New Canaan Darien + Rowayton - July/August 2024

TRUE LUXURY IS IN THE DETAILS

DESTINATION ROWAYTON

Why sit in summer traffic heading to the Cape or the Hamptoms when you can get coastal charm and adventure in your own backyard? by georgette yacoub 70

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST

The votes are in and we are celebrating the best of Fairfield County. by melinda anderson 96

BEST OF NEW CANAAN, DARIEN AND ROWAYTON

Check out this list of local winners to find nearby fan favorites.

10 EDITOR’S

12

15 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ Rowayton author’s novel goes from print to production; new podcast from local mom and Instagrammer

DO Barrett Books beach reads; a new kind of shoe

SHOP cool bags for summer

EAT New Canaan’s Blackbird; plus neighborhood butcher and cooking with Rowayton Seafood GO unique dining experiences at Mayflower Inn

47 PEOPLE & PLACES

111 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

112 POSTSCRIPT

EDUCATION GUIDE PULLOUT

TOP DENTISTS, PAGE 103

THE WORLD’S #1

IN ORTHOPEDICS TEAMS UP WI TH STAMFORD HEALTH

HSS, the world's #1 in orthopedics according to Newsweek, is proud to team up with Stamford Health to bring the most comprehensive musculoskeletal care to Connecticut. Our industry-leading experts are here for you from diagnosis, non-surgical and surgical orthopedic treatment options, through post-operative care. Now you can get back to moving better and doing what you love sooner.

editorial

editorial director Cristin Marandino editor Eileen Murphy

advisory editor Donna Moffly art

senior art director Venera Alexandrova

senior art director/status report Garvin Burke production director Tim Carr assistant art director Lisa Servidio

contributors

editors

Megan Gagnon editor, athome Melinda Anderson editor, stamford Samantha Yanks editor, westport Elizabeth Hole editor, custom publishing

writers

Liz Barron, Elizabeth Hole, Elizabeth Keyser copy editors

Terry Christofferson, David Podgurski

digital

audience development editor Kaitlin Madden

digital marketing manager Rachel MacDonald digital assistant Lloyd Gabi digital assistant Jeffery Garay digital intern Sarah Gassel

business

president Jonathan W. Moffly

editorial director Cristin Marandino business manager Elena V. Moffly

cofounders John W. Moffly IV and Donna C. Moffly

sales + marketing

Gina Fusco publisher gina.fusco@moffly.com

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

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

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Morgan Howell acount executive morgan.howell@moffly.com

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

Emily Klaeboe

interim partnership and big picture manager Emily.klaboe@moffly.com

Lemuel Bandala sales assistant lemuel.bandala@moffly.com

Eillenn Bandala business assistant eillenn.bandala@moffly.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 + Rowayton Magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year (6 issues); $34.95/2 years (12 issues); Canada and foreign, US $40/year; $69/2 years. Prices are subject to change without notice. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. ©2024 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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editor’s letter

DRAWN TO BLUE SPACES

EFOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @NCDMAG

xperts say that being near a body of water can be beneficial to your overall health. The proximity of water promotes physical activity and general fitness. It relieves stress levels and anxiety. Basically, they say, being near the water makes you happier. Need proof? Just ask anyone who lives in Rowayton.

As I write this, Rowayton has just wrapped up two wildly popular events—Comedy Night and Porch Jam. The boats are in the water, the outdoor restaurants are bustling, the Friday Farmers Market is in full effect. The Beach Concert Series and Shakespeare on the Sound are about to kick off. Life is good!

I had spent time in Rowayton well before I moved to the area. Working at a yachting magazine, it’s your business to familiarize yourself with all the great coastal towns—especially ones with dock-and-dine restuarants. And while we decided to make New Canaan our home, we head to Rowayton whenever we need a fix of salt air. There is just something about the place that draws you in and keeps you coming back.

That’s precisely what happened to Jill Lukeman, co-owner of local hotspot Arden’s. You can read more about how Jill came to call Rowayton home after falling head over heels with this vibrant community by the Sound (“Destination Rowayton,” page 60).

Don’t get me wrong—the rest of us living in New Canaan and Darien have it pretty darn good. You need look no further than our “Best of the Gold Coast” feature on page 70. You’ll find many of our shops, services and restaurants were chosen as the best of the best. However, it may not suprise you to learn what town is home to the best outdoor seating and best seafood restaurant. It’s a lively little place, where the cool breeze and salt air leave you feeling a bit more relaxed and a lot happier than when you first arrived.

eileen.murphy@moffly.com

SCAN TO EXPLORE

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

The brightest minds for when it matters most

Nuvance Health knows every moment counts. That’s why our top care teams bring leading-edge expertise right to the communities where you live. We’re not just here when it matters most — we’re committed to keeping you and your family well, so you can show up for life’s most memorable moments. Because what matters to you, matters to us.

Hospital

founder’s page

“I threw a shiny black tarp on the ground, punched holes through it, popped in squash seeds and voila...slugs!”

JULY/AUGUST 2024 / DONNA MOFFLY

OF VICTORY AND VEGETABLES

The middle of the growing season always reminds me of 1944, the year I fell in love with an eggplant.

I was nine years old and stuck with seeing a lot of the daughter of a war widow, a close friend of my mother. Antoinette-of-the-beautifulname-and-long-blond-curls was eleven, two heads taller, didn’t wear glasses and could do everything better than I could—ballet, piano, ice-skating, whatever. Something else: We had to collect scrap metal for the war effort. So, while Mother was busy getting somebody to pull down a cruddy old smokestack from a building down the block, we kids were seeing who could roll gum wrappers into the biggest ball of tin foil. Antoinette beat me at that, too.

But I sure topped her on one thing: Behind our apartment building we had a communal victory garden where I grew an eggplant much bigger than hers. A giant. I left it proudly hanging there until it rotted and fell to the ground.

Fast forward to Riverside, 1962. Older and wiser (supposedly), I now had a spacious back yard and a mother-in-law whose gardens in Philadelphia made the pages of national magazines. Believe me, if she had Cedars of Lebanon, they were the real deal. (A consummate traveler, she’d return with seedlings tucked into the toes of her shoes and manage to get her suitcase through Customs.)

So I listened attentively to her instruction about cultivation but soon reverted to form. For instance: After I read somewhere that plastic keeps down weeds, I threw a shiny black tarp on the ground, punched holes through it, popped in squash seeds and voila! No weeds, but zillions of slimy slugs underneath and, on top, squash vines that blackened from the bottom inch by inch, finally turning the yellow blossoms to yuck.

I planted my next vegetable garden under a dogwood by the kitchen door, where I grew

incredibly gritty lettuce (couldn’t wash it well enough), big tough string beans (couldn’t pick them fast enough) and tomatoes stunted from lack of sunshine. But I was terribly proud of my basil, until I brought a bunch to the office and was told it was mint, mint that had grown in profusion next to my basil and had taken on some of the taste.

My hats off to those who know their beans— be they gentleman farmers like Ted Ewing and Don Miller whose lush kitchen gardens once inspired me to write an article called “He’s Well Known in his Field.” Or kids like the minicontestants in a Green Fingers Garden Club show where six-year-old Evelyn submitted a clay pot of dirt sprouting one tiny carrot. “Peter Rabbit would love it!” emoted the judges.

But I’ve always had trouble with vegetables. In fact, last year I almost lost my health insurance because of them. United Health had sent a nurse to the house for its annual visit, and she put me to test. “Count backwards by fours from twenty to zero.” No problem. “See how many fruits and vegetables you can name in thirty seconds.” A-ha! So I started singing “Pushcart Serenade”, a patter song from my childhood. It has verses such as: “Oh pears, pears, we’d make a lovely pear/Peaches, peaches, the peachiest anywhere/Oh lettuce, oh lettuce get married today/Honeydew, honeydew say you’re mine to stay” –interspersed with rambling lists of produce and ending with “And we’ll raise a family—a baby lima/We’ll live on my celery.”

The nurse thought I was crazy. Didn’t crack a smile. But I must have passed, because I’m still getting bills from Mutual of Omaha.

Anyway, I have to run. I’m on my way to the Farmer’s Market to check out the cucumbers.

The celeriac, too—that ugly warty frog prince of vegetables that’s so great mashed up with potatoes. See how smart I’m getting? Finally!

by liz barron portrait by lacy kiernan carroll

COUNTING HER BLESSINGS

ROWAYTON AUTHOR GEORGIA HUNTER'S BEST-SELLING NOVEL BECOMES A MINI-SERIES

Georgia Hunter never could have imagined that her family’s story of survival during the Holocaust would feel so timely and relevant nearly a century later. With tensions remaining high as the situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, widespread antisemitism is at an all-time high and it can often feel as though history is repeating itself. The atrocities that occurred during World War II are an example of “what can happen when people stop seeing each other as human beings, and that’s happening again today,” says Hunter. “It is both scary and heartbreaking.”

A QUEST TO UNCOVER FAMILY HISTORY

“IF ANYONE HAS THE CHANCE TO STAND IN THE PLACE WHERE THEIR ANCESTORS ONCE STOOD, I ALWAYS SAY DO IT. IT'S A VERY POWERFUL THING."

—georgia hunter

In 1994, thanks to a high school English assignment, Hunter first learned that her grandfather Eddy (formerly Addy) was a Holocaust survivor. A few years later at a family reunion, Hunter learned bits and pieces from second generation relatives, many of whom were born at the end of or just after the war. “Their stories were unlike anything I’d ever heard before. I remember thinking ‘somebody needs to write them down,’but I had no idea at the time that person would be me,” says Hunter. Nearly eight years later, still “unable to shake the notion” of capturing her family’s story in a more permanent way, Hunter set off to France and Brazil with a digital recorder and moleskin notebook to meet with as many

family members as she could. “It was important to me to sit down face to face to talk to everyone, to collect as many oral histories as possible,” she says. In the meantime, Hunter was also searching for records in various archives, and traveling in the footsteps of her relatives across Europe and South America. She vividly recalls visiting her grandfather’s old home in Radom, Poland. That helped her imagine what life was like for him before the war. “If anyone has the chance to stand in the place where their ancestors once stood, I always say do it,” she says. “It’s a very powerful thing.”

AN UNEXPECTED TWIST

“I didn’t know what shape or form my research would mold itself into, but as I began to piece the family narrative together, I was struck not only by how many relatives

managed to survive, but also by how far and wide they scattered in order to do so,” explains Hunter. “Every single relative followed a different path to survival during the war.” Their journeys spanned four continents and at times they lost track of one another, but Hunter says they never gave up hope that they’d see each other again. Hunter felt that determination was important to document. “It took me

Author Georgia Hunter on set in Bucharest with series producer/director Thomas Kail.

Author Georgia Hunter with Dash

years, but once I finally unearthed the story, I knew I wanted to preserve it in a way that could be easily retold— first and foremost for my kids and their kids and so on,” Hunter says. The idea of writing a book was born, and in 2017 Hunter published her historical novel, We Were the Lucky Ones

TAKING A STORY TO THE SCREEN

In 2018, Hunter received a phone call from close friend and highly acclaimed Broadway director, Thomas Kail. “He said 'Hey, pal, how would you like to partner with me to try to bring your story to the screen?'” Hunter recalls. When initially thinking about an adaptation for television, Hunter was worried about her work falling into the wrong hands, but she says she knew right away that the story “would be safe with Tommy.” Taking an active role in the project from start to finish, Hunter was involved in everything from the writers room to casting to postproduction sound and color editing. She traveled frequently to Romania and southern Spain for shooting. The Hulu series is, at its core, a story of family, and, while set to a backdrop of the Holocaust, the themes of courage, perseverance, love and hope are ever present. “It is a human story told in a way that I hope audiences can connect and relate to,” says Hunter.

COMING SOON…

When asked what’s next, Hunter revealed that she’s in the process of writing her next historical novel, which is to be titled One Good Thing. Intrinsically drawn to the subject of the Holocaust, One Good Thing is set in the same era, but takes place in Italy and reveals the complex history of that country during the war as experienced by a young woman named Lili. While the

plot has been fictionalized, it is also a story about overcoming adversity and coming face to face with deep fears and seemingly impossible challenges. Hunter hopes that this book, like her first, will “help inspire readers to have the courage to keep going, even when the world seems

to be closing in around us.” Hunter resides in Rowayton with her two sons and her “research and travel wingman” husband Robert. Her mother, Isabelle, lives down the street and is a huge part of Hunter’s inspiration, consistently serving

as an amazing editor and supporter of her daughter’s work. Hunter’s dog, an Aussie Shepherd named Dash, is her loyal officemate. “It really is a family affair,” she adds.

left: Stills from the series alongside photos from the Kurc family archive. below: A scene from the series finale, recreated from a photograph taken by Hunter’s great-uncle, Jakob

right: Hunter with her husband Robert and their boys Wyatt and Ransom on set in Cardiz, Spain. The family had a cameo appearence in this scene with Logan Lerman (center), who plays Hunter’s grandfather in the series.

by liz barron

REAL TALK

LOCAL MOM AND CONTENT CREATOR MEGAN SCHINELLA JOINS NEW PODCAST "ROOM 4 FOUR"

HOW IT STARTED

Having found herself on a multiyear career hiatus after having children, New Canaan’s Megan Schinella realized when her youngest turned one, that she was ready to go back to work and carve out some time for herself. The mom of three had spent years filling her days coming up with fun and creative outings for her little ones. Schinella was often asked for suggestions and ideas about local activities and events to keep their own kids entertained. “People kept telling me that I should start a blog so that I could share the fun adventures we were going on every day,” says Schinella. Once the seed had been planted, she began to grow her Instagram presence and @campbymama officially took off. “When I first started creating content on Instagram, it was very different. All you had to do was post a pretty photo and people would like it," she says. "But now it’s an entirely different platform, it’s all about content creation reels and videos. You need to give people some sort of entertainment, make them laugh or provide value or an experience." Before kids, Schinella worked in marketing in the fashion industry at Nine West Group and Camuto Group. Even though that work had been on the back burner while she raised her kids, her experience and creativity quickly proved useful in her new endeavors with creating lifestyle content. Some of the first connections that she made back in the fashion industry have now come full circle and Schinella is finding herself able to work on new partnerships with old friends once again.

