts of the country: Tribeca, East Hampton, Bel Air and Hillsborough, California. Frey says, “The wealth generated over the past decade in the United States—the last time something like it happened was the Gilded Age. Art and literature and television and films are generally reflective of the society that makes them. It’s something that’s in the air: wealth, privilege, how extreme those things have become in our society—for good and for bad.”

Next to Heaven hit newsstands on June 17. It is available at Elm Street Books, Barrett Books and other retailers. You can also catch Frey at Elm Street Books on July 22, in conversation with Lili Anolik, author of Didion & Babitz

Frey recently suprised his friends at Elm Street Books by stopping in to sign pre-release copies of Next to Heaven, which promptly flew off the shelves.

photograph by ANDREA CARSON

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Pastry perfection, courtesy of Raphaël’s Bakery in Greenwich

BEST american + creative menu

THE COTTAGE

Chef Brian Lewis brings serious culinary chops to the table, and we’re always lucky to score a seat. At The Cottage, he’s serving food that feels both familiar and totally fresh, like he’s taken your favorite dish turned it inside out, and made it way better. The cult-favorite steamed buns are a must, but it’s often the quiet dishes, like a seasonal vegetable small plate or a simple pasta, that steal the show.

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Elysian Fields lamb rib with wild ramps, rhubarb mostarda and rosemary lamb jus

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FOOD + DRINKS

If you know, you know —and if you don’t, well, consider this your cheat sheet. Our food scene has leveled up, and this year’s winners prove it. We’re talking about the kind of places that locals hit on repeat: the go-to bakery with a line out the door, the BBQ worth driving for, the viral bagels that live up to the hype and the neighborhood spots led by nationally recognized chefs. Get ready to discover (or rediscover) the very best that our towns have to offer, according to the people who actually eat here.

photograph by MELISSA OLGUIN

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BEST RESTAURANTS

Best Service

The Americano

261 Main St., Stamford, 203-276-8918; theamericanobar.com

Business Lunch

The Capital Grille

230 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203-967-0000; thecapitalgrille.com

Creative Menu

The Cottage

49 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-769-1220 |

256 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-3701; thecottage.kitchen

Hotel Restaurant

l’escale

500 Steamboat Rd., Greenwich, 203-661-4600; lescalerestaurant.com

New Restaurant

Josie & Tony’s 20 N. Main St., Norwalk; josieandtonys.com

Outdoor Dining + Seafood

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

Private Dining/ Intimate Venue

Tavern at GrayBarns 194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900; tavernatgraybarns.com

Special Occasion/Date Night

Tony’s at the J House

1114 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-698-6999; tonysatthejhouse.com

Steaks

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

Sushi Hinoki

363 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-0011; hinokigreenwich.com

Tapas

Barcelona Wine Bar

4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com

EDITOR'S PICK

BEST hotel restaurant

L’escale nails that rare mix of elegance and ease—it’s my go-to for everything from cocktails and apps to a full dinner. The food, the view, the vibe ... it just never misses.

Cristin Marandino, Editorial Director

BEST SPECIALITIES

American The Cottage 49 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-769-1220 | 256 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-3701; thecottage.kitchen

Asian/Asian Fusion Kawa Ni 19A Bridge Sq., Westport, 203-557-8775; kawaniwestport.com

Chinese Little Kitchen

423 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-5540; littlekitchenwestport.com

French Rive Bistro

299 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-8049; rivebistro.com

Greek Kouzina Greek Taverna & Bar

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

Indian

Chef Prasad Indian Cuisine 62 Main St., New Canaan, 475-256-5657; chefprasad.com

Italian

Casa Me

7 Sconset Sq., Westport, 203-571-3230; casamecafe.com

Japanese OKO

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

Mediterranean

Layla’s Falafel 2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-384-0100 936 | High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-461-8004 | 1535 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-955-1583 ; see all locations at laylasfalafel.com

Mexican bartaco

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

Spanish

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

Thai

Little Thai Kitchen 4 West Ave., Darien, 203-662-0038 | 21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-2972; littlethaikitchen.com

BEST italian // CASA ME

If you can snag a reservation, bring a group and game-plan the menu like it’s a team sport. Casa Me—"my house," for those brushing up on their Italian—is all about passing plates, pouring another glass and pretending you’re on vacation somewhere along the Amalfi Coast. Cin cin!

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Lasagna Cavolfiore Rossette with cauliflower bolognese, parmigiano, pecorino and ricotta

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BEST ice cream

VAN LEEUWEN

Here’s the scoop: Honeycomb, Earl Grey Tea and Sicilian Pistachio are fan favorites for good reason, but don’t sleep on the vegan options, like Strawberry Shortcake and Cookies & Cream Caramel Swirl. Add in their ever-rotating lineup of collabs, and it’s no wonder people line up for a scoop. Or two. Or a whole pint.

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Ice cream sandwiches worth unhinging your jaw for

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EDITOR'S PICK

BEST burritos

I love going to Valencia Luncheria in the warmer months, sitting on the “beach” and trying something new. Their menu has so many options, it’s hard to choose!

Eileen Murphy, Editor, New Canaan, Darien + Rowayton

ABOVE Sweet or savory? At The Granola Bar, you don’t have to pick sides.

BEST breakfast // THE GRANOLA BAR

The Granola Bar is what happens when a breakfast spot decides it doesn’t have to choose between healthy and indulgent, and wins at both. It’s the kind of place where you can start your day with a turmeric latte, a breakfast burrito the size of your face or a parfait so good it has its own following (looking at you, Crunchy Elvis).

BEST CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

PopUp Bagels

1814 Post Rd., Fairfield | 12 Riversville Rd., Greenwich | 266 S. Main St., Newtown | 971 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-297-8819; popupbagels.com

BBQ

Hoodoo Brown BBQ 967 Ethan Alley Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-438-6033; hoodoobrownbbq.com

Bowls + Noodle Bar/ Noodles

Mecha Noodle Bar 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577; see all locations at mechanoodlebar.com

Burritos

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

Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles

1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841 | 219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-817-0707; see all locations at 16handles.com

Hamburgers + Family-Friendly

Little Pub

531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 | 41 Saugatuck Ave., Westport, 203-227-0511 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122;   see all locations at littlepub.com

Ice Cream Van Leeuwen

114 Heights Rd., Darien, 475-328-9289 | 375 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 475-275-0951 | 88 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-594-1288 | 31 Church Ln., Westport, 718-701-1630; see all locations at vanleeuwenicecream.com

Pizza

Colony Grill 1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-1989 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-5252 | 172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, 203-359-2184; see all locations at colonygrill.com

Salads Aux Délices 25 Old Kings Hwy., Darien, 203-662-1136 | 3 W. Elm St., Greenwich, 203-622-6644 | 1075 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-698-1066 | 1035 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-9600; auxdelicesfoods.com

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Try a kouign-amann or a cardamom bun, fondly referred to as Cardi-B

BEST bakery // FLOUR WATER SALT BREAD

Early mornings in Darien, Greenwich and now New Canaan, you’ll find locals queued up before the doors even open, eager to secure a loaf of Rob VanKeuren’s legendary sourdough. But getting to that bread is only half the battle. Once inside, you have to make it to checkout without giving in to the temptation from the cases stacked with flaky croissants, pillowy bomboloni or colossal coffee cake, and wanting one of everything.

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GARVIN BURKE

R EADERS � P ICKS

Spicy Miso Ramen with charred corn, scallion, egg, tofu and miso noodles

BEST asian / asian fusion

KAWA NI

The tables are close, the playlist superb, and when you hear that cowbell clang, you know you're in for a good night (sake bombs or not). It’s loud, lively and consistently delicious, thanks to a menu that riffs on Japanese izakaya fare but isn’t afraid to take detours.

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BEST DROP-IN SPOTS

Breakfast

The Granola Bar

1020 Post Rd., Darien, 475-328-0994 | 1876 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-692-4311 | 41 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-883-5220 | 700 Canal St., Stamford, 203-883-0304 | 275 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-0945; thegranolabar.com

Brunch + Café/Bistro

Terrain Garden Café

561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2732;  shopterrain.com

Coffee Shop

Coffee for Good 48 Maple Ave, Greenwich, 203-979-4898; coffeeforgood.org

Deli

Firehouse Deli 22 Reef Rd., Fairfield, 203-255.5527; firehousedelifairfield.com

Diner

Sherwood Diner 901 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-5535; sherwooddinerct.com

Food Truck

The Tasty Yolk storefront: 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311; thetastyyolk.com

Health/Organic Food

The Art Space Café 455 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-604-0309; thenorwalkartspace.org

Juice Bar + Vegetarian

Green & Tonic 7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-1376  |

665 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-345-0995 |

21 Forest St., New Canaan, 203-594-1851 |

17 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-557-6392; see all locations at greenandtonic.com

Lunch Spot

Spotted Horse Tavern

100 Commerce Dr., Shelton, 475-269-2648 | 26 Church Ln., Westport, 203-557-9393; spottedhorsect.com

EDITOR'S PICK

BEST diner

Sherwood Diner is Westport’s go-to; a local landmark with retro charm, a modern ever-changing menu that evolves without losing its roots—which is rare—and a spinach artichoke dip that gives Hillstone vibes. I'm there several times a week. I'll have “the usual," and they know exactly what that is.

Samantha Yanks, Editor, Westport, Weston & Wilton

BEST MARKETS+MORE

Bakery

Flour Water Salt Bread 20 Grove St., Darien | 160 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich | 53 East Ave., New Canaan; flourwatersaltbread.com

Butcher

Saugatuck Provisions 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-3655; saugatuckprovisions.com

Cakes/Cupcakes

The Cake Box

427 Main St., Ridgefield, 203-403-2558 | 10 Bay St, Westport, 203-557-0264; ctcakebox.com

Caterer

Marcia Selden Catering & Events 65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000; marciaselden.com

Chocolate Shop BE Chocolat 75 Hillside Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-5981; bechocolat.com

Desserts/Pastries

Raphaël's Bakery 146 Mason St., Greenwich, 203-485-0450; raphsbakery.com

Farmers Market/ Local Goods

Sport Hill Farm 596 Sport Hill Rd., Easton, 203-268-3137; sporthillfarm.com

Gourmet Grocery

Palmer’s Market

264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-2077; palmersdarien.com

Gourmet To Go

Aux Délices

25 Old Kings Hwy., Darien, 203-662-1136 | 3 W. Elm St., Greenwich, 203-622-6644 | 1075 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-698-1066 | 1035 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-9600; auxdelicesfoods.com

Liquor Store

Total Wine & More

380 Main St., Norwalk, 203-840-0007; see all locations at totalwine.com

Seafood Market

Fjord Fish Market

1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-9473 | 158 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-5006 | 22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200 | 1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-255-9331; see all locations at fjordfishmarket.com

Wine Shop

Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market

2094 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-4692; harryswine.com

PHOTO BY PAUL BICKFORD

BEST caterer MARCIA SELDEN CATERING

Known for their meticulous attention to detail and inventive menus— think tuna tartare cones, truffle mac and cheese bites and elegant spins on comfort food— the Selden team blends culinary finesse with crowdpleasing fun. Behind the scenes, they approach each event with the precision of a restaurant kitchen and the warmth of longtime hosts.

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Party-sized bites that capture New England summer

BEST margaritas // BARTACO

No shortcuts here; every margarita is made with freshly squeezed juice and hand-selected spirits, creating a drink that’s perfectly balanced, never fussy. It's not overly sweet, just solid, whether you’re keeping it classic, seeking something spicy or trying one of their seasonal specials. And when you’re sipping on the patio by the Saugatuck, with that salty rim and the cool water views, there is nothing better.

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A healthy cocktail? Bartaco’s Green Margarita blends pineapple, mango and spinach for a drink that feels almost too virtuous to be this good.

PHOTOS: BARTACO BY DAKOTA ROBERT ROSS; JOSIE & TONY'S BY COLIN CLARK R EADERS �

BEST BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection

Hop & Vine Taproom

30 Spring St., Stamford, 203-517-9047; hopandvinect.com

Margaritas bartaco

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

Martinis + Non-Alcoholic/ Mocktails + Wine List Josie & Tony’s 20 N. Main St., Norwalk; josieandtonys.com

Microbrewery

Two Roads Brewing 1700 Stratford Ave., Stratford; tworoadsbrewing.com

Mobile Bar + Pub

Little Pub 531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 | 41 Saugatuck Ave., Westport, 203-227-0511 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122;   see all locations at littlepub.com

Outdoor Bar

314 Beer Garden 314 Wilton Ave., Norwalk, 203-857-1516; 314beergarden.com

Restaurant Bar

Hudson Malone 323 Main St., Westport, 203-635-7400; hudsonmalone.com

Sports Bar

The Blind Rhino 3425 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-362-5001 | 15 N. Main St., South Norwalk, 203-956-7243; theblindrhino.com

Wine Bar

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

BEST martinis + non-alcoholic/mocktails + wine list // JOSIE

& TONY'S

You may need a member to get in the door, but it’s the drinks that make you want to stay all night. Behind the bar, James Lucchesi shakes things up with creative cocktails (try a Clarified Caprese or summer-ready Aperitiki options).On the wine side, owner and sommelier Josh Mesnik curates a 200-bottle list that leans heavy on Champagne, Burgundy and Italian stunners, with something for every mood and meal.

ABOVE

Owner Josh Mesnik named the restaurant after his grandparents.

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SHOP + STYLE

Why trek into the city when everything you need is right here? Skip the train, your next fashion fix, sparkling accessory or home upgrade is just around the corner. From chic finds on Greenwich Avenue to standout decor spots along the Post Road, these local gems prove you don’t have to go far to shop like a pro.

photograph by SERGIO KURHAJEC

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BEST men’s fashion + men’s shoes + women’s fashion

MITCHELLS/RICHARDS

With complimentary tailoring and trusted advisors who know your wardrobe as well as you do, Mitchells and Richards create a shopping experience that’s as refined as the collections they carry. It’s little wonder they remain a perennial favorite among discerning readers.

BELOW

Blue ombré silk wrap dress (her) and windowpane sportcoat (him), both by Kiton

BEST FASHION

Accessories + Teen Fashion

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

Consignment

Roundabout

48 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-552-0787 | 1061 High Ridge Rd, Stamford, 203-355-9250 | 606 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4334; roundaboutcouture.com

Department Store

Darien Sport Shop

1127 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2575; dariensportshop.com

Designer Boutique Togs

9 South Ave., New Canaan, 203-972-2871; togsct.com

Event Dresses/Bridal Gowns/Bridesmaid

Dresses

Marietta C. Designs

436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich; mariettac.com

Eyewear Warby Parker 122 Heights Rd., Ste. 218, Darien; 88-492-7297 | 344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 475-275-9684 | The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689; warbyparker.com and thesonocollection.com

Jeans B Chic 78 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-210-7037; bchicct.com

Lingerie + New Shop La Source 132 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-276-8886 | 44 Elm St., New Canaan, 475-558-9101; lovelasource.com

Luxe Leisurewear

Vuori

340 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 475-335-9098 | 166 Main St., Westport, 203-293-4613; vuoriclothing.com

Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Women’s Fashion Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; richards.mitchellstores.com and shop.mitchellstores.com

Swimwear

Everything But Water 84 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-1878; everythingbutwater.com

Women’s Shoes

Shoes ‘N’ More 251 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-2323 | 1074-1076 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7702 | 121 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-8484 | 275 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4224; see all locations at shoesnmore.com

BEST department store

DARIEN SPORT SHOP

Great for treating yourself or picking up the perfect gift, this family-run institution spans three floors with an expert edit of brands like Peter Millar, Ulla Johnson and Faherty.

R

BEST lingerie + new shop // LA SOURCE

Jessica Curtis Johnson’s chic boutique includes a selection of designer delicates, silk robes, cozy pajamas and sophisticated swimwear. Whether you need a consultation or self-care essentials, the staff’s specialized attention makes every visit feel personal and worth the stop.

THIS PHOTO

The Darien Commons location is awash is blush neutrals.

R EADERS � P ICKS

BEST JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry

Lux Bond & Green

136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com

Estate Jewelry

Steven Fox Jewelry 8 Lewis St, Greenwich, 203-302-9439; stevenfoxjewelry.com

Everyday Jewelry

JL Rocks

5 Riverside Ln., Greenwich, 203-990-0043 | 292 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-4541; jlrocks.com

Fine Jewelry

Shreve, Crump & Low 125 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-6205; shrevecrumpandlow.com

Selection of Local Designers

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

Special Occasion Jewelry

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

Watches

Manfredi Jewels

121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 866-610-0705 | 72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705; manfredijewels.com

Wedding/Engagement Rings

Henry C. Reid Jewelers 1591 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0447; hcreidjewelers.com

SHREVE, CRUMP

3.9

SHINE BRIGHT

BOLD STONES MEET PRECIOUS

MANFREDI JEWELS

winner of best watches

Hermès Kelly mini watch, $4,800; Montblanc Iced Sea Automatic Date 0 Oxygen, $3,660

BETTERIDGE

winner of best special occasion jewelry

Goshwara 18K Rose gold emerald cut lavender amethyst pendant, $1,850; 18K yellow gold emerald cut peridot pendant; $2,400

HENRY C. REID JEWELERS

winner of best wedding/ engagement rings

Hand-forged platinum engagement ring featuring a 2.76C radiant cut HSI2 diamond flanked by 1.04C trapezoid side stones, $49,870

14K yellow gold blue topaz tower earrings, $2,800 JL ROCKS winner of best everyday jewelry

EDITOR'S PICK

BEST decor

Beehive makes me want to be the kind of person who swaps out their decor for every holiday and season. Until then, I’ll keep popping in for inspiration, picking up the occasional perfect piece and chatting with the fabulous staff . Megan Gagnon, Editor,

ABOVE Barely-there hand-crafted glass railings ensure an unobstructed view from this vanishing edge pool.

BEST pool design // GLENGATE

From initial sketches to the final splash, Glengate handles every detail with the kind of design-first approach that turns a backyard into a private resort.

BEST HOME

Antiques/Vintage Store

Fairfield County Antique and Design 39 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-826 8575; fairfieldantiqueanddesign .com

Appliances

Aitoro

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

Closet/Organization

California Closets 48 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich | 565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-924-8444; californiaclosets.com

Decor

Beehive 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-955-1122; thebeehivefairfield.com

Fine Art Gallery

The Flinn Gallery 101 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-7947; flinngallery.com

Furniture

The Post 1799 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-292-5700; thepostct.com

Garden Center

Designs by Lee 129 Interlaken Rd., Stamford, 203-322-2206; designsbylee.com

Hardware + Windows/ Doors

Ring’s End 181 West Ave., Darien, 203-655-2525; see all locations at ringsend.com

Home Tech

Untangled 230 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-665-8221; theuntangledlife.com

Kitchen + Bath

Waterworks

23 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-7766; waterworks.com

Landscaping Services

Hoffman Landscapes 647 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-834-9656; hoffmanlandscapes.com

Lighting

Chloe Winston Lighting Design

68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686; chloewinstonlighting.com

Linens

The Linen Shop 21 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-0433; thelinenshopct.com

Outdoor Furniture

Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com

Paint

Farrow & Ball

32 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-422-0990; farrow-ball.com

Pool Design

Glengate

47 Old Ridgefield Rd, Wilton, 203-762-2000; glengatecompany.com

Rugs

Redi-Cut Carpets & Rugs

1620 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-6686; redicarpets.com

Stone

Gault Stone

11 Ferry Ln. W., Westport, 203-227-5181; gaultstone.com

athome in Fairfield County

BEST kitchen + bath WATERWORKS

Voted a reader favorite for good reason, this polished Post Road standout offers a refined selection of kitchen and bath fixtures, fittings and surfaces that seamlessly blend form and function. The space itself is thoughtfully designed to inspire, with vignettes that highlight the brand’s signature mix of timeless materials and modern craftsmanship.

THIS PHOTO

A bathroom board built around the Riverun integrated two-way thermo lever

R EADERS � P ICKS

SERVICES

+ TO-DOS

You’ve got things to do, places to be and maybe a few muscles that need loosening along the way. That’s where this year’s winners come in. From the facialist that locals swear by to the dog groomer who might just love your pup more than you do, these are the MVPs of everyday life—the fitness pros, beauty experts, family lifesavers and daily go-tos that keep your corner of the world running smoothly.

BEST makeup shop // BLUEMERCURY

Bluemercury is the beauty store for people who actually use their serums (and yes, we’ll happily take a sample). It’s packed with the heavy hitters; luxury skincare, the latest in makeup and its own M-61 line, a clinical-grade collection that’s built a loyal following for one simple reason: It works.

RIGHT

A countertop’s worth of glow-up gear

EDITOR'S PICK

BEST mani/pedi

For a pampering experience, I love the lavender pedicure at Posh in Darien. All spa pedicures include a foot massage, which is a relaxing bonus. The service is excellent, and I always run into someone I know.

Elizabeth Hole, Editor, Custom Publishing

BEST FITNESS + GEAR

Activewear

Athleta

350 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-625-0129 | 103-107 Main St., Westport, 203-454-0001; see all locations at athleta.gap.com

Barre

The Bar Method

800 Post Rd., Darien, 203-2020-7975 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-8825; barmethod.com

Bicycle Shop

Danny’s Cycles

1950 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-355-0002 | 1492 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-8488; all locations at dannyscycles.com

Crossfit + Fitness Studio + Gym

Carozza Fitness 316 Courtland Ave., Stamford, 203-561-0493; carozzafitness.com

Dance Studio

Conservatory of Dance 152 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 475-263-4870; conservatory-of-dance.com

Golf Equipment

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

Gym + Private Fitness

Training

Beyond Fitness

1051 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-842-2999; beyondfitness.studio

Indoor Cycling

Cycle x Strength 1010 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-617-1264; cycleandstrength.com

Pilates

Black Rock Pilates Studio 2889 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-335-1987; blackrockpilates.com

Specialty Fitness Studio

Greenwich Jiu Jitsu Academy 219 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 475-282-6825; greenwichjiujitsu.com

Yoga

Connecticut Power Yoga 1372 Summer St., Stamford, 203-539-1852; ctpoweryoga.com

ABOVE Both Delamar Spa locations use Biologique Recherche products for skincare appointments.

BEST PAMPERING

Blowout H Salon 75 Hillside Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsalonfairfield.com

Color + Women’s Styling/ Salon

The Color Café 23 Benedict Pl., Greenwich, 203-769-1929 | Color Cafe North, 456 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-642-4163; colorcafestudio.com

Day Spa

Noelle Spa 1100 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-3445; noelle.com

Eyebrow/Eyelash Services

Lanphier 20 West Ave., Darien, 203-656-4444; lanphier.us

Facial

BA Skin Lab 59 Grove St., Ste. 1A, New Canaan, 203-594-9898; baskinlab.com

Makeup Application Amber Papastavros Westport; amberpapastavros.com

Makeup Shop Bluemercury 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005 | 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-972-7100 | 57 Main St., Westport,

203-222-9222 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900; see all locations at bluemercury.com

Mani/Pedi

Posh Spa & Nail

1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454 |

195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099 | 401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-222-8830; poshct.com

Massage Delamar

500 Steamboat Rd., Greenwich, 203-661-9800 |

275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800; delamar.com

Medical Spa

Element Medical Aesthetics 80 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-1907 elementct.com

Men’s Styling/Salon

Paul Albert Salon

2060A Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-222-2250; paulalbertsalon.com

Spray Tan

Bronzed by Coy 231 Post Rd., Westport, 203-908-0184; bronzedbycoy.com

Waxing/Hair Removal

Aristy Beauty Studio 228 Mill St., Greenwich, 718-593-5525; aristybeautystudio.com

BEST DAILY ESSENTIALS

Auto Shop

JR Auto & Truck Repair 10 Orchard St., Fairfield, 203-588-0290; jrautoandtruck.com

Bookstore

Westport Book Shop 23 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-349-5141; westportbooksalesventures .org

Car Wash

Splash Car Wash

see all locations at splashcarwashes.com

CBD Store

Your CBD Store

38 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-489-2549 | 5 River Rd., Unit C01, Wilton, 203-210-7770; getsunmed.com

Dry Cleaners

Fabricare Cleaners

264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-3381 | 2130 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-2725 | 5 Holmes St., Norwalk, 203-229-0001 | pickup service in

Fairfield County, 203-229-0001; fabricarecleaners.net

Entertainment Venue

Westport County Playhouse 25 Powers Ct., Westport, 203-227-4177; westportplayhouse.org

Event Space

Darien Community

Association

274 Middlesex Rd., Darien, 203-655-9050; darienca.org

Event Space/Wedding

Reception Venue

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

Florist

Made Floral Bridgeport, 203-856-9604; madefloral.com

Gift Shop

She La La 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-9798 |

404 Main St., Ridgefield, 203-997-7008 |

Art Classes

Silvermine Arts Center 1037 Silvermine Rd., New Canaan, 203-966-9700; silvermineart.org

Children’s/Baby Decor Splurge 39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-869-7600; splurgegifts.com

Children’s Clothes Groove 115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-920-1700 |

280 Post Rd. E., Westport 203-557-8365; shelala.com

Livery Service

Rudy’s Executive Transportation 800-243-7839; rudylimo.com

Local Hotel

Delamar Southport

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

Pet Groomer/Pet Spa + Veterinarian

Spot On Vet 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768 | 950 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-303-9933; spotonvet.com

Dr. Philip Putter, DVM of Spot On Vet

Pet Supplies/Clothing

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

Portrait Photographer

Calderwood Photography Darien; calderwoodphotography.com

Wedding Photographer

Callalily Studios

110 Prospect St., Stamford, 203-550-0867; callalilystudios.com

Shoe Repair

Westfair Shoe Repair 1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587

Stationery/Formal Invitations

The Write Stuff 12 Sachem Rd., Weston, 203-227-9595; thewritestuffct.com

Storage Facility

Westy Self Storage 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777 |

50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234 | 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000 | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton 203-762-7600; see all locations at westy.com

Tailor

Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich; mariettac.com

420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111; shopgroove.net

Children’s Haircuts

BonBon Hair Studio 841 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-9969; bonbonhairstudio.com

Children’s Music Lessons

Wilton Music Studios 1 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-761-7787; wiltonmusicstudios.com

Children’s Parties

Totsy Turvy Café and Play 101 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-505-1045; totsyturvycafeandplay.fun

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

Nanny/Babysitting Services

Wee Care Nanny 203-359-8410; weecarenanny.com

Toy Store

Awesome Toys and Gifts

970 High Ridge Rd., Stamford | 429 Post Rd. E., Westport, 424-293-7663; awesometoys.com

Youth Fitness Training

Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000; sports.chelseapiers.com

OF NEW CANAAN

Blackbird

RESTAURANTS

Best Service

Roger Sherman Inn rogershermaninn.com

Business Lunch + Outdoor Dining + Seafood

The Rowayton Seafood Restaurant rowaytonseafood.com

Creative Menu + Special Occasion/ Date Night Restaurant L’Ostal restaurantlostal.com

Family-Friendly Restaurant

Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Hotel Restaurant + Private Dining/ Intimate Venue

Tavern at GrayBarns tavernatgraybarns.com

New Restaurant Blackbird zhospitalitygroup.com/blackbird

Steaks

The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES

American Elm elmrestaurant.com

Asian/Asian Fusion

Little Thai Kitchen littlethaikitchen.com

Chinese

Ching’s Table chingstable.com

French Restaurant L’Ostal restaurantlostal.com

Greek

Mykonos Kouzina mykonoskouzinanorwalk.com

Indian Chef Prasad chefprasad.com

Italian Papa Joe’s papajoesdarien.com

Japanese Hashi Sushi hashisushinewcanaan.com

Mediterranean Arden’s ardensrowayton.com

Mexican Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Middle Eastern Naya eatnaya.com

Sushi

Fjord Fish Market fjordfishmarket.com

Tapas

Pesca Peruvian Bistro pescaperuvianbistro.com

Thai Little Thai Kitchen littlethaikitchen.com

CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

Upper Crust Bagel Co. ucbcbagels.com

Bowls

Playa Bowls playabowls.com

Burritos Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Frozen Yogurt Swirl 203-594-9797

Hamburgers Blackbird zhospitalitygroup.com/blackbird

Ice Cream/Gelato Gofer Ice Cream gofericecream.com

Noodle Bar/Noodles Miyuki Noodle Shop miyukisnoodleshop.com

Pizza Locali localipizzabar.com

DROP-IN SPOTS

Breakfast The Granola Bar thegranolabar.com

Brunch + Lunch Spot Rosie rosienewcanaan.com

Café/Bistro Arden’s ardensrowayton.com

Coffee Shop Neat neatcoffee.com

Deli Uncle’s Deli unclesdeli.com

Diner New Canaan Diner 203-594-7595

Family-Friendly Restaurant Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Food Truck Tasty Yolk thetastyyolk.com

Health/Organic Food + Salads Greenology greenologykitchen.square.site

Juice Bar + Vegetarian Barvida thebarvida.com

MARKETS AND M ORE

Bakery Flour Water Salt Bread flourwatersaltbread.com

Butcher Shop New Canaan Butcher Shop newcanaanbutchershop.com

Cakes/Cupcakes + Gourmet Grocery + Gourmet To Go Palmer’s Market palmersdarien.com

Caterer Four Forks fourforks.net

Desserts/Pastries

Patisserie Salzburg patisseriesalzburg.com

Farmers Market/Local Goods

New Canaan Farmers Market newcanaanfarmersmarket.net

Liquor Store

Sipstirs sipstirs.com

Seafood Market

Fjord Fish Market fjordfishmarket.com

Wine Shop

New Canaan Wine Merchants newcanaanwine.com

BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection + Pub

The Goose thegoosedarien.com

Margaritas

Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Martinis

Tavern at GrayBarns tavernatgraybarns.com

N on-Alcoholic/Mocktails

The Waveny Bar & Grill thewavenypolobar.com

Restaurant Bar

Ten Twenty Post tentwentypost.com

S ports Bar

The White Buffalo thewhitebuffalo.net

Wine Bar

La Cave Wine Bar restaurantlostal.com/la-cave

Wine List

Spiga eatatspiga.com

FASHION

Accessories

Helen Ainson helenainson.com

B ridal/Event Dresses

A Little Something White alittlesomethingwhite.com

Consignment Shop

Double Exposure doubleexposureboutique.com

Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Shoes + Women’s Fashion Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com

Designer Boutique Togs togsct.com

Eyewear Eyes on Elm eyesonelmct.com

Jeans J. Crew jcrew.com

Lingerie + New Shop La Source lovelasource.com

Men’s Fashion Vineyard Vines vineyardvines.com

Swimwear

The Beach Corner thebeachcorner.net

Teen Fashion Magnolia @ magnoliadarien

Women’s Shoes Shoe-Inn shoeinn.com

JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry + Estate Jewelry + Selection of Local Designers + Special Occasion + Watches + Wedding/Engagement Rings Manfredi Jewels manfredijewels.com

Everyday Jewelry Pennyweights pennyweights.com

Fine Jewelry David Harvey davidharvey.com

HOME

Antiques & Vintage Found & Design foundanddesign.com

Closet/Organization Mayflower Home Organizing mayflowerhomeorganizing.com

Custom Kitchen Showroom True North Cabinets truenorthcabinets.net

Décor Adirondack Store & Gallery adkstore.com

Fine Art Gallery Geary Gallery gearygallery.com

Furniture Arhaus arhaus.com

Garden Center Nielsen’s nielsensflorist.com

Hardware Store + Paint + Ring’s End ringsend.com

H ome Tech Robert Allen Multimedia ramultimedia-ctny.com

L andscaping Chatham Green Landscapes chathamgreenlandscapes.com

L inens The Linen Shop thelinenshopct.com

Outdoor Furniture Seasons Too seasonstoo.com

Pool Design Swimm Pools swimmpools.com

Rugs Darien Carpet dariencarpet.com

S tone Bella Pietra 203-655-1322

PAMPERING

Blowout + Eyebrow/Eyelash Services + Makeup Application + Waxing/Hair Removal + Women’s Styling/Salon Lanphier lanphier.us

Color

CKC Salon ckcsalon.com

Cosmetic Spa Element Medical Aesthetics elementct.com

Day Spa

Egia Day Spa egiadayspa.com

Facial Ba Skin Lab baskinlab.com

Makeup Shop Bluemercury bluemercury.com

Manicure + Pedicure Posh Spa & Nail poshct.com

Massage New Beauty & Wellness newbeautywellness.com

Men’s Styling Hammer & Nails hammerandnailsgrooming.com

Spray Tan Goddess Glow goddessglow.glossgenius.com

FITNESS & GEAR

Activewear

Darien Running Company darienrunning.com

Barre The Bar Method barmethod.com

Bicycle Shop

Danny’s Cycles dannyscycles.com

Dance Fitness

Anna Kaiser Studios annakaiserstudios.com

Golf Equipment

Tri-Fit Custom Golf trifitgolf.com

Gym + Indoor Cycling Equinox equinox.com

Pilates

Club Pilates clubpilates.com

Private Fitness Training Evolution evolutionphysicaltherapy.com

Specialty Fitness Studio

Sama Yoga Center samayogacenter.com

Yoga Kaia Yoga kaiayoga.com

FAMILY LIFE

Art Classes Make-Modern make-modern.com

Child Care

The Impeccable Nanny Agency impeccablenannyct.com

C hildren’s/Baby Décor Wee Mondine weemondine.com

Children’s Clothes Wiggles & Giggles wigglesandgigglesshop.com

Children’s Haircuts BonBon Hair Studio bonbonhairstudio.com

Children’s Music Lessons

Jumpin’ Jams jumpinjams.com

Children’s Parties

Hands on Pottery hopct.com

Children’s/Youth Fitness

Darien YMCA darien-ymca.org

College Prep

Dunbar Educational Consultants dunbarconsultants.com

Toy Store

Darien Toy Box darientoybox.com

D AILY

E SSENTIALS

Auto Body Grant’s Auto Body grantsautobody.com

Bookstore Elm Street Books elmstreetbooks.com

Car Wash Splash splashcarwashes.com

CBD Store Your CBD Store getsunmed.com

Dry Cleaning Fabricare Cleaners fabricarecleaners.net

Entertainment Venue

The Playhouse playhouse.cinemalab.com

Event Space DCA Meadowlands dariendca.org/meadowlands

Event Space/ Wedding Venue

The Water’s Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com

Florist Earth Garden Flowers earthgardenflowers.com

Gift Shop

She La La shelala.com

Livery Service

Hoyt Livery Inc. hoytlivery.com

Local Hotel

The Inn at GrayBarns graybarns.com

Pet Supplies/Clothing

Pet Pantry Warehouse ppwpet.com

Portrait Photographer

Calderwood Photography calderwoodphotography.com

Wedding Photographer Andrea Carson Photography andreacarson.com

Shoe Repair

Darien Shoe Repair 203-655-6169

Stationery/Formal Invitations

The Whitney Shop thewhitneyshop.com

Storage

Hollow Tree Self Storage hollowtreestorage.com

Tailor

Greenfield Cleaners greenfieldcleanerct.com

Veterinarian

New Canaan Veterinary Hospital newcanaanvet.com

MEET FLOWCODE, THE NEXT GENERATION OF QR CODES

Go ahead, try it out. Point your phone’s camera at the Flowcode to scan.

Healthy Smiles

TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY 2025

Whether you need a simple check-up or dental surgery, selecting the right dentist is an important decision to make. Fairfield County has a wealth of leading practitioners, so we’ve streamlined the process by creating our 2025 Top Dentists Guide. To assemble the annual list we relied on the experts at topDentists™, who have more than seventy years in combined experience compiling peer review referral guides in the legal, dental and medical fields. The company recognizes elite dentists chosen by other dental professionals through a comprehensive selection process. With more than 200 local practitioners at the top of their field, our directory can help you find the right dentist in whatever specialty you need. »

Scan here to view our digital TOP DENTISTS LISTING!

DENTAL ANESTHESIOLOGY

ABRA DILISIO

Pediatric Dental Sedation Specialists of Connecticut 37 North Avenue, Norwalk 203-817-2534 pdssct.com

ENDODONTICS

BRIAN AMOROSO 259 Stillson Road, Fairfield 203-333-3636 amorosoendo.com

ALEXANDRA BYRNE 5 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-803-1849

TRISHA CHARLAND

Coastal Endodontics 148 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-857-1284 coastalendoct.com

JOEL B. CHASEN

Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Road, Stratford 203-377-1331 advancedendo-ct.com

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

Fairfield Shore Endodontics 61 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-255-3636 fairfieldrct.com

JOSHUA L. DEMBSKY

Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Road, Stratford 203-377-1331 advancedendo-ct.com

DAVID T. FONG

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

AGNES HERCEG

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

KATE HUZA

Huza Endodontics 115 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-445-6000 huzaendo.com

RUCHIKA JOON

Greater Danbury Center for Endodontics 360 Federal Road, Brookfield 203-775-3344 danburyendo.com

CAROLYN KILBRIDE

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk

120 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-635-6300 rootcanalnorwalk.com

PHILIP R. MASCIA

Greater Danbury Center for Endodontics 360 Federal Road, Brookfield 203-775-3344 danburyendo.com

JASMINE OGHAZ

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

DENNIS L. PIPHER

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk

120 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-635-6300 ctrootcanal.com

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

IRENE WONG

Fairfield Endodontics 999 Summer Street, Stamford 203-325-3636 fairfieldendo.com

JOSEPH A. ZERELLA

Zerella Endodontics 21 Sherman Court, Fairfield 203-553-9700 zerellaendo.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY

STEVEN ALTMAN

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Field Point Road, Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup. com

THOMAS ANZALONE

Integrity Dental of Greenwich 235 Glenville Road, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-531-5595 integritydentalgreenwich. com

JAMES T. ARIS

Advanced Dentistry of Wilton 436 Danbury Road, Wilton 203-762-5100 drjamesaris.com

JEFFREY A. BABUSHKIN

Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry 888 White Plains Road, Trumbull 203-268-5881 cpdentistry.com

JANETTE A. BLACK

69 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-255-1545 drscullyandblack.com

JAMES T. BOWMAN

70 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9506 jamestbowmandds.com

KENNETH N. BRODER 1275 Summer Street, Stamford 203-327-1167 drkenbroder.com

REBEKAH BROWDER

Westport Family Dental 489 Post Road East, Westport 203-254-8008 westportfamilydental.com

DIANA L. CARDONA

116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939

BRIJESH CHANDWANI

First Impressions Orthodontics for Children & Adults 493 Westport Avenue, Norwalk 203-292-9595 fairfieldorthodontist.com

DEIDRE CONDON

Newtown Family Dentistry 172 Mount Pleasant Road, Newtown 203-426-0045 newtownctdentist.com

CHARLES A. CRAPE

Center for Family Dental Health 435 New Haven Avenue, Milford 203-877-4511

MARLA DANIELS

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

PETER DANTINI

Dantini Dental of Stamford 12 Camp Avenue, Stamford 203-322-5397 dentistdds.com

ANDREA DEAN

Imperial Dental Associates 15 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-2520 imperaldentalassociates. com

VINCENT B. DEFINA

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

SANTO A. DELALLO

122 West Norwalk Road, Norwalk 203-855-8877

BARBARA J. DEVINE

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

JEANNINE DONAHUE Fairfield Dental Arts 320 Post Road, Fairfield 845-363-4312 fairfielddentalarts.com

SASHA DREXLER

Sasha Drexler Dentistry 1305 Post Road, Fairfield 203-255-5999 sashadrexlerdentistry.com

YOLANI P. EDIRISINGHE

Family Dentistry of Milford 53 Cherry Street, Milford 203-878-1766 familydentistrymilford.com

ELIOT S. ESSENFELD Vanlang & Essenfeld Family Dentistry 53 Old Kings Highway North, Darien 203-655-8887 dariendentists.com

WILLIAM J. FESSLER 116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939 wfesslerdds.com

ANTHONY T. FESTA New Canaan Dental Care 116 South Avenue, New Canaan 203-966-9696 newcanaandentalcare.com

CAMILLO L. FONTANA Fontana Family Dental Care 1100 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-333-4700 fontanafamilydentalcare. com

JOSEPHINE A. FRANZESE Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-493-0556 danajonesdds.com

ADAM J. FREEMAN

Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3709 westportdental.com

BRIAN A. FUSILLO Dental Associates of Connecticut 680 Bridgeport Avenue, Shelton 203-380-0660 dentalassociates.us

ROBERT GALELLA Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

MARILYN GENI

Imperial Dental Associates 15 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-2520 imperialdentalassociates.com

JEFFREY R. GENOVA

Ridgefield Dental Care 38B Grove Street, Ridgefield 203-438-0458 ridgefielddentalcarepc.com

MICHAEL D. GENTILE 49 Lake Avenue, Greenwich 203-869-2090

TAHA GHOMI Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

PAMELA A. GIBSON

Southport Family Dental 3530 Post Road, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

RISHI N. GOGATE

Dearfield Family Dentistry 2 ½ Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-717-1717 dearfielddentistry.com

GARRETT B. GOLISANO

Newtown Family Dentistry 172 Mount Pleasant Road, Newtown 203-426-0045 newtownctdentist.com

DANIELLE D. GOODWIN Goodwin Dental 31 River Road, Cos Cob 203-869-2552 dgoodwindds.com

KRISTY L. GRETZULA

Hawley Lane Dental 475 Hawley Lane, Stratford 203-377-9300 hawleylanedental.com

LOUIS V. GUARIGLIA East Avenue Dental Care 111 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-8585 eastavenuedentalcare.com

PAUL D. HARBOTTLE 162 East Avenue, New Canaan 203-972-0588 paulharbottle.com

MATTHEW HERBSTMAN

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

BETHANY HORBAL

Aesthetic Dentistry of Fairfield 2600 Post Road, Southport 475-271-2677 adfct.com

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI 45 Pine Street, New Canaan 203-966-5606 matthewjiwinskidds.com

DANA C. JONES

Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-493-0556 danajonesdds.com

THOMAS J. KAHL

Greater Danbury Community Health Center 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-743-8100 danburyhospital.org/finda-doctor

SUNDAS KHAN

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

MASHA KOGAN

The Dental Center of Westport 175 Post Road West, Westport 203-227-8700 dentalcenterwestport. com

ROBERT ANDREW KRAVECS, JR. Fairfield Dentistry 1817 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-335-8830 fairfielddmd.com

ALISON KUDISH Trumbull Dental Arts 160 Hawley Lane, Trumbull 203-377-0638 trumbulldentist.com

MARYANN E. LEHMANN 5 Brook Street, Darien 203-655-0021 maldds.com

MICHAEL LEVIN

Levin Dental 1171 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-637-5252 doclevindds.com

ZACHARY E. LINHART Linhart Dentistry 40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-661-2279 drlinhart.com

ALLISON LUBCHANSKY Dental Wellness of Fairfield County 4697 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-374-1027 dentalwellnessfc.com

ANDREW M. MARCUS Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 Barnum Avenue, Stratford 203-375-6090 goldbergmarcusdental.com

JACKQUELINE J. McLEAN Mclean Smiles 23 Hoyt Street, Stamford 203-327-6717 mcleansmiles.com

WAYNE A. MICHALKA Commerce Park Cosmetic Dentistry 4699 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-372-3726 commerceparkcosmetic dds.com

DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

DONALD W. MILLER Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry 1275 Post Road, Fairfield 203-255-6878 fairfieldcosmeticdentistry. com

DANIEL N. MINCHIK 148 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-4532 drminchik.com

ANDREW L. MOGELOF Mogelof Dental Group 2499 Main Street, Stratford 203-378-5588 drmogelof.com

SCOTT A. MOGELOF Mogelof Dental Group 2499 Main Street, Stratford 203-378-5588 drmogelof.com

CARLA M. MONTEIRO

Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 Barnum Avenue, Stratford 203-375-6090 goldbergmarcusdental. com

MARIANNE MORELLI 834 Federal Road, Brookfield 203-775-6167 drmorelli.com

GABRIELLA NOCERINO 1809 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-335-4413 michaelnocerinodds.com

MICHAEL A. NOCERINO 1809 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-335-4413 michaelnocerinodds.com

D. ASHLEY PACELLI 25 Valley Drive, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-625-0301 valleygreenwichdental. com

HEMAL PATEL Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

EDWARD D. PAUL 161 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3938 norwalkdentistoffice.com

DAVID A. PEREIRA Dental Arts of Darien 800 Post Road, Darien 3rd Floor 203-656-8079 dentalartsofdarien.com

MICHAEL J. PIZZO Ridgefield Cosmetic and General Dentistry 65 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-438-8866 ridgefielddentistry.com

DONALD A. POGODA Eight West End Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-637-0554

JOSHUA QUINBY New Fairfield Dental 132 State Route 37, Unit B, New Fairfield 203-746-5707 newfairfielddental.com

DUSTIN F. RABINE Rabine Family Dentistry 865 River Road, Shelton 203-375-1932 rabinefamilydentistry.com

MICHAEL RAUCH Rauch Dental Associates 91 Cherry Street, Milford 203-874-5577 themilforddentist.com

STEVEN M. REGENSTEIN Esthetic Dental Group of Westport 327 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3421 edgw.us

MARK S. ROISMAN 225 Main Street, Westport 203-227-6338 mywestportdentist.com

JOSEPH M. ROMANELLI 1411 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-384-6389

FRANK J. ROMANO 2240 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport 203-372-0881 romanodental.com

JON C. ROSENBLITT Rosenblitt Family Dentistry 251 Long Ridge Road, Stamford 203-348-1632 rosenblittdentistry.com

DAVID ROSH 1 Strawberry Hill Court, Stamford 203-359-2244 roshdental.com

ZACHARY M. ROTH Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

KEITH L. RUDOLPH 140 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-254-9533 drkeithrudolph.com

JOHN J. SCHINTO III Schinto Dental 2001 West Main Street, Stamford 203-978-1184 schintodental.com

JASON M. SCULLY 69 Sherman Street, Fairfield 203-255-1545 drscullyandblack.com

OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

CAROLINE A. SHENKER

Perfect Smiles of Fairfield 1817 Blackrock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-366-7655 perfectsmilesoffairfield. com

FRANCIS SHIN

25 Valley Drive, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-625-0301 valleygreenwichdental.com

JERRY M. SIMON

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

MICHAEL B. STEIN

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

JOSEPH P. SUAREZ

153 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-9997 josephsuarezdds.com

MARK R. SUTTON

Greenwich Dentistry

391 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-2066 greenwichdentistry.com

SEAN A. SUTTON

Greenwich Dentistry

391 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-2066 greenwichdentistry.com

JEFFREY A. TAMUCCI

5 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-0669 tamuccidds.com

DAVID J. THIBAULT

50 West Park Place, Stamford 203-324-4252 godental365.com

ROBERT N. TRAMPOSCH

Greenwich Smiles 25 Valley Drive, Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

DOUGLAS M. TREPP

The Town Practice 500 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich 203-869-9252 treppandmiller.com

GEORGE

TSANGAROULIS

Greenwich Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-633-4927 greenwichfamilydental.com

QUYNHCHI N. VANLANG

Vanlang & Essenfeld Family Dentistry 53 Old Kings Highway North, Darien 203-655-8887 dariendentists.com

JACK VAYNER

Vayner Family Dentistry 1735 Post Road, Fairfield 203-336-1275 vaynerfamilydentistry.com

MARK A. WALDMAN

Darien Dental Associates 106 Noroton Avenue, Unit 1, Darien 475-253-5919 dariendentalct.com

ROBERT S. WARREN

Brooklawn Dental Associates 990 Brooklawn Avenue, Bridgeport 203-335-6471 brooklawndental.com

STEVE WECHSLER

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-703-9370 thesteindentalgroup.com

DAVID J. WOHL

The Center for Aesthetic and Comprehensive Dentistry 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-255-4001 drdavidwohl.com

MASIS YETERIAN, JR.

My Creative Dentist 211 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-529-4217 dentist-greenwich.com

DAVID A. ZADIK

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Field Point Road, Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup.com

MARK L. ZAMAT 1200 Linden Avenue, Stratford 203-378-0182

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

GARRICK ALEX

Greenwich Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 6 Thorndal Circle, Darien 475-328-8500 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ABED ALKHATIB

Oral Surgery Associates 1305 Post Road, Fairfield 203-259-2665 oralsurgeryassociatesct. com

YAAKOV ALLAEB

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

MICHELE S. BERGEN Infinity Oral Surgery 49 Lake Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-4231 infinityoralsurgery.com

TODD E. BLOOM

Fairfield Oral Surgery

760 Kings Highway West, Southport 203-259-2227 fairfieldoralsurgery.com

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons 107 Newtown Road, Danbury 203-797-0012 aomspc.com

PAUL M. CIUCI

Milford & Derby Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 708 Boston Post Road, Milford 203-874-1664 ctomfs.com

JON COHEN

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

Northeast Implant & Oral Surgery 27 Hospital Avenue, Danbury 203-797-0008 neimplantandoralsurgery. com

NAUSHAD R. EDIBAM

Stamford Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Arts 27 Bridge Street, Stamford 203-325-2661 stamfordoms.com

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

The Facial Surgery Center 115 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-261-7800 drflorio.com

ROBERT HORNE

Oral Surgery Associates 4747 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-5595 oralsurgeryassociatesct. com

VASILIKI KARLIS

Maxillofacial Surgery of Greenwich 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-717-1222 maxfacsgreenwich.com

MARSHALL D. KURTZ

Greater Connecticut Oral & Dental Implant Surgery 129 Park Avenue, Danbury 203-790-0183 greaterctoralsurgery.com

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

New Canaan Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 166 Cherry Street, New Canaan 203-972-1581 newcanaanoralsurgery.com

ALAN R. RISSOLO

Oral Surgeons Associates 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-0500 norwalkdentalimplant.com

LOUIS V. THEODOS 52 Federal Road, Danbury 203-790-6288 drtheodos.com

MICHAEL F. TROFA

Norwalk Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants 148 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

JOSEPH F. WALLACE III Greenwich Oral Surgery 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

THOMAS B. WILSON

Greenwich Oral Surgery 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ROBERT M. YUDELL

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center of Stamford 90 Morgan Street, Stamford 203-327-9966 oralsurgeryofstamford.com

BRETT ZUCKMAN

Greenwich Oral Surgery 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

JOSHUA E. BAUM 241 Monroe Turnpike, Monroe 203-261-0650 baumbraces.com

FIGEN A. BAYDUR Baydur Orthodontics 1817 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-333-0050 drbaydur.com

JOHN S. BIBKO JB Orthodontics 346 Main Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-7806 jborthodontics.com

IAN BOLIN Bolin Orthodontics 44 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-762-2322 bolinortho.com

CASS D. BURRELL

CT Braces 3909 Main Street, Bridgeport 475-207-4587 ctbraces.com

STEPHEN N. CAGLIOSTRO Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1799 Post Road East, Westport 203-857-9475 westwalkortho.com

TIFFANY CHRISTENSEN

Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

ALIKA L. CREW

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-703-9370 thesteindentalgroup.com

SHYAM G. DESAI CT Braces 3909 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-374-1911 ctbraces.com

JEFFREY S. DRAYER

Stamford Orthodontics 999 Summer Street, Stamford 203-325-3331 stamfordortho.com

EMILY C. DRIESMAN Embrace Orthodontics 22 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-6061 westportortho.com

ALLISON ELLIS

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

PETER FEIBISH

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

ROBERT J. GALLOIS

Gallois Orthodontics 125 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-348-7571 drsfieldsandgalloisortho. com

STEVE GIANNOUTSOS

Georgetown Orthodontics 73 Redding Road, Georgetown 203-544-9338 georgetownorthodontics. com

GINA GILL

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

ROBERT B. GOLDMAN

Goldman Orthodontic Arts 1200 High Ridge Road, Stamford 203-329-2712 goldmanorthodontics.com

EROL GUND

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717

SCOTT L. KESSELMAN Riverside Orthodontics 1171 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-450-4969 riversideortho.net

MELISSA LANDIN Fairfield Beach Orthodontics 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-256-9500 fairfieldbeachortho.com

BLAINE J. LANGBERG 17 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-431-4466 braceyourselves.com

FERNANDA D. MARCHI Fairfield County Orthodontics 1275 Post Road, Fairfield 203-292-6644 bracesfairfield.com

GREGORY A. McKENNA McKenna Orthodontics 131 Deer Hill Avenue, Danbury 203-790-9155 mckennaortho.com

VICTOR PARDI Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Greenwich 1212 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-698-0794 childrensdentistry andorthodontics.com

M. BINA PARK 42 Sherwood Place, Greenwich 203-900-1111 drbinapark.com

MARY E. RITTER Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

GARY J. ROMEO Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1799 Post Road East, Westport 203-226-9579 westwalkortho.com

ROSEMARY RYAN Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

MONICA A. TEREDESAI Smile Art Orthodontics 126 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-210-7375 smileartortho.com

GARRICK F. WONG

453 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-625-9888 drgarrickfwong.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

HANNAH AHN

Around the World Pediatric Dentistry 2001 West Main Street, Stamford 203-489-2112 aroundtheworldsmiles.com

JESSICA CORRIEL

Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

ALEXI M. DAMASCUS

Ridgefield Pediatric Dentistry 22 Prospect Street, Ridgefield 203-403-3009 ridgefieldpd.com

JENNIFER D. EPSTEIN

Kids First Pediatric Dentistry 1478 Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-255-6851 kidsfirstdentistry.com

EMILY GABELER MANHEIMER

Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

ARIEL GINSBERG

Dental Care Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-884-0277 dentalcarestamford.com

LAURA HULING

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Newtown 203-426-5891 dentalassociates.us

SILVESTRO IOMMAZZO Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics of Greenwich 1212 East Putnam Avenue, Riverside 203-698-0794 childrensdentistryand orthodontics.com

JOHN IWASAKI Nuvance Health 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-739-8100 findcare.nuvancehealth.org

DURGESH A. KUDCHADKAR

Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-717-9668 dentalcarekids.com

GORDON K. LEE

Westport Pediatric Dentistry

305 Post Road East, Westport 203-226-5500 zerocavityzone.com

MEENAKSHI MADHU

Commerce Park

Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

GREGORY S.

MOKOTOFF

Kids First Pediatric Dentistry 1478 Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-255-6851 kidsfirstdentistry.com

MICHELLE NEVES

Sasco Pediatric Dentistry 1 Sasco Hill Road, Fairfi eld 475-256-5319 sascopediatricdentistry.com

ASHLEIGH SEBRO

Wilton Pediatric Dentistry 101 Old Ridgefi eld Road, Wilton 203-529-1242 wiltonpediatricdentistry. com

NAOMI SEDANI lil’ Dente Pediatric Dentistry 330 Post Road, Darien 203-309-0312 lildente.com

STEPHANIE JOSS SERPA

Kids First Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 1478 Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-307-1550 kidsfirstdentistry.com

SUSIE SHIM

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-733-9707 dentalassociates.us

ANNA SIMONIS New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry 65 Locust Avenue, New Canaan 203-594-9500 newcanaanpediatric dentistry.com

ANDREW SPADINGER Commerce Park Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics 4702 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-371-8282 commerceparkdental.com

GABRIELLE SYKOFF Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-409-9162 dentalcarekids.com

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

Dentistry for Children 1 Colony Place, Norwalk 203-838-4191 dentistryforchildrenct.com

LILIAN R. VIERA

Children’s Dental Care of Norwalk 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-5020 childrensdentalcareof norwalkllc.com

STACY ZARAKIOTIS ALEXANDROU

Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

PERIODONTICS

RICHARD F. AMATO

Advanced Periodontics & Dental Implants 324 Elm Street, Monroe 203-268-2000 connecticutperiodontist. com

LAWRENCE A. DELIBERO

115 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-966-1210 drdelibero.com

TERENCE S. JACKSON Periodontics & Implant Dentistry Center 47 Oak Street, Stamford 203-252-2252 stamfordperio.com

SELMA KAPLAN Periodontics & Dental Implants 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-442-9554 norwalkperio.com

SUNGEUN STEPHANIE KOO Fairfi eld County Implants & Periodontics 1047 Old Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-254-2006 sonickdmd.com

RUI “RAY” MA 1047 Old Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-254-2006 sonickdmd.com

JENNY MATHEWS 15 Roseville Road, Westport 203-227-8990 jennymathews-perio.com

BRETE D. MORAN 67 Cherry Street, Milford 203-876-0304 drbretemoran.com

RANDALL H. NEICHIN Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-409-8261 dentalcarestamford.com

RYAN J. PRICE

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com

E. J. TRAYNOR Traynor Periodontics & Implants 15 Valley Drive, Greenwich 203-661-5885 tpigreenwich.com

ALEXANDER VOLCHONOK 4 Dearfi eld Drive, Greenwich 203-293-9555 mytetrahealth.com

PERRY A. WASSERLAUF Fairfi eld Periodontics 71 Beach Road, Fairfi eld 203-255-7771 fairfieldperiodontics.com

PROSTHODONTICS

JOHN CORINO

Norwalk Dental Arts 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-854-9565 norwalkdentalarts.com

JACK DEGRADO

Stamford Dental Group 47 Oak Street, Stamford 203-325-4700 stamforddentalgroup.com

MARIE E. FALCONE

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-836-2744 dentalspecialistsofdarien. com

KIMBERLY A. FARRELL Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3709 westportdental.com

CHRISTINE LEE

Aesthetic Dentistry of Fairfi eld 2600 Post Road, Southport 475-258-7683 adfct.com

JEFFREY D. O’CONNELL Gold Coast Dental 1177 Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-292-9292 goldcoastdentalpros.com

MIN SUNG YOON

Evergreen Family Dental & Southbury Smiles 1300 Post Road, Fairfi eld 203-259-7870 evergreenfamilydentalgroup. com

WILLIAM ZAPATA

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-408-2720 dentalspecialistsofdarien.com

Top Dentists

The Process Behind the List

To create our Top Dentists directory, we utilized the experts at topDentists™, which has more than seventy years in combined experience compiling peer-review referral guides in the legal, dental and medical fields. The research company, which started topDentists in 2007, uses a thorough selection process to recognize dentists who are chosen by other dental professionals.

INTRODUCTION

This list is excerpted from the 2025 topDentists™ list, a database that includes listings of more than 210 dentists and specialists in the Fairfield County area. The list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dental professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at usatopdentists.com. For more information, call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903 or visit usatopdentists.com.

SELECTION PROCESS

“If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of all dentists listed online with the American Dental Association as well as dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peer’s work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given a careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received and status in various dental academies can play a factor in our decision.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate, and useful list of dentists available anywhere

Disclaimer

This list is excerpted from 2025 the topDentists™ list, which includes listings for over 210 dentists and specialists in the Fairfield County area. For more information, call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@usatopdentists.com or visit usatopdentists.com. topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010-2025 by topDentists, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

PROFILES 2025 Dental

Health Focus

When it comes to overall health and well-being, maintaining a healthy mouth, teeth and gums plays a vital role. Regular dental care can decrease your risk of having serious issues such as a stroke or heart attack, as well as problems including gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis. Finding the right dentist can be a challenge, so we’ve made it easier for you. The following pages introduce some of Fairfield County’s most prominent dental professionals who put your health first. Choose a trusted individual to provide you and your family with the utmost care you deserve. When you focus on your health, you’ll always have a reason to smile.

Dr. David A. Pereira, DDS

DENTAL ARTS OF DARIEN

SPECIALTY: General Dentistry

800 Post Road, 3rd Floor, Darien, CT 06820 (203)656-8079 dentalartsofdarien.com

Dr. David A. Pereira has been helping patients achieve healthy, functional and beautiful smiles for almost 11 years.

Raised in a family of physicians and dental professionals, Dr. Pereira has always had a natural passion and commitment to helping people live healthier and happier lives. This is apparent in his excellent academic and professional achievements, his compassionate bed side manner and extensive knowledge of dentistry and medicine.

A graduate of New York University College of Dentistry, Dr. Pereira has additional training from the Departments of Implantology and Orthodontics. While at NYU, Dr. Pereira served as a member of the peer review board which is dedicated to the maintenance of high ethical dental standards at the college.

Upon graduating from NYU, Dr. Pereira spent two years in an apprenticeship at Greenwich Cosmetic Dentistry, fine tuning his skills and utilizing the resources of an in-house dental lab to achieve ideal patient results. He has completed the Invisalign Orthodontic Provider Program.

Dental Arts of Darien has invested over a million dollars in advanced dental technology. From drill free, no shot lasers for children, to same day crowns with our in house lab, for time crunched adults.

Dr. Pereira remains dedicated to continuing education in an effort to provide his patients with the highest standard of dental care using advanced techniques, materials and technology. He spends over 30 days per year attending post graduate education courses on a wide range of dental topics, treatments and procedures.

Professional Affiliations

• American Dental Association

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

• International Congress of Implantology, Fellow

Dr. Pereira enjoys spending free time with family and friends. He currently lives in Darien, CT. He is an avid surfer and a licensed pilot for small aircraft. Dr. Pereira is fluent in Spanish and enjoys participating in the Give Back A Smile campaign which is dedicated to restoring the damaged smiles of domestic abuse victims nationwide.

Randy Matusow Photography

2025 | Dental PROFILES

JACK DEGRADO, D.D.S.

STAMFORD DENTAL GROUP, LLC

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics: Specializes in Complex, Restorative and Implant Dentistry

47 Oak Street, Suite 220, Stamford, CT

203.325.4700

stamforddentalgroup.com

info@stamforddentalgroup.com

DR. JACK DEGRADO is an experienced dentist who has served the New York and Stamford communities for over 30 years. He graduated from Columbia College of Dental Medicine and trained in implantology at Brookdale University Hospital, followed by a specialty in prosthodontics at Montefiore Medical Center. He founded Stamford Dental Group over 25 years ago; today, his practice includes three passionate dentists specializing in prosthodontics who are certified experts in restoring and replacing teeth. With his experience, Dr. DeGrado is recognized as a specialist in complex implant cases as well as replacement of teeth. His goal is to provide beautiful smiles to people suffering with difficulty chewing, dentures, or loss of teeth.

Stamford Dental Group offers Teeth in One Day, which includes placement of implants and fixed teeth, for immediate improvement. Dr. DeGrado states that “They fit, feel and function like natural teeth. It’s a life changing procedure.”

Stamford Dental Group is a state-of-the-art practice that uses the latest technologies and complies with strict CDC guidelines.

The 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography

(CBCT) is used for diagnostics, while the advanced laser technology is used to do painless fillings without anesthesia and gum surgery with minimal discomfort. They also use a modern digital scanner for patient comfort and increased accuracy.

Dr. DeGrado believes that “Great patient care goes hand-in-hand with customer service. From the minute people walk in, they see a difference.”

The entire team at Stamford Dental Group is focused on patients’ needs.

That is also why a lot of time is spent during the initial consultation, to understand each patients’ situation and their goals.

Dr. DeGrado also believes in giving back to the community.

For 5 years, he has held a Dentistry from the Heart event at this office and donated free dental care to those in need. He also supports the Food Bank of Fairfield County and Operation Smile, which provides corrective surgeries for children with facial deformities.

Whether you are interested in natural-looking tooth replacement options, repairing badly damaged teeth or improving your smile, his office can develop a plan tailored to your exact needs.

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS OF GREENWICH

1212 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT

203.698.0794

childrensdentistryandorthodontics.com

Silvestro Iommazzo, DDS & Victor Pardi, DDS

Why did you choose your specialty?

As a specialist in pediatric dentistry, Dr. Iommazzo cares for the oral health of children from infancy to early adult. As a specialist in orthodontics Dr. Pardi supports patients by improving their smiles and selfesteem, in addition to correcting even the most complex bite problems. We both have different passions but strive to do all we can for our patients.

35+ Years of Trusted Experience

What sets you apart from your competition?

Our practice has continued to serve our community for over thirty years. We provide state-of-the-art treatment in all phases of pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, including emergency service 24-7. We are constantly engaged in continuing education to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies to best serve our patients and families.

With over 35 years of combined orthodontic experience, Dr. Kesselman and Dr. Ellis bring an unmatched depth of knowledge and expertise to each patient. Their long-standing commitment to excellence is re ected in every smile they create.

Meet Dr. Scott Kesselman and Dr. Allison Ellis

Respected leaders in orthodontic care, proudly serving the Riverside and Greenwich communities. Riverside Orthodontics is a top-tier aligner provider, known for delivering exceptional results with a personalized touch. Both doctors stay closely connected to their academic roots, actively engaging with alumni networks to stay current with the latest advancements in orthodontics. Their commitment extends beyond the of ce—they are proud participants in local Greenwich community initiatives, highlighting their passion for both clinical excellence and community well-being.

A Family-Friendly Practice

At Riverside Orthodontics, our patients are like family. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality orthodontic care in a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels appreciated. From the moment you walk through our doors, we strive to make every visit comfortable, relaxed, and positive for patients of all ages.

Modern Care with a Personal Touch

We blend proven techniques with thoughtfully selected advancements in orthodontic technology to deliver ef cient, customized treatment plans. Our focus is on what works best for each individual—because great results should always come with great care.

NEW CANAAN PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

SPECIALTY: PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

65 Locust Ave #10, New Canaan, CT 06840

203.594.9500

newcanaanpediatricdentistry.com

Anna Simonis, DDS

Dr. Anna received her Doctorate in Dental Surgery from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in 2002. She furthered her education to pursue a certificate of Specialty in Pediatric Dentistry at Maimonides Medical Center in New York, where she served as Chief Resident and where she provided comprehensive clinical care for children. At Columbia University she led her peers as class president for three years and then delivered the Salutatorian speech at graduation. During her time at Columbia University, in her spare time she joined a team with Healing the Children Northeast where she provided care to underprivileged communities in Ecuador. After residency, her private practice experience as a pediatric dentist began on Long Island and Westchester, eventually landing in her permanent New Canaan office, which she proud to say, built from the ground up and has expanded it into the success it has become today. Just this year, she added an associate, Dr. Michaela Matos, to her practice. She is a proud and active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, which she has been honored and proud to have performed our country’s National Anthem, as a keynote to open its conventions over the past few years. She is also active with the American Dental Association, Connecticut State Dental Association, New Canaan Dental Society and is Board Certified with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. In the past she has served on some of the local town boards such as the New Canaan Chamber of Commerce and New Canaan Cares and is currently on the Board for the New Canaan Daycare Center. She also holds a certificate in Health Coaching from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, which she pursued in 2021, to expand and complement her scope of services.

Dr. Anna, who lives in New Canaan, adores spending time with her family, including husband Dennis, her 17-year-old

son, Niko, who is a rising senior at New Canaan High School and her two dogs, Barkley and Leo. Niko has also been an active participant in the community for various activities and sports and is

currently working between her office and as a teacher at the Daycare Center of New Canaan. She is overly outspoken of the success of the local community and the fabric in which we all call home.

LEVITT PAVILION FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS ON SALE NOW

JUL 11 UMPHREY'S MCGEE

JUL 13 MICHAEL FRANTI & SPEARHEAD

JUL 16 I’M WITH HER W/ KEN POMEROY

JUL 19 DARK STAR ORCHESTRA

JUL 22 SIERRA HULL

AUG 10 THE WOOD BROTHERS W/ MASON VIA

AUG 20 JOSH RITTER & THE ROYAL CITY BAND W/ BHI BHIMAN

AUG 22 JOHN OATES & THE GOOD ROAD BAND MORE SHOWS TO BE ANNOUNCED!

PLUS... OVER 50 SHOWS PRESENTED FREE-OF-CHARGE

coming up next at the play house

JULY 9

Meet the real Carrie Bradshaw in her one-woman show!

JULY 11

Part of the Barnstormer Series, held in the Lucille Lortel White Barn Center.

JULY 14

One of the classic films screening at the Playhouse this summer!

JULY 16

An evening of song by four-time Grammy Award winner and one of the country’s pre-eminent singersongwriters.

JULY 20

The Grammy Award-winning Bluegrass/Americana band from Asheville, NC.

EVENT SPONSORS: ROZ & BUD SIEGEL

JULY 24-26

A Concert Celebration of the Great Musicals of Stage and Screen. 4 performances only!

Single tickets for the 2025-2026 season - on sale to the public TUESDAY, JULY 15!

REGISTRATION OPEN! Playhouse Golf Tournament at Birchwood Country Club in Westport - MONDAY, JULY 21!

Scan for a full list of events!

postscript

For more than a century, 101 Rowayton Avenue has served as a cornerstone of the local community. This historic building, once home to Rowayton’s first library and the original Rowayton Arts Center, has led many lives. But since 1988, it’s been the beloved ice cream and sandwich shop opened by Brendan McGee. While 101 serves as a vibrant centerpiece of Rowayton activity year-round, nothing screams summer like snagging an outdoor table and enjoying a double scoop.

by eileen murphy • photograph by venera alexandrova

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