New Canaan-Darien Magazine, May/June 2019

OVER 185 WINNERS REVEALED!

M O F F LY M E D I A

GENERATION VAPE

ARE YOUR KIDS DOING IT? CHILLING AT HOME

TATA HARPER’S NEW DIGS

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

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contents MAY/JUNE 2019 vol. 19 | issue 3

features

departments

54

10 EDITOR’S LETTER

NATURAL BEAUTY

13 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ Q&As with our first selectmen in New Canaan and Darien; How to know if your kids are vaping; HAYVN, a new coworking space in Darien.

SHOP Gifts for mom and dad.

HOME Thirty years of Chuck Hilton; Detoxify your home; How to make your kitchen smarter.

GO Modern updates galore at the Blantyre Resort; We test the Mercedes C300.

DO A walk through Pound Ridge.

EAT Caffe Social’s comfort food; A sake tasting.

A peek into Tata Harper’s new life in New Canaan by ju l e e k a pl an

58

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST 2019 The results of our annual readers’ poll are in. Here, the top spots for food, style and more.

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49 PEOPLE & PLACES

BEST OF NEW CANAAN, DARIEN AND ROWAYTON

The Depot Darien Darien Arts Center Moffly Media’s Be Well 111 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

A detailed listing of the best of the best in our towns.

112 LAST WORD

Henri Helander and Jeanne Bloom, co-owners of To and From in Darien, winner of Best Manicure/ Pedicure in Fairfield County.

96 c ove r : phot o by thom as mc g overn

|

t h is page: ph ot o by eri n pea rlm a n

NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAY/JUNE 2019, VOL. 19, NO. 3. NEW CANAAN • DARIEN & ROWAYTON (ISSN 1942-1028) is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St, Westport, CT 06880. Periodical postage paid at Westport, CT, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to NEW CANAAN PO BOX 9309, Big Sandy, TX 75755-9607. U.S. Subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues), $32.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign $40/1 year, $66/2 years. newcanaandarienmag.com

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G

ardens designed to grow memories too

We believe great properties create great experiences – where family memories take root and blossom.

This all starts with a vision for your landscape, gardens, and pool. So, one of our landscape architects or garden designers walks your property with you – sketchpad in hand – capturing ideas, possibilities, and future memories. To schedule your no-obligation in-person consultation, call us at 203.762.2000 or email Design@GlengateCompany.com

WI LTON, CONNECTI CU T

Landscape Architecture & Construction

Garden Design & Installation

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DEPOT DARIEN PHOTO BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE, BOB CAPAZZO; DARIEN ARTS CENTER PHOTOS BY DIANE FARRELL; MOFFLY MEDIA: BE WELL! PHOTOS BY MELANI LUST; CONTENT, HICKORIES FARM BY JULIE BIDWELL; L’ESCALE BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

MAY/JUNE 2019

VOLUME 19

ISSUE 3

MAY/JUNE 2019

sales

creative director Amy Vischio

publisher, new canaan - darien Lisa Hingst

editorial

categories: automotive/builders/landscape/

executive editor Cristin Marandino

sports & fitness

editor Julee Kaplan publisher, greenwich Trish Kirsch

market editor Megan Gagnon advisory editor Donna Moffly

publisher, stamford Karen Kelly

assistant editor Joey Macari

category: travel

art art director Kim Gilby senior art director Venera Alexandrova senior art director/status report Garvin Burke contributing art director/Farifield Living Tim Carr production director Kerri Rak design assistant Taylor Stroili

publisher, westport Gabriella Mays categories: architects/interior design/home furnishing/ art & collectibles sales directors

Jennifer Petersen category: jewelry

contributors editors Camilla A. Herrera - editor, stamford Diane Sembrot - editor, fairfield living; westport

Monique de Boer categories: fashion and beauty

Stephanie Delaney regional account executive, southeast category: regional travel

writers Julia Dzafic, Kim-Marie Evans, Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick, Valerie Foster, Malia McKinnon Frame, Chris Hodenfield, Elizabeth Hole, Jill Johnson, Elizabeth Keyser, Anna Lane

Jennifer Frank categories: doctors/dentists/finance/insurance/ business consulting

copy editors

Rick Johnson

Terry Christofferson, Meg Parsont

categories: real estate/lawyers

editorial advisory board

Ellyn Weitzman

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

categories: restaurants/wine & spirits/catering

Hilary Hotchkiss category: schools & universities

photographers Jane Beiles, Dave Coppola, Erin Kestenbaum

marketing

illustrator

executive director, event marketing Laurinda Finelli

Jessica Stephen-Kuser

partnership manager Kathleen Godbold strategic marketing director Wendy Horwitz

digital digital media manager Amber Scinto digital editor Diane Sembrot

creative services art director Molly Cottingham

business business manager Elena Moffly president Jonathan W. Moffly vice president/editorial & design Amy Vischio vice president/finance & operations/ vice president/treasurer Elena Moffly cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

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

TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please e-mail us at subscribe@ncdmag.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to New Canaan - Darien magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues); $34.95/2 years (12 issues); $44.95/3 years (18 issues). Canada and foreign, US $36/year. Prices are subject to change without notice. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. Š2019 New Canaan - Darien magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media.

The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by New Canaan - Darien magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine.

FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS, please call 203-571-1645 or e-mail reprints@mofflymedia.com

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thank you for voting us best of the gold coast 848 High Ridge Rd. Stamford, CT 203.322.8483 noblesalon.com

editor’s letter

MAY/JUNE 2019 / JULEE KAPLAN

GOLD RUSH

O

above: Ca co-own tching up with er, Mas ha Glaze Gray Barns r

N the PARTY JOI M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

kay, we’ve done it. Summer starts now. Sure, it’s technically still spring, but who isn’t ready for warmer months by the water, grilling, picnics in the park? For the first time in its 15-year history, we have moved our Best of the Gold Coast contest up to our May/June issue, just in time to kick off summer.

And here we have it. The winners—185 of them—listed right here in these pages. From the best place to get a steak to the greatest little shop to pick up a wedding gift, they’re all right here. All the winners, voted on by you, our readers.

And even better, we are all about our towns.

We highlight the best of the best in New Canaan, Darien, Rowayton and really, all of Norwalk. So check it out, and grab a non-toxic mani at To and From in Darien (they’re amazing), have a drink (or two) at South End Uncorked in New Canaan and hit up She La La for that perfect monogramed hostess gift.

To purchase tickets for our Summer of Gold event on May 30, go to bestofthegoldcoastct.com/party

newcanaandarienmag.com

10

Also in this issue, I was so lucky to be invited into the new New Canaan home of non-toxic skincare extraordinaire Tata Harper. Sitting and chatting with her was truly something special. She shared her love of New Canaan and why she chose to move here, as well as some summer skincare tips you aren’t going to want to miss.

Once you’ve digested everything this issue has to offer, we hope you will join us on May 30 at the Greenwich Hyatt where we will celebrate all of the of winners of the 2019 Best of the Gold Coast. Tickets are on sale now.

We can’t wait to see you there.

Cheers!

julee.kaplan@moffly.com

PHOTO BY GARVIN BURKE; GRAY BARNS BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @NCDMAG

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buzz STATUS REPORT

TALK OF THE TOWNS

NEW CANAAN’S AND DARIEN’S TOWN LEADERS REVIEW CHALLENGES AND PRESENT TACTICS ON HOW THEY WILL BE OVERCOME by julee kapl an | illustr ations by jessica stephen-kuser

Waveny Park

Pear Tree Point Beach

KEVIN J. MOYNIHAN, First Selectman, New Canaan WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT NEW CANAAN? New Canaan is thriving with young families. Our culture of academic and athletic achievement, volunteerism and caring is what makes New Canaan a special place for families as well as our retired senior community.

HEADSHOTS CONTRIBUTED

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TOWN’S BIGGEST CHALLENGES? Large retail spaces present a challenge for commercial landlords due to online shopping habits and national retail trends. The anticipated arrival of a large new shopping mall coming to Norwalk in 2020 will add to the challenge.

Fortunately, our range of smaller shops provide a great experiential counter weight to these challenges.

HOW DO YOU THINK NEW CANAAN CAN IMPROVE? We have many treasures in New Canaan that are “best kept secrets,” even to our residents.

The Philip Johnson Glass House,

JAYME STEVENSON, First Selectman, Darien WHAT EXCITES YOU MOST ABOUT DARIEN? With three large commercial redevelopment projects approved, we are excited about the addition of new retail, restaurants and housing.

Our commitment to preserving open space, sustainability and community health and wellness make us the kind of town families and businesses desire.

Grace Farms, a large collection of mid-century modern homes and an award-winning summer theater. Many residents don’t know that our Land Trust has protected almost 400 acres of open space over the past 50 years or that Waveny Park Conservancy is enhancing the natural beauty of Waveny Park. Our new Tourism and Economic Development Committee is also looking for ways to make New Canaan’s treasures more accessible to residents and visitors.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE TOWN’S BIGGEST CHALLENGES? There are new laws working their way through the legislative process that will have varying degrees of impact on local government structure and finance.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE CONSIDERING A MOVE TO NEW CANAAN? We have so much to offer young families looking to relocate— top-rated schools, state-of-the-art athletics fields, exceptional parks, playgrounds, clubs, an abundance of family-oriented activities and low real estate taxes compared to many suburbs. Our quintessential New England village is the envy of Fairfield County in offering a variety of shops, personal service outlets, excellent restaurants, a movie theater and more.

HOW DO YOU THINK DARIEN CAN IMPROVE? The Board of Selectmen is continually seeking feedback from residents and businesses regarding services or projects that will improve our town. We have made significant investments in town and

MAY/JUNE 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

13

school infrastructure including a new elementary school, pedestrian amenities like sidewalks and traffic signals, upgrades to beach and park facilities and programming for our residents such as a stateof-the-art senior center. We take seriously our impact on the environment and have created a best-in-class recycling center, installed solar technology on most public buildings, expanded access to natural gas and are participating in the SustainableCT initiative.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO IS CONSIDERING A MOVE TO DARIEN? We are a caring community, perfectly suited for families and those looking for a suburban environment. We have volunteers working with elected officials to deliver sound fiscal policy and services in the most cost-efficient way. Our parks, beaches, excellent public schools, short commute to New York City and small New England town character provide an exceptional living experience.

buzz

GENERATION VAPE IS YOUR KID USING E-CIGARETTES? WHAT EVERY PARENT NEEDS TO KNOW by beth c o oney fitzpatrick

That trend is worrisome to Fairfield County health experts, who point out that because most vaping products—especially ultra-popular JUULs—contain high doses of nicotine, kids are getting hooked on a substance that can pave the way for future addictive behaviors.

“The problem with teens is that they often see [vaping] as a cleaner, safer alternative to smoking,” says Dr. Christopher Iannuzzi, medical director of radiation oncology and chair of the oncology department at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport. “The products have these appealing flavors and coupled with the idea that [they

above: Samples of rechargeable e-cigarette paraphernalia

are] safe, it’s easy for even the smartest kids to think it’s okay to do.”

Yet there’s nothing safe, clean or smart about inhaling nicotine vapors. Dr. Michael Bernstein, associate director of pulmonary medicine at Stamford Hospital, points to research that suggests that vaping is a “gateway habit” that can ultimately lead kids to smoke regular cigarettes.

Along with Dr. Iannuzzi, he also points out that vaping products

PAY ATTENTION

Straight Talk

A few subtle clues that might indicate your child is vaping FREQUENT ILLNESS Dr. Bernstein says vapers of any age tend to have more infections and pneumonias.

OTHER STRANGE SYMPTOMS These include mouth wounds, bad headaches or an unusual cough.

BEHAVIORAL CHANGES Nicotine alters mood and attention span, says Dr. Iannuzzi. Slipping grades or comments from teachers about diminished classroom focus could be warnings. Dr. Bernstein adds nicotine is a stimulant that makes kids hyper. Ask yourself, “Are they fidgety? Do they frequently go outside the way someone might do to have a cigarette?”

“VAPER’S TONGUE” Vaping diminishes the taste buds. Watch if kids are reaching for the salt shaker more or opting for spicier food choices.

EXTREME THIRST Propylene glycol, one of the chemicals in e-cigarette delivery systems, is dehydrating. Vapers may crave more fluids.

NOSEBLEEDS Vaping tends to dry out the nasal passages.

are saturated in chemicals that pose additional potential risks. “The idea that you are breathing in something soaked in formaldehyde into your lungs can’t have good long-term health outcomes,” says Dr. Bernstein.

Vaping is also challenging for the most vigilant parent to detect because it’s a habit that can be easily concealed. “You can’t really smell it; it can be incredibly hard to know if your kid is doing this,” says Dr. Bernstein.

CAFFEINE AVOIDANCE Note if your kid had a Starbucks or cola habit they’ve recently ditched. Vapers often develop an unusual aversion to caffeine.

UNFAMILIAR EQUIPMENT E-cigarettes do not look like your old-school butt. They are made in assorted shapes and sizes—the latest generation is typically made with stainless steel—and come in parts, including USB drives, atomizers, heads, chargers and small containers (called pods) that contain e-juice.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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When discussing the dangers of vaping with teens, delivery is key. The doctors— Dr. Iannuzzi is the parent of teens—suggest a straightforward approach.

BE HONEST ABOUT ADDICTION “Have an honest conversation about the health effects and what it could lead to in the future,” says Dr. Iannuzzi. “The one thing I would really stress is addiction, the idea that this is a gateway habit that has its own harmful effects and could lead to other unhealthy habits.”

SPELL OUT THE HEALTH RISKS Dr. Bernstein stresses the “clear-andpresent-danger” approach. “You can have a conversation with kids about drinking and driving where we all know it’s dangerous and people die from it,” he says. “While the consequences of vaping are not that immediate, the addiction aspect is. And that’s where people get into trouble”

PHOTO © EXCALIBURMEDIA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

W

hile parents of today’s adolescents can pat themselves on the back for raising a generation of kids who shun cigarettes, too many teens are still getting hooked on nicotine by using e-cigarettes or vaping.

Last December, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reported that a record 37 percent of high school seniors had vaped in the last twelve months, one of the biggest and most disturbing increases ever reported in its annual Monitoring the Future survey of teens. Other research suggests some 16 percent of middle and high school students now regularly vape.

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ELEGANT GATED ESTATE | NEW CANAAN Seasonal views of Laurel Reservoir. Rich architectural details, perfect symmetry and optimally designed for formal entertaining both inside and out. $3,495,000 | MLS# 170173968 | Hannelore & Company | 203.966.3555

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A TURN-KEY STUNNER | DARIEN

This ‘’Stellar Home’’ built in 2014 and upgraded in 2018 showcases the best of today’s sleek and stylish finishes along with energy efficient construction. $2,125,000 | MLS# 170159045 | DNA Properties | 203.966.3555

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buzz

GET TO WORK

HAYVN BRINGS THE COWORKING CONNECTION TO DARIEN by eliz abeth hole

F

or locals needing an escape from their home office or coffee shop cubicle, the coworking phenomenon is coming to Darien.

HAYVN, a shared workspace designed for women, is slated to open this month at 320 Boston Post Rd., in the newly renovated and rebranded Darien Crossing. Filled with light and built to inspire, HAYVN is a 7,000-squarefoot office space with such amenities as a fitness center, café, art gallery and podcast room. Membership packages vary, with work environments ranging from communal tables and dedicated desks to private offices and meeting rooms.

Billed as a “coworking space where women connect, create and get stuff done,” HAYVN is, you guessed it, a “haven” for freelancers, remote workers or solopreneurs who miss the camaraderie of an office and the resources that come with it. HAYVN will also feature programs, networking opportunities and mentoring.

BY THE NUMBERS HAYYN CO-WORKING

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HAYVN founder and Rowayton resident Felicia Rubinstein—an engineer and marketing expert—was inspired to create HAYVN while listening to a story about WeWork on “How I Built This,” her favorite podcast. Although impressed by the company, she sought to fill the void left by flexible workspaces.

“A lot of these companies are focusing

private offices

3

conference rooms

newcanaandarienmag.com

16

on Millennials, but no one is focusing on us,” explains Rubinstein. “HAYVN and our programs will support the obstacles women encounter to keep their career or business on track.”

Stepping inside, a community manager provides a warm welcome and presides over all-things-HAYVN. She might help with memberships, networking events, or opine on the café’s best homemade scone. HAYVN offers private offices as well as larger team spaces. Floating and dedicated desks are other options with storage lockers available.

Members can also rent rooms designated for meetings, conferences and podcasts on an hourly basis. For incubators and companies wanting to grow, there’s space available within the building.

Members will appreciate special touches

$3,500

per month for a large private office

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

HAYVN founder Felicia Rubinstein

above: A rendering of HAYVN’s cafe. below: Shared or private office space is available for rent at the co-working venue.

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buzz One of three conference rooms at HAYVN.

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Thank You for making the

Maritime Aquarium Gala a huge success! like modesty panels on desks and under-the-table hooks to hang handbags. HAYVN also provides connections to healthcare benefits, daycare providers, business counselors, legal experts, fitness professionals, nail salons and dog walkers. Rubinstein’s goal is to help women “streamline their life and focus on themselves and their professions.” Safety is another critical feature.

There’s a parking lot with easy building access, a security system and 24/7 entry for members with offices.

When asked if HAYVN welcomes male members, Rubinstein responds: “Absolutely! Men can be members too. I envision they will have offices in the space.

We think of HAYVN as a women-centric, inclusive space.

That means we’re all about welcoming everyone into our sanctuary.”

Rubenstein spent over a year researching the flexible workspace movement—which she says is increasing at an “average annual rate of 23 percent since 2010”—and searching for the perfect location for HAYVN to support the “wellness and work-life balance” of her members.

TIGER SHARK SPONSORS Chubb Kit & Rob Rohn Sustainable Growth Advisers Audrey & Ken Weil

ANGELFISH SPONSORS Clay Fowler / Spinnaker Real Estate Partners Iris & Earl Mix

SEA TURTLE SPONSORS A.P. Construction Company

Kate & Jim Hurlock

Bankwell

Rick Kleeman

Beyer Blinder Belle Architects & Planners

Little Pub

The Burnham Family

M&T Bank

Carolyn & Lee Caney

Kathy & Russ Mitchell

Fairfi eld County Bank

O&G Industries, Inc.

The Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation Wendy & Richard Hokin

Patriot Bank

Shipman & Goodwin LLP Wilmington Trust

ADDITIONAL SUPPORTERS Bank of America Kim & Richard Alexander Connie & Mike Casey Ann & Sandy Davies Ann & Frank Gilmartin Judith Hyers King Industries, Inc.

Nancy & Fred Lione Makiaris Media Services Linda & Vince McMahon People’s United Insurance Agency Charly Sahlia Aline Sullivan and William Pitt Melissa Hart Wilkerson

*As of April 2nd

newcanaandarienmag.com 2019-MaritimeAquarium-Gala-Vertical-MofflyAd-v4.indd 1

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4/2/19 3:50 PM

In fact, the coworking trend is so big that two local women are opening another collaborative workspace in Darien. Plans are still in the works, but cofounders Abby Knott and Lindsay Hayes Hurty describe The Everwell as a “membership-based community and work space built with women in mind, a landscape where members are inspired to design and author their own lives.” They expect to sign a lease soon in downtown Darien for The Everwell, which will launch in October 2019.

Granoff Architects and Workplace Studio were instrumental in designing the space and managing the build out for HAYVN. The HAYVN café will offer coffee, tea and treats from local caterers like Carolyn’s Absolutely Fabulous Events and Fairfield County Food Forum vendors. Members will be able to provide food for meetings and events happening in the space.

“Ultimately, when women work in a beautiful space made just for them—where they can come together, collaborate and do great work—a little magic happens,” says Rubinstein.

“That’s HAYVN.”

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GIFTING SWEET T H O U G H T F U L P I C K S F O R MOM AND DAD

1 J. CREW Short-sleeve camp-collar shirt; $75. New Canaan; jcrew.com

2 FAIR HARBOR

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The anchor short; $68.

Darien Sport Shop; dariensport.com

3 GRÖNEFELD 1941 Principia automatic watch with light blue dial; $34,600. Manfredi Jewels, New Canaan; manfredijewels.com

4 ANZIE Dew drop snowflake earrings in white topaz and yellow gold; $675.

David Harvey Jewelers, Darien; davidharvey.com

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Skyler cashmere wrap in colorblock pink/cream; $238. Darien; jmclaughlin.com

6 PENGUIN, ABRAMS BOOKS Stuff Every Dad Should Know by Brett Cohen; $9.95. Like My Mother Always Said...by Erin McHugh; $14.95.

Kirby and Company, Darien; kirbyandcompany.com

7 DIPTYQUE x PIERRE FREY Candle duo set; $130.

Space NK, New Canaan; spacenk.com

8 NIELSEN’S FLORIST Shandy arrangement; $85. Darien; nielsensflorist.com

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ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

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home LIVING THE DREAM ARCHITECT CHUCK HILTON CELEBRATES A MILESTONE by jill johnson

With the Gulf War in 1990, work dried up at my employer’s firm. I went out on my own, cofounding a very successful partnership in March of 1991 and worked for the next twenty-two years in Greenwich until I launched my own solo venture, Charles Hilton Architects, in March of 2013.

Why Greenwich?

above and below: Hilton’s extensive body of work includes this Georgian Revival home and a nautical-themed study.

PORTRAIT: NICHOLAS ROTONDI PHOTOGRAPHY; GEORGIAN REVIVAL HOME: ROBERT BENSON PHOTOGRAPHY; STUDY: WOODRUFF/BROWN ARCHITECTURAL PHOTOGRAPHY

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s of this year, architect Charles Hilton has spent thirty years designing gorgeous homes and buildings in our area (and beyond). That’s a lot of facades, but Hilton, who goes by the down-to-earth “Chuck,” is the opposite of a “facade.” He was a 2016 Inductee into the New England Design Hall of Fame, 2016 Greenwich Citizen of the Year and a four-time winner of Ocean Home’s Top 50 Coastal Architects. His work is also featured in a recent coffee-table book, The Classical American House. Here, Chuck shares highlights from his three decades in Greenwich and insight into architectural trends for the future.

I had been working in the field of architecture for eight years, starting when I was a sophomore in high school in 1980. That experience was very influential in my decision to come to Greenwich. I wanted to design the finest residential work possible.

Greenwich’s proximity to

When did you move to Greenwich and open your business?

I arrived and began to practice in Greenwich in May of 1988. newcanaandarienmag.com

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We all have a passion.

We all have a dream.

For some, it’s about adventure.

For others, it’s about tranquility.

Our dreams are as vast and varied as the world is wide.

But they all start with inspiration, and inspiration starts with our surroundings.

That’s what home is – what you choose to surround yourself with.

LIVE NATURAL

wi l l i a m p i tt.co m DA R I EN & ROWAY TON BROK ERAGES Proper ty Feat ured: 10 6 Pear Tree Point Road, Darien Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

home

all NYC resources, its history and tradition of fine residential design, and Greenwich clients with their discerning taste drew me to the town. I found myself gravitating toward Greenwich’s waterfront and proximity to the rest of New England.

sums up the values we try to infuse in all our projects. We aim to produce imaginative buildings that delight and inspire; humanistic architecture that meaningfully improves the lives of its inhabitants and designs with timeless relevance.

What inspires you?

What are some of your favorite projects you’ve done in the Greenwich area?

Beauty in all forms; articulate deep thinkers (I love TED talks); nature, especially waterfront settings; and travel. I love to explore new countries and cultures. I am fortunate that my work takes me to new distant destinations a couple times a year.

How would you describe your architectural style?

While our architectural expressions vary widely in response to our diverse clientele, our company mission statement

of Greenwich. Next, a New England Shingle-style residence that we designed for a stunning waterfront site overlooking the Sound. It was designed to maximize the light and integrate its waterfront views with a variety of comfortable and beautiful interior details. And, finally, our new four-building Lakeside Georgian Estate in mid-country was an exciting project that allowed us to blend the traditional exterior with modern interiors.

The estate features a beautiful main house with a long alley entry, a tennis pavilion, a lakeside pavilion and a pool pergola.

Having built hundreds of projects through the years, it is hard to single out just a few. If I have to choose, I’d have to say, first, Sleepy Cat Farm. It’s a beautiful fourteen-acre, seven-building, twenty-three-year labor of love that seamlessly integrates the inspiration from the owner’s travels and his collections, the picturesque landscape and highly detailed interiors, creating a European oasis in the heart

Tell us about the historic signs you have designed for Greenwich.

Our firm has been active in a number of preservation efforts through the years in

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What architectural trends do you see dominating the next decade in this area?

More modern design, energy efficiency, indoor/outdoor living, accelerated integration of technology, home designs for healthy living, use of low-maintenance building materials, design features for an aging population, and continued strong demand for home entertainment and personal hobby areas.

How do you relax?

“I love to be outside boating, fishing or doing almost anything on the water. I also love to travel. I’m looking forward to our next trip to visit my daughter in Barcelona and then traveling through Tuscany.

RENDERING BY CHARLES HILTON

above: Rendering of a new waterfront brick Georgian home in Cos Cob

connection with the Greenwich Historical Society, the Greenwich Preservation Trust and the Greenwich Preservation Network.

We recognized that one of the challenges with preservation around the town was that many people did not know about the town’s historic districts or recognize the importance of these resources in their community.

The signs are an effort to change this through information and education. Partnering with the Greenwich Preservation Network and the Greenwich Historical Society, we designed a series of signs, one for each historic district in town. The signs not only serve as markers but also include a map of the district, identifying contributing structures in the area, and give a short history explaining the significance of each location. Cornerstone Construction installed the signs pro bono, and many sponsors around the town funded the construction of the signs.

thanks for the love.

— Another 5 ‘Best Of’ Awards for 2019 — C ATERER G O U R M E T-TO - G O WEDDING CAKES GOURMET GROCER DESSERTS

W W W. PA L M E R S DA R I E N . C O M

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DETOX YOUR DIGS

LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH ADVOCATE RHONDA SHERWOOD CAN HELP YOU CLEAN HOUSE by malia mckinnon fr ame behavioral disorders,” warns Sherwood.

Phthalates are found in products that have artificial fragrance like candles, detergents, soaps or perfume, plastics and timerelease medications, to name a few.

VENTILATE “Air quality inside the home can be five times more polluted than outdoors, so choose VOC-free paints and furniture without flame retardants, open your windows and turn on fans to circulate fresh air regularly,” she advises.

Rhonda Sherwood

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AVOID BPA AND PHTHALATES:

ne look at Darien’s RHONDA SHERWOOD and you know from the bright whites of her eyes that she’s an example of clean living. Her biomedical engineering degree and former job as a management consultant in plastics and packaging taught her a lot about toxins and made her wary of them.

Her passion for how toxins affect our health ultimately led to her appointment as vice chairman of the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center Executive Board in New York.

According to Sherwood, the ill effects of chemicals on our health are still very real, and current research shows they may be part of the reason overall rates of diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and Alzheimer’s are on the rise.

In addition to her running her Greenwich store, Sherwood Green Life, she conducts personalized

“According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a Washington D.C. research-based advocacy nonprofit, BPA is detected in 96 percent of Americans’ bodies,” says Sherwood. We’re usually exposed to BPA chemicals through canned foods, and thermal paper receipts. “BPA can interfere with naturally occurring hormones in our bodies, which can affect how certain organs function and also increase our risk of certain cancers, asthma, obesity and

home consultations to help eliminate items and products that might be, unbeknownst to them, making them sick.

During the home detox, Sherwood reads labels of products found under your kitchen sink, in the laundry room and medicine cabinet to identify toxins. She’ll tell you what to toss, what to keep, and leave you with a basket of safe replacements items such as laundry detergent, soap, candles and cosmetics.

Sherwood’s home consults start at $1,000.

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REDUCE EXPOSURE TO FLAME RETARDANTS These chemicals are found in everyday items like children’s sleepwear, upholstered furniture, electronics, mattresses and baby products like car seats and changing pads. The chemicals are released from items that contain them, accumulate in dust and can linger in the environment and our bodies for years.

“Flame retardant chemicals have been linked to cancer, have adverse effects on developing brains, and are believed to cause an increase in cognitive or behavioral problems in children,” says Sherwood. To help, you can choose naturally flameretardant materials

like wool, and snug-fit cotton sleepwear for kids.

NIX FORMALDEHYDE Common sources of formaldehyde include manufactured wood products, hair straighteners, fabric finishes, smoke and exhaust. It’s a “dangerous chemical that has been shown to cause cancer in humans,” she states.

“It’s easy to prevent this exposure.”

FIVE TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HOME 1 Avoid perfume, fragrance, propylene glycol (or anything that starts with PEG), sodium laureth sulphate and triclosan.

2 Don’t heat plastic containers or wash them in the dishwasher.

3 Choose electronic receipts over paper.

4 Minimize canned, processed or packaged foods.

5 Don’t use #3, 6 and 7 plastics or products labeled vinyl or PVC.

PHOTO BY JOHN GRUEN PHOTOGRAPHY; WOMEN © E ANTONIOGUILLEM-STOCK. ADOBE.COM; BABY © FAMVELDMAN-STOCK.ADOBE.COM

SHERWOOD’S HOME CLEANSE

Above the uncertainty Andrew Shantz is proud to be recognized as a Forbes Best-in-State for 2019. Thomas Mantione is proud to be recognized as a Barron’s Top 1200 Financial Advisor for 2019, Forbes Best-in-State Financial Advisor, and Financial Times 400 Top Financial Adviser, 2019 for giving their clients clear direction when they need it most.

While we are honored by these distinctions, we are most proud that they reflect our team’s commitment to giving clients the perspective and guidance they need no matter what the markets, or their life, may bring.

For more than two decades, we have been providing generations of families with inclusive wealth management and professional investment guidance in diverse market conditions.

Our team’s core values start with client first.

We are focused on providing honest, fair and insightful financial solutions for our client families.

Our team is grateful for the trust that is placed in us every day, and we look forward to continuing to serve our clients with distinction.

Thomas Mantione, CFP®, CPWA®, CIMA®, CEPA Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Private Wealth Advisor 203-705-4222 thomas.mantione@ubs.com

Shantz Mantione Group UBS Financial Services Inc. Private Wealth Management 750 Washington Boulevard, 11th Floor Stamford, CT 06901 866-860-7266

Andrew Shantz, CFP®, CIMA®, CPWA®, CEPA Senior Vice President–Wealth Management Private Wealth Advisor 203-705-4223 andrew.shantz@ubs.com

ubs.com/team/shantzmantione

Accolades are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. or its employees pay a fee in exchange for these rankings.

Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. Private Wealth Management is a division within UBS Financial Services Inc., which is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and Certified finanCial PlannerTM in the U.S. CIMA® is a registered certification mark of the Investment Management Consultants Association® in the United States of America and worldwide. For designation disclosures visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. © UBS 2019. All rights reserved ACC_04092019-5 Exp.: 04/30/2020

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KITCHEN INTELLIGENCE NEW APPLIANCE TECHNOLOGY CAN HELP YOU BUILD THE SMARTEST ROOM IN THE HOUSE by anna l ane

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aybe you’re planning a kitchen renovation or just dreaming of one.

Either way, the technological advancements for the heart of the home are most definitely worth noting. The newest entries into the appliance market offer smart features that enable users to roast the perfect turkey or brew a cup of java with the touch of a button.

We asked Ria Rueda, Monogram Ambassador at Aitoro Appliance in Norwalk, and Elizabeth Wilson of New Canaan’s Zetlands Design to share this year’s must-have appliances that feature the latest in kitchen technology.

Pizza lovers will swoon over Monogram’s new Hearth Oven ($12,200), an electric wall oven that’s designed to cook as well as the wood-fired ones in Italy.

A built-in LCD screen with preprogrammed settings ensures the perfect pizza (or steak, salmon, veggies) every time. It heats up to 1,300 degrees, but the stainless steel exterior remains cool, making it an ideal choice for families with curious little ones.

Rueda says that one of the most important kitchen trends for 2019 and beyond is WiFi connectivity. Monogram’s WiFi connected kitchen offerings include refrigerators, wall ovens and dishwashers that can be connected to your smartphone or tablet via a dedicated app. The appliances are also compatible with Alexa, so you can turn your oven on (or off) from anywhere with a simple voice command.

Java junkies will want to invest in a Bosch 800 Series built-in coffee machine ($3,299) that prepares perfect espresso drinks with the touch of a button. The LCD color display is easy to use and the machine can store up to eight different favorite beverages for quick preparation. Download the Home Connect App to link the Bosch to your smartphone, and you can program it so that a hot cup of espresso is brewed right before your alarm goes off.

The Samsung Family Hub Smart Refrigerator ($3,499-

left: Monogram’s new Hearth Oven cooks the perfect pizza, amongst other dishes. right: Wolf’s new induction cooktop heats 40 percent faster than the average stove. newcanaandarienmag.com

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NOW OPEN! $5,199) offers everything a busy family needs right on the fridge door (without any unsightly magnets). One of the most useful features is the ability to see the inside of the fridge when you’re out grocery shopping, but the Samsung Family Hub can also play music, keep track of the family calendar and even read a recipe aloud. Download the SmartThings app and use it to control all of your WiFienabled home gadgets.

Induction cooktops, long popular in Europe, are finally having their moment here in the States. Induction elements use an electromagnetic field to heat the pan; the cooktop surface remains cool. And that means that the there are no open flames, making it a great option for families with small children. The 36-inch Wolf Induction cooktop ($2,640) offers 10 different cooking configurations to accommodate pots and pans of all sizes. It

Check the inside of your Samsung Family Hub Smart Refrigerator from the grocery store.

also heats up 40 percent faster than traditional gas or electric ranges, and the sleek design, smooth glass surface and lack of traditional knobs integrates seamlessly with a countertop, making clean-up a breeze.

We invite you to visit our new state-of-the-art storage facility, with thirty different size units, boat, RV, motorcycle parking and commuter parking conveniently located next to Noroton Heights Metro North train station and I-95. With a professional and friendly management team, we are always ready to meet your expectations.

WHY WIFI? Digitally connecting your appliances to your phone or tablet means easier living, cleaning and faster meal prep. Here, just a few of the things you can do with WiFi connectivity:

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

WAKE UP Synchronize the coffee maker with your alarm so that your cup is brewed on your terms.

HEAT ON THE GO Preheat the oven or change its temperature from anywhere you are. above: Monogram’s app keeps you connected.

BE AWARE Receive power outage and maintenance alerts.

Visit us at Hollowtreestorage.com

CHILL OUT Make sure there’s enough ice in the ice maker.

203.655.2018 131 Hollow Tree Ridge Road Darien, CT 06820

EASY CLEAN Track dishwasher pods and rinse aid.

MAY/JUNE 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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go WHAT’S OLD IS NEW MODERN UPDATES DON’T COMPROMISE THE OLD-WORLD GRANDEUR OF BLANTYRE

by kim-marie evans

top and above: Twilight at Blantyre makes the grand exterior that much more majestic. • The music room is a relaxing space where, on most nights, a pianist entertains guests.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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PHOTOS BY CHIP RIEGEL

M

ove over Brooklyn and the Hamptons, there’s a surprising spot where new money meets old—a historic mansion in the Berkshires. Built in 1902, the beloved Blantyre resort, one of the last remaining Belle Epoque estates in the region, was recently acquired and updated by investors from Silicon Valley.

But not to worry, hoodies are still frowned upon in the dining room, and you won’t be forced to schedule your spa treatment by app. Lovers of the property will be pleased to know that the baronial touches (the estate was designed to look like a Scottish castle) remain: stained-glass windows, gold chandeliers, original fireplaces and all. The updates focused on the things that really needed updating. The dizzying décor of toile upon toile topped with fussy pillows and canopy beds is a thing of the past. The dried-flower bouquets and dressers piled with bric-a-brac have disappeared and the new décor is modern yet “has a respect for the past, with an eye to the future” says David Pupo, longtime staff member and director of

go

clockwise from above: The Conservatory offers fine dining in a rusticly chic setting. • The Main Hall staircase • A quiet retreat • A bedroom in the Carriage House

SAME BUT DIFFERENT

memberships. For a reasonable annual fee, members have access to the resort amenities, including the pool and spa as well as discounts and preferential treatment when making reservations.

• Though guests now tap an iPad for room service, orders are still delivered by butler.

the new membership program.

The eight guest rooms in the Manor House have long been known by their names: The Laurel Suite, The Crimson Suite and so on.

Though the names remain on the doors, the website has given them more mundane monikers such as “Standard King Manor.”

But don’t be fooled—no two suites are alike.

Furnishings were individually chosen for each room, some sleek and some bright and cheery. The rooms feature original fireplaces, and most have soaking tubs. The Carriage House, with its eleven rooms, has also been completely reimagined as have the four standalone cottages, one of which was designed and decorated by Serena and Lily.

The spa is still in the “Potting Shed,” one of the original buildings that predates the Manor House, but is now a true luxury retreat. Guests

• There are still deep soaking tubs, but there are also modern steam showers with fresh chrome and marble fixtures.

BUBBLES Blantyre is home to the first Dom Pérignon Champagne Salon in the U.S. The Dom Salon stores over 10,000 bottles and serves exclusive specialty vintages, including Vintage Trinity, Dom Pérignon 2006, P2 Vintage 2000 and Rosé 2005. And a real rarity, guests can order Dom by the glass for $45 and a half glass for $25, but why would someone do that to themselves?

• The famous book collection—4,500 tomes in all—is still on-property, though many can be found in the Music Room, which really serves as a quiet retreat.

Many more are spread throughout guest rooms and reading nooks.

JOIN THE CLUB If you’ve got a second home nearby, Blantyre offers Club

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can treat themselves to an array of services, including a Vichy shower treatment, which is basically getting a massage from a team of high-powered shower heads while you unwind on a bed similar to a massage table. And the new poolscape has a Four Seasons quality and feel. Gone is the 1970s-looking cement pool, and surrounding the new oasis are sophisticated sun loungers with plush towels.

And there is now food service from the brand new H2O café.

Though much has changed at Blantyre, much, too, remains the same. A drive up the gravel path reveals the grand estate that was the first to be given the coveted Relais & Châteaux membership status in the U.S.; a team of efficient footmen greet visitors, whisking luggage to rooms while guests are offered a glass of champagne; check-in is handled in the guest room, no waiting in a lobby line. Room rates start at $435 per night, plus taxes and fees. Children under sixteen are not permitted. Savvy guests book through Virtuoso or Relais & Châteaux for room upgrades and amenities.

PHOTOS BY CHIP RIEGEL

New & Noteworthy

Thank you!

Luxury Independent, Assisted & Memory Care Living

Now Open!

1 Parklands Dr, Darien 475-208-3293 residenceselleckswoods.com

Come see for yourself - schedule a tour!

go

POWERFUL COMBINATION

C300 BLENDS MERCEDES MUSCULARITY WITH A LIVELY GRACE by chris hodenfield

strong and handsome shape.

Another part of the package is the refined, curvaceous interior.

Adults, by the way, will find the rear seats acceptable. The dash controls require a bit of learning; but, after all, it is a German car. (Even if it’s assembled in Alabama).

The “4matic” designation translates all-wheel-drive and the mechanics were, again, unnoticeable save for the catlike grace the car has on a winding road. If the drivetrain makes the car slightly heavier, you simply don’t feel it in the C300. And

utterly unobtrusive into putting the car immediately into power mode or quiet, gas-sipping overdrive. The package worked well. And getting gas mileage in the high 20s was quite welcome.

Who needs the 503-horsepower blunderbuss C63?

The $2,000 AMG option on our C300 added performance goodies like updated sport suspension and steering but also a number of aesthetic treats like the beautiful diamond-block grill.

Indeed, while so many sedans today have front ends like swoopy snowplows, the C300 has a very

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in winter the 4matic option is a critical help. Our test period coincided with a lot of ice and snow, and the car went at it like a bluebird takes to the sky.

STATS

MERCEDES-BENZ C 300 4MATIC Base: $43,400 as tested: $63,825 Drivetrain: 255-hp 2.0-liter turbo 4 AWD EPA mileage ratings: 22/33 mpg

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

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or those who associate Mercedes-Benz with massive, bank-vault solidity, the C300 sedan will come as a cheery surprise. It feels light and sporty, a real endearing pal, not so much a sirloin-and-scotch bruiser but more of a gym-and-apower-shake athlete. Right away, it promises spirited times.

There are heavily horsepowered versions of the C sedan available, but our tester hit the sweet spot for these Connecticut roads. The 255-horsepower turbo 4 gave it plenty of zoom. The amazing nine-speed transmission was

Pre-K through Grade 9

BY DESIGN By focusing on the formative years of childhood, our students are equipped with exactly what they need to take the next leap, from subject to subject, grade to grade and to the nation’s best high schools, colleges and beyond.

COME TAKE A CLOSER LOOK! Join us at 9 a.m. any Thursday for Coffee in the Commons Ask questions, take a tour and get a close-up look at our program www.countryschool.net/visit 635 Frogtown Rd, New Canaan, CT • (203) 972-0771 • www.countryschool.net

GO BOLDLY.

A co-ed, independent day school for students in Pre-K (ages 3 & 4) through Grade 9.

Ar chi tec tur e: Ma r k P. Fi nl a y A rch i t e c t s , A I A P hotogr a phy: Wa r r en J a gger

HOBBS, INC.

hobbsinc . com

D I ST I N CTI VE H OM E S , A D D I TI ON S & R E N OVATI ON S

MAY/JUNE 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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2 0 3.9 6 6.072 6

do by valerie foster

above: Design Solutions set up shop in the new Pound Ridge Square. Kahlo in Scott's Corners sells everything eco-friendly from skincare to alpaca slippers.

SMALL TOWN STROLL I

f you haven’t been to Pound Ridge lately, we are quite sure you’re missing out. You won’t find a Starbucks, or even a movie theater in Scott’s Corners, but what you will discover is dozens of small businesses, their friendly owners and some great food in this charming hamlet in Westchester County.

You’ll see old friends: Pauline Dora ran DESIGN SOLUTIONS in New Canaan for twenty-four years before moving here last September, and JUL SALON DAY SPA recently opened a second location here.

You’ll make plenty of new

has been around since 1953, but not in its current sleek and newly rebuilt version. A boutique/gourmet grocer with a gift shop and eating area, it’s the anchor store at the square, a new development where DESIGN SOLUTIONS, a pharmacy, and Kiwi the bronze sculpture, are also located.

Further down Westchester Avenue, park your car. To the right, you’ll find KAHLO, opened by owner Tami McCarthy, who needed a storefront for her all-natural line of skincare products. Her stock celebrates artisans and makers, both local

friends too, since everyone you meet is warm, accommodating and willing to chat. Don’t take our word for it. Head up north and check it out on your own.

Begin your tour a mile from the Connecticut border at THE WINE CONNECTION, where you can pick owner Max Marinucci’s brain. His love of wine equals his desire to educate his customers. Offerings start at $12.99; Saturday tastings begin at 1 p.m. And be sure to check out the half-priced bottles by the front door.

Drive west to THE MARKET at Pound Ridge Square, which

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and global, catering to those seeking a holistic lifestyle. Her inventory also includes products for the body, your clothing and the home.

Lisa Miller’s THE COTTAGE displays an eclectic mix of vintage, artisan and new. We found CorningWare, 1960’s American Tourister luggage, gently loved Golden Books, albums, furniture and candles.

Obviously, browsing is required.

At BOOKSY GALORE, new books greet you but further exploration reveals old and vintage treasures that cry, “read me.” There’s even an overflowing

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS

POUND RIDGE EXPERIENCES A RESURGENCE WITH OPENINGS OF FAB NEW SPACES

SPOTLIGHT:

POUND RIDGE

WINE MERCHANTS SINCE 1993 For the greatest selection in the area, and personalized service come and visit us, Tuesday through Sunday.

We offer 20% discount every 12 bottles of wine, every day!

Make sure to join our email list or follow us on Instagram for exciting tasting events, seminars, special offers and new arrivals!

THE RESTAURANT @ ROWAYTON SEAFOOD Located on the Five Mile River Lunch, Dinner and Sunday Brunch 203-866-4488 Open 7 days

ROWAYTON SEAFOOD MARKET Fresh Fish, Lobsters and Take Away 89 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton 203-838-7473 Open 7 days

rowaytonseafood.com

32 Westchester Avenue | Pound Ridge, NY 10576 | 914-764-9463 | wineconn.com wineconn

wineconnex

Wineconn

bookstand outside with a sign, “Pay what you think is fair.”

Hard to pass on an eatery with a window sign that reads “Coffee.

Beer. Wine. Repeat.” And that’s exactly what THE KITCHEN TABLE delivers, plus top-notch food for daytime noshing.

Raw, gluten- and dairy-free products fill the shelves at HEALING HOME FOODS. Even nuts and seeds are soaked and sprouted. Not an artificial flavor, color or preservative anywhere.

Keep walking to NORTH STAR RESTAURANT, where you can meet friends for dinner.

Order the strip or cauliflower steak; you can’t go wrong either way. Stay for live music on Thursday nights.

Cross the street to PLUM PLUMS CHEESE, where owner Gayle Martin has made this the place for charcuterie, artisan jams, crackers, oils and vinegars and, of course, cheese. Taste some Prairie Breeze cheddar from Iowa, a top-seller that is sharp, tangy and seriously delicious.

CHUBBY’S HARDWARE has been here for thirty-five years, and reliably stocks just about everything you want a hardware store to carry.

Back in your car, head over to the colossal POUND RIDGE NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER to stock up on your favorite annuals; across the street is the Jean-Georges Vongerichten-owned INN AT POUND RIDGE, where farm-totable cuisine is the star.

Need another reason to explore? FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS begins May 17 in Key Bank’s parking lot, and continues June 21, July 19, Aug. 16 and Sept.

20. See you there! clockwise from top left: Live Music Thursdays at The North Star; goodies at Healing Home Foods; Stop in for a tasting at Plum Plums Cheese; a cozy spot at the Inn at Pound Ridge; Chubby's hardware is a Scott's Corners institution.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BRANDS

do

SPOTLIGHT:

POUND RIDGE

COME FOR THE CHOICES. STAY FOR THE VIEWS. WE OFFER

GARDENING CLASSES AND MORE

Visit our website for a complete list of classes.

Recently transformed into this area’s premier, full-service home and garden center, Pound Ridge Nursery will captivate you with abundant offerings.

VISIT

our florist to choose from an impressive variety of house plants and planters;

STROLL

the lush grounds to immerse yourself in all that we grow;

FIND

inspiration in our magnificent landscaping and architecture, and our expertise and services on your individual needs and projects.

Enchanting. Affordable. Just one stop for all your gardening and landscaping needs.

6 Pound Ridge Rd, Pound Ridge, NY 10576 • (914) 764-5781 poundridgenursery.com OPEN 7 DAYS | Mon-Sat 8-5 & Sunday 9-5

Our landscaping division offers custom design and full-service installation and maintenance services – from a single specimen planting to a unique poolscape with sprawling garden and outdoor kitchen.

eat BRUNCH PLEASE FROM EIGHT GRILLED CHEESE CHOICES TO NUTELLA FRENCH TOAST CAFFÉ SOCIAL SERVES UP MAJOR DELICIOUSNESS by eliz abeth hole

L

ike many former New Yorkers, I reminisce about Sunday brunch. Meeting friends for gourmet and greasy fare typically topped weekend agendas. To recapture this ritual, I checked out Norwalk’s Caffé Social for fresh eats they describe as “a taste from home.” The best part? They serve breakfast all day. (Just don’t go for “brinner” since they close at 5pm on weekdays and 4pm on weekends.)

This downtown SoNo spot greets you with upbeat music and signs declaring, “This is my happy place” and “Coffee and friends make the perfect blend.” Lively groups of locals and

day trippers fill rustic wood tables, while couples and solo diners may opt for bar seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows add a sunny vibe to industrial chic décor with a homespun twist. I spotted a hipster couple eating avocado toast at their avocadocolored banquette. Seemed like a good omen.

While there’s no children’s menu, Caffé Social features food for all ages and palates. They offer eight types of grilled cheese, a yogurt bar and kid-friendly pancakes and mini waffles that can be topped with everything from strawberries to S’mores.

In addition to omelets and eggs Benedict (available in five

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PHOTOS BY YIANNI BEZA, ELPIDA HATZIIOANNIDIS, IOANNA HATZIIOANNIDIS

above: A fried chicken and waffle sandwich is labeled as “the hangover cure” and fresh pancakes can be topped with anything from fruit to Oreos.

Heaven in ConneCtiCut Far from the madding crowd, in the Litchfield Hills, lies a quiet getaway. Set on 113 acres and bordering extensive woods and lakes, Winvian Farm was created to recharge and indulge. The five-star cuisine, the wines, the spa and the service are as unexpected as the experiences that one ultimately enjoys— and it’s just around the corner.

winvianfarm.com

eat

varieties), you can get salads, wraps, paninis and burgers.

To sample as much as possible, I brought along my husband and two children. The buffalo wings were a pleasant surprise, tasting like foodie fried chicken—larger, lighter and crispier than your typical bar-food staple— and not doused with sauce. My son went with a decadently delicious challah French toast slathered in warm Nutella. The few bites he was willing to share did not disappoint. My daughter ordered the B.E.C. (bacon, fried egg and American cheese with raw spinach on a toasted English muffin), but requested scrambled eggs, cheddar and nothing green.

The chef happily obliged. We appreciated the fluffy eggs and crisp bacon. For $6.50, it’s a great value.

The Social Salad is a nice signature dish with chopped greens, feta, dill and scallions. It’s topped with chicken and pork tigania—a Greek specialty which gets its name from being cooked in a frying pan. The house lemon dressing was outstanding and shouldn’t be missed. We also ordered a classic Benedict and overindulged in the tempting home fries. Although the egg yolk was overcooked, the overall flavor was appealing. To be fair, I tried the same dish on a return visit and enjoyed perfectly poached eggs.

For coffee selection, you can go classic with drip coffee and espresso or venture out with a Nutella latte or frappé. You might find a red velvet or turmeric latte on the specials menu.

The flavorful fresh roasted coffee is ordered from a Queens, New York-based purveyor called For Five Coffee Roasters. If you want the harder stuff, specialty cocktails, wine, sangria, beer and bubbly are served.

A small sign over the bar holds a special significance: “Sisters are the perfect best friends.” In fact, three sisters opened the restaurant together. Elpida, Glika and Ioanna Hatziioannidis, who debuted Caffé Social in spring 2017, grew up in the restaurant business. They learned the ropes at Jordan’s Restaurant & Pizza in Norwalk, which was launched in 1978 by their aunt and uncle and has expanded to three locations.

Caffé Social is a family affair, as the sisters use many of their mother’s recipes and serve her homemade soup (which she helps prepare). You’ll also find “Assorted Mom’s Greek Desserts” on the menu, along with favorites like cupcakes, cinnamon rolls and fresh-baked cookies.

Whether you need a new brunch spot or just want a caffeine fix, you can’t go wrong with Caffé Social. newcanaandarienmag.com

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CAFFÉ SOCIAL 73 North Main Street, Norwalk 203-939-9523 caffesocial.com

CUISINE Comfort Food

HOURS Monday – Friday 7am – 5pm Saturday & Sunday – 7:30am – 4pm

PHOTOS BY YIANNI BEZA, ELPIDA HATZIIOANNIDIS, IOANNA HATZIIOANNIDIS

left: A signature homemade Greek soup, Avgolemono. above: Coffee choices include everything from Americanos to Nutella lattes. below ev xcvbn xcvbn xcvnb cxvnbcxv nbxcv nbxcv nbxvc nxbvc xnbcv xncbv

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eat

KANPAI!

SAKE IS THE NEW WINE OF CHOICE, A PERFECT PAIRING FOR SUMMER DINING by eliz abeth keyser

ON THE WINE LIST

Tony Pham, chef and owner of Mecha, suggests a flight of the following:

1

Shirakabe Gura, Japan, Tokubetsu Junmai

2

Momokawa Organic, Oregon, Nigori

DRINK-TIONARY Sake for Dummies GENMAI brown rice

GINJO milled 40 percent, fortified with distilled alcohol

HONJOZO milled 30 percent, with alcohol

JUNMAI standard grade, from an unspecified mill

JUNMAI DAIGINJO

3

KUSHU aged sake

Wandering Poet, Japan, Junmai Ginjo

NAM

4

unpasteurized

50 percent milled

JUNMAI GINJO milled 40 percent, with no alcohol added

KIJOSHUI dessert sake

NIGORI unfiltered sake

Tears of Dawn, Japan, Daiginjo

TARU CASKS

Pair It: Steamed bao with pork belly, KFC (Korean fried chicken bao) and roasted mushroom dumplings.

containers used to store sake

newcanaandarienmag.com

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PERFECT PAIRINGS

Chef Brian Lewis of OKO recommends the following:

OPTION 1 Sake: Shichi Hon Yari, Junmai The Seven Spearsmen Eats: Vegetable tempura selection with scallion soy sauce and white miso aioli Why: The sake delivers crisp, creamy umami flavors with good acidity and earthy mushroom aromas. The acidity cuts the fat of the fried tempura.

OPTION 2 Sake: The One with the Clocks, Joto, Daiginjo Eats: Ten-piece sushi nigiri or sashimi Why: A super premium Honjozo with a delicate aroma, this sake is light, dry and crisp, and is perfect for delicate flavored nigiri or sashimi.

OPTION 3 Sake: Marumoto’s Hou Hou, Sparkling Sake Blue Clouds Eats: Matcha chocolate cake or soft serve ice cream Why: This sake is fermented a second time in the bottle in the traditional méthode champenoise. Its soft bubbles, creamy texture and appealing sweetness cuts the richness of the desserts.

PHOTO © NISHIHAMA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

A

mericans are sipping a lot more sake these days. As imports from Japan continue to rise, artisanal rice wine makers are springing up anywhere from Oregon to Brooklyn. “Sake enhances the food and the experience,” says Chef Brian Lewis of OKO in Westport. “Sake doesn’t fight with food; it embraces it.”

Why not be part of this new imbibing trend? According to Tony Pham, chef and owner of Mecha in Fairfield and South Norwalk, you can begin exploring by ordering a flight of sake, which will allow you to distinguish sake’s clean, smooth textures, and varying flavors of fruit and flowers. Keep that in mind when you make a reservation. →

M O F F LY M E D I A

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people&PLACES PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE, BOB CAPAZZO 1

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THE DEPOT DARIEN / Darien Community Association

Ski Country

T

he Depot Darien Youth Center held its annual winter fundraiser on February 8 at the Darien Community Association. The event, which celebrated the country’s longest running teen center, raised funds to help build activities and programs available at The Depot. The organization strives to help provide a safe space for local youth to develop leadership, planning and decision-making skills as well as connect them with adult role models in the community. Event supporters came decked in their best Eighties-inspired après-ski fashion, which was the theme of the night. » 1 Jenny Tarleton, Gina Vivenzio, Erin Levine and Kathleen Hellman 2 Catherine McNear, Julianna Spain, Melissa Cutler and Kathy Arrix 3 State Representative Terrie Wood, Melissa Cutler, Kesti Aysseh and Jay Wood 4 Steve Cavoli, Don McCarthy, Eileen McCarthy and Michelle Cavoli 5 Michael Valerie and Robin Seymour 6 Barbara Moody, John McNear and Mia Judelson 7 Jim and Alison Feely MAY/JUNE 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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Art School

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affè Nero in Darien hosted Coffee and Culture, a benefit for the Darien Arts Center, on February 28. The evening featured artwork on display by 2018 Ginny Wright Scholarship recipient Nadia Czebiniak and live music performed by DAC music instructor Dan Saulpaugh. Guests were treated to complimentary beverages and light fare provided by Caffè Nero at the casual evening event. The DAC, which provides visual and performing arts programming and special events for the community, depends solely on funding from its programs, donations, grants and fundraising. darienarts.org. »

newcanaandarienmag.com

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1 Silvia Larizza 2 DAC board president, Pam Heckel, artist and former DAC board member Pat Atkin and local artist Nobu Miki 3 Musician and DAC instructor Dan Saulpaugh 4 Food provided

by Caffè Nero 5 Jay Gentile, director, Caffè Nero U.S., DAC board members and event organizers Silvia Larizza and Susan Helms, DAC executive director Amy Allen and Jeff Cotter, head of marketing for Caffè Nero 6 Claire Furio with Emily and Grace Gardella 7 The littlest party-goers take the floor. 8 Guests enjoyed food, drinks and artwork by 2018 Ginny Wright Scholarship recipient Nadia Czebiniak.

PHOTOS BY DIANE FARRELL

DARIEN ARTS CENTER / Caffè Nero

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Getting Fit! Inside & Out

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1 Taylor Stroili, Caroline Steber, Joey Macari, Laurinda Finelli 2 Guests feeling the burn 3 Ellyn Weitzman, Indie Lee, Monique de Boer 4 Madison Norton 5 Pamela Johnson, Trish Catino 6 Diane Aemisegeo, Trisha Pepe Lauden 7 Lisa Hingst, Cristin Marandino 8 Nancy Ho, Steve Putnam, Mackenzie McMahon 9 Lauren Conforti, Joe Gurrera, Phil Mancuso 10 Equinox Greenwich 11 Amy Vischio, Amy Hirsh 12 Karla Kozdras, Hayat Essalhi, Jaafar Tazi 13 Danielle Munday, Dr. Steven Kolenik, Dr. Hanna Kim from CT Dermatology Group 14 Swag bags

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“I feel so lucky to have found this house,” Harper says of her new home.

by julee k apl an

| phot o gr aphy by mel ani lust

NATURAL

BEAUTY

Green skincare queen TATA HARPER finds home in New Canaan

W

alking into the home of one of New Canaan’s newest residents, it’s almost impossible not to capture that feeling of Zen right away. There’s the pleasant scent of Palo Santo essential oils diffusing through the air and the massive windows make the place feel sunny, even on an overcast spring morning.

Everything seems organized—from the perfectly stacked books on the coffee table to the fresh orchids blooming near a window. This isn’t the feeling you typically get from a just-moved-into home. Especially since this new resident uprooted her three young children, several dogs and not yet enough furniture to fit the various rooms inside.

But this is the home of Tata Harper, the 45-year-old Columbian-born creator and leader of Tata Harper Skincare, a thriving non-toxic luxury beauty brand that in just ten short years has grown into a multi-million dollar privately-owned and operated business. Harper, armed with a degree in industrial engineering, started her skincare company after her stepfather was diagnosed with cancer in 2004. His doctors believed that his cancer developed at least partly because of his exposure to synthetic chemicals. It was then when she made the switch to clean eating and nontoxic cleaning supplies at home but finding skincare products without toxins was harder.

So, she did it herself.

Soon Harper had moved from Miami to Shoreham, Vermont where her company’s operations remain today. It all happens at that 1,200-acre

MAY/JUNE 2019 NEW CANAAN•DARIEN

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Tata Harper at home with her pup, Maxwell.

newcanaandarienmag.com

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square-foot English Manor style home built in 2006 farm from growing the ingredients found inside could have such a cozy, inviting feel. Especially lovely her signature green bottles to the packing and is the master suite, located on the main floor and shipping processes. There are about 150 people on totally decorated by Harper. The fireplace is lined the ground at the farm, and while Harper used to with crystals, stones, Buddhas and a sound bowl — spend the majority of her time there working on a perfect little mediation spot. She chose a calming, everything from product research and development feminine pink paint for the walls to complement soft to production, she’s begun to grow the business in a pink bedding and mother of pearl lamps that she way that requires her to travel quite extensively. She purchased at The Linen Shop in town. She calls The has made a habit out of visiting her various retailers Linen Shop one of her favorite stores in New Canaan, worldwide, teaching “master classes” where she even promising her vice president of creative and shows consumers her own skincare regimen and brand development, Pav Volkert, a trip there before educates them on the process of using the products. she heads back home to the city later that day.

She even did one of those right here at Space NK on “I love that the town feels so quaint, charming and Elm Street in 2015. safe,” she said of downtown New Canaan. “One thing In addition, Harper has begun to open spa service that really struck me is that you see kids walking rooms—there’s one in Le Bristol Hotel in Paris and a around downtown on their own. That just shows me full Tata Harper facial available at the Four Seasons how safe it is, somewhere I wanted to be.”

Los Angeles. She is also expanding through Australia She also frequents New Canaan Healthfare for its and Asia. selection of healthy foods and supplements as well The farm is located quite far—a couple of hours as Sole when she’s looking for dinner out with the drive—from an airport, so Harper said it made kids. She also said that she was impressed with the sense for her to move to a place within arm’s reach food at the new Pesca restaurant of the New York City area. This in town. would provide easier access to “Sole has a really great menu airports as well as allow her to “We looked and I love that I can get something spend more time at her offices around a lot... that I enjoy, and my kids can get in the city. Hence, the move to my kids loved what they want too,” she said. “I New Canaan. the school here. also love Pesca, it’s the real deal “We looked around a lot, Peruvian food.” visited schools with the kids I like to think — I thought we may even end Harper says that she would they chose up in Bedford,” Harper, who like to eventually make some New Canaan.” is newly divorced, explained. changes to the interior of her new “But my kids loved the school home but will not be doing any —tata harper here, so I like to think they renovating anytime soon. She chose New Canaan.” has too many other things going Harper’s children, Hunter (10), Grace (9) and Tata on. For starters, this weekend she is hosting a slumber Mia (7), chose to attend New Canaan Country School. party for Tata Mia and ten of her little girlfriends from “They love it, they have their friends, their school. Complete with mani/pedis for all. activities, and it’s such a great environment, we are “I’m so excited to be able to spend some time with all happy,” she said. her friends and meet some of the moms,” Harper Next up, a home in town. She looked at some said. “I’m travelling so much so I’m looking forward places but fell in love with the home they chose on to spending some time at home.” the west side of town. It’s nestled on lush landscaped And for Harper, she will be at home in New grounds, tall trees and up on a hill overlooking Canaan for a long stretch—three weeks. Then it’s off 4.6 acres which also includes a salt water pool and to a few stops in Asia, where she will begin to launch expansive guest house. It was on the market for the line with Joyce Beauty in Hong Kong. She’ll be some time, and Harper knew it was the one almost stateside again in mid-May for a co-branded retreat immediately. They moved in in August, just before at Twin Farms in Vermont. May is when the company school started. will also launch a couple of new products including “I feel so lucky to have found this house,” Harper the Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer, which is meant for said while sitting in her living room — one of the light summer coverage. They’ll also be launching rooms she has completed with a big cozy sectional, the new upgraded packaging for the Supernatural lots of greenery and a super-soft shaggy rug. “It has line, which includes highly active serums to target such great energy, I felt it right away.” specific skincare needs. Just another day in the life It’s pretty amazing indeed that a grand 15,000 of Tata Harper.

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Tata’s Morning Routine 1

Massage the skin with the Regenerating Cleanser to remove buildup.

2

Hydrating Floral Essence.

“I like my skin to be really saturated when I apply serum, it helps it to penetrate deeper,” Harper explains.

3

Next, anti-aging serums.

“I’m using two serums, our Elixir Vitae and Boosted Contouring Serum on my face, neck and chest,” she says

4 .

Start with Elixir Vitae Eye Serum followed

by Restorative Eye Creme on top to keep the area super hydrated.

5

Finally, the new Hyaluronic Gel Moisturizer is great for summer as it’s light and a cooling gel texture. It’s all about weightless hydration.

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

©STOCKPHOTOSART - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

celebrating

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

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

FOOD + DRINK

SHOP + STYLE

SERVICES + TO-DO’S

PG. 60

PG. 72

PG. 82

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M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

FOOD+DRINK

Savor the rewards of dining out and on-the-go eats in Fairfield County

READERS’ PICKS

C

raving comfort food, a bit of heat, the bite of spice or a wild fusion flavor to snap your taste buds to attention? Fairfield County is for foodies who have a taste for both high cuisine and street eats. The chefs at new restaurants and favorite eateries prepped fresh ingredients and fired up the burners to win over Gold Coasters’ appetite for the best.

Furong chicken hot pot, a mild option for the heat averse

RESTAURANTS

203-817-0700; restaurantprime.com

New Restaurant Brick Walk Tavern 1275 Post Rd., Fairfield, 475-888-9966; brickwalktavern.com

490 Summer St., Stamford, 203-569-6250; eosgreekcuisine.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES

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

American Milestone 2 Georgetown Rd., Redding, 203-587-1700; milestonect.com

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India 68 Broad St., Stamford, 203-964-1010 | 25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203-6621213 | 17 Pease Ave., Southport, 203-259-1213; see all locations at coromandelcuisine.com

Creative Menu The Perfect Provenance 47 Arch St., Greenwich, 203-900-1131; theperfectprovenance.com

Asian Fusion Mecha Noodle Bar 116 Washington St., S. Norwalk, 203-295-8718; 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; mechanoodlebar.com

Hotel Restaurant Artisan Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-307-4222; artisansouthport.com

BRICK WALK TAVERN BY NOAH FECKS; PETER CHANG BY KYLE NORTON

Outdoor Dining Washington Prime 141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314; washingtonprimect.com Special Occasion/Date Night Prime Restaurant 78 Southfield Ave., Stamford,

Italian Café Silvium 371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651; cafesilviumct.com Japanese Kawa Ni 19 Bridge Square, Westport, 203-557-8775; kawaniwestport.com

Chinese Peter Chang 230 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203-323-7117; peterchangct.com

Latin American Brasitas 954 East Main St., Stamford, 203-323-3176 | 430 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-354-7329; brasitas.com

French Le Penguin 61 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-717-1200 | 7 Sconset Sq., Westport, 203-557-6432; lepenguinbistro.com

Mediterranean Mediterraneo 366 Greenwich Ave.,

Greek EOS Greek Cuisine

BRICK WALK TAVERN

→→

GOLDEN ADVICE

Peter Chang, winner of best Chinese cuisine, picks Szechuan dishes to sample now.

1

THE REAL DEAL For authentic fare, start with spicy lamb buns or the milder Furong chicken hot pot. Follow with shredded pork with bean curd and bamboo shoots, a traditional milder dish.

2

FIRST TIME? NO PROBLEM Try the Bamboo Style Fish, lightly breaded flounder seasoned with cumin and Szechuan spices.

Vegetarians should try the Mapo Tofu, a traditional spicy dish that pairs well with rice.

3

SOME LIKE IT HOT

WINNER OF NEW RESTAURANT

T

avern food gets a boastful upgrade at Brick Walk Tavern. This new restaurant offers all of the necessary hospitality of a classic tavern and serves as a hub of the community (it’s a prime spot for meet-ups, family dinners, first dates and business meetings), but its food is beyond standard tavern fare. Consider the Maine lobster, shrimp and bay scallops with English peas, potatoes, leeks and tomatoes in a puff-pastry shell.

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You can’t go wrong with prawns with vermicelli, three pepper chicken or cumin lamb chop. For those feeling brave, the beef with vermicelli hot pot features flank steak served with bok choy in a steaming, spicy broth.

M O F F LY ME D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

CAFE 47 AT THE PERFECT PROVENANCE WINNER OF BEST CREATIVE MENU

“Inspired by our shop’s retailexhibitions, which change seasonally, CafĂŠ 47 complements the sensory experience. Dishes include starters, salads, soups, sandwiches, entrees and desserts prepared with locally sourced, organic ingredients.â€?

LISA LORI, owner

THE HOT SPOTS

AS SUMMER HEATS UP, YOU’LL WANT TO DUCK INTO A RESTAURANT WITH THE WINNING COMBO OF SERIOUS FOOD SKILLS, SERVICE AND DESIGN. HERE ARE THREE TO START:

LE PENGUIN WINNER OF BEST FRENCH CUISINE

“Either Greenwich or Westport, Le Penguin brings you the best in French fare like moules frites, tartare de boeuf, coq au vin or this classic—the tarte aux tomates rĂ´ties in a spicy tomato sauce—all in a gorgeous bistro setting.â€?

ANSHU VIDYARTHI, co-owner newcanaandarienmag.com

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VIDYARTHI BY ANDREW SULLIVAN; PERFECT PROVENANCE, CONTRIBUTED; LORI AND TARTE BY JULIE BIDWELL; PRIME BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

GOLD COAST

PRIME RESTAURANT WINNER OF BEST SPECIAL OCCASION/ DATE NIGHT

M

ake a great impression on that someone special by heading to Prime.

Along with its regular greats, such as many splendid sushi offerings and its dry-aged Wagyu strip, this restaurant also loves to flex its special-events muscles.

Look for special wine dinners with creative menus; $45 Sunday Night Price Fixe with such crowd-pleasers as crab cakes and Wellington; and for wine-lovers, “Exclusive Sip� on the first Friday of each month. With beautiful views, expertly prepared dishes, free-flowing wine choices and more, romance is in the air.

The fresh and contemporary design at Prime Restaurant sets the stage for a memorable meal.

THE GRANOLA BAR WINNER OF BEST BREAKFAST

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Bacon and eggs takes a big leap forward at The Granola Bar with wraps and toasts with your favorites, like feta and avocado

THE GRANOLA BAR BY NEIL ROHRICHT; FLIPSIDE BURGERS BY JULIE BIDWELL; BAFFA, CONTRIBUTED; LIZ SUE BAGELS BY GRACE TELESCO; COOKIES BY CATERINA TELESCO

hether you follow the adage that breakfast is the most important meal of the day or you just enjoy breakfast food, you can dig into a meal that is healthy, delicious and easy. Head to The Granola Bar, where the menu would make both your nutritionist and your foodie best friend equally happy. Blueberry chia parfait, avocado toast with jalapeño pesto and cotija, and the packed breakfast burrito are among the many yummy choices. Just add freshly brewed coffee or tea to enjoy an easy start to a well-fueled day.

M O F F LY ME D I A

READERS’ PICKS

Greenwich, 203-629-4747  |  353 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-229-0000; zhospitalitygroup.com Mexican Tequila Revolucion 1851 Post Rd., Fairfield, 475-888-9841; tequilarevolucionff.com Spanish Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800  |  515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600  |  4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; barcelonawinebar.com Thai Little Thai Kitchen 21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-2972  |  4 West Ave., Darien,

Burritos & Bowls Chipotle Mexican Grill 340 Grasmere Ave., Fairfield, 203-255-7665; chipotle.com

203-662-0038; littlethaikitchen.com

COMFORT FOOD

French Fries Five Guys 1221 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-817-0141 |  420 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-840-120  |  534 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-4250  | 340 Grasmere Ave., Fairfield, 203-254-3238; all locations at fiveguys.com

Bagels Liz Sue Bagels 63 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-323-4611   |  120 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk, 203-849-1322; lizsuebagelsinc.com

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

Breakfast Food The Granola Bar 41 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-883-5220 |  700 Canal St., Stamford, 203-883-0304   |  275 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5202 | 1876 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-692-4311; thegranolabarct.com

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

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

GOLDEN ADVICE

Liz Sue, winner of best bagels, honors delicious food traditions.

1

TRADITION Keep it easy—pick your favorite flavor bagel and have it toasted perfectly. Then have it topped with cream cheese, lox, red onion, tomato slices and a few capers.

Don’t “fix� what’s not broken.

2

SOMETHING NEW

The Candy Popper Burger with cream cheese, candied bacon and carrot-jalapeĂąo slaw on a pretzel bun

Your regular order will never let you down, but sometimes you do want to change things up. Try a new combo of bagel and flavor of cream cheese or other topping.

FLIPSIDE BURGERS & BAR WINNER OF BEST HAMBURGERS

“Our burgers are voted the best because our fresh meat is hand-packed daily, paired with a custom-baked bun and all the toppings you can imagine! There is a burger for everyone.�

MIKE BAFFA owner

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3

BEYOND BAGELS Bagels dominate at Liz Sue, but you’ll also find sandwiches, enormous pizza slices, salads, specialty cream cheese options, cookies and plenty more.

M O F F LY ME D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

GOLDEN ADVICE

Mecha Noodle Bar, winner of best noodle bar, knows there’s a noodle for every taste.

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

203-847-6022; letiziaspizza.com Ribs/Barbecue Walrus + Carpenter 2895 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-333-2733; walruscarpenterct.com

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

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

Mac & Cheese LobsterCraft 1891 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-5350; lobstercraft.com

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

Noodle Bar Mecha Noodle Bar 116 Washington St., S. Norwalk, 203-295-8718; 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; mechanoodlebar.com

Spicy Miso Ramen Braised pork belly, wood ear mushrooms, scallions and togarashi chili oil

Sushi Pink Sumo 4 Church Ln., Westport, 203-557-8080; pinksumoct.com

Pizza Letizia’s Pizza 666 Main Ave., Norwalk,

1

SEAFOOD LOVERS The Pho Shore is stocked with shrimp, calamari and fishcake, and garlic. Add on greens and there’s plenty of flavor for your taste buds to swim in.

2

CARNIVORES Tame your hangry mood with the satisfying Pho Tia with beef slices or Pho King with fermented bean short ribs. To either one, add brisket and marrow oil.

3

VEGETARIANS The Kinoko Vegetarian ramen is an earthy mix of mushroom dashi, shiitake salad, king trumpet and shio kombu. Add greens and tofu to feel at one with the world.

THE RESTAURANT AT ROWAYTON SEAFOOD WINNER OF BEST SEAFOOD

“I’m looking forward to the poached salmon dish with olive oil, salt, pepper and fresh seasonal ingredients, like heirloom tomatoes and avocado. Good for you, good for the soul.�

KEVIN CONROY owner

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Tacos bartaco 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226  |  222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226; bartaco.com Tapas Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800  |  515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600  |  4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; barcelonawinebar.com

CASUAL SPOTS Bar Dining Little Pub 531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147  |  26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122  |  2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; littlepub.com

MECHA NOODLE BAR AND CONROY, CONTRIBUTED; ROWAYTON SEAFOOD PLATTER BY JULIE BIDWELL; LITTLE PUB BY GUS CANTAVERO

GOLD COAST

LITTLE PUB WINNER OF BEST BEER SELECTION + LUNCH SPOT + PUB + RESTAURANT BAR

L

ittle Pub has “little” in its name, but the popular spot won big this year. It has a way of thinking big, too— multiple locations, impressive menu, a well-stocked bar and live music that will knock your socks off. If you’re looking for an upscale pub without the attitude, stop by.

Whether you’re here to rehydrate with a Palm Belgian Amber Ale, fill up with a Dragon Roll Burrito (sesame-crusted ahi tuna with fried brown rice, avocado and ginger pickles) or hear the likes of Griff Anthony perform, you win.

The Jamburger is a half pound of fresh-ground, hand-packed Angus beef topped with roasted garlic cream cheese, jalapeños, and fresh bacon jam.

M O F F LY ME D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

Brunch Walrus + Carpenter 2895 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-333-2733; walruscarpenterct.com Café/Bistro Capriccio Café 189 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-356-9819; capriccio-cafe.com Coffee Shop Lorca 125 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-504-2847  |  160 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-930-2401; lorcacoffeebar.com Deli Rye Ridge Deli 1087 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-5333  |  159 Main St., Westport, 203-557-8280; ryeridgedeli.com Diner Post Road Diner 312 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-9777; prdfamily.com Family-Friendly Restaurant Chips Family Restaurant 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-332-3370  |  see all locations at chipsrestaurants.com Food Truck Hapa hapafoodtruck.com

GREEN & TONIC WINNER OF BEST JUICE BAR

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Smoothies in a rainbow of colors and flavors, including Green Guru, the sweet and tart Berry Garcia, and, in the background, AB&J for a sweet treat

hew! It’s heating up outside. Refresh at Green & Tonic, a plant-based café. With a vibe of pure sunshine, it offers feel-good/real-good food and healthy drink choices. Consider, for example, a superfood or fruit smoothie, a green juice, aloe juice or Fire Cider Shot (whoosh!).

Along with a variety of fruit and vegetable juices, you’ll find a selection of fresh-made, dairyfree, gluten-free wraps, bowls, salads, bars and more to keep you fired up for your day.

Juice Bar Green & Tonic 7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-1376  |  85 Railroad Ave., Greenwich, 203-844-0220  |  1098 Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-1036  |  5 Burtis Ave., New Canaan, 203-920-1395 | 17 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-557-6392; greenandtonic.com Lunch Spot Little Pub 531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147  |  26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122  |  2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; littlepub.com Vegetarian The Lime Restaurant 168 Main St., Norwalk,

→→

GREEN & TONIC BY EMILY WATSON

Take turns taking turns.

The iconic design and legendary handling of a Porsche. All with enough room for f ive. The hardest decision won’t be when you drive it. But rather, who gets to. Porsche. There is no substitute.

The new Cayenne.

Sportscar Together.

Porsche Greenwich 241 West Putnam Avenue Greenwich CT 06830 (203) 869-8900 PorscheGreenwich.com

Š2018 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of traffic laws at all times.

European model shown. Some options may not be available in the U.S.

M O F F LY ME D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

GOLDEN ADVICE

Marianna Braganca of Barcelona, winner of best wine list, shares top wines for summer.

1 RED

Nucerro Gran Reserva offers all the notes you would crave from a Rioja—cedar, candied cherries and a touch of spice. Try the 2010 vintage, a great year for this Spanish wine.

2

WHITE Iniceri Abisso Catarratto is a certified organic white that is complex in flavor. You’ll taste intense minerality that accentuates its Sicilian roots.

3 ROSÉ

Lafage Miraflors is a medium bodied, layered, Provence-style rosĂŠ sourced from eightyyear-old vines planted near the Mediterranean.

WASHINGTON PRIME

ROB MOSS partner/president

“Good food and service are a must, but the relationship guests have with our team is what makes people think, Let’s go see Scott or Amanda or Pablo at WP and have some fun.�

203-846-9240; limerestaurant.com

Post Rd., Darien, 203-2029473  |  1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-255-9331; fjordfishmarket.com

MARKETS + MORE

Gourmet Grocery + Gourmet To-Go Palmer’s Market 264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-2077; palmersdarien.com

Bakery + Desserts DiMare Pastry Shop 1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781  |  12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253; dimarepastry.com

15 North Main St., Norwalk, 203-956-7243; theblindrhino.com Girls’ Night Out Molto 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8288; pizzeriamolto.com Happy Hour Deal + Martinis Washington Prime 141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314  |  19 Main St., Georgetown, 203-587-1488; washingtonprimect.com

Butcher Shop Darien Butcher Shop 13 Grove St., Darien, 203-202-9664; darienbutchershop.com

Health Food Whole Foods Market 90 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-0631  |  150 Ledge Rd., Darien, 203-662-0577  |  399 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-227-6858  |  350 Grasmere Ave., Fairfield, 203-319-9544; wholefoodsmarket.com

Candy Store Saugatuck Sweets 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-642-4615  |  28 Reef Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8550

Liquor Store Putnam & Vine 39 E. Elm St., Greenwich, 203-869-6008; putnamandvine.com

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

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

Wine Shop Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market 2094 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-4692; harryswine.com

Chocolate Shop Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti 190 Main St., Westport, 203-293-6106; lerougebyaarti.com

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

BAR BOASTS Beer Selection + Pub + Restaurant Bar Little Pub 531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147  |  26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122  |  2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; littlepub.com

Cupcakes Forever Sweet Bakery 235 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-9399600; foreversweetbakery.com Fish Market Fjord Fish Market 158 East Putnam Ave.,
 Cos Cob, 203- 661-5006  |  22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200  |  1015 Boston

Big Game Day The Blind Rhino

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

Singles Scene (Over 35) The Spread 18 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1887 |  70 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-939-1111; thespreadsono.com Wine List Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800  |  515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600  |  4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; barcelonawinebar.com

GREEN & TONIC BY EMILY WATSON; MOSS, CONTRIBUTED; WINE, CONTRIBUTED BY BARCELONA

GOLD COAST

When You Love Your Car, You Trust It To The Best ~ SPLASH! Thank you for naming Splash Car Wash the “Best Car Wash� 15 years in a row!

ARS 15 YE W! O R IN A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

Proudly servicing our communities since 1981! www.splashcarwashes.com

Westy Has Your Closet Needs Covered‌ M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

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SHOP+STYLE

Fashion, home goods, wedding looks—the hunt is on

READERS’ PICKS

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hether setting up home, celebrating a wedding, heading to a big gala, entertaining a small circle of friends at home or just shopping for fun finds around town, the people of Fairfield County have good taste. Be in the know on the specialty shops that can help you express your unique style.

MARILYNN LIPTON BLOTNER co-owner

SOLEIL TOILE

FASHION

203-900-1131; theperfectprovenance.com

Accessories + Teen Fashion Apricot Lane 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888; apricotlaneboutique.com

Eyewear Specs 1 Tokeneke Rd., Darien, 203-6563430 | 115 Post Rd., Westport, 203-226-8380 | 1555 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-372-7533

Children’s Clothes Splurge 39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-869-7600; splurgegifts.com Cocktail Attire Helen Ainson 1078 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-9841; helenainson.com Consignment Double Exposure 1958 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-8799 Department Store Lord & Taylor 110 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-6600 | 5065 Main St., Trumbull, 203-374-5700; lordandtaylor.com Designer Boutique The Perfect Provenance 47 Arch St., Greenwich,

Men’s Shoes Brooks Brothers 100 Greyrock Pl., Stamford, 203-359-2300 | 987 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-1825 | 136 Main St., Westport, 203-226-9893; brooksbrothers.com

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

Swimwear Swim ‘N Surf 43 Unquowa Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-6351; swimnsurf.com

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

Women’s Shoes The Perfect Pair 14 Sanford St., Fairfield, 475-888-9628; theperfectpairct.com

Lingerie Soleil Toile 44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-2887 | 24 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-8688; soleiltoile.com

JEWELRY

Makeup Boutique Bluemercury 254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005 | 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-972-7100 |

MITCHELLS/RICHARDS CONTRIBUTED IMAGES

1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 57 Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900; bluemercury.com

Anniversary & Special Occasion Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, →→

WINNER OF BEST MEN’S + WOMEN’S FASHION +

ANNIVERSARY & SPECIAL OCCASION

F

or Fairfield County’s best-dressed, sister stores Mitchells in Westport and Richards in Greenwich are prime high-end-fashion hunting grounds. Here, stylish shoppers find well-made, high-quality, on-trend pieces from today’s top designers. Men and women rely on the stylists at these family-owned and -run stores to build perfect wardrobes.

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WINNER OF BEST LINGERIE

“We are thrilled to offer the luxury brand Skin.

It’s widely recognized for the use of soft, natural fabrics, organic cotton materials and sophisticated, versatile silhouettes.

The line incorporates items that can be worn to sleep, to lunch and to go from day to night.”

M O F F LY ME D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

LUX BOND & GREEN WINNER OF BEST JEWELRY BOUTIQUE

“As experts in gemology and diamonds with partnerships around the world, we find the most spectacular and beautiful diamonds at great prices. Our design team will create your perfect ring.�

JOHN GREEN, CEO

Add sparkle to your day with three choices from Lux Bond & Green.

SHINING MOMENT THE SUMMER SUN IS BRILLIANT AND BRIGHT—SO WHY NOT YOU, TOO? THESE THREE WINNING JEWELERS HELP YOU FLASH YOUR OWN CAPTIVATING SPARKLE.

Beautiful choices: Laser-Cut Diamond necklaces and a 14K Full-Cut Morganite and Enamel Ring

JL ROCKS FINE JEWELRY WINNER OF BEST ON-TREND JEWELRY

“The young working woman and the rural homemaker are layering minimal pieces worn during the day to the gym and easily transition to evening for the perfect date night look. A nod back to ’80s shine and Florentine in bands and cuffs are all on-point for spring. Rich enamel elements on rings and pendants are also staples in our jewelry wardrobe now.�

JAMIE CAMCHE, owner newcanaandarienmag.com

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LUX BOND AND GREEN RINGS AND HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED; CAMCHE BY DEBRA SOMERVILLE; JL ROCKS JEWELRY BY JAMIE CAMCHE; MANFREDI WATCHES, CONTRIBUTED

GOLD COAST

M O F F LY ME D I A

READERS’ PICKS

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

T

ime is always on your side when you step inside Manfredi. So, who better to ask about the latest watch trends than longtime manager Robert Weintraub? “For ladies’ watches, Hermès is one of the most in demand. Many would be surprised that Hermès has a rich history of watchmaking dating back over eighty years. Their timeless classic designs can go from the office to an evening out. The Cape Cod is one of their iconic watches and has many variations and strap options,â€? says Weintraub. And for the guys? “In the under $5,000 range, the new Seamaster 300m, which was updated about a year ago, is the perfect all-around steel sport watch. It comes in three different dial colors on a bracelet or rubber strap.â€? For those who want to make an even bigger statement, Weintraub recommends the Vacheron Constantin Overseas Automatic. “It has become one of the most sought after men’s watches, especially the blue dial version. It comes with a bracelet, rubber strap and alligator strap as well as an interchangeable folding buckle, and it features a unique quick-release mechanism that allows you to change between them without the use of tools.â€?

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READERS’ PICKS

TUSK HOME + DESIGN WINNER OF BEST CONTEMPORARY FURNISHINGS + HOME ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE

T

oday’s interior design is all about knowing the rules—and when and how to break them to express your personal style. Judging by the votes, our readers are scoring finds at Tusk Home + Design.

Switch in new rugs, seating, mirrors, the perfect vase or that something special to renew your space. This one-stop shop also offers professional design services to help homeowners with style decisions, big and small.

PINK LEMON BLUE LIME WINNER OF BEST BABY STORE

“The perfect summer baby gift includes an adorable staple, such as a onesie or sleeper, topped off with a teether or lovie, like this cute ice cream teether.

It’s all-natural and smells like vanilla.�

Farmhouse table with modern edge and Edison linear chandelier

EVALINA ROGERS owner

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READERS’ PICKS

203-622-0551  |  670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com Custom Design R. Hollander Master Goldsmith 154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200; ringart.com Estate Peter Suchy 1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-0024; petersuchyjewelers.com Fine Betteridge 239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124; betteridge.com Jewelry Boutique Lux Bond & Green 136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com

Men’s + Women’s Watches Manfredi Jewels 121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-1414  |  72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705; manfredijewels.com

203-847-2471; aitoro.com

On Trend JL Rocks 292 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-4541; jlrocks.com

Bookstore Barnes & Noble 1076 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-7955; barnesandnoble.com

HOME

China Hoagland’s of Greenwich 175 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-2127; hoaglands.com

Baby Store Pink Lemon Blue Lime 180 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-202-9994; pinklemonbluelime.com

Antiques/Vintage Store Found 147 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-594-7807; foundanddesign.com

Contemporary Furnishings + Home Accessories Boutique Tusk Home + Design 1375 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-319-0001; tuskhomeanddesign. comFurniture Store + Rugs

Appliances Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk,

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

GOLDEN ADVICE

Lillian August, winner of best furniture store and rugs, on quality and style

JOHN WEISS COO

“It’s a very smart idea to see and feel before buying. Our rug department is incredibly knowledgeable and can tell you where and how our rugs were made.�

DAN WEISS AND JONH WEISS BY LORIN KLARIS; ALL OTHERS, CONTRIBUTED

FOUND WINNER OF BEST ANTIQUES/ VINTAGE STORE

“Our primary goal is to be a source of inspiration and creativity for our customers as well as the destination to find the perfect gift.�

DAN WEISS president and CEO

“Walking our 100,000-square-foot Design Center in Norwalk and seeing what styles you respond to can paint a good picture of your design aesthetic.�

CHRISTINE KEANE owner

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READERS’ PICKS

Lillian August 26 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-489-3740  |  Warehouse at 47 John St., Stamford, 203-847-1596  |  Design Center at 32 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-847-3314  |  Annex at 85 Water St., South Norwalk, 203-838-0153; lillianaugust.com

Darien Toy Box 1064 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-2992; darientoybox.com

Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-663-3768; chloewinstonlighting.com

Bicycle Shop Zane’s Cycles 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-8735; zanes.com

Linens Fig Linens 66 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-8669; figlinensandhome.com

SPORTS GEAR

Fitness Wear Athleta 350 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-625-0129  |  103 Main St., Westport, 203-454-0011; athleta.gap.com

Luxury Imports Waterworks 23 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-7766; waterworks.com Outdoor Furniture Patio.com 600 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-869-3084  |  919 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-1620  |  975 Ethan Allen Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-431-9337; patio.com Toy Store

WEDDINGS

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

Bridal Gowns + Bridesmaid Dress Boutique Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-661-2171; mariettac.com

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

Menswear Mitchells/Richards 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

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

Wedding Cakes DiMare Pastry Shop 1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781  |  12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253; dimarepastry.com

Wedding Planner Ashley Douglass Events 34 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 917-748-6281; ashleydouglassevents.com

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

Golf Equipment Sterling Farms Golf Course 1349 Newfield Ave., Stamford, 203-461-9090; sterlingfarmsgc.com

Wedding Floral Design Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck 876 Post Rd., Darien, 203-662-9666; flowersandflowers.com

Sports Gear Store Darien Sport Shop 1127 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2575; dariensport.com

Wedding Gifts Lux Bond & Green

Wedding Reception Venue Inn at Longshore 260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, 203-226-3316; innatlongshore.com Wedding Registry Crate & Barrel 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-9500; crateandbarrel.com Wedding & Engagement Rings Betteridge 239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124; betteridge.com

CHLOE WINSTON LIGHTING DESIGN

A stunning Robert Abbey light fixture at the Chloe Winston showroom

WINNER OF BEST LIGHTING

“Lighting is fashion—follow trends while keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s timeless. Blend the two and you’ll have the perfect piece!�

CANDACE PEREIRA owner

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So, you know who won Best of the Gold Coast, now what? Come Celebrate

SUMMER OF GOLD M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

GOLDEN ADVICE

Melani Lust, winner of best wedding photographer, on getting the camera to love you

1

FORMAL: CREATE A MOMENT Under cloudy skies at the bride’s Christmas Tree farm, Melani added colored gels on the light to make it look like the couple was bathed in warm sunshine. Then, she “asked the groom to come as close to kissing his bride as he could without kissing her.�

A truly dazzling beauty: 5.24 carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring

BETTERIDGE WINNER OF BEST WEDDING & ENGAGEMENT RINGS

“Engagement rings are a special point of pride in our workshop. At Betteridge, we handcraft our engagement rings, customizing each setting to your diamond to maximize its beauty and to ensure the ring will be just as beautiful 100 years from now as it is today.�

WIN BETTERIDGE COO

LET’S CELEBRATE

WHETHER EXCHANGING VOWS OR THROWING AN ANNIVERSARY PARTY AT HOME, PLENTY OF PROS CAN HELP YOU PREPARE FOR, AND ENJOY, THE SPECIAL MOMENT.

2

CANDID: PUPPY LOVE “This moment evolved naturally, with Tucker looking so proud as his ‘parents’ turned to look at each other,� she says. “This ended up being one of my favorite images of the day!�

FLOWERS AND FLOWERS WINNER OF BEST WEDDING FLORAL DESIGN

“We’ve been celebrating the greatest love stories since we opened our doors. It’s easy to say that we love love and care about your wedding being the most special day of your life.�

ADAM MANJUCK owner

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WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHS BY MELANI LUST; ALL OTHER IMAGES, CONTRIBUTED

5,000 SQUARE FEET OF SHOPPING HEAVEN! CHANEL, PRADA, VALENTINO, GIVENCHY, HERMES, BALENCIAGA, ALEXANDER McQUEEN, SAINT LAURENT, PROENZA SCHOULER, BRUNELLO CUCINELLI, ISABEL MARANT, OSCAR de la RENTA Rag & Bone, Vince, Theory, Helmut Lang and much more!

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ROUNDABOUT

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New & Resale Couture

48 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich

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203-552-0787

M O F F LY M E D I A

Westy Mover Concierge

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

For twenty-five years, Westy Mover Concierge has recommended select movers to thousands of customers in order to make their moving experience pleasant and at reasonable cost. Westy does not charge movers for the service, but insists that they satisfy our customers.

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M O F F LY ME D I A

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READERS’ PICKS

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

SERVICES+TO DO’S Sure, “you’ve got this�—but no one said you couldn’t get help

READERS’ PICKS

H

ello, highly successful people—we have great news: You don’t have to know how to do everything that it takes to run a house, prep for a power meeting, fit into those skinny jeans, take care of all the kids’ needs and so forth. You just need to know who to call for a bit of professional reinforcement—and now you’ve got the list.

PAMPERING

SALON BY TOM MCGOVERN; SUN ©UMB-O - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; HAIR ©SUBBOTINA ANNA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; WATER ©DAWOOL - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Blow Out/Updo + Color H Salon 2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsaloncolorcutdesign.com Day Spa + Facial Lanphier Day Spa 20 West Ave., Darien, 203-656-4444; lanphierdayspa.com Family Hair Salon Johnny’s & Company 1950 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-1188; johnnysandcompany.com Kids’ Haircuts Fairfield Barbershop 29 Unquowa Rd., Fairfield 203-255-1347 Makeup Application H Salon (Shealeen Worby) 2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsaloncolorcutdesign.com

975 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-769-1171; toandfromails.com

203-322-8483; noblesalon.com

FITNESS

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

Barre The Bar Method 800 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7975; 25 Sylvan Rd. S., Westport, 203-557-6737; 85 Mill Plain Rd., Ste. V, Fairfield, 203-259-8825; barmethod.com

Men’s Hairstyling Jaafar Tazi 149 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-2525 | 80 Main St., Second Flr., New Canaan, 203-220-2212; jaafartazi.com

Boards & Boats Classes Downunder Kayaking 157 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-642-3660 | 155 Nearwater Ln., Darien | 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-956-6217; downunderct.com

Spray Tan Zen Bronze 1081 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0209 | 231 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-940-0667; zenbronze.com

Boutique Fitness Studio + HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) Orangetheory Fitness 205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-883-6070 | 645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262 | 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-883-8220; see all locations at orangetheoryfitness.com

Waxing The Waxing Spot 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-228-5118; thewaxingspot.com Women’s Hairstyling Noble Salon 848 High Ridge Rd., Stamford,

Mani/Pedi To and From

JAAFAR TAZI

GOLDEN ADVICE

Protecting yourself from the summer heat, beautifully

1

NOBLE SALON Summer’s heat and sunlight can be harsh on your hair, but the stylists at Noble can revive and protect it with the right treatment, cut and blow-dry.

2

H SALON It’s summer, so lighten up.

Brighten your hair color with full or partial highlights, ombre or balayage or a full glaze at H Salon. Stylists can help you find the best shade for you.

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WINNER OF BEST MEN’S HAIRSTYLING

LANPHIER DAY SPA

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ood style, men know, isn’t all about the clothes—it starts at the top, with an expert haircut and style. The staff at the sophisticated and well-established Jaafar Tazi Salon knows this well, too, whether they’re asked to create a classic look or something that’s cutting edge. A big part of the success is how they treat each client—and not just the guys; Jaafar is a style-stop for women and kids as well.

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With salt at the beach and chlorine at the pool, your skin needs some love. Indulge in a hydrating treatment with therapeutic oils and a creamy body wrap.

M O F F LY ME D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

READERS’ PICKS

ORANGETHEORY FITNESS WINNER OF BEST BOUTIQUE FITNESS STUDIO + BEST HIIT

WESTPORT PILATES Winner of Best Pilates

SUMMERTIME SESSIONS

“Is there anything as appealing and healthy as a Pilates body? Heading into summer, there’s no better way to prepare your body and mind than with classical Pilates taught authentically.

Taught right, it works you inside and out.�

CAIT LYDDY owner

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ou’ll work, but also expect results from your fitness training. Orangetheory Fitness gets it. They love the challenge of helping you reach your goals with coached small-group classes. Each workout mixes in strength, power and endurance training through running, rowing and weight work—and the proof of your effort is displayed in real-time heart-rate data and performance metrics.

You know how hard to push during each interval. “Orangetheory is a science-backed, technologytracked, coach-inspired, full-body, group HIIT workout designed to produce results from the inside out, giving people a longer, more vibrant life,� says Mark Molina, owner of multiple local studios.

M O F F LY ME D I A

READERS’ PICKS

Crossfit Crossfit Stamford 75 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-569-2906; crossfitstamford.com Dance Fitness Intensity 490 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-833-7727; intensity.club Fitness Club Underground Fitness 473 Hope St., Stamford, 203-569-3640; undergroundfitnessct.com

LYDDY BY MARCELO TAPIA; ORANGETHEORY FITNESS BY MARK MOLINA; LORENZ, CONTRIBUTED: JOYRIDE AND MCBRIDE BY KYLE NORTON

Indoor Cycling JoyRide Studio 25 Old Kings Hwy. N. (Goodwives Shopping Center), Darien, 203-202-9712  |  1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454  |  3 Godfrey Pl., Wilton, 203-762-6122  |  62 Danbury

Rd., Ridgefield, 203-403-6874; joyridestudio.com

ERRANDS

Kids’ Fitness/ Sports Training Norwalk Academy of Dance 250 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-857-4445; norwalkdance.com

Auto Repair Shop BMW of Darien 140 Ledge Rd., Darien, 203-656-1804; bmwdarien.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

GOLDEN ADVICE

Hit the gym for a beach-ready body.

Car Wash Splash Car Wash 203-324-5400; see all locations at splashcarwashes.com

Pilates Westport Pilates 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-227-7969 | 1015 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-255-1246; westportpilates.com

Dog Groomer/Pet Spa Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768; spotonvet.com

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

Dry Cleaners Fabricare Cleaners 312 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-3381 |  5 Holmes St., Norwalk, 203-229-0001  | 2130 Post Rd., Fairfield, →→

THE BAR METHOD Winner of Best Barre Studio

“Barre is the perfect head start to getting summer-ready. You’ll strengthen, tone and stretch muscles to prep for tennis, running or some other favorite activity.�

BRIDGET MCBRIDE co-owner

JOYRIDE WINNER OF BEST INDOOR CYCLING STUDIO

“Fitness needs to be challenging, engaging and fun.

When we created JoyRide, we wanted to create an inclusive community that provided a killer workout, had inspiring and friendly instructors and was a whole lot of a good time.�

CONNECTICUT POWER YOGA Winner of Best Yoga Studio

Fitness and fun ride together in the Darien location.

RHODIE LORENZ co-owner

“Yoga focuses on physical postures, meditations and self-inquiry while connecting to yourself through movement and breathing.�

AIMEE ELSNER co-owner

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READERS’ PICKS

203-256-2725; fabricarecleaners.net

BRUCE MUSEUM OF ART AND SCIENCE

Florist Hansen’s Flower Shop 1040 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0461 hansensflowershop.com

WINNER OF BEST MUSEUM

J

ust because museums preserve our past doesn’t mean they have to be old news. The Bruce is proving that in a major way. The museum, which hosts blockbuster exhibits of works by Rembrandt, Picasso, Warhol and other masters, is undergoing a major expansion that will double its size and transform both its interior and exterior. The result? A world-class institution that is poised to become a major destination that will welcome visitors from near and far.

Garden Center Stew Leonard’s 100 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-7214; stewleonards.com Livery Service Rudy’s Executive Transportation 85 Old Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-609-8000; rudylimo.com Local Hotel Delamar Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800; delamar.com/southport above: A rendering of the sleek new entry at the Bruce. below: The new

science exhibits will take up all the gallery space of the current museum.

Pet Supplies/ Pet Clothing Choice Pet See all locations at choicepet.com Shoe Repair Westfair Shoe Repair 1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587 Storage Facility Westy Self Storage 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford  |  50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk  |  65 Danbury Rd., Wilton  |  2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 855-212-1626; westy.com Tailor Ted the Tailor 2 Church St., Greenwich, 203-869-5699 Veterinarian Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768; spotonvet.com

Attention Best of Winners!

M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

Permission to Humblebrag.

You won Best Of. Now frame it.

Brand New Best Of Plaque.

Think of it as a thank you to your voters.

ORDER NOW at thatsgreatnews.com/goldcoast2019 Choose from six new designs.

CONGRATULATIONS again on being a 2019 winner!

B SP EC O OM N E SO A R!

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magazine presents

and New Canaan’s

B E ST B A RTE N D E R CONTEST

Presented by NEW CANAAN-DARIEN+ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

WHICH TOWN IS HOME TO THE BEST BARTENDER?

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 • 5:30-7:30 P.M. SAMPLE LIGHT BITES

HOSTED BY

1335 BOSTON POST RD, DARIEN

BUSINESS SPONSORS Helen Ainson

FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES contact your account representative or Lisa Hingst: lisa.hingst@moffly.com

PHOTOGRAPHS BY DEMPHOTO/ADOBESTOCK.COM; ESBEN468635/ADOBESTOCK. COM; EXPRESSIOVISUAL/ADOBESTOCK.COM; NEW AFRICA /ADOBESTOCK.COM;

VOTE SIGNATURE COCKTAIL ENJOY LIVE MUSIC

M O F F LY ME D I A

READERS’ PICKS

LEVITT PAVILION WINNER OF BEST PERFORMING ARTS VENUE

CARLEIGH WELSH

BRUCE MUSEUM, CONTRIBUTED; WELSH BY GARVIN BURKE; MUSIC SCHOOL, CONTRIBUTED; STEPPING STONES, INSTAGRAM.COM/RACHEL_TOUSSAINT

director of marketing and development

TRY IT / TUNE IN Art Classes Silvermine Arts Center 1037 Silvermine Rd., New Canaan, 203-966-9700; silvermineart.org Art Gallery Flinn Gallery 101 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-7947; flinngallery.com Children’s Music Lessons + Music Lessons Fairfield | Trumbull School of Music 338 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-690-1888; fairfieldschoolofmusic.org Children’s Parties Hands On Pottery 15 Tokeneke Rd., Darien, 203-656-3995 |  1700 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-319-1273; hopct.com Children’s Playground Compo Beach 60 Compo Beach Rd., Westport, westportct.gov/index.aspx? page=321

“The summer season will feature fifty free nights under the stars with award-winning and rising stars in music, dance, comedy, film and the beloved Melissa & Doug Children’s Series—all alongside the Saugatuck River.

A highlight will be a Stars-on-Tour special presentation of Our Native Daughters featuring Rhiannon Giddens, Allison Russell, Leyla McCalla and Amythyst Kiah on July 23.�

College Prep Courses Carnegie Prep 136 N. Old Stone Bridge Rd., Cos Cob, 203-352-3500; carnegieprep.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

GOLDEN ADVICE

Fact: Kids enjoy learning when you make it fun.

Here’s proof.

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FAIRFIELD | TRUMBULL SCHOOL OF MUSIC Help your child learn an instrument or enjoy no-pressure vocal lessons in private or small groups with the added benefit of being able to show off the new skills in a performance.

Museum for Children Stepping Stones Museum for Children 303 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-0606; steppingstonesmuseum.org

Cooking Classes AMG Catering & Events 203-227-5535 amgcatering.com

Nanny/Babysitting Services Nannies As Needed see all locations at nanniesasneeded.com

Language Classes German School of Connecticut Stamford Campus 381 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-548-0438; germanschoolct.org

Performing Arts Stamford Symphony 263 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203-325-1407; stamfordsymphony.org

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

Performing Arts Venue Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts 40 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-226-7600; levittpavilion.com

Local Cover Band The Short Bus theshortbusrocks.com

Radio Station AM - Local WICC wicc600.com

Local Rock Band Finster finstermusic.com

Radio Station FM - Local Star 99.9 star999.com

Museum Bruce Museum One Museum Dr., Greenwich, 203-869-0376; brucemuseum.org

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

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STEPPING STONES MUSEUM Rainy day? Don’t worry about what to do with little explorers: Take them to Stepping Stones to enjoy plenty of hands-on exhibits, like the fun water station.

M O F F LY ME D I A

EDITORS’ PICKS

EDITORS’ PICKS

OUR READERS CAST THEIR BALLOTS FOR THEIR FAVORITES IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY—AND, YES, WE EDITORS WERE IMPRESSED. BUT SOMETHING WAS MISSING…EDITORS’ PICKS! THESE ESSENTIAL EXTRAS ROUND OUT THE 2019 GUIDE TO THE SUMMER OF GOLD. PICK YOUR FUN!

ROCKING A PARTY BOAT

ON THE DANCE FLOOR

HAPPY AT HOME

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CAPTAIN JOHN’S TIKI TOURS

TANGLED VINE

GLENGATE

Ahoy! Grab up to five of your closest friends, BYOB and take a scenic ride along Harbor Point on a Polynesian-style floating lounge. Why take life so seriously when there’s so much fun to be had? We suggest booking on Tiki Tuesdays, when a thirty-minute tour is only $25 per person, with a complimentary lei and cooler and ice for your favorite drinks.

Whenever you go this summer, you can trust Capt. John to show you the best local sights as your favorite tunes play and you let stress float away. captjohnstikitours.com

Summer was made for good friends, good times and good music. Get it all when you head out to see Tangled Vine. The band rocks Hawaii, Miami, San Francisco, Aruba, Boston, NYC and, lucky us, Fairfield County. They even find time to give back. They’ll be at The Pilot House Family Fun Day Fundraiser on May 4. They have also played for Make-A-Wish, Kids in Crisis, MasterCard, Bridgewater, Pfizer, PGA World Championship, Graham Capital Management and others. Do good or just a good time, let’s dance. tangledvine.com

Some of the best summer memories are made at home, gathered with friends and family for a pool party or dinner under the stars. If it’s time for a new or an upgraded pool, garden, outdoor kitchen or other essential, Glengate is on it. This outdoor-lifestyle company understands family time: Four generations have grown the business from a pool company into a firm for pool design and construction, landscape architecture, garden design and maintenance, and all-thingsoutdoors–so you have fun. glengatecompany.com

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GLEN GATE, CONTRIBUTED

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

CAPTAIN JOHN’S TIKI TOURS PHOTO BY ALEX TAYLOR; BAND BY CARMINE PICARELLO;

GOLD COAST

LEADERS of Hope AT R I A S E N I O R L I V I N G

Celebrating Hope 2019

T H E C A B R E R A F A M I LY K AT E A N D J I M C L A R K

Honoree

JILL AND JOHN COYLE DEE HICKEY G R E E N W I C H M E D I C A L S PA

N ATA L I E M O R A L E S

INSPIR CARNEGIE HILL LIZ AND MARK LAZARUS COURTNEY AND BRENT MONTGOMERY

NBC WEST COAST ANCHOR OF

EMILIE AND RICH POWERS

TO D AY S H OW, CO H O S T O F A CC E SS

MARY JO AND BILL RIDDLE

Emcee

T H E S O M E R S F A M I LY LISA AND SCOT T STUART LEIGH AND MARK TEIXEIRA

CHAMPIONS of Hope T H E G R E E N S AT C A N N O N D A L E , T H E G R E E N S AT G R E E N W I C H A N D W I LT O N M E A D O W S SUSAN REYNOLDS LEHMAN G I OVA N N A A N D B R I A N M I L L E R

SAGE STEELE HOST OF ESPN’S SPORTSCENTER

S AT U R D AY, M AY 11, 2019 6 : 3 0 – 1 1 : 0 0 P. M .

R E G I O N A L H O S P I C E A N D P A L L I AT I V E C A R E

SUPPORTERS of Hope JANNELL AND LANCE BAKROW

BELLE HAVEN CLUB

T E R R Y A N D N I C K C ATA L D O

100 HARBOR DRIVE, GREENWICH

E A G L E L E A S I N G CO M PA N Y

S e a t e d D i n n e r, D a n c i n g t o D J A p r i l L a r k e n , Silent and Live Auctions

LIVERAMP

•

ELEANOR STONE NYC G R E E N W I C H H O S P I TA L M A R I S A N D D O N PA S C A L P OTO O S O LU T I O N S

CO C K TA I L AT T I R E

QUALITY CARE SERVICES GAIL AND RALPH REYNOLDS

(

The perfect time for PURPLE

)

JEN AND CRAIG ROSENBERG STERLING CARE T R E F Z C O R P O R AT I O N ANNETTE AND KIRK WILSON

funding local programs, services and research

T I N A P R AY

MEDIA SPONSOR G R E E N W I C H M A G A Z I N E , M O F F LY M E D I A

HELP THOSE IN NEED

ELENI AND PETER HENKEL JULIE AND DOUG OSTROVER

T H E Seventh A N N U A L

•

GRANOFF ARCHITECTS

T H E A L Z H E I M E R ’ S A S S O C I AT I O N CO N N EC T I C U T C H A P T E R

HOPE FOR A WORLD WITHOUT ALZHEIMER’S

PREMIER SPONSORS of Hope

AN EVENING TO REMEMBER

Fo r i n fo r m a t i o n a n d t i c ke t s alzctch.givesmar t .com o r 860.828.2828

BELIEVE IN A CURE

Celebrating Hope Sponsors

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TOASTING THE TOWNS You’ve come to the right place—the section where we call out all the reliable favorites and successful businesses (plus some surprises) that you, our readers, voted the Best of New Canaan, Darien and Norwalk. We raise our glasses to celebrate all the winners; now head on out and find out for yourselves what the fuss is all about. Cheers!

PHOTOGRAPH BY ©DASHA PETRENKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

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FOOD+ DRINK

Italian Scena Wine Bar scenawinebar.com

RESTAURANTS

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India coromandelcuisine.com

New Restaurant + Hotel Restaurant Tavern at GrayBarns tavernatgraybarns.com Best Service The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com Creative Menu El Segundo elsegundosono.com Outdoor Dining + Special Occasion/Date Night Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

ICE CREAM © PAMELA D MCADAMS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM ; ROOST BY NATALIYA LALOR OF N. LALOR PHOTOGRAPHY; BALDANZA BY KYLE NORTON

American Match matchsono.com Asian Fusion Mecha Noodle Bar mechanoodlebar.com Greek Pontos Taverna pontostaverna.com

GOLDEN ADVICE What’s a must-try dish on the menu?

Japanese Kazu Sushi Bar & Japanese Restaurant kazusono.com Latin American Brasitas brasitas.com

SPRINKLES, PLEASE

Mediterranean Mediterraneo Norwalk zhospitalitygroup.com/ mediterraneonorwalk

Billed as Rowayton’s favorite ice cream shop for decades, Brendan’s 101’s selections include delicious year-round flavors like major mint and 101 Oreo. Homemade waffle cones, too. Yum.

Mexican Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Ice Cream/Gelato Brendan’s 101 brendans101.com

Spanish Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar barcelonawinebar.com/location/ waypointe

Mac & Cheese Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Thai Little Thai Kitchen littlethaikitchen.com

Noodle Bar Mecha Noodle Bar mechanoodlebar.com

COMFORT FOOD

Ribs/Barbeque The Boatyard at Smokey Joe’s BBQ Restaurant smokeyjoesribs.com

Breakfast Food Roost roostdarien.com

Seafood The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood rowaytonseafood.com

Burritos & Bowls Chipotle Mexican Grill chipotle.com

If you like dinner at the Tavern at GrayBarns, you’re going to love that they’re now serving lunch Wednesday through Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m..

KRISTA AND MIKE PIETRAFESO, co-owners, Roost

Pizza Letizia’s Pizza letiziaspizza.com

Bagels Liz Sue Bagels II lizsuebagelsii.com

LUNCH BREAK

“The Roost English Muffin Sandwich with scratch-made English muffins, a runny farm egg, bearnaise sauce, crispy bacon and arugula.”

Steak Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Frozen Yogurt Swirl facebook.com/swirlfrozenyogurts

Sushi Little Tokyo sushihenry.com

Hamburgers Cherry Street East cherrysteast.com

“The CT lobster roll, served warm on a brioche roll followed by our house-made vanilla strawberry cheesecake.”

ANGELA BALDANZA, co-owner, Baldanza restaurants

Hot Dogs Burgers, Shakes & Fries burgersshakesnfries.com

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GOLDEN ADVICE What’s the must-order drink of the summer?

MARKETS + MORE

Tacos Bodega Taco Bar bodegatacobar.com

Bakery + Cupcakes Forever Sweet Bakery foreversweetbakery.com

Tapas The Spread thespreadsono.com

Butcher Shop Darien Butcher Shop darienbutchershop.com

CASUAL SPOTS

Candy Store Mackenzies mackenziesnewcanaan.com

Bar Dining The Blind Rhino theblindrhino.com

“Tequila and sparkling pink lemonade, salty spicy rim.

Super juicy, refreshing all-day sipper.”

NICK MARTESCHENKO, chef and owner, South End Uncorked

“It’s hard to resist a refreshing watermelon cooler with lime, aloe and mint.”

Brunch Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

Caterer + Desserts + Gourmet Grocery + Gourmet To Go Palmer’s Market palmersdarien.com

Café/Bistro Baldanza Cafe baldanzacafe.com

Chocolate Shop Chocolate Works chocolateworks.com/darien-ct

Coffee Shop Caffe Nero caffenero.com/us/stores/darien

Fish Market Fjord Fish Market fjordfishmarket.com

Deli Uncle’s Deli unclesdeli.com

Health Food Whole Foods Market wholefoodsmarket.com

Diner Post Road Diner prdfamily.com

Liquor Store Leary’s Liquor Cabinet learysliquorcabinet.com

Family-Friendly Restaurant Rosie rosienewcanaan.com

Wine Shop Sipstirs sipstirs.com

Food Truck Hapa Food Truck hapafoodtruck.com

BAR BOASTS

Juice Bar Green & Tonic greenandtonic.com

Beer Selection The Goose American Bistro and Bar thegoosedarien.com

Lunch Spot Valencia Luncheria valencialuncheria.com

Big Game Day The Blind Rhino theblindrhino.com

Vegetarian/ Health Food The Lime Restaurant limerestaurant.com

Girls Night Out Cava Wine Bar & Wood Grille cavawinebar.com Happy Hour + Martinis + Wine List Washington Prime washingtonprimect.com

CAI PANDOLFINO, co-founder, Green & Tonic

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Margaritas Evarito’s Mexican Kitchen & Bar evaritos.com Outdoor Bar Sunset Grille sunsetgrille.net Pub B.J. Ryan’s bjryans.com Restaurant Bar South End Uncorked seuncorked.com Singles Scene (Over 35) The Spread thespreadsono.com Singles Scene (Under 35) El Segundo elsegundosono.com

SHOP + STYLE FASHION Accessories She La La shopshelala.com Cocktail Attire + Gala Black Tie Attire Helen Ainson helenainson.com Consignment Double Exposure Boutique doubleexposureboutique.com Department Store + Men’s Fashion Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com Designer Boutique Togs togsct.com Eyewear Specs specsforyou.com Lingerie + Swimwear Soleil Toile soleiltoile.com

PANDOLFINO PHOTO BY MELANI LUST

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Makeup Boutique Bluemercury bluemercury.com Men’s Shoes Brooks Brothers brooksbrothers.com Teen Fashion Groove grooveforkids.com Women’s Fashion Morley shopmorley.com

Furniture Store + Outdoor Furniture + Rugs Lillian August lillianaugust.com

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

Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design chloewinstonlighting.com

Menswear Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com

Linens The Linen Shop thelinenshopct.com Toy Store Darien Toy Box darientoybox.com

Wedding Deejay/Live Music Kunjan Collective kunjancollective.com Wedding Floral Design Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck flowersandflowers.com

JEWELRY Anniversary & Special Occasion David Harvey Fine Jewelers davidharvey.com

Wedding Gifts Kirby and Company kirbyandcompany.com

Custom Designed + Estate Brad & Vandy Reh Fine Jewelry bradreh.com

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

Fine + Men’s + Women’s Watches Manfredi Jewels manfredijewels.com

WOMAN © NENETUS - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; KIRBY PHOTO BY DEBRA SOMERVILLE

HOME Antique/Vintage Stores + Home Accessories Boutique Found foundanddesign.com Baby Store She La La shopshelala.com Bookstore Barrett Bookstore barrettbookstore.com Contemporary Furnishings Pimlico Interiors pimlicointeriors.com China The Whitney Shop thewhitneyshop.com

What’s your go-to host or hostess gift for summer 2019?

Wedding Cakes Palmer’s Market palmersdarien.com

Women’s Shoes Shoe-Inn shoeinn.com

Local Boutique + On Trend Pennyweights pennyweightscom

GOLDEN ADVICE

“A personalized lucite tray and wine glasses...the perfect accessory for backyard living.”

SHEILA GROW, owner, She La La

Wedding Photographer Melani Lust Photography melanilustphotography.com

READ THIS Barrett Bookstore has moved into shiny new digs at 6 Corbin Drive in Darien. Just in time to pick out the perfect summer beach read.

Yes, please.

Wedding Planner Ashley Douglas Events ashleydouglassevents.com Wedding Reception Venue The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com

SPORTS GEAR

Wedding & Engagement Rings Manfredi Jewels manfredijewels.com

Bicycle Shop Endurance House norwalk.endurancehouse.com Fitnesswear Jade Active Lifestyle jadeactive.com

SERVICES + TO DO’S

Golf Equipment Golf Galaxy stores.golfgalaxy.com/ct/norwalk

PAMPERING

Sports Gear Store Darien Sport Shop dariensport.com

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

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“I love to bring our go-to favorite sea salt diffuser to summer parties.

It smells like a perfect day by the coast.”

ELAINE KIRBY, owner, Kirby and Company

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What’s the best way we can get summer ready?

Color + Day Spa + Facial + Waxing Lanphier Day Spa & Salon lanphierdayspa.com

ERRANDS Appliance Aitoro Appliance aitoro.com

Family Hair Salon + Kid’s Haircuts Johnny’s & Company johnnysandcompany.com

Auto Repair Shop BMW of Darien bmwdarien.com

Manicure + Pedicure To And From toandfromnails.com

Car Wash Splash Car Wash splashcarwashes.com

Massage Aetheria Relaxation Spa aestheriaspa.com

“Don’t wait too long to start foot rehab.

Keep your pedicure fresh during the cold months but allow your nails to go polish-free.”

HENRI HELANDER AND JEANNE BLOOM co-owners, To And From

Dog Groomer/Pet Spa Paws and Reflect paws-and-reflect.business.site

Men’s Salon Jaafar Tazi Hair Salon jaafartazi.com

Dry Cleaners Fabricare Cleaners fabricarecleaners.net

Spray Tan Benefit Cosmetics Boutique & Brow Bar newcanaan.benefitboutiques.com

FITNESS Barre Pure Barre purebarre.com/ct-darien Boutique Fitness Studio + Fitness Club + Indoor Cycling Classes + Pilates JoyRide Cycling + Fitness joyridestudio.com/darien Crossfit CrossFit Norwalk crossfitnorwalk.com Dance Fitness Dance on the DL danceonthedl.com

“Don’t forget to schedule time for you. Your workouts, dance breaks...read a book. Do what makes you happy.”

LINDA CICERO AND DOREEN GODFREY co-owners, Dance on the DL

HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) Orangetheory Fitness norwalk.orangetheoryfitness.com Kids’ Fitness/Sports Training Darien YMCA darien-ymca.com

Children’s Music Lessons Jay and Ray jayandray.com Children’s Parties Hands On Pottery hopct.com Children’s Playground Weed Beach darienct.gov Cooking Classes Deane, Inc. deaneinc.com Local Cover Band Suburban Chaos facebook.com/Suburban-Chaos

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

Local Rock Band Tangled Vine tangledvine.com

Livery Service Hoyt Livery Inc. hoytlivery.com

Music Lessons New Canaan Music newcanaanmusic.com

Local Hotel Hotel Zero Degrees hotelzerodegrees.com/hotels/ norwalk

Museum The Maritime Aquarium maritimeaquarium.com

Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing Choice Pet choicepet.com

Museum for Children Stepping Stones Museum for Children steppingstonesmuseum.org

Shoe Repair Darien Shoe Repair 203-655-6169

Nanny/Babysitting Services Nannies As Needed nanniesasneeded.com

Storage Facility Westy Self Storage westy.com

Performing Arts Norwalk Academy of Dance norwalkdance.com

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

Radio Station FM - Local Star 99.9 star999.com

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Art Classes + Art Gallery Silvermine Arts Center silvermineart.org

Florist Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck flowersandflowers.com

Veterinarian Broad River Animal Hospital broadriveranimalhospital.com

Yoga Saraswati’s Yoga syjyoga.com

TRY IT / TUNE IN

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

TO AND FROM PHOTO BY ERIN PEARLMAN

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TWELFTH NIGHT

BY W I L L I A M S HA K ES P EA R E D I R EC T ED BY C L A I R E S HA NNO N K EL L Y T H U R S D A Y , 0 6 . 2 0 – S U N D A Y , 0 7. 0 7 A T 7: 3 0 P M PIN KE Y PARK, 177 RO WAYTO N AVE ,RO WAYTO N , CT s h a ke s p e a ro n e t h e s o u n d . o rg

Twelfth Night Presenting Sponsors:

Media Sponsor:

Underwriters:

APAX Digital Bluewater Coastal Companies LLC Laurel Road Bank Merrill Lynch, Davies Wayland & Associates The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood Robinson + Cole LLP Tito’s Handmade Vodka

New Canaan-Darien + Rowayton Magazine Moffly Media

BMW of Darien BON & VIV Spiked Seltzer CT Dept of Economic and Community Development Fairfield County Bank Allyson and John Griffin J.W. Allen Insurance Brokers

Mini Of Fairfield County Neil Hauck Architects Palmer’s Darien Shope Reno Wharton Stew Leonard’s Wines & Spirits of Norwalk Donna and Ron Sylvestri

Thank you!

From everyone at Open Doors, we thank you for helping to make a difference for people in need in our community.

(203) 866-1057 x129 &

www.opendoorshelter.org

2 019

info@opendoorshelter.org

Au c t i o n

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& The Den for Grieving Kids Invites you to the

2019 Annual Luncheon featuring

Mary Cregan Mary Cregan, Featured Speaker

author of The Scar: A Personal History of Depression and Recovery and honoring

Jan Dilenschneider

Jan Dilenschneider, Ray of HOPE Recipient

with a Ray of HOPE Award

Wednesday, May 8, 2019 11:00AM - 2:00PM Wee Burn Beach Club For more information and to register online, visit www.centerforhope.org.

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Thank You to Our Sponsors Partners Dalio Foundation GE Capital Corporation Richard & Barbara Whitcomb Foundation Stephen M. Sander Foundation Gala Sponsors Wendy Winnick Baskin & Richard Baskin Alexandra & Richard Baudouin Diageo Fairfield County Bank Jacqueline Novotny & Jonathan Crowe Patriot Bank Theresa & Alejandro Rangel The Ritter Family Foundation Sarah & Matthew Schimenti Fred Wilms Exclusive Media Sponsor

cordially invites you to join us for our gala featuring keynote speaker Tarik A. Brooks, VP, Office of the Chairman of Combs Enterprises and honoring

Principal at Tracey Elementary School Friday, May 3, 2019 Shorehaven Golf Club 14 Canfield Avenue Norwalk, CT Reception | 6:00PM Dinner, Program and Auction | 7:00PM Cocktail Attire R.S.V.P at Carver2019.givesmart.com

Learn more about Carver at carvernorwalk.org or 203.838.4305

Please join us for the inaugural event supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® in our area

St. Jude patient

Brieanna

•

Westchester Country Club 99 Biltmore Avenue, Rye, NY 7 – 11 PM stjude.org/givetolivegala Friday, May 17, 2019

•

COCKTAILS

DINNER

DANCING

LIVE AND SILENT AUCTION

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

For more information or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities contact: caroline.sparico@stjude.org

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•

WOMEN IN THE KNOW NET WORKING SERIES

Thank You!

To our sponsors, session speakers and everyone who helped to make our Women in the Know Networking Series such a success…

CHECK OUT PARTY PICS + VIDEO

WOMENINTHEKNOWFC.COM

Presenting Sponsors

Automotive Sponsor

Business Sponsors

Networking Sponsor

Floral Sponsor A portion of ticket proceeds benefitting WBDC

THE RIDGEFIELD PLAYHOUSE

Non-profit 501 (C) (3)

FREE WINE TASTING & ART EXHIBIT BEFORE EACH SHOW!

Come hear a great night of American Standards, New Orleans Jazz and more, while supporting The Ridgefield Playhouse!

HOPE HAPPENS HERE

SUMMER GALA  FRIDAY, JUNE 21

SUNDAY, JUNE 2, 2019 24th Annual Bennett Cancer Center's Walk & Run

BA ND LEA DE R ON “LATE SH OW WI TH ST EP HE N CO LB ERT!”

5:30PM GALA 8PM LIVE AUCTION & PERFORMANCE

GALA T ICK E T S I N C L UD E:

FOOD, OPEN BAR & SILENT AUCTION - outside under the tent on the field next to The Playhouse!

FUNKY DAWGZ BRASS BAND MAY 23

Money raised by this event helps to provide supportive services, some which are listed below, at no cost to patients at Stamford Health’s Bennett Cancer Center.

Opening acts: James Zap and the Ridgefield High School Jazz Band!

Pop hits with a brass twist!

Art exhibit by Chaz Well before the show!

• Restorative sessions of Reiki, massage, reflexology, yoga and tai chi

TROMBONE SHORTY

• Lunches for patients receiving chemotherapy

MAY 24

& ORLEANS AVENUE

• Rides to and from treatment

Opening Act: Funky Dawgz Brass Band New Orleans Jazz Fest headliner!

• Grants for patients’ non-medical expenses • Exercise sessions for patients after treatment

CHRISTIAN MCBRIDE

HELP US HELP THEM!

& TIP CITY

JUNE 5

Register Today

Grammy Award-winning composer, bassist extraordinaire and curator of the Newport Jazz Festival!

w w w. h o p e i n m o t i o n . o r g

AL DI MEOLA

OPUS & MORE ACOUSTIC US TOUR

JUNE 15

Celebrated jazz guitarist revered for his dazzling and complex fretwork!

203.438.5795 • RIDGEFIELDPLAYHOUSE.ORG newcanaandarienmag.com

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2019

MOFFLY MEDIA’S

Lineup Mark your calendars!

M O F F LY M E D I A

B E ST BARTE N D E R GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2019

C O NTE ST by

MAGAZINE

June 5 6:30–9:00 p.m.

May 30 6:00–9:00 p.m.

HARBOR POINT Stamford

HYATT REGENCY Greenwich

2019

M O F F LY M E D I A

Darien

June 27 6:30–9:00 p.m.

September 11 5:30–9:00 p.m.

J HOUSE Greenwich

PALACE THEATRE Stamford

and New Canaan’s

B E ST B A RTE N D E R CONTEST

Presented by NEW CANAAN-DARIEN+ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

September 25 5:30–7:30 p.m.

December 5 6:30–9:30 p.m.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER Darien

WESTPORT PLAYHOUSE Westport

7TH ANNUAL

Want to see party pics, videos and more details about the 2019 events? Go to ilovefc.com/events

HONORING AWARD-WINNING PHOTOGRAPHER SPENCER PLATT

.

. w est p orta rts ce n te r.o rg/ga l a

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2019 It’s Time to Celebrate the Good Guys!

Visit ilovefc.com to nominate those individuals and organizations who have gone beyond the ordinary to the extraordinary in their support of those in need. Honorees will be featured in the November issue and celebrated at a special awards ceremony.

PLEASE VOTE TODAY! Go to ilovefc.com/lightafire VOTING DEADLINE: JUNE 30

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 (Organization)

Join us for the Awards Party Thursday, December 5 at the Westport Country Playhouse

fairfield living, greenwich, new canaan•darien, stamford, westport, athome in fairfield county, ilovefc.com

Special thanks to our corporate sponsors for their support of New Canaan Community Foundation’s

Philanthropy Luncheon shining a light on behavioral health

GOLD Bank of America Private Bank • Bankwell • Stamford Health SILVER First County Bank • Hawthorne, Ackerly & Dorrance, LLC – Attorneys at Law • Karl Chevrolet Mountainside Treatment Center • Reynolds + Rowella • Silver Hill Hospital BRONZE blumshapiro • Educational Futures – Alan Haas • Greenwich Hospital • Harrigan Insurance Agency, Inc. HTG Investment Advisors Inc. • Karp Associates Inc. • New Canaan Board of Realtors New Canaan YMCA • Norwalk Hospital • RAND Insurance • Rucci Law Group, LLC

Building the Next Generation of Woman Leaders

LEGACY OF

Leadership LUNCHEON Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Racquel Oden

Kathleen Silard

Managing Director, Northeast Division JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

President and CEO Stamford Health

Courage, Confidence, and Character Award: Scarlett Lewis

Woodway Country Club, Darien, CT 11:00 a.m. Registration, Silent Auction, and Reception 12:00 p.m. Luncheon and Awards Ceremony

Founder and Chief Movement Officer Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement

Tickets, event details, and sponsorship information is available online at gsofct.org.

Questions? Please contact Alicia Kalish at aliciak@longpointgroup.com.

Thanks to Innovator Sponsor

Special thanks to Moffly Media for supporting Girl Scouts of Connecticut! newcanaandarienmag.com

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LAST CALL!

2019 PANEL OF JUDGES THE EMCEE

celebra ting

1 0 years

JANE GREEN

BRIAN SAWYER Sawyer | Berson

MARA MILLER Carrier and Company

JESSE CARRIER Carrier and Company

KEITH WILLIAMS Nievera Williams

JENNIFER POST Jennifer Post Design

RICHARD HARTLAGE Land Morphology

EDWARD SIEGEL Edward Siegel Architect

JOHN MEEKS Aman & Meeks

JAMES AMAN Aman & Meeks

awards

the premier home design competition

A-List deadline extended to May 13 Don’t say you didn’t know!

ENTER NOW athomefc.com

If you have a project or firm in CT, go to athomefc.com and find out how to get on the A-List! Deadline to enter: May 13 SAVE THE DATE for the A-List Awards Gala! September 11, 2019 at the Palace Theatre in Stamford.

PRESENTING SPONSORS:

STAMFORD KIC IT RACES TO B E N E F I T K I D S I N C R I S I S

Olympic, Sprint & Kids

Triathlons Sunday, June 23, 2019 Cummings Park Stamford, CT

Raise Funds. Race Free. www.kicitraces.org

Open camera. Point. Watch.

KIC1600_2019-KIC-IT-Half-Ad.indd 1

4/8/19 1:51 PM

Greenwich Education Group

PRIVATE DAY & BOARDING

SCHOOL FAIR PRESENTED BY GREENWICH EDUCATION GROUP

MAY 14 • 5:30 - 7:30PM

EASTERN GREENWICH CIVIC CENTER 90 HARDING RD, OLD GREENWICH, CT

F R E E E N T RY TO M E E T WI T H A D M I S S I O N S R E PR E S E N TAT IVE S F R O M 1 0 0 + S C H O O LS MEDIA SPONSOR:

AdRevised.indd 1

R EG I ST E R AT:

CTSCHOOLFAIR.ORG FOOD SPONSOR:

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BENEFITING:

3/5/19 2:38 PM

advertisers index AUTOMOTIVE Porsche Greenwich . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Roxor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Splash Car Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71

The Carver Foundation of Norwalk Child of America Gala . . . . . . . . . . 101 Center for Hope & The Den for Grieving Kids 2019 Annual Luncheon Featuring Mary Cregan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT Clarke . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Glegate Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Girl Scouts of Connecticut Legacy of Leadership Luncheon . . . . . . . . . 108 Greenwich Hospital Foundation's

Leary's Liquor Cabinet . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Louie's Italian Restaurant & Bar . . . . . . 46 Palmer's Darien . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood . . . 45 Sipstirs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Susan Kane Catering . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 The Wine Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Winvian Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Grand Entrance Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Under the Stars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Hobbs, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Light a fire 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

HEALTH & BEAUTY

JP McHale Pest Management, Inc. . . . . . 12

Livegirl Presents The Art of Being A Girl . . 99

Johnny's & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Louis V. Guariglia, DDS &

Neil Hauck Architects . . . . . . . . . Cover 3

Maritime Aquarium Gala Thank You . . . . 18

Robert A. Cardello Architecture + Design . . 7

Moffly Media's 2019 Event Lineup . . . . 105

Wadia Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2

Moffly Media's Women in the Know

Walpole Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 New Canaan Community Foundation's

BUSINESS & FINANCE Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . . . . 51 Davidson, Dawson & Clark LLP . . . . . . . 53 UBS Financial Services Inc Private Wealth Management/Shantz Mantione Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

DECORATING & HOME FURNISHINGS Louie Soft Furnishings . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

EDUCATION & CHILDREN Darien Toy Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 New Canaan Country School . . . . . . . . 35

ENTERTAINMENT 95.9, The Fox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 The Ridgefield Playhouse . . . . . . . . . 104 Shakespeare on the Sound/ Twelfth Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

EVENTS 5th Annual Greenwich International Film

Philanthropy Luncheon Thank You . . 108 New Canaan/Darien magazine's 4th Annual Best Bartender Contest . . . . . 88 New Canaan Dog Days . . . . . . . . . . . 106 New Canaan Nature Center Third Annual Lecture & Luncheon With Ellie Cullman of Cullman Kravis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Open Doors Gala & Auction 2019 Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Private Day & Boarding School Fair Presented by Greenwich Education Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 St. Jude Give to Live Gala . . . . . . . . . .102 Stamford Health 24th Annual Bennett Cancer Center's Walk & Run . . . . . . 104 Stamford KIC/IT Races to Benefit Kids in Crisis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Triangle Community Center Pride in the Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Westport Arts Center Fiftieth Anniversary Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Beth M. Goldberg, DDS . . . . . . . . . . 53 Noble Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Norwalk Hospital with MSK Physicians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Paul D. Harbottle, DDS . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 The Residence at Selleck's Woods . . . . . 33

JEWELRY Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Manfredi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4 Roberto Coin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Rolex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4

LANDSCAPING. NURSERY & FLORISTS Homefront Farmers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Pound Ridge Nursery & Garden Center . . 39

NONPROFIT The Elephant Sanctuary . . . . . . . . . . . 51

REAL ESTATE William Pitt/Sotheby's International Realty . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 William Raveis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

FASHION

Festival Epic Anniversary Party . . . . 100

Dock Shop Nautical Boutique . . . . . . . . 47

A-list Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

Mitchells/Richards . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3

SPORTS & FITNESS

An Evening to Remember: The

Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Pure Barre Darien . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING

MISCELLANEOUS

Alzheimer's Association Connecticut Chapter Seventh Annual Celebrating Hope 2019 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Baldanza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Hollow Tree Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Best of the Gold Cost 2019 . . . . . . . . . 79

Bistro Baldanza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

The Market at Pound Ridge Square . . . . 39

Best of the Gold Coast Online Store . . . . 87

Fjord Fish Market . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . 71, 81

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last word by julia dz afic

I’VE NEVER BEEN HAPPIER… M

ay is Mental Health Awareness month, so I thought this would be the perfect time to talk about my personal journey with anxiety with hope that it resonates with someone out there who needed to read this. Many would never guess from my exterior, but I’ve always been an anxious person.

It’s in my DNA. As a kid I was scared of everything— ghosts, the dark, dogs. As a teenager I put constant pressure on myself and in college I hid behind partying with friends which put a Band-Aid on the issues. And then I had a baby in July 2017 and everything changed. My anxiety spiraled out of control. It became something that I struggled with on a daily basis and I became pretty darn good at hiding it from friends and family.

Every time my daughter cried, I would get shaky and tear up.

Leaving the house felt like going to the moon. My postpartum anxiety was scary, but I didn’t know what it was for a long time, and I definitely didn’t know how to talk about it. I thought my friends and family would think I was a terrible mother for feeling the way I did, so I kept it inside for a long time.

I spent months taking supplements, trying to meditate and regularly getting

my feelings and taught me that anxiety is to stress what depression is to sadness. It wasn’t that I was a horrible person, there was just something in my brain that was firing in a different way.

Therapy changed my life, but even with all of the coping mechanisms I learned, I still experienced anxiety on a daily basis. After a panic attack on a family trip to Bermuda,

acupuncture. All of this helped to some degree, but sometimes all the yoga and meditation in the world isn’t enough.

About a year ago, after a particularly tough week, I decided it was time to get help.

I found a therapist from a friend’s recommendation and booked my first appointment that week.

I’ve been seeing her weekly ever since. She has helped normalize

I made the decision to go on medication, an SSRI (a type of antidepressant), for my anxiety.

Medication has allowed me to live again. I can be with my daughter and not be worried about a million other things.

I can enjoy time spent with my girlfriends and date nights with my husband. Most days I’m happy. Really happy. Like anyone, I have bad days. I have stressful days. And yes, I still get anxious from time to time. But it’s tolerable.

I had always been resistant to taking medication and live a mostly holistic life. I realize now that modern medicine exists for a reason and I can clearly see that I needed something more to make me feel normal.

My marriage is in the best place it’s been in years. My daughter and I have the best time together doing little things like grocery shopping that would have completely set me off in the past.

I’m more focused and organized.

It’s as if a dark filter has been lifted from my life and everything looks bright again.

What worked for me may not work or you. And that’s okay. Just know that there is help out there and you can feel better. If my story resonates with you, I encourage you to reach out and get help. It might just change your life.

JULIA DZAFIC is the creator of Lemon Stripes, a lifestyle blog covering everything from wellness and design to style and motherhood. She lives in Stamford with her husband Anel, daughter Amalia, and pup Boots. lemonstripes.com, @lemonstripes.

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PHOTO BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

AFTER YEARS OF ANXIETY AND A CRIPPLING PANIC ATTACK, I GOT THE GUTS TO GET THE HELP I REALLY NEEDED

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