ROOM 4 FOUR

This past winter, Schinella was approached about being a part of the Room 4 Four podcast, which is owned by Seasons Media. The Connecticut-based media production company was looking to connect four Connecticut moms, each of whom would bring something different to the table. The idea was to create a forum for

the women to connect on everyday relatable topics. Reaching out to Schinella made perfect sense. Schinella and her co-hosts Kallie Branciforte, Caitlin Houston and Charlotte Smith cover a wide array of topics in a relatable and honest way, with just the right amount of humor thrown in. Lighter topics can range from meal planning to parenting fails, but they have also had deeper coverations about

Kallie Branciforte, Caitlin Houston, New Canaan's Megan Schinella and Charlotte Smith on the set of their new podcast, Room 4 Four.

PHOTO BY BEVY RUTLEDGE

things like the feeling of isolation that can come with being a new parent and the challenges of making new mom friends. “Think of it like your group chat coming to life,” says Schinella. “We stay away from controversial topics and really just try to focus on positive things that help people and make them feel good.”

The podcast is unlike anything Schinella has done before and she is finding it fulfilling in ways that she didn't imagine. “It’s a very different type of creative outlet for me. It feels like something that had been missing that I didn’t even realize was missing until now,” she says. “These girls fill my cup, I always feel good inside after recording with them and spending time together.”

GETTING REAL

Every job comes with its difficulties and when asking Schinella about some of hers, she explained that her biggest challenge has been learning to deal with negative comments or mean messages. “I’ve developed a thicker skin and have learned to brush things off in a way that I might not have been able to otherwise,” she says. Coming to terms with the fact that she’ll never be able to please everyone has helped Schinella build a sense of confidence that she didn’t always have. “It’s true that you really can’t sweat the small stuff and at the end of the day, if my kids are happy and everyone in our home is healthy, that’s all that matters,” she adds.

THE BEST PART

The people, connections and community that Schinella has found through her work are what make what she does so meaningful. “I’ve met so many people through these online platforms and events. And even though the relationships might start off as social media

“It feels like something that had been missing that I DIDN’T EVEN REALIZE WAS MISSING UNTIL NOW.”

— megan schinella, on her new podcast "room

4 four"

friendships, they very often end up becoming real life friendships,” she says. “Even if Instagram was deleted tomorrow, I’d still have those friends and I’m so grateful for that.”

UP NEXT

This summer, Schinella plans to continue sharing local experiences and fashion brand styles on social media. She plans to continue to make us all laugh with her parenting humor reels while also working on a few hotel partnerships in Newport, Michigan and Cape Cod—documenting fun things to do, places to stay and where to eat. When she isn’t spending time with her family, creating content or in the recording studio, you can find Schinella playing tennis, hockey for “Moms Who Puck” or taking a Pure Barre class. You can listen to Room 4 Four on your favorite podcast platform.

Follow Schinella on Instagram with her updated handle, @meganschinella, formerly @campbymama.

above: Joseph, Nico, Ava, Gianna and Megan Schinella. below: Schinella and her daughters at Popstar Pop-up Taylor Swift Interactive Dining Experience in Long Beach, New York.

Meeting local needs for 80 years

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The critical work of the United Way — identifying local needs and forging collaborative solutions — ensures that every gift you make is put to the most effective use.

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Perhaps the only time the destination is better than the journey.

Northeast Building & Home in New Canaan, (formerly known as Weed & Duryea) is an experience like no other. Our white glove service and exclusive high-end products mean you’ll receive expert assistance every step of the way.

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MISS MORGAN’S BOOK BRIGADE by

Janet Skeslien Charles

A must-read for historical fiction fans, except this is based on a true story. In 1918, Jessie Carson, a NYPL librarian who heads to post-war France with the American Committee for Devastated France to rebuild their libraries, then vanishes. In 1987, NYPL Librarian Wendy Peterson learns about Jessie and resolves to figure out what happened to her. Do these women have more in common than their job at the New York Public Library?

THE DEMON OF UNREST

by Erik Larson

Erik Larson remains unstoppable in his masterful retellings of some of history’s most important moments. Focused on the tension in the months following Lincoln’s election and preceding the Civil War, The Demon of Unrest is a suspenseful choice for fiction and nonfiction fans alike.

FUNNY STORY

by Emily Henry

Daphne’s fiancé Peter comes home from his bachelor party proclaiming his love for his childhood best friend Petra. She needs to get out of their house and fast. Luckily Petra’s ex boyfriend Miles has an extra room in their, er, his apartment. Situational hijinks ensue as everyone tries to find their place and themselves.

LONG ISLAND

HOT SUMMER READS

THE EXPERTS AT DARIEN'S BARRETT BOOKS TAKE THE GUESS WORK OUT OF FINDING YOUR NEXT BEACH READ

by Colm Tóibín

Fans of Tóibín’s Brooklyn and it’s unforgettable heroine Eilis Lacey, rejoice! She is living with her husband and family on Long Island, but still feels close to her home of Ireland, despite not having visited for many years. When a stranger arrives with an ultimatum, Eilis’ decision will change

SUMMERS AT THE SAINT

by

Mary Kay Andrews

A perfect hybrid for mystery lovers and romance fans, Mary Kay Andrews’ newest novel follows Traci Eddings’ rags to riches journey as she tries to restore the St. Cecelia Hotel, The Saint, to its former glory following her husband’s death.

THE NEXT MRS. PARRISH

by

Liv Constantine

A follow-up to the 2018 novel The Last Mrs. Parrish, a best-selling Reese’s Book Club pick, The Next Mrs. Parrish picks up where Daphne and Amber leave off, leading the reader through twists and turns that will force you to rethink everything you thought you knew about duplicity and betrayal. Barrett Books is hosting Lynne and Valerie Constantine, sisters who write under the Liv nom de plume on Friday June 28th.

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Now Presenting!

HOWARD SAFFAN ’S

BEST CIRCUS TRICK YET: BRIDGEPORT’S HARTFORD HEALTHCARE AMPHITHEATER

by jill johnson mann

Howard Saffan has lived in Weston for 27 years but he reserves a generous wedge of his heart—and most of the hours in his day—for the nearby city of Bridgeport. Among his numerous business ventures, Saffan is the owner, developer and president of the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater in Bridgeport. Its canopy rose from the cloud of the Covid pandemic like an emblem of optimism— crowds would gather again, waves of song from the world’s greatest musicians would roll over them, wine and craft beer and premium liquor would flow, and the region’s best food vendors would sate any appetites not already full from the experience any seat of the 5,700 provides. Never mind taking in the acts on the ginormous stage (e.g., Sting, Foo Fighters, James Taylor)—just a dizzying look up at the state-of-the-art canopy roof is worth the price of a ticket. Saffan appreciates the history of Bridgeport, and the venue— visible from I-95—displays a penchant for showmanship and a circus motif. Bridgeport’s

Before the amphitheater, what were you doing?

I was running the NY Islanders and Bridgeport Sound Tigers and overseeing the Nassau Coliseum and the Webster Bank Arena. I also own Sports Center of Connecticut in Shelton. I have a real estate development company, and we own many commercial properties throughout Fairfield County.

How did you get involved with the amphitheater?

My office at the Webster Bank Arena overlooked the baseball field. This is where the Bridgeport Bluefish played. One day I was at Michael’s restaurant with Jimmy Koplik, the president of Live Nation CT. He said, “We’re thinking of building a boutique amphitheater in Danbury.”

I said, “Why there?” He said, “There’s nowhere else.” I called him the next day and said, “I have an idea.”

When did the amphitheater open?

July 2021. The opening concert was REO and Styx. Then Foo Fighters put us on the map. I’m not a music person whatsoever. I’m a sports guy. I leave that to Jimmy and Jeremy of Live Nation.

What are some highlights of this summer’s lineup?

We just had Neil Young. James Taylor, Tedeschi Trucks Band and Billy Strings are all coming back and requested two nights. We have Earth, Wind, and Fire and Chicago playing together. We have Cage the Elephant. There’s something for everyone.

What’s the most epic moment you have experienced at the amphitheater?

When the Foo Fighters came on-stage. I didn’t understand the gravity of having a band like that until the building exploded with a volume I’d never heard.

“Greatest Showman” and onetime mayor P.T. Barnum would approve. The goal was “a boutique amphitheater…designed to wow,” and wow it does. The design incorporates the ballpark vibe (the Bluefish used to play here); the dugouts are now bars.

An industrial bent melds with the city, complete with trains chugging past just behind the parking lot (tickets include parking; ease is another theme). Add marble bathrooms throughout, numerous premium suites, and a 27,000-square-foot, back-of-house luxury residence for the bands (complete with outdoor fireplace, massage room and chef), and it’s no surprise suites are mostly sold out and bands are clamoring to book multiple nights.

What inspired you?

I was fortunate to own a window and door company, Bishop Manufacturing, in Bridgeport. At a young age, I had the opportunity to sell it. This is my giveback to Bridgeport. I love Bridgeport. I believe in Bridgeport.

What was your dream as you began the project?

The dream was to host twenty concerts a year and be a significant community provider. We have done that and then some. This season we will have 50+ concerts and host fourteen graduations and two dozen community events.

Which concert or event are you most looking forward to this summer?

Pizza Fest on August 11! We will have over 40 pizza vendors as well as craft beer vendors.

What has been the most challenging aspect of this project?

Building the venue. The budget started at $18 million and ballooned to $50 million, due in part to my insatiable urge to create an experience for our customers. We have marble bathrooms, cupholders in each seat, a star suite, a who’s who of food trucks. There are even twinkle lights, a tribute to my dad, who used to take me to the San Gennaro Feast in Little Italy.

500 Broad St, Bridgeport, CT hartfordhealthcareamp.com

Why did you settle in Weston?

I love Connecticut. I grew up on Long Island. After graduating from Brooklyn Law School, I swore I’d never move back to Long Island, and Connecticut was very special.

above: Howard Saffan, owner, developer and president of the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater below: Foo Fighters’ concert in 2021 put the Amphitheater on the map.

Our Mission

The mission of Breast Cancer Alliance is to improve survival rates and quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer through better prevention, early detection, treatment and cure.

To promote these goals, we invest in innovative research, breast surgery fellowships, regional education, dignified support and screening for the underserved.

To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org

Breast Cancer Alliance

48 Maple Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 info@breastcanceralliance.org

Yonni Wattenmaker, Executive Director

breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT @breastcanceralliance

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For a private consultation, please contact one of our attorneys by visiting our website at www.cl-law.com.

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by georgette yacoub

illustrations by kasandra barton

Best Foot Forward

HOW WIDE TOE-BOX SHOES are transforming our feet and overall health

Humans first began wearing footwear as protection, but as time went on, shoes became less about or function and more about fashion.

Women of higher social status in medieval China were binding their feet to deliberately stunt their foot growth in hopes of smaller, delicate feet. The trend continued and traveled to 12th-century Europe, where a popular shoe style called the Pouline—a super narrow leather shoe with a pointed toe—was worn by higher society as a symbol of their status.

Now, we have this stylistic hangover from the middle ages where a narrow shoe with a narrow toe box has become a symbol of fashion. Dr. Elizabeth Cody, orthopedic surgeon at Hospital of Special Surgery specializing in the foot and ankle, explains that while people think a narrower toe box is more attractive, people with wider feet find narrow shoes extremely uncomfortable. “A narrower toe box is considered more attractive in fashion shoe wear because they were basically designed for young people who have narrower feet,” she says. “As people age, their feet get wider.”

The narrow toe box is not a narrow problem. In fact, it’s been studied that 63 to 72% of people are wearing shoes that do not accommodate the dimensions of their feet. Hence the rise in ailments and foot deformities Dr. Cody is seeing in her patients, including

bunions, hammer toes, claw toes, corns and more.

Much like a weak or deformed foundation can cause instability in a building, a weak or deformed foot can cause issues that go far beyond the foot— into the ankles, lower limbs, and higher up in the body. “If

your toes are uncomfortable in a shoe, you may walk abnormally and that can lead to problems in higher up joints like the knees and even your back,” says Dr. Cody. Thankfully, there’s a small but mighty shift towards wide toe-box footwear. One that started primarily in athletic footwear and is making its transition to fashion footwear. This style of shoe allows your foot to function more normally, preventing the crowding of toes that lead to other problems. Plus, they are more comfortable overall.

Some popular brands making a splash in the wide toe-box space are Flux Footwear, Vivobarefoot, and Altra Running. Well-known brands like Crocs and Birkenstocks also allow the toes to splay in their natural position.

However, Cody warns that the transition to wide toe-box footwear should be gradual while your feet get time to grow strong in those newer albeit natural positions. This is particularly important for runners transitioning to wider running shoes.

As humans in the modern world, we cannot go walking around barefoot. But we can wear better shoes that support the natural function of our feet to counteract and prevent any further damage and pain to our body. The trend toward wide toe-box shoes is our step toward that.

“if your toes are uncomfortable in a shoe, you may walk abnormally and that can lead to problems in higher up joints like the knees and even your back.”

claw toe

kassiebarton97@gmail.com bunion

Kasandra Barton creates detailed skulls, plants and insects drawings inspired by vintage medical illustrations, using a cross-hatch style. Her work includes bone and flora articulation. She lives in Norwalk and is available for commissions.

hammer toe

healthy toes

eat

BLACKBIRD

COCKTAIL CULTURE AND GLOBAL PLATES

Scan here for more great places to EAT

by elizabeth keyser photography by venera alexandrova

Adam Zakka wanted to open a restaurant he and his friends would like—an adult place to gather for contemporary cocktails and to share globally inspired dishes. The managing partner of the Z Hospitality Group (Solé in New Canaan, Terra and Eastend in Greenwich, Terra in Danbury and Aurora in Rye) opened Blackbird on Elm Street in late April, and the crowds have flocked there, filling the restaurant’s tables, bar and the sidewalk seats beneath large white umbrellas.

At its best, Cocktail Culture is about an experience, a shared moment in which we are transported out of our workaday selves. The most excellent news is that Tim Bellantoni, beverage director for the Z Hospitality Group, has created a tantalizing menu of cocktails that

blends top-shelf distilled spirits, liqueurs, amari (Italian botaniacal bitters), fresh-squeezed juices, herbs and spices. The man has hands, taste buds and his pulse on the flavor of the times. If you don’t know your falernum from your chinola, here’s the place to learn. (The former is a sweet

Caribbean liqueur flavored with lime zest, cloves, ginger. The latter is a Dominican passionfruit liqueur.)

Half of the menu is filled with cocktails: classic, proprietary and flights. There are six classics, from the American Sidecar to Brazilian

Above: Z Hospitality's Adam Zakka with Group Executive Chef Albert DeAngelis. A trio of refreshing cocktails: the Tiburon, Seuol Paloma and Elm Street Margarita

Clockwise from top left: Fried oysters,beef tartare with crispy rice and salmon avocado rolls; plates are perfct to share: a main of wild back sea bass with miso pea puree; the chic bar space.

BLACKBIRD

103 Elm Street, New Canaan zhospitalitygroup.com

Caiprinha, and 18 proprietary cocktails. The Elm Street Margarita is light and simple— Lunazul blanco tequila, orange liqueur and Tim’s mix (grapefruit and soda). Spicy margarita lovers will thrill to the Seoul Paloma, flavored with Mandarin Napoleon, a liqueur steeped in Sicilian oranges, herbs and spices, and Tim’s mix, with the rim dipped in gochujang (Korean red chile powder). Tiburon is a smoky, juicy blend of mescal, pomegranate, grapefruit and Blackberry herb shrub (an old-fashioned thirst quencher made with fruit and cider vinegar). These are just three of the intriguing cocktails, glistening in hues of mandarin, berry and lime, garnished with slices of citrus and berries.

We would happily spend the summer sipping

our way through the menu. The most out-there cocktail is the Drive-In—seasoned popcorninfused gin blended with chinola, thyme cordial and lime. An espresso martini flight presents four expressions of today’s most popular, sweet, creamy cocktail. The menu also features glasses of wine from France, Italy, California and Argentina, plus craft brews.

As for food, we started with freshly rolled sushi from on-site Sushi Chef Akyoshi Arai, who adds subtle original touches, a sliver of Asian pear to the salmon avocado roll, and charred jalapeño to the hamachi sashimi. Group Executive Chef Albert DeAngelis’s menu touches on cultures from the Middle East to the Caribbean, mixing and melding ingredients.

Amish Chicken Wings are seasoned with Asian flavors: ginger and chile, and topped with crushed peanuts and minced scallions. Fried oysters are served resting in their shells on a bed of buttery leek and salsify, with a touch of habanero heat. The chef plays with beef tartar by serving it on crispy rice, topping it with a whisper of black truffle and replacing the traditional egg yolk with “yolk jam” (thickened yolk that isn’t sweet). Jerk octopus (that’s a new one) was upstaged by the refreshing pineapple salsa it rested on. Salads pair greens and vegetables with sweet fruit and crunchy nuts. Cauliflower and trevisano, a mild radicchio, is tossed with apricots and pistachios, with a bit of Aleppo pepper in the vinaigrette. The BLT salad features Nodine’s bacon, locally sourced from Litchfield County. Salad add-on options include chicken, shrimp, scallops and salmon.

Even the mains can be shared. The waiter will cut the Smash Burger in fourths. But you might not want to share this monument to grilled patties, oozing gruyere, baconaisse (oh yes!), caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms and tangy, pickled green tomato. More sophisticated is the Black Sea Bass, served with early spring vegetables when we visited in May. With pea miso puree, asparagus and morel mushrooms, the luscious plate captured the season in vivid hues of green. Scallops are cooked “au poivre,” peppered jumbo scallops seared and served with bacon and fruity artisanal vinegar. Filet mignon is grilled bone-in for better flavor. Cognac and black truffle sauce enhances the filet and flat iron steak.

The chef elevates tagilatelle “cacio e pepe,” the Roman pasta of butter, grated parmesan and pepper, with shrimp, asparagus and preserved lemon. The flavor coats each strand of the noodles and it’s a satisfying pasta to twirl around a fork. So satisfying that we thought about it the next day.

For dessert, we were tempted by the espresso martini flight, but indulged instead in chocolate stout cake, a deconstructed dessert perfect for sharing, the plate was scattered with contrasting textures of peanut brittle, fluffy meringue, rich, moist chocolate cake and vanilla gelato.

Blackbird embodies cocktail culture at its best, and gives us many reasons to return.

Right: The smash burger is already a hit, with gruyere, pickled green tomato and baconaisse. Bottom right: Tagliatelle "cacio e pepe" is enhanced with oishi shrimp.

Neighborhood Flavor

THE NEW CANAAN BUTCHER SERVES QUALITY MEATS, GOURMET SANDWICHES AND A COMMUNITY ATMOSPHERE

by julie o’brien deasy • photography by venera alexandrova

New Canaan Butcher has carved out a successful niche for itself as a deli and meat supplier in its first year of business, but what has been most meaningful to the owner as he marks the first anniversary is the sense of community he has experienced.

“I am most proud of the fact that the town has been so supportive,” said New Canaan Butcher owner Paul Paris, pulling a few trays of newly crisped bacon out of the oven to use in sandwiches that day.

Paris is an area local who attended St. Aloysius and Darien High School, and now lives in New Canaan with his two children and wife, Valerie.

Twice a week, New Canaan Butcher owner Paul Paris leaves home at 5:00 a.m. to make the drive to Hunts Point Market in the Bronx to stock up on the freshest meat.

near right: Paris is passionate about the assortment and the quality of meat he carries. far right: Sandwich platters have been a popular option for sports functions.

He has a long history in the local food business, first as a commercial fisherman out of Norwalk, followed by ten years on the wholesale side and then running the Darien Butcher Shop’s Old Greenwich location.

Paris always wanted to open his own store, and spent a few years living in New Canaan waiting for the right time and location.

In 2022, a spot became available on Burtis Avenue. Drawn by the open space and wall of windows, Paris signed a lease and six months later, New Canaan Butcher had its official opening.

The town and shop quickly developed a mutual appreciation.

“My son plays a few sports, a lot of people come in and know our family from that. Everywhere I go in town, I see people I’ve met through the shop,” Paris said, reflecting on how life in New Canaan has changed since opening.

Red and white Adirondack chairs placed outside the shop have become a casual gathering spot for local kids, including for high schoolers coming for lunch and middle schoolers dropping by in the afternoon.

“It’s a great place to hang out,” said Tyler Schimmeck, 13, a lacrosse teammate of Paul’s son Matt. “Matt was the one who originally encouraged us to come here after school.”

Afternoon milkshakes and sandwiches are popular choices, especially since they are made until 7:00 pm.

“My goal is to make everything fresh, and I also didn’t want to use the same bread as everyone else,” said Paris, so handcrafted bread is delivered daily from Terranova Bakery in the Bronx.

The shop has embraced the community in other ways too.

Three interns from New Canaan High School worked at the shop this spring as part

“

with them every day.” "

new canaan has been phenomenal. I love my customers and love interacting

—paul paris, new canaan butcher

“my son plays a few sports, a lot of people come in and know our family from that. everywhere i go in town, i see people i’ve met through the shop.”

—paul paris, new canaan butcher

left to right: Gavin Bruestle, Nick Demirjian, Matt Paris, Tyler Thomas, Jack Wanderer, Lachlan Harrington, Luke Ditlevsen, Charlie McGuire, Ben Bomann and Tyler Schimmeck.

of the Senior Internship Program, gaining firsthand knowledge about running a small business. Paris often hires students as part-time help behind the counter.

“I played sports, and I always talk to the kids. I ask them how their season is going, what position do you play, where are you looking to go to college. I try to engage every one of them,” noted Paris. “It’s a very happy atmosphere. I love having them here.”

On a recent weekday, the meat cases featured an assortment of grass-fed, Wagyu and dry-aged beef, Berkshire pork, Colorado pasture-raised lamb, Amish farm organic chicken and house-made sausages.

Paris makes the 5:00 a.m. drive to the Hunts Point Market in the Bronx twice a week to ensure the shop is fully stocked with the freshest options.

If there’s something his customers want to try that he doesn’t currently carry, he is happy to special order. “If it’s out there and legal, I can get it,” he said.

The shop also offers catering options for special events, including pig roasts and backyard barbecues. Sandwich trays have been a popular post-game option for sports teams.

In appreciation of the warm welcome he has received in New Canaan, Paris has been paying it forward. Recently he donated a backyard pig roast to the ABC House auction and worked with the West School PTC on a lunch for their Special Education staff. And this spring he sponsored a Little League Team for the first time.

“My favorite thing about running this shop is dealing with the customers,” he said. “New Canaan has been phenomenal. I love my customers and love interacting with them every day.”

right: "The J.P. Morgan," named forn neighboring Chase Bank employees’ favorite sandwich. below: Prepping burgers for busy summer weekends.

Stories at Sea

SEAFOOD'S NEW BOOK— A TOUCH OF SALT by

eileen murphy

The history of Rowayton Seafood and the Conroy family is as anchored to the sea as the restaurant,s menu itself. From the mid 1970s when patriarch Kevin Conroy first purchased the market to the chic waterfront restaurant they operate today, the Conroy family truly lives the Salt Life.

A Touch of Salt, the new book by Barbara Bates Conroy, celebrates that deep connection to sea. Beautiful on both the outside and the inside, the book is likely to make its way from your coffee table to your kitchen and back again.

Each chapter pays tribute to a different species of seafood, beginning with a history of the species and wonderful stories about the fishermen and harvesters who bring them to our tables. For example, in chapter one, BatesConroy tells the story of Rowayton native John Markowsky, who has been fishing these waters since he was a child and who is still a commercial lobsterman today.

The inviting recipe pages will inspire you to head to the market and recreate Rowayton Seafood favorites like the Connecticut Lobster Roll and the Baked Oysters. Or they may inspire you to make a reservation and take a drive down to Rowayton Seafood to enjoy the views along with the cuisine. Either way, the book will leave you with a deeper appreciation for sea life and the men and women who bring it to us.

A Touch of Salt is available to purchase at the Market at Rowayton Seafood or at rowaytonseafood.com.

ROWAYTON

left: A Touch of Salt bottom left: This book can live on the coffee table or kitchen counter. below: Tips for serving tinned fish, a rising foodie trend

Shucking tips accompany the recipe for Bloody Mary and Cucumber Jalapeño Oyster Shooters.

A Culinary Affair to Remember

MAYFLOWER INN & SPA creates magical private dining experiences for guests. by eileen murphy

There are few places that know how to pamper you like an Auberge Resort. With a collection of 20+ resorts in the United States alone, Auberge offers “one-ofa-kind experiences in extraordinary locations.” Fortunately for us, one such extraordinary location is just an hour’s drive north in Washington, Connecticut. Mayflower Inn & Spa is situated on 58 picturesque acres in the Litchfield Hills. Readers may already be familiar with the property’s luxury accommodations, innovative spa, holistic wellness programs and its warm, attentive staff. But on a recent visit to Mayflower, we had the pleasure of experiencing this pastoral hideaway from a fresh culinary perspective.

In recent years, Mayflower has elevated its dining experience—transitioning from the Inn’s traditional tasting menu format to à la carte seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients, including some grown on the property itself.

The resort offers a variety of dining options. The appropriately named Garden Room— which integrates indoor and outdoor dining spaces—overlooks the formal Shakespeare Garden, featuring plaques with quotes from the Bard throughout. The Garden Room menu is inventive and reflects the culinary team’s creative vision, with a focus on fresh ingredients prepared in distinctive ways. Lastly, the Tap Room is a more relaxed space featuring a more traditional, brasserie-style menu and a variety of specialty cocktails. However, the pièce de résistance of The Mayflower’s epicurian offerings is the private dining experience. Guests can choose their own menu or provide Mayflower with a list of preferences and dietary restrictions in

above: The culinary team often utilizes fresh produce from the Chef’s Garden, where guests can also have a private dining experience.

DOUGLAS WRIGHT Douglas C. Wright Architects HEIDE HENDRICKS Hendricks Churchill

JOSH GREENE Josh Greene Design

MELISSA REAVIS Hollander Design

SUSANA SIMONPIETRI Chango

PHILIP MITCHELL Philip Mitchell Design

advance, allowing the culinary team to create a custom menu. We chose the latter, which added to the fun as each course presented an element of surprise.

There was an early spring chill in the air during out visit, so our meal was arranged in front of a roaring fire in the intimate, mahogany-paneled library. We were greeted with a champagne toast by our guides for the evening, server Jenya and sommelier Diego. The term “server” doesn’t appropriately describe Jenya’s role in the evening as she presented each meal, she intricately explained the ingredients of each dish, the preparation and the backstory of the locally sourced ingredients. Her enthusiasm for the cuisine is apparent in her presentation. “Each private dining experience is very engaging and interactive,” she says. “People often don’t know what to expect and that is a wonderful thing. It gives you a unique experience.”

The cuisine itself was creative and fun. Classic dishes had a whimsical twist, like the turnips bourguignonne rather than the more traditional escargot. A highlight of our meal was the Raw Apple Over Ice. A peeled apple is marinated in Japanese stock, placed in cryovac packaging and frozen. It is served ice-cold with a mascarpone ranch dip on the side— although Jenya wisely recommended we try it without the dip first, to get a better appreciation of the crisp, tart flavor of the apple.

After enjoying numerous equally delicious small dishes and a classic roasted pheasant, we were more than content. But Jenya insisted

far left: The light-filled Garden Room overlooks the Shakespeare Garden and integrates indoor and outdoor dining. left: The Tap Room is a tavernstyle brasserie that opens up onto a patio where you can enjoy after-dinner drinks by the firepits.

left and above: The Tap Room menu offers classic New England pub-style fare and creative craft cocktails. below: Mayflower Inn's culinary team presents meals that look as good as they taste—even picking flowers from their garden to put the finishing touch on a dish.

above: A view of the Inn from the beautifully landscaped Shakespeare Garden, where metal plaques with quotes from the Bard are tucked in amongst the seasonal

it would be worth our while to make a little more room for dessert. The maple granita over birch ice cream did not disappoint. Jenya explained that all ice creams and sorbets are made in-house and that bark taken from birch trees on the property had been used to make the syrup in this dish. The theme of using local, fresh seasonal ingredients is a priority of the culinary staff.

During the warmer months, the private dinners are often al fresco. Guests can enjoy a private area on the wicker porch or even have a table set up in the Chef’s garden. “In the

MAYFLOWER’S BIKE TOUR & PICNIC

Another unique way to enjoy both the culinary delights from The Mayflower Inn and Litchfield County’s scenic countryside is through the resort’s e-bike tour. You begin your outdoor adventure by pedaling down a picturesque road, past grazing past cows and sheep, toward Maple Bank Farm. There you can shop for produce or handmade goods in the farmstand or, if you are visiting in July, pick your own blueberries. Then enjoy a picnic curated by the Mayflower Inn’s culinary team before heading back to the resort to resume the pampering.

The private dining experience at Mayflower Inn is culinary pampering at its finest—perfect for special occasions like engagements, milestone birthdays and anniversaries.

Chef’s Garden, you are literally surrounded by the fresh ingredients that make up your meal,” says Jenya. “Oftentimes, we’ll even pick a flower right from the garden and top off the dish with it.”

The private dining experience at Mayflower Inn is culinary pampering at its finest—perfect for special occasions like engagements, milestone birthdays and anniversaries. Among the food, the attentive service and the beauty of the resort itself, you will feel like you are a world (not just an hour) away from home.

blooms.

home

Fifty Years and Grow ing

SELF-MADE MOGUL BILL RAVEIS CHARTS HIS OWN HISTORY, FROM A TINY OFFICE ATOP A GROCERY STORE TO MORE THAN $20 BILLION IN ANNUAL SALES FOR WILLIAM RAVEIS REALTY.

by carol leonetti dannhauser

Two dozen William Raveis employees sip and mingle on the deck of their boss’s sprawling Greenfield Hill home in Fairfield. They’ve gathered for lunch in the founder's honor, thanking him for organizing the Raveis company’s 50th anniversary party at Mohegan Sun earlier this year. More than 1,500 real estate agents and employees showed up for the twoday bash, training by day and dancing by night, with 77-year-old Bill Raveis leading the conga line.

Here at Applewood, Raveis’ home, the real estate mogul leads a handful of guests through a living room and into his Revolutionary War room. Glass display cases highlight powder

horns with engraved scrimshaw. Rifles, pistols, muskets and spears adorn the walls, alongside bayonetes, spontoons, war clubs. Raveis lingers by portraits on parchment of the Founding Fathers.

“It’s amazing how this country began,” says Raveis, tanned and sockless, in jeans, sportcoat, crisp white shirt and leather loafers. “These people didn’t like the way they were being treated so they started their own company, took on the biggest power that existed and fought with everything they had. They were the greatest entrepreneurs in the world.”

After Raveis points out a few treasures—Paul Revere’s wallet; George Washington’s vest; a

above left: Bill and Candy Raveis above right top: Toasting the 50th anniversary at the 2024 Raveis convention above right bottom: Bill Raveis addresses the crowd of award-winning agents and sales managers below: The Tommy Hilfiger Estate on Round Hill, a noteworthy Raveis transaction

blood-stained, 13-starred flag from Baltimore— the gathering disperses, most guests returning to William Raveis real estate, mortgage and insurance headquarters in Shelton. But half a dozen remain. They gather in Raveis’ sitting room, strategizing for another battle.

In March, the National Association of Realtors agreed in an antitrust suit to eliminate the 6% sales commission traditionally paid to agents selling a home. Historically, those agents shared that commission with a buyer’s agent. Soon, as agents lower fees to compete for business, buyers might be paying for an agent’s help.

“What everybody else does, I couldn’t care less,” says Raveis. He and his soldiers are planning a counteroffensive, which includes arming agents with materials for buyers touting his agents’ worth.

Raveis settles himself between his marketing director—Princeton-, Harvard- and Stanfordeducated Lisa Carpenter—and two Yorkshire terriers snoozing beside him in a baby carriage. He reviews new brochures and coos, “We’re the only ones who have this. Nobody else comes close.”

Raveis has spent a lifetime inventing, pivoting, reinventing. In 1974, he rented a 9-by7-foot room over a grocery store in downtown Fairfield and set out to launch his real estate empire. He was 27 years old, a married father of two and had just quit a tech job in New York City, dismayed by the attention lauded onto a hire from Harvard who had little interest in the Bridgeport-bred computer wiz but happily took credit for Raveis’ accomplishments. Raveis had barely made it through high school, willed and worked his way through college and hadn’t yet learned that severe dyslexia was what hampered his ability to see things as everyone else did. He credits dyslexia with forcing him to devise inventive strategies to master material.

When he opened up shop, Raveis had a desk, a phone and an office reachable by walking through a doctor’s office. What he didn’t have: experience selling houses. “I’m looking out the window talking to myself, saying ‘How am I going to build a business?’ Then I realize, if I hire an agent, they make money and I make money. They make more money and I make more money. If I help them make more money we all win.”

Raveis believed that an agent was his customer, not a buyer or seller, a mindset

unique to real estate companies at the time. Even so, “None of the big agents wanted to come over and be with me because I was some kid from Bridgeport.”

He knew what it meant to be an outsider and he hired five agents who, he believed, were ignored because they were female and Jewish. After he hiked their commissions and referral fees, the established guys who ran the local multiple listing services didn’t like it, Raveis says, and refused to list Raveis properties. They invited him to lunch one day to deliver a message. “They said, you can’t do this, you can’t do that. If you don’t go according to our rules, we’ll run you out of town. I said, ‘the heck with you.’ ”

At this point in the conversation, Raveis reminisces about his upbringing, a favorite topic during interviews as well as in the two books he’s written. Raveis’ dad was a bricklayer,

and mom made lipstick in a factory. They encouraged their son to get what he wanted by rising to meet, rather than backing down from, a challenge; by working hard, by treating people kindly. Raveis vowed to treat his colleagues as family. Those five agents worked with Raveis for more than 20 years.

His little company has grown to 4,500 agents in 145 branches from Florida to Maine, boasting $20 billion in sales. The family-run firm (sons Ryan and Chris are company co-presidents) finances mortgages and sells insurance. Last year, industry analysts Inman awarded Raveis the Top Brokerage in the United States.

And the company continues to grow. When Raveis moved to Florida eight years ago, he mentioned to locals that he might like to hang a shingle there. “A guy from the No. 1 firm in Naples laughed. He said to me that no outsider has ever made it here,” Raveis recalls during an interview on Zoom. He’s calling from his house in Port Royal, where the average home costs $20 million and a current Raveis listing goes for $88 million. That guy didn’t know he was laying down a gauntlet. Today, Raveis says, “We’re the No. 1 firm here, and they’re No. 3.”

above: Overall Winner of HGTVs Ultimate House Hunt 2022, a deal done by Raveis this photo: The Raveis Family

above: Chris, Bill and Ryan Raveis celebrate 50 years at William Raveis Real Estate, Mortgage and Insurance.

Legal Profile Special Section

• Special section following our annual Top Lawyers editorial feature

• Annual guide to Fairfield County’s law firms & legal experts

• Custom profile created for your practice

• Reach an audience of 200,000+ families and local residents

• One year inclusion in our online lawyers directory

• Bonus issue distribution to local events reaching families, charitable organizations and community influencers Issue Date: November/December 2024 On Newsstands: November 1, 2024 Commitment Date: September 9, 2024 Contact Morgan Howell, Moffly Media Account Executive at Morgan.Howell@moffly.com for more information.

people&PLACES

or the Breeches & Bowties Gala honoring Georgina Bloomberg, New Canaan Mounted Troop (NCMT) invited guests to party like it’s 1939. Big Band music by The Revisionists set the tone for a special 85th anniversary celebration. The annual fundraiser helps NCMT run its horsemanship and therapeutic programs. newcanaanmountedtroop.org »

1 New Canaan Mounted Troop 2 Felicia Alford, Nicole Rivard 3 Autumn Terrill, Sara Tucker, Georgina Bloomberg, Melany Hearne 4 Jared, Julie, Charlie, Teresa and Carter Conlon 5 Sara Tucker addresses New Canaan Mounted Troop. 6 Anda Hutchins, Eileen Thomas, Audrey Chastain-Chapman, Kristin Redaelli 7 Sarah Youngman, Georgina Bloomberg 8 Thomas Herbig, Sam Miller

50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON * TICKETS ON SALE:

OVER 50 SHOWS PRESENTED FREE-OF-CHARGE * MAY - OCT ROLLING LINE-UP INCLUDES:

Serving SupportUp

Channeling Wimbledon, guests wore white tennis-inspired attire to the Gala for Grassroots benefit at Wee Burn Country Club. Nearly 300 people came to support the Grassroots Tennis & Education Program, which provides high-quality tennis instruction to low-income youth in Norwalk and Stamford. The nonprofit also teaches “leadership development, social emotional learning, college and career readiness and academic enrichment.” Tennis fans were treated to cocktails, dinner and a live and silent auction, along with a heated mixed-doubles ping-pong competition. Proceeds from the paddle raise will go toward building a bubble for the tennis courts, so children can play year-round. »

GRASSROOTS TENNIS & EDUCATION / Wee Burn Country Club

1 Kendra Seth, Evan Clark, Chelsea Staniar 2 Grassroots Committee 3 Joseph Steuert and Rachel Greenspon play ping pong 4 Grassroots staff with students 5 Ashlee Coloma, Michelle Mauboussin 6 Fatou Niang, Josh Watkins 7 Event Co-Chairs Harlan Stone, Michelle Mauboussin 8 Grassroots students, staff, committee members and volunteers

1 ABC New Canaan Alumni

2 Jeff Fager, Melinda Fager, Polly Perkins Johnson, Eads Johnson, ABC New Canaan Alum and Board Member, Will Choi, and Rachel Ceruti

3 Nadine Finnerty, Kristen Hall and Nancy Shullman 4 Ellen and Terry Trusty, honoree, ABC Alum, Class of ‘76

5 Megan and Jose Morales, Alicia and Brad Meyer, Nancy Shullman, Dina Connelly

6 Osasu Uwa-Omede, Alicia C. Meyer, Brielle Connolly 7 Karl Schimmeck, Jill Gordon, Dan Malkoun, Anne Schimmeck and Kate Thomas

Family Bond

There was a special reunion at ABC New Canaan’s 50th Anniversary Gala, honoring the original 1974 ABC family. Jelani Alladin, an awardwinning actor and ABC alum, emceed the affair. Guests enjoyed dinner and dancing, while bidding on unique auction items. The benefit supports ABC’s efforts to provide “education, equity and opportunity” for talented young men of color. abchouseofnc.org »

8 Sitting (L to R), Misa Casey, ABC New Canaan Alumni Adrian Davis, Ajamo Carraby-Jones, Standing, Indria Boly, Melissa Rwambuya, ABC Alumni Osasu Uwa-Omede, Darryl Cummings, Josiah Jones, Ivan Tamayo, and Ryan Hernandez. Standing far back Alan Rwambuya 9 Benefit Committee: Jill Gordon, Maura Marshall, Megan Morales, Lisa Hill, Alicia Meyer, Liz Tuff, Michele Salmini, Jamie Boris, Kate Thomas, Tiffany Bevacqua, Sarah O’Keefe, Hollis McIntosh, Victoria Cohn, Dina Connelly, and Susan Donnelly 10 Gala Co-Chairs, Kate Thomas and Michele Salmini 11 The Manfredi New Canaan team, Roberta Chiappelloni, Bianca Chiappelloni, Dalfina Laca and Allison Barker 12 Honorees Terry Trusty, ABC Alum, Class of ‘76, Ellen Trusty, Honorees Beatrice Watkins and William Watkins 13 Meaghan Kupchak, Maria Magliacano, Eileen Murphy, Michelle Riley, Anne Schimmeck 14 Jamie Boris, ABC New Canaan Executive Director, Liz Tuff, ABC New Canaan Board President 15 Honorees/ABC Alumni Class of ‘77 Luis Taveras, Ph.D, and Class of ‘76 Michael Bivens 16 Award-winning actor and ABC New Canaan Alum, Jelani Alladin »

Milestone Moment

Celebrating 40 years of service to the community, Open Doors Shelter marked the occasion on April 25 with an anniversary gala and auction. The organization addresses poverty and homelessness in the Norwalk area, helping neighbors find housing stability. Open Doors honored Brendan McGee, owner of Brendan’s 101 in Rowayton, with the Luminary Award for his efforts to close the hunger gap. The nonprofit calls McGee “an extraordinary example of community support and the impact that a local business owner can make for those who are most in need.”

Funds raised from the benefit will help the nonprofit provide food, shelter, clothing, outreach and other much-needed resources. »

OPEN DOORS SHELTER / The Loading Dock

1 Front row: Lena Jamison, Nordia Savage Back row: Tiffany Porter-Jamison, Michele Conderino 2 Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, Honoree Brendan McGee, Christine McGee, Jeff Erdmann 3 Seth Birnbaum, Joel Whidden, Nathan Waldman 4 Christina Lake, David Keenan, Laura Manning, Rob Manning 5 Rebecca Soskin, Melora Johnson, Lori Leckliter 6 Lisa Josephs, Jesse Brown 7 Julianna Gomez, Porschia Turner, Megan Tsagas 8 Frank Bruno, Christine Crudo, Ceci Maher, Amy Seaver 9 Frank Concepcion, Jason McCants, Corky Stewart 10 Lamond Daniels 11 Nita and Narendra Mulani

2024 SEASON

MAY 18 NEIL YOUNG + CRAZY HORSE

MAY 24 THE BEACH BOYS W/ DAVE MASON

MAY 31 COLE SWINDELL W/ DYLAN SCOTT & MACKENZIE CARPENTER

JUNE 1 THE BRYSON TILLER TOUR

JUNE 13 TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVE W/ BIG BOI

JUNE 14 BONNIE RAITT

JUNE 18 NIALL HORAN

JUNE 20 JAY WHEELER

JUNE 21 BILLY CURRINGTON W/ LARRY FLEET & REDFERRIN

JUNE 23 SARAH MCLACHLAN W/ FEIST

JUNE 28 LAINEY WILSON W/ IAN MUNSICK & ZACH TOP

JUNE 29 A DAY TO REMEMBER W/ THE STORY SO FAR, FOUR YEAR STRONG, & PAIN OF TRUTH

JULY 5 JASON MRAZ W/ RIPE

JULY 14 RAIN – A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

JULY 16 TOTALLY TUBULAR FESTIVAL THOMAS DOLBY, THE ROMANTICS, MEN WITHOUT HATS, MODERN ENGLISH & MORE

JULY 18 DIRTY HEADS & SLIGHTLY STOOPID W/ COMMON KINGS & ELOVATERS

JULY 19 JORDAN DAVIS W/ MITCHELL TENPENNY

JULY 20 BRIT FLOYD

YOUR SUMMER CONCERT HOME!

JULY 23 HALESTORM & I PREVAIL W/ HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD & FIT FOR A KING F OR A KING

JULY 24 SAMMY HAGAR W/ LOVERBOY

JULY 26 / 27 BILLY STRINGS

JULY 30 CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE

AUG 2 QUEENS OF R&B: XSCAPE & SWV

AUG 3 311 W/ AWOLNATION & NEON TREES

AUG 6 CREED W/ TONIC & FINGER ELEVEN

AUG 9 THE DOOBIE BROTHERS W/ STEVE WINWOOD

AUG 17 STRAY CATS

AUG 18 WHISKEY MYERS W/ BLACKBERRY SMOKE & EDDIE FLINT

AUG 19 CAGE THE ELEPHANT W/ YOUNG THE GIANT & BAKAR

AUG 22 IMPRACTICAL JOKERS

AUG 23 / 24 TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND W/ SPECIAL GUEST MARGO PRICE

AUG 30 YOUNG MIKO

AUG 31 WALKER HAYES W/ KYLIE MORGAN & TENILLE ARTS

SEPT 3 DEEP PURPLE W/ YES

SEPT 4 / 5 JAMES TAYLOR & HIS ALL-STAR BAND

JULY 21 O.A.R. W/ FITZ & THE TANTRUMS & DJ LOGIC

SEPT 14 KILLER QUEEN W/ VOYAGE

SEPT 15 JANE’S ADDICTION AND LOVE & ROCKETS

SEPT 22 THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

SEPT 25 THE MARLEY BROTHERS

SEPT 26 MT. JOY

OCT 5 KINGS OF LEON W/ PHANTOGRAM AND MANY MORE!!

Touch a Life

New Canaan Community Foundation (NCCF) hosted a sold-out luncheon to support its Touch a Life fund. The event raised $200,000 for the program, providing emergency financial assistance for residents who struggle to make ends meet. Stephanie Land, author of two acclaimed books—Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive and Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger and Higher Education—shared her inspiring journey as an impoverished single mother. newcanaancf.org »

Megan

Hutton, Beth Stimpson, Lauren Patterson,Katrina Parkhill, Susan Carroll, AnnaLisa Blevins, Jen Ray, Laura Prior, Sarah Casey, Jeanne Gnuse, Beth Golden, Elizabeth

1 Erin Boardman, Sarah Kilcullen, Polly Grube 2 Guests raise their paddles 3 Julie Passios, Laura Prior, Kara Gilliam, Beth Stimpson, Meaghan Kupchak (in back) 4 Patricia Mee, Lauren Erickson, Kelly Hancock, Cameron Buzzeo, Marilyn Nelson 5 Susan Bliss, New Canaan Public School Superintendent Dr. Bryan Luizzi, Erica Schwedel 6 Jessie Spain, Jamie Buschmann, Kristie Smith, Ania Komisarek, Chau Prutting, Carolina Castellano, Maria Alves, Erin Marich, Jessica Bermingham 7 Suzanne Harrison, Jamie Boris 8 Barb Achenbaum, Beth Golden, Sarah Casey 9 Christina Bradley,

Mancosh, Erin Gaudreau 10 Carolyn Crisafulli, Holly Casella, Barbara Calaba, Amy Lasky, Barb Achenbaum, Randi

DeMuth 11 Ellen Crovatto, Dede Bartlett

Planning Parenthood

Planned Parenthood of Southern New England (PPSNE) had a huge turnout for its annual Spring Luncheon—554 enthusiastic supporters at the Hyatt in Old Greenwich along with over 100 virtual viewers. Comedian Cecily Strong, SCMIGADOON TV star, formerly of Saturday Night Live was interviewed by comedian Samantha Bee, now on the PPSNE board. Decade-long volunteer Danielle Eason, recent head of PPVotes! CT received the Community Impact Award. Co-chairs were Susan Beyman, Keri Cameron, Jane Carlin, Lindy Lilien and Mini Nunna. It raised a record $1 million in support of reproductive healthcare for 52,000 patients across Connecticut and Rhode Island. plannedparenthood.org — by Donna Moffly »

1 Cecily Strong interviewed by Samantha Bee 2 Dr. Frances Ginsburg, Rabbi Gerry Ginsburg 3 Honoree Danielle Eason, PPSNE CEO Amanda Skinner 4 Kristin Peterson Edwards, Lenore Douglas 5 Co-chairs Jane Carlin, Lindy Lilien, Mini Nunna, Susan Beyman, Keri Cameron 6 Katherine Type, Sarah Popko, Tasha Brough Nagle 7 Julia Stewart, Alicia Meyer, Meredith Bergman, Erika Kelly 8 Audience enjoying Cecily Strong’s clown act on Saturday Night Live 9 Samantha Bee, Lucy Galbraith, Cecily Strong, Carlyle Upson 10 Samantha Bee, Cecily Strong, Dede Bartlett 11 Mary Farris, Chelsea Taliercio, Shiva Sarram, Nick Simmons , Meredith Bergman, Hilary Ormond, Julia Stewart

PLANNED PARENTHOOD / Hyatt Regency Greenwich

PHOTOGRAPHY VIDEOGRAPHY SOCIAL MEDIA

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

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

Literary Pursuits

New Canaan Library hosted more than 150 book lovers at the Spring Edition author talk and lunch on May 22, featuring Vanessa Chan, author of The Storm We Made. As a tribute to Chan’s heritage and the novel’s setting, Marcia Selden Caterers served a Malaysian-inspired lunch under a tent on the Anderson Terrace. Christine Noyer Seaver, Vice President of the New Canaan Library Board of Trustees, was honored for her outstanding service to the library. Proceeds from the luncheon benefit New Canaan Library’s Annual Fund. newcanaanlibrary.org

1 Eileen Thomas, Honoree Christine Seaver

2 Committee photo, left to right: Melissa Rwambuya, Roseann Conheeney, Beth Orwicz, Laura Barker, Author Vanessa Chan, Founding Sponsor Fatou Niang, Amy Silberfein, Pam Norton, Debbie Hruska 3 Vanessa Chan, Editor Marysue Rucci of Marysue Rucci Books

4 Ellen Crovatto, Eileen Thomas, Michelle Riley, Vicky Merwin, Allison Zinczenko 5 Kelly Seaver, Christine Seaver, Alex Seaver, Maggie Seaver

6 Audience at Spring Edition 7 Catherine Leach, Mary Anderson, Meg Walsh 8 Jeanne Gnuse

9 Dede Bartlett, Alicia Wyckoff 10 Vanessa Chan

11 Betsy Greene, Sarah Casey, Whitney Williams, Alicia Wyckoff, Bettina Young 12 Mandy Miller, Kristen Wildman

Capturing Rowayton—a vibrant live music scene; popular restaurants, like Rowayton Seafood and Arden’s and incredible waterfont views of the Five Mile River and Long Island Sound.

DESTINATION

The perfect summer vacation spot is right here at home

by GEORGETTE YACOUB

Lukeman was sitting in her New York City apartment, browsing Zillow, when her mouse scrolled over a tiny beach cottage in a town she had never heard of and couldn ’ t pronounce.

It was a modest house, one prone to flooding with a small yard and no garage drawbacks that lost their weight against the idyllic white picket fence and the trellis overtaken by white and pink roses. She called her agent to schedule a tour.

When they drove into the town, just an hour outside of the City, Jill thought, “ Maybe I ’ m not ready for the suburbs. Maybe this will be boring. ” She was pursuing a degree at Columbia Business School, working at Airbnb living a version of city life that was fun, social and artistic. But, she wanted an escape. A place to spend weekends and summers to get away from the bustle of city life.

Arden’s Jill Lukeman with her newly adopted chihuahua, Fiona.

portrait by LACY KIE R NAN CARROLL

They drove into Rowayton on June 2, 2018. The weather was sunny and an even 70 degrees. As they headed to the house, they lost service and drove around in circles in an attempt to find this cute little house on South Beach—a blessing considering every wrong turn took them to a scene that was more picturesque than the one before it.

When they found the house, Jill stepped in, first taking in the salty smell of the Long Island Sound coming through the sliding glass doors. She sat on the porch swing, listening to live music coming from Porch Jam—the annual music festival in Rowayton where bands play on local porches while residents and out-of-towners walk the town to hang out with friends and listen.

Jill couldn’t quiet her instinct. What is this place? she thought.

After the tour, they headed to Rowayton Seafood, arguably the town’s signature restaurant. They sat waterfront, among docked boats and paddle boarders.

“That was it,” Jill said to her realtor and a friend over Bloody Marys and lobster rolls.

“You should see different houses, do more research,” her realtor rebutted. But Jill was adamant—a true truster of her

own instincts. By the time lunch was over, the offer on the house was in.

Looking back, Jill reflects on what it was that drew her to this small,Connecticut beach town. She’s originally from a small town in Ohio where there was a strong sense of community— something she sensed immediately in Rowayton.

“I felt like there was something really special here,” she says. “You’re a stone’s throw away from the city, but it feels otherworldly in some ways. I also love the density.

Most people don’t want neighbors who can look into their windows…but for me, that was the charm.”

I

felt like there was something really special here. You ,, re a stone ’ s throw away from the city, but it feels otherworldly in some ways.

—

JILL LUKEMAN

portrait by LACY KIE R NAN CARROLL

ARTIST ’ S ENCLAVE

Loomis Towey has lived in Rowayton for over 20 years.

In fact, she’s the woman who brought Porch Jam—the music festival that helped win Jill over—to Rowayton. “My sister lives in Sarasota and they have something called Porchfest,” says Dre. “She suggested I do it in Rowayton since it’s so biker- and walker-friendly.”

Dre is the founder and creative director of Junior Art and Music (JAM), a Norwalk-based nonprofit that provides music and art workshops to underserved kids. She started JAM in 2017, followed quickly by Porch Jam, the fundraising event that supports it.

Rowayton is a creative hub, a beautiful place that artists are attracted to, similar to Provincetown in the Cape and Key West in Florida.

In the first year, Porch Jam started with 12 bands, which turned to 16, and continues to grow, this year hosting 30 bands. In fact, the event has grown so much since its beginning that Dre expects 3,000 attendees this year— some of whom are actually flying in for the event.

“Rowayton is the perfect template for Porch Jam,” Dre says. “It’s walkable, there are tons of porches, which are a natural stage for artists.”

What Dre finds most special about Rowayton is the fact that it is a small, oyster village that is still part of a larger city. “I love the quaintness of it, but also love the edge of it—that it is part of a bigger city and that comes with diversity and the opportunity to be part of both a smaller community and a larger one,” she says. “Rowayton is a creative hub, a beautiful area that artists are attracted to, similar to Provincetown in the Cape and Key West in Florida.”

Dre Towey (right) is the founder of Porch Jam, a popular music festival and fundriaser that provides music workshops to underserved kids.

— DRE TOWEY

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Most people think that, until recently, Rowayton has been a close-knit, sleepy town that sits on a picturesque corner of the Long Island Sound—but the town has always been a social, bustling place.

Paul Seymour, board member of the Rowayton Civic Association and chair of the Music Committee, echoes this.

“The Outdoor Concert Series has been around since the late ’80s, when they had local bands come play down at the beach,” he says. “It brings the whole community to the beach or park to hang out and have a good time, with no agenda.”

Paul’s been in the music business since 1983, so it’s fair to say he knows a thing or two about running a concert series.

As the series has gotten bigger, it has attracted bigger talent and can draw crowds of 300 to 500 families to the beach on Sundays in the summertime.

This year’s lineup includes a local act called Funk Your Face, along with Phillip-Michael Scales, nephew of B.B. King, and a few more acts Paul isn’t quite allowed to disclose yet.

But that doesn’t even scratch the surface of the community events that thread Rowayton residents together. The RCA hosts different events throughout the year, including Light Up Rowayton (the annual holiday event complete with a hot cocoa competition and an appearance from Santa himself), to the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning, fireworks on the 4th of July, and Comedy Night where New York-level

comedians give the town a night of teary-eyed laughs.

“These events allow the youngsters, the teenagers, the new guys in town, and the old souls of Rowayton to just come together and get to know each other a bit more,” Paul says.

“It’s as simple as that.”

Musical events like Porch Jam (right and below) and the summer concert series have residents singing and dancing in the streets.

THE ADVENT OF ARDEN ’ S

At the start of the pandemic, when New York City shut down and Jill was pregnant with her son, she decided to sell her New York City apartment and move to Rowayton full-time. At that point, she had a business degree under her belt and dreamed of opening a juice bar and coffee shop in town as a side hustle while she continued her career at Airbnb. She was going to call it “Squeeze the Day.”

She shared her idea with friends she had met in town, all of whom suggested she reach out to Laura Jayson, her neighbor, who was a creative consultant with a rich skillset in the food space.

Jill sent Laura an “awkward” email, inviting her for a walk to get her perspective (and eventually her partnership) on the project. “Laura’s family grew up in Rowayton,” Jill said. “I didn’t want to come in and create something not contextual to the area, so Laura’s perspective is what made it travelinfluenced, but Rowayton in intention.”

The juice bar/coffee shop idea was budding—alongside Jill and Laura’s friendship. In the spirit of wanting the space to

honor what Rowayton was about, Jill started looking into the history of the little oyster village.

Through email exchanges with the Rowayton Historical Society, diving into books like Rowayton on the Half Shell, and conversations with local historian, Lisa Grant, Jill learned that Rowayton actually had a decadent history.

In fact, in the late 1800s, Rowayton was home to Roton Point Amusement Park, a summer destination that welcomed 12,000 visitors a day and was home of the Tango Dip, a rollercoaster that almost took on a second life as the chosen name of Jill and Laura’s project.

Arden’s interior has a modern coastal vibe.

Jill is almost out of breath as she excitedly rattles off the nuggets of history she learned about Rowayton in her research. Like how Amelia Earhart’s husband, George Palmer Putnam, who summered on Rowayton Avenue, established its post office, train station, and the name “Rowayton” itself (the neighborhood had always been called Five Mile River).

Or how, in 1916, Josephine Craw, wife of a Rowayton oysterman, opened a camp for girls to teach them wireless telegraphy and eventually aviation, flying biplanes from the top of Craw Hill down to the beach.

But it was this next historical discovery that affirmed for Jill that her gut instinct was right. In the 1920s, entrepreneur Neville Bayley took ownership of the amusement park, expanding it with more rides and other attractions.

One of the most popular was the live music venue that attracted nationally known acts including Duke Ellington and Glen Miller. But it was when Jill read the following name that her heart skipped a beat: Victor Arden.

Victor Arden was an orchestra leader and pianist. Victor Arden was Jill’s great grandfather. Arden was his stage name, the same name Jill’s parents passed down to her as her middle name.

That connection back to this town affirmed Jill’s gut feeling —that “this is it” feeling she felt when she first stepped inside that beach cottage she found on Zillow that night in 2018.

“So, I named the place Arden’s,” she said.

Jill is almost out of breath as she excitedly rattles off the nuggets of history she learned about Rowayton in her research.

After Hours at Arden’s draws a young, chic crowd.

Below are historic post cards from Roton Point Amusement Park. Club House and Court at Belle Island.

Rowayton is a place where fisherman and financiers coexist, seemingly unaware of their differences.

FIVE-MILE MAGNETISM

Arden’s opened in 2022 and has helped breathe new life into the town. But the catalyst to the newfound vibrancy in Rowayton seems to be one of the few positives to come from the pandemic.

Andrew Meyerson, commissioner of the 6th taxing district, has lived in Rowayton for 25 years when it had a “sleepy little fishing village feel.” In that time, he’s seen new buildings and businesses pop up gradually, but it wasn’t until the pandemic that he saw the “biggest turnover of people.”

Local realtor, Peter Stuart, echoed that insight. During the pandemic, the Rowayton real estate market became insanely competitive, particularly among two groups: cool, young couples from Brooklyn and New York City who wanted more space in a town that was still walkable and social, and older people from neighboring towns like New Canaan and Darien who were ready to downsize or live a more laid-back lifestyle.

“Every home was snatched up and made to be more beautiful,” he says. “06853 is now more like 90210.”

Commissioner Andrew adds that while the town has become younger, it also has become more affluent. In fact, the taxing district showed that home values went up 35 to 70% in

the last five years.

“When I moved here, it was changing, but still a sleepy little village,” he said. “Now, you have to make a certain amount of money to live here.”

It’s true, Rowayton is a special little part of the world. Not because of its history, affluence or scenery. It’s because, one way or another, it’s become a place in which two opposing things can be true.

It’s a little beach town that’s still part of a big, bustling city. It’s a town that experienced major turnover in the last five years but still holds onto a rich history. It’s a sleepy town with plenty to do. A wealthy town, home to plenty of artists and creatives. A place where fisherman and financiers coexist, seemingly unaware of their differences.

Rowayton is a living juxtaposition.

While the pandemic was a catalyst for significant change in Rowayton, one thing has stayed consistent—the unwavering sense of community.

On a random weekday afternoon at Arden’s, I sat at a table, cleaning up my notes for this piece while sipping on a matcha. I look up sporadically, admiring the details of the space that were so meticulously curated by Jill and Laura to represent all that Rowayton is.

And it’s all there—even outside of the roman plastered walls and the pendant lights that look more like oversized beach hats than lighting fixtures. A mom sits at a table, rocking the stroller that holds her newborn while sipping on an iced latte. Across from her is a couple , seemingly in their 70s, who stopped in for a quick lunch after walking “the loop” around town.

It’s in this small, seemingly uneventful moment, where the spirit of Rowayton comes to life.

An exhibit at The Historic Rowayton Museum celebrates the town’s many plaqued houses. There is an abundance of outdoor activities for the whole family.

Since January, you, our enthusiastic readers, have sounded off on your favorite businesses across the Gold Coast. And we’ve been listening. Read on for the results of your votes on what you consider to be tops in Fairfield County for 2024. Welcome to your best of the best!

Best Service // TONY’S AT THE J HOUSE

It’s no surpise that the restaurant known for its namesake founder’s (above) penchant for making the rounds to personally greet guests—whether newly arrived NYC transplants or boldfaced named celebs— would get the attention of our readers who voted Tony’s at the J House this year’s Best Service winner. The entrance sign reads “Right this way, my friend” and is the welcoming mantra reflected through every detail of the always-popular steakhouse that is so much more than just a steakhouse.

Best Hotel Restaurant + Private Dining/Intimate Venue + Special Occasion/Date Night // TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS

By clinching both Intimate Venue and Date Night, it seems like perennial favorite Tavern at GrayBarns might be this year’s choice for romantic evenings out. Local ingredients star on hyperlocal (he’s a lifelong Fairfield County resident) Chef Joseph Wabshinak’s New American menu. For truly special occasions take full advantage of the transported-to-the-countryside vibe and book an overnight in the Inn. There, the Glazer family (Marsha and daughter Nikki above) welcomes you to the property they’ve owned since 2017. Their discerning redesign transformed the old Silvermine Tavern into the epitome of quiet luxury, all warmth and refinement.

food drink W INNERS

RESTAURANTS

Best Service

Tony’s at the J House 1114 Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-698-6999 tonysatthejhouse.com

Business Lunch

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

Creative Menu

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

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

Event Space

314 Beer Garden

314 Wilson Ave., Norwalk, 203-857-1516 314beergarden.com

Event Space/Weddings

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

Family Friendly + Pickup/ Delivery Option Colony Grill

172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, 203-359-2184 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-5252 | 1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-1989 colonygrill.com

Hotel Restaurant + Private Dining/Intimate Venue + Special Occasion/Date Night

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

New Restaurant

The Benjamin 20 West Lane, Ridgefield, 475-275-6001 thebenjaminrestaurant.com

Outdoor Dining + Seafood

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

SPECIALTIES

American Little Pub

531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 |   2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 littlepub.com

Asian Fusion

Mecha Noodle Bar

151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222 mechanoodlebar.com

Chinese

Little Kitchen

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

French

Le Penguin

61 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-717-1200 lepenguinbistro.com

Greek

Kouzina

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

Indian

Coromandel Cuisine of India

25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 631-837-2419 coromandeldarienct.com

Italian Café Silvium

371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651 cafesilviumct.com

Best New Restaurant // THE BENJAMIN

This Ridgefield newcomer has been welcoming a steady stream of diners from all over Fairfield and Westchester counties since it opened in June 2023. Named for Benjamin Franklin with a wink at his role as the first ambassador to France, the restaurant reflects that transatlantic connection in its approach. The little gem Caesar salad (above) and roasted half chicken (below) are top reader choices from the tightly curated, seasonal menu. Executive Chef (and serendipitiously monikered) Benjamin Traver joined from NYC’s The Modern and Cafe Boulud, while Pastry Chef Melissa Knauer hails from Litchfield bakery fave Arethusa a Mano.

Japanese

Sakura

680 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-0802

sakurarestaurant.com

Mediterranean

Layla’s Falafel

936 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-461-8004 | 1535 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-955-1583  | 2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-384-0100 laylasfalafel.com

Mexican

bartaco

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

Spanish + Tapas

Barcelona 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

Steaks

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

Sushi

Nordic Fish

1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8400 nordicfishfairfield.com

Thai

Little Thai Kitchen

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

CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

PopUp Bagels

12 Riversville Rd., Greenwich | 971 Post Road E., Westport popupbagels.com

Japanese // SAKURA

More than 40 years later, we still agree. Readers’ Picks

Our readers say arigato to Sakura, the Westport staple, for offering up both kid-friendly hibachi and a more elevated dining experience that parents look forward to. Dining options range from sushi to hibachi, from sukiyaki to shabu shabu. There’s also an array of options to park yourself for the night from belly up to the bar (sushi or otherwise) to outdoors on the patio, from the main dining room to more intimate tatami rooms. Few area restaurants have the staying power of this Japanese standout, in business since 1982. On the occasion of its opening the New York Times called it “winning.”

Best Bagels // POPUP BAGELS

From the Gold Coast to the West Coast, PopUp Bagels keeps on, well, popping up. While we were all messing around with sourdough starter kits during the pandemic, Adam Goldberg (left) was busy perfecting a new recipe and sharing his crispy-on-the-ouside, soft-on-the-inside bagels with friends from his backyard in Westport. A few short years later, the homegrown carb-heaven company keeps on growing from its flash sale and coveted subscriptions roots to include permanent walk-in locations and a nationwide following. Purists delight in the no-novelty philosophy (nary a rainbow nor blueberry—or even a sliced—bagel in the bunch.) They make the most exquisite vehicle for schmears. Scallion and plain cream cheese are always on offer alongside rotating flavors, including dill pickle and cheeseball, as well as butters like like chimichurri and hot honey.

Readers’ Picks

Asian/Asian Fusion + Bowls + Noodle Bar/Noodles

// MECHA NOODLE BAR

Winning Best Asian Fusion is your sign to go beyond steaming bowls of pho and ramen and explore the rest of the menu at youthful chainlet Mecha Noodle Bar.

Edamame is seasoned with garlic confit, rosemary, sage and sea salt. Pork and shrimp dumplings in spicy red chili oil are a top order, but we’re also suckers for the roasted mushroom dumplings. Of course, no one is disputing Mecha’s noodle-primacy.

Beef Noodle is a bowl of brothless rice noodles tossed to perfection in a sweet, umami-rich sauce that gets raves.

Best Hot Dogs // SUPER DUPER WEENIE

Being deep into baseball season brings to mind the staple ballpark handheld—a sizzling frank on a bun. This summer we’ll skip the sweltering heat and steep ticket price at Yankee stadium thank you very much and enjoy a top-notch split-and-grilled Super Duper Weenie instead. And for the laziest of dog days this season, when even an I-95 drive just up to Fairfield seems too much to bear, we’ll gather the neighbors and bring the savory treats to us in one of SDW’s on-the-go food trucks. The housemade relishes are a tightly guarded secret and nearly steal the show in the reader favorite “New Englander” topped with sauerkraut, bacon, mustard and fresh chopped onion. Over the years the menu expanded to include not just fresh cut fries but also sausage and steak sandwiches, chicken nuggets and more.

Best Ice Cream // SUNNY DAES

With six locations across the Gold Coast, it’s no wonder that Sunny Daes has fans acoss the County voting enthusiastically “thumbs up” for the family-owned joint’s homemade cool treats. Sergio Keskin opened the first Sunny Daes in 1999 in Stamford’s Shippan neighborhood. Since then the iconic, cheery pink-and-green shop has expanded to include outposts in Fairfield, Trumbull, Westport and its newest location in Norwalk in 2023. Toddlers enjoy the multitude of flavors and toppings as much as climbing aboard the friendly cows while big kids make it a must-stop on baseball Saturdays and soccer Sundays. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors of ice cream, froyo and gelatos in cups and cones and other frozen treats like ice cream sandwiches, cakes and shakes. And, of course, sundaes like its playful name indicates. Seasonal offerings have included summer sorbets like pomegranate with fresh fruit, pumpkin ice cream for fall, eggnog for winter.

Bowls + Noodle Bar/Noodles

Mecha Noodle Bar

151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222 mechanoodlebar.com

Burritos

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

Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles

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

Hamburgers

Little Pub

531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 |   2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 littlepub.com

Hot Dogs

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

Ice Cream

Sunny Daes

2505 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-372-3058; |   808 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-9055; |   211 Main St., Norwalk, 203-295-8528 | 633 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-977-0661 | 900 White Plains Rd., Trumbull, 203-459-2663; |   30 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-4212 sunnydaesicecream.com

Pizza Colony Grill

172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, 203-359-2184 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk 203-866-5252 | 1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-1989 colonygrill.com

PICK

Darien + Rowayton

editor Eileen Murphy shares her ode to Aux Délices

for the perfect accompaniment to our readers’ top pick for best salads—Aux Délices savory quiches, which are delicious and substantial. Stop in for a premade fave or call ahead for a custom pick. Summer lunches, solved.

and sandwiches packed and ready keep the bell on an Aux Délices shop door ringing all day. And on a busy night there might not be something I appreciate more than the many grab-and-go options on offer. The chicken salad sandwich and Bam Bam Chicken are on heavy rotation at our house as of late.

I can remember Aux Délices hosts uber-popular kids cooking classes on Sunday afternoons and summer camps in their Stamford kitchen. Grownups can sharpen their skills too at private group outings perfect for showers or corporate get-togethers.

Brunch +

Cafe/Bistro // TERRAIN CAFE

Is there a Fairfield County spot that embraces and celebrates Mother Nature in its warm, elevated design quite like Terrain Cafe? We don’t think so. And neither do our readers. The dining-in-a-greenhouse vibe pervades everything here, from the leafy green (but actually) decor to the, of course, seasonally inpired menu that reflects what’s ripe from local farmers. We’re loving brunch standouts like the foodie-heaven brioche French toast with rum-soaked stone fruit and vanilla maple mascarpone sauce (above) and the sweet figgy-jammy grilled gruyere with apple and basil on sourdough.

Best Coffee Shop // COFFEE FOR GOOD

A place to get a perfect cup of joe and also support a worthy mission? Sign us up. Greenwich’s Coffee for Good is both an inviting gathering place with top java and a training ground for locals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In summer we’re all about the chilled caffeinated goodness of a cold brew or a sweet strawberry smoothie. We take ours to go with a muffin or scone. The shop offers our readers’ choice of favorite housewarming gifts—beans with name nods to spots around town like Greenwich Avenue Zest and Mianus Morning Dew.

Ribs/Barbecue

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

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

auxdelicesfoods.com

DROP-IN SPOTS

Breakfast Harborview Market 218 Harborview Ave., Bridgeport, 203-367-7336 harborviewmarket.com

Brunch + Café/Bistro Terrain Garden Café 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2732;  shopterrain.com

Coffee Shop

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

Deli

A & S Fine Foods 856 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-3899 | 361 Post Rd W., Westport, 203-293-4042 asfinefoodsct.com

Diner

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

Food Truck

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

Health/Organic Food + Juice

Bar

Green & Tonic

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

21 Forest St., New Canaan, 203-594-1851 | 17 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-557-6392 greenandtonic.com

Lunch Spot

Little Pub

531 East 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

168 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-9240 limerestaurant.com

MARKETS + MORE

Bakery

Wave Hill Breads

30 High St., Norwalk, 203-762-9595 wavehillbreads.com

Butcher

Saugatuck Provisions

580 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-3655 saugatuckprovisions.com

Cakes/Cup Cakes

Forever Sweet

235 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-939-9600 foreversweetbakery.com

Caterer

Marcia Selden Catering & Events

65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000 marciaselden.com

Desserts BE Chocolat

75 Hillside Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-5981 bechocolat.com

Best

Vegetarian // THE LIME

Best Bakery

// WAVE HILL BREADS

Given how sought-after bread from Wave Hill is from Brooklyn to Litchfield to Madison and back, we’re so happy to claim the master baker as our own Gold Coast gem. Owners Angela and Tim Topi know slow food is the best food and apply that know-how to everything they do. It all adds up to lighter, more flavorful, easyon-the-belly breads that will make you feel like you’re in France, bite by bite. Build the perfect sandwich with any of the pan loaf choices ranging from brioche to rye or pick up a pizza romana (in summertime our readers are partial to the zucchini and lemon) and call it a night. And a Best of the Gold Coast bakery doesn’t just win on bread alone. Wave Hill’s attention to every yummy detail extends to its perfectly curated pastry selection as well as cookies, scones and muffins.

Way ahead of the natural foods trend, the no-frills Norwalk mainstay has been serving up standout whole food dishes since 1979. The lengthy menu features plenty of vegetarian and vegan alternatives to the typical salad options offered at other spots that feature “V” prominently. Tofu croquettes baked in Thai orange sauce will make you rethink your opinion of bean curd. Meanwhile zucchini loaf made with carrots, sesame and sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese and tahini feels like a secret superfood. There’s plenty of seating at tables with checkerboard tablecloths inside but don’t sleep on the delivery option, which is surprisingly quick across towns. So, the next time you’re scrambling for a family meal and don’t want to feed kids yet another slice of greasy pizza, squeeze all the juice out of the Lime.

Best Caterer // MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS

Forget the flowers, the band or the theme, according to our readers, an event isn’t a Best of Gold Coast event unless it’s a Marcia Selden event. The namesake matriarch of the more-than-four-decades-young catering biz makes every affair a family affair leading her team alongside son Jeffrey and daughter Robin (above). Selden’s origin story sounds almost like it began as a dare. Decades ago, when asked if she knew a good caterer for a small wedding, the then-jewelry designer harnessed her culinary and entertaining twin passions to take on the party herself. The rest is the stuff of local history. A record of the who’s who and what happened when throughout Fairfield County could be told through the dishes she’s served at the very best parties up and down the Gold Coast. This summer, win big with Tic Tac Toe Crudo (above) and get guests smiling with bite-sized lobster rolls and chips (below.)

magazine editor Cristin Marandino pops into cozy Best Of staple Little Pub

everyone. Healthierminded folks opt for the Thai Sesame Salmon Over Greens and Ahi Tuna Tacos. And for those who’ve never met a calorie they don’t like, there are nine deliciously decadent burgers to choose from and mac ’n’ cheese options you never knew you needed. And, of course, everything in between.

not run into someone you know at this refreshingly devoid-of-pretense watering hole. But on the rare if-not occasion, pull up a chair, grab a beer (from dozens of artisanal brews to a good old-fashioned Corona) and you’ll make friends quickly.

themselves on creating a “fun not fancy” environment. And they nail it. Everyone feels at home here.

PICK

magazine’s editor

Melinda Anderson takes us to Barcelona

Gourmet Grocery Village Market

108 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7283 villagemarketwilton.com

Gourmet To Go Aux Délices

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

JAMON Y QUESO

trip to actual Barcelona, one thing united our diverse family group: ham and cheese, please. Now, whenever we’re at an impasse stateside a table at Barcelona and order an embarrassing amount of cured and aged savory goodness. There’s nearly two dozen on the menu and I’m here to say every single one deserves a try.

for dinner, we book

wine list features is Adios Vinos, a farewell tour to some vintage gems that for one reason or another can’t be replaced with new cases. The rotating, limited list is offered at half price.

Nothing transports

me back to Catalonia quite like clocking out early and savoring al fresco snacks during Barcelona’s 4 p.m – 6 p.m. happy hour. I’m a sucker for the Marcona almonds and steak tartare paired with an Estrella Galicia.

Best Seafood Market // FJORD

True story: The lobster loving teenage daughter of one of our editors recently stumbled upon the knowledge of subpar standards that pervade most of the seafood industry. “I’m done,” she declared. Enter Fjord Fish Market, the retail post so trusted to responsibly source seafood that they won over not just our readers but also perhaps a tougher crowd—the skeptical teen. Integrity and quality are the names of the game here. And with multiple Gold Coast locations and online ordering too, the only way to ensure a fresher catch is to drop a line yourself.

Grocery Pickup/ Delivery Option

Stew Leonard’s

100 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-7214 stewleonards.com

Liquor Store + Wine Shop

Total Wine & More

380 Main St., Norwalk, 203-840-0007 totalwine.com

Organic Food Market

Trader Joe’s

436 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-1414 | 2258 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-330-8301 | 1041 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-321-8440 | 400 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-8966 traderjoes.com

Seafood Market

Fjord Fish Market

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

BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection + Outdoor Bar

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

Best Martinis + Steaks // WASHINGTON PRIME

Peanut butter and jelly. Bacon and eggs. There’s no arguing with food duos so perfect they’re iconic. Our savvy readers paired two Bests—Martinis and Steaks—from Washington Prime because, when in the resto’s capable hands, the two are similarly tops. We take their signature ’tini hot ’n’ dirty stye (bird’s eye chile stuffed olive and brine) with a New York strip. How about you?

Best Mobile Bar // BAKED AND SAUCED

Is there anything cuter and more Insta-worthy than a vintage Airstream pulled up to your next party? Probably not. Since 2015, Baked and Sauced has served booze and baked goods to thousands of guests up and down the Gold Coast, and our readers have taken notice. Book “Annie”, a 22-foot-long 1968 Safari, or “Rosie”, a 20-foot-long Globetrotter for your next shower/wedding/birthday celebration and cue the smiles. For summer celebrations we like to have a big batch of the watermelon tequila punch on hand and in colder climes we’re hooked on the bourbon apple cider. It’s impossible not to love the desserts, too. Both “sauced” (with alcohol) and “unsauced” (without) cupcakes and push pops are so mouthwatering it’s hard to choose what to serve. Right this minute we’re partial to the Elvis, an unsauced banana cake with peanut butter frosting topped with bacon and Strawberry Bubbly, a sauced Champagne cake with strawberry buttercream. Let the good times roll!

Margaritas + Restaurant Bar

bartaco

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

Martinis

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

washingtonprimect.com

Microbrewery

Two Roads Brewing 1700 Stratford Ave., Stratford, 203-335-2010 tworoadsbrewing.com

Mobile Bar

Baked and Sauced bakedandsauced.com

Pub

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

Sports Bar

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

Wine Bar + Wine List

Barcelona 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

Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Women's Fashion

// DARIEN SPORT SHOP

Perhaps chief among the many reasons we love Darien Sport Shop is for the place it holds in our hearts as top sartorial problem solver.

How many Gold Coast residents have found themselves just hours from an event despairing at the choices staring back from a well-worn closet?

A quick trip to the Post Road mainstay is all that's needed to look on trend and feel ready to party.

Eileen Murphy, editor of New Canaan, Darien + Rowayton magazine, calls it the “go-to shop for everything—the GOAT of downtown.” Our readers agree.

shopstyle W INNERS

FASHION

Accessories

The Two Oh Three 107 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-298-4044

thetwoohthree.com

Bridal

Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-2171

mariettac.com

Consignment

Olive My Stuff 39 Sanford St., Fairfield, 475-231-5829 olivemystuff.com

Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Women's Fashion

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

Designer Boutique + Formalwear + Men's Fashion + Men's Shoes

Mitchells/Richards 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165 | 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 mitchells.com richards.mitchellstores.com

PICK

Wilton magazine

editor Samantha Yanks speaks luxe by way of Mitchells and Richards

Westport and Greenwich shops are all about me picking up things I need, and some things I don’t need but definitely crave, like a bauble from their high-octane jewelry cases filled with pieces from covetable local designers like Genevieve Lau and James Banks.

like special seasonal looks,

home delivery and an unparalleled team are just three reasons they are my first-stop destinations for high style.

Best Eyewear // WARBY PARKER

Warby Parker launched as an online-only biz 14 years ago to redress one problem—glasses are too expensive. Since then the place for peepers has expanded to more than 200 brick-and-mortars nationwide. How lucky are we that three call the Gold Coast home? The latest outpost in Darien Commons joins favorites on Greenwich Avenue and at the Sono Collection in offering approachable high style at reasonable price points. New from the Trace Series “Florian” and “Beauford” (above), along with best-sellers “Lorena” and “Durand” have really caught our readers’ eye.

OCCASIONS

of pushing the envelope

led to their recent Kwiat diamond takeover, showcasing $10 million of haute jewelry pieces at the Near & Far Aid event that truly wowed shoppers.

Best New Shop // PENFIELD COLLECTIVE

New to Westport last year but with roots in Fairfield, Penfield Collective continues to grow its loyal fanbase season after season. Founder Vanessa Lewis (right) spent more than a decade in merchandising, including a stint at Coach, before conceiving of the laid-back luxury shop. Penfield Collective truly shines in its array of chic staples like LBDs and jeans that are anything but basic. This summer readers report they’re living for the one-piece swimsuit from Fisch under a “Frieda” shirt dress by Bird & Knoll. And for high style way up high, on flights out of town, we suggest a Suzie Kondi terry two-piece set paired with hoops from Jennifer Fisher.

Eyewear Warby Parker 344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 475-275-9684 | 122 Heights Rd., Ste. 318, Darien, 646-846-2168 | 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689; warbyparker.com

Jeans B Chic

78 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-210-7037 IG: @bchicct

Lingerie + Swimwear

Soleil Toile

44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-2887 | 14 Post Rd. E. Westport, 203-454-8688 soleiltoile.com

New Shop Penfield Collective 15 Myrtle Ave., Westport, 203-292-8833 penfieldcollective.com

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

Women’s Shoes

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

JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry

Lux Bond & Green 136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com

Estate Jewelry

Famille 23 Lewis St, Greenwich, 203-489-0464 famillegreenwich.com

Everyday Jewelry

JL Rocks

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

Fine Jewelry

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

Selection of Local Designers

R. Hollander Master Goldsmith 154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200 @themastergoldsmith

Special Occasion Jewelry

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

Watches

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

Wedding/Engagement Rings

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

candy eye

Through two rounds of voting and passionate pleas, it’s clear you, our readers, know a thing or two about treasure hunting. Brilliant baubles and glittering goods are plentiful at the poshest parties up and down the Gold Coast. Herein, the jewelers you rely on to help you shine while out and about.

BETTERIDGE

winner of best special occasion jewelry

Robert Procop for Betteridge 102-carat sapphires and 9.41-carat diamonds necklace, $429,000

golden South Sea pearl and round diamond pendant necklace, $6,800

14K yellow gold with pavé diamonds winner of best everyday jewelry

14K yellow gold with baguette and brilliant diamonds luxe link ring,

FAMILLE

winner of best estate jewelry

Platinum and diamond station chain

Edwardian necklace with 3.63-carat pear-shaped pendant, $157,000

MANFREDI JEWELS

winner of best watches

Zenith stainless steel and ceramic Chronomaster watch, $11,300; Bulgari rose gold and pavé diamond Serpenti Tubogas watch, $87,000

LUX BOND & GREEN

winner of best designer jewelry

David Yurman 18K yellow gold with pearls and diamonds Renaissance Pearl Trillion drop earrings, $6,200

SHREVE, CRUMP &LOW

winner of best fine jewelry

15.98-carat natural fancy yellow multi-shape diamond necklace, price upon request

HENRY C. REID JEWELERS

winner of best wedding/ engagement rings

18K gold 51-carat emerald cut diamond solitaire engagement ring, $35,975; 18K gold 1.84-carat pear-shaped diamond engagement ring, $17,290, with 18K gold 1.6-carat round diamond eternity band, $3,925

HOME

Antiques/Vintage Store

Fairfield County

Antique & Design

39 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-826-8575

fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

Appliances

Aitoro

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

Closet/Organization

California Closets

565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-924-8444

californiaclosets.com

Decor

The Post

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

Furniture

Serena & Lily

35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000 serenaandlily.com

Garden Center

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

Hardware + Paint + Windows/ Doors

Ring’s End

Locations in Darien, Stamford, Westport and Wilton, ringsend.com

Home Tech

Untangled

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

Kitchen + Bath

Kohler Signature Store

125 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-7767 | 1320 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-577-5388 kohler.com

Lighting

Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686

chloewinstonlighting.com

Nestled on 12 acres in North Stamford, Designs by Lee almost feels like a green extension of neighbo the Stamford Nature Center. The family-owned garden and nursery stalwart—reliably serving the city and beyond since 1872—prides itself on being as much a community center as an expert in all things plants. Rarely a week goes by that Designs by Lee isn’t hosting an event for locals to connect. Recent classes included a two-hour evening “Succulent Driftwood” workshop, where attendees walked away with handmade arrangements of mosses and florals on a wood base, and the family favorite Summer Garden Party featuring a variety of vendors, food trucks and fun activities (follow @designsbyleeinc to keep up with it all).

Best Garden Center // DESIGNS BY LEE

Linens

Lynnens

278 Greenwich Ave., Greewnwich

203-629-3659

lynnens.com

Outdoor Furniture

Outdoor Design & Living 1301 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-9630

outdoordesign.com

Best Linens // LYNNENS

Pool Design Rave Pools 64 Wall St., Norwalk, 203-856-4842; ravepools.com

Readers’ Picks

Rugs

A.T. Proudian 1545 E. Putnam Ave., Old Greenwich, 203-622-1200 atproudian.com

Stone Gault Stone 11 Ferry Ln. W Westport, 203-227-5181

gaultstone.com

Ultra-luxe slumber typically found in the hautest of hotels can be yours at Lynnens, where “bespoke” is the guiding philosophy. Head to the Greenwich Avenue mainstay for sheets, duvets, blankets and more that are simply divine to the touch. For more than four decades designers and discerning homeowners seek out owner Lynne Jenkins’ perfectly pared down selection of the finest linens in the world. Expert design advice is waiting, as are custom options like embroidery and monogramming. A selection of Sferra standouts are on the wishlist of our most selective readers. Clockwise below: Tesoro percale sheets, Seaton linen napkins, Sereno percale sheets, Terzo cotton throws

services

INNERS' LIST

Best Cosmetic Spa // SKIN SOLUTIONS COLLECTIVE

The Gold Coast outpost of the elevated derm oasis Skin Solutions Collective on Greewnich Avenue is the third location for the luxe beauty medspa. The space features pristine treatment rooms with all the latest equipment and striking modern decor. But what distinguishes SSC is the level of expertise—and good vibes—that its providers bring. Founders (above) senior aesthetic provider Laura Palmisano, laser exp ert Melissa Knudson, senior aesthetic provider Diana Palmisano and master injector Lauren Abramowitz have 65 years experience among them. They take a full-face approach to having fresh, clear skin through a range of treatments, including facials, microneedling, peels, injectables and more. Best way to start is with a complimentary 15-minute consult.

Best Day Spa + Massage + Women’s Styling/Salon // NOELLE SPA

Today, day spas seem de rigeuer for the well-heeled set, but it wasn't always the case. Sixty-four years ago, when she was a partner at an upscale salon on High Ridge, Noel de Caprio dreamt up a "Day of Beauty" package that combined traditional hair and nail services with then-new facial and massage treaments. It was a smash success, even garnering notice in the New York Times. Noelle Spa was born. Just a minute further up the road from where she first conceived it, Noelle now has a staff of nearly three dozen who expertly delivery services ranging from facials to massages to waxing. More than one new mom has praised the Pregnancy Massage, calling it the thing that got them through the last trimeser. And avid tennis players extol the benefits of the Sports Massage after a long day at play on the court.

services to-do's W INNERS

PAMPERING

Blow Out

Bloom Salon

1779 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-601-0022

bloombeautyct.com

Color

J&Co

1 Bank St., Suite 406, Stamford, 203-388-8538

jandcohairsalon.com

Cosmetic Spa Skin Solutions Collective 169 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-885-1580 skinsolutions.co

Day Spa + Massage + Women’s Styling/Salon Noelle Spa 1100 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-3445 noelle.com

Eyebrow/Eyelash Services

Feather and Fringe 252 Post Road E., Westport, 203-212-9846 featherandfringect.com

Facial

Maria Nicole Aesthetics 1011 Hope St., Stamford, 203-570-5238 marianicoleaesthetics.com

Makeup Application Lindsey Trop lindseytropweddings.com

Makeup Boutique

bluemercury

254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005 | 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-972-7100 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 57 Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900 bluemercury.com

Mani/Pedi

Posh Spa & Nail

195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099 | 1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454 | 401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-222-8830; poshct.com

Men’s Styling/Salon

Westport Cut & Shave

235 Post Rd., Westport, 203-557-8500; westportcutshave.com

Spray Tan

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

Waxing/Hair Removal

European Wax Center

2359 Summer St., Stamford, 203-487-3977 | 409 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-295-8905 waxcenter.com

FITNESS + GEAR

Activewear

Lululemon

151 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-793-6259 | 69 Main St., Westport, 475-256-5433 shop.lululemon.com

Barre

The Bar Method

800 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7975 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-8825 barmethod.com

Bicycle Shop

Bax Cycles 78 Valley Rd., Greenwich, 203-661-7736 baxcycles.com

Crossfit

Carozza Fitness 55 Crescent St., Stamford, 203-561-0493 carozzafitness.com

Dance Fitness

Empowered Ariel Fitness 316 Courtland Ave, Stamford, 203-324-0832 empoweredaerialfitness.com

Fitness Studio

+ Gym + Private Training + Virtual Fitness

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

Golf Equipment

Golf Galaxy

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

Indoor Cycling

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

Pilates

Club Pilates

Locations in Darien, Greenwich, New Canaan, Stamford, Westport clubpilates.com

Yoga

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

FAMILY LIFE

Art Classes + Children’s Parties

Make-modern 1985 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-1985 make-modern.com

Childcare

Anna & Jack Treehouse 770 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 914-758-1058 thetreehouses.org

Best Art Classes + Children's Parties

// MAKE MODERN

We almost wish we had a Grown-Up Party category here too because Make Modern's nights out are a super fun way to celebrate special occasions at any age. For crafty kiddos age five and up, birthday parties include two take-home projects chosen from more than a dozen options. We're partial to the link bracelets as a welcome gift and the monogrammed heart dish as the main craft. Weekly classes for kids range from learning how to sew independently to multiple crafting techniques like felting and decoupage. Summer camp has weekly themes like Pucci to Gucci: Italian Fashion week and Summer Olympics: Paris. Adult classes include sewing, needlepoint and knitting. At a recent grown-up gals event, a reader said, “This is better than book club!” We agree.

Children’s/Baby Décor

She La La 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-9798 | 280 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8365 shelala.com

Children’s Clothes

Wiggles & Giggles 37 Tokeneke Rd., Darien, 203-309-5109 wigglesandgigglesshop.com

Children’s Haircuts

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8700 sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Children’s Music Lessons

Fairfield School of Music

2465 Black Rock Tpke, Fairfield, 203-690-1888 suzukischools.org

Children’s Sports/Youth Fitness Training

Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000 chelseapiersct.com

College Prep Courses

Carnegie Prep 203-352-3500 carnegieprep.com

Toy Store

Darien Toy Box 15 Corbin Dr., Darien, 203-202-2992 darientoybox.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS

Auto Shop

Pray Body Shop

352 Elm St., Stamford, 203-359-3025 praybodyshop.com

Bookstore

Westport Book Shop

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

Car Wash

Splash Car Wash

Locations in Cos Cob, Darien, Greenwich, Stamford, Westport, Wilton splashcarwashes.com

CBD Store

Fine Fettle

12 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-989-9133; finefettle.com

Dry Cleaners

Fabricare Cleaners

264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-655-3381 |

2130 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-2725 | 5 Holmes St., Norwalk, 203-229-0001 fabricarecleaners.net

Fine Art Gallery

The Flinn Gallery

101 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-7947 flinngallery.com

Florist

Fresh Flower Bar

1301 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, 203-800-3830 freshflowerbar.com

Gift Shop

Splurge

39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-869-7600 splurgegifts.com

Livery Service

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

Local Hotel

Delamar Southport

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

Pet Groomer/Pet Spa

Barks N Bubbles

60 Pemberwick Rd. A, Greenwich, 203-640-6656

Pet Supplies/Clothing

Earth Animal

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

Portrait Photographer

Abby Cole Photography 203-940-2413 abbycolephotography.com

Wedding Photographer

Callalily Studios

203-550-0867 callalilystudios.com

Shoe Repair

Westfair Shoe Repair

1789 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587

Stationery/Formal

Invitations

The Write Stuff

12 Sachem Rd, Weston, 203-227-9595 thewritestuffct.com

Storage Facility

Westy Self Storage 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777 | 50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234 | 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000 | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton 203-762-7600 westy.com

Tailor

Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-2171 mariettac.com

Veterinarian

Cannondale Animal Clinic

481 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-834-8855 cannondaleanimalclinic.com

Best Local Hotel // DELAMAR SOUTHPORT

For 15 years now the three stories of all-charm boutique hotel Delamar Southport has welcomed guests to its arts-driven, pet-friendly cozy-beautiful rooms. It's our readers choice this year for where to put up out-of-town guests and for treat-me staycations, too. The Delamar is the ultimate New and Old England meet cute, marrying Yankee hospitality and Euro-inspired details. Recently expanded to host a full-service spa, the Delamar also offers bespoke experiences like a chauffered classic car picnic.

2024

TOWN W INNERS’ LIST B E S

BEST

The of

New Canaan, Darien and Rowayton

Readers’ Picks

W INNERS’ LIST

food drink

RESTAURANTS

Best Service + Business

Lunch + Outdoor Dining + Seafood

ROWAYTON SEAFOOD RESTAURANT rowaytonseafood.com

Creative Menu

L’OSTAL restaurantlostal.com

Event Space

DCA MEADOWLANDS dariendca.org/meadowlands

Event Space/ Wedding Venue

WAVENY HOUSE wavenyhouseevents.com/ weddings

Family-Friendly

Restaurant

PAPA JOE’S papajoesdarien.com

Hotel Restaurant

+ Private Dining/ Intimate Venue + Special Occasion/Date Night TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS tavernatgraybarns.com

New Restaurant

SEAMORE’S seamores.com

Pickup/Delivery Option

ROWAYTON MARKET rowaytonmarket.com

Steaks THE WATER’S EDGE AT GIOVANNI’S watersedgeatgiovannis.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES

American THE GRANOLA BAR thegranolabar.com

Asian/Asian Fusion

LITTLE THAI KITCHEN littlethaikitchen.com

Chinese CHING’S TABLE chingstable.com

French L’OSTAL restaurantlostal.com

Indian COROMANDEL coromandeldarienct.com

Italian PAPA JOE’S papajoesdarien.com

Japanese HASHI SUSHI hashisushinewcanaan.com

Mediterranean ARDEN’S ardensrowayton.com

Mexican BODEGA TACO BAR bodegatacobar.com

Sushi FJORD fjordfishmarket.com

Tapas PESCA pescaperuvianbistro.com

Thai LITTLE THAI KITCHEN littlethaikitchen.com

CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

UPPER CRUST BAGEL CO. ucbcbagels.com

Bowls PLAYA BOWLS playabowls.com

Burritos BODEGA TACO BAR bodegatacobar.com

Frozen Yogurt SWIRL 203-594-9797

Seamore’s NEW RESTAURANT

Under the Seamores: This Darien Commons hot spot opened last June. Chef Shannon Sturz serves up sustainable seafood in a fun atmosphere.

Granola Anytime: This fan favorite serves breakfast, lunch and dinner at the Darien location. They also have happy hour cocktails and mocktails—plus great outdoor seating.

The Granola Bar AMERICAN

Readers’ Picks

Hamburgers + Hot Dogs PRESS BURGER thepressburger.com

Ice Cream/Gelato GOFER ICE CREAM gofericecream.com

Noodle Bar/Noodles MIYUKI miyukisnoodleshop.com

Pizza LOCALI localipizzabar.com

Salads AUX DELICES auxdelicesfoods.com

DROP-IN SPOTS

Breakfast + Brunch + Lunch Spot ROSIE rosienewcanaan.com

Café/Bistro ARDEN’S ardensrowayton.com

Coffee Shop (independent) ZUMBACH’S GOURMET COFFEE zumbachsgourmetcoffee.com

Deli

UNCLE’S DELI unclesdeli.com

Diner NEW CANAAN DINER 203-594-7595

Food Truck TASTY YOLK thetastyyolk.com

Health/Organic Food + Vegetarian GREEN & TONIC greenandtonic.com

Juice Bar BARVIDA thebarvida.com

MARKETS AND MORE

Bakery FLOUR WATER SALT BREAD flourwatersaltbread.com

Butcher Shop DARIEN BUTCHER SHOP darienbutchershop.com

Cakes/Cupcakes + Desserts/ Chocolates + Gourmet Grocery PALMER’S MARKET palmersdarien.com

Caterer MARCIA SELDEN marciaselden.com

Gourmet To Go AUX DÉLICES auxdelicesfoods.com

Grocery Pick-Up & Delivery WHOLE FOODS wholefoodsmarket.com

Liquor Store + Wine Shop SIPSTIRS sipstirs.com

Organic Food Market TRADER JOE’S traderjoes.com

Seafood Market FJORD FISH MARKET fjordfishmarket.com

BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection + Pub THE GOOSE thegoosedarien.com

Margaritas BODEGA TACO BAR bodegatacobar.com

Martinis + Wine List TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS tavernatgraybarns.com

Mobile Bar BAKED AND SAUCED bakedandsauced.com

Restaurant Bar MOLTO moltodarien.com

Sports Bar WHITE BUFFALO thewhitebuffalo.net

Wine Bar SPIGA eatatspiga.com

Custom Cravings: Located in downtown New Canaan, this casual spot offers counter service and takeout. Loyal followers rave about the build-your-own burgers and shakes.

The OG of Markets: People will travel hours for a TJ run. But we can be there in minutes!

Trader Joe’s ORGANIC FOOD MARKET

Press Burger HAMBURGERS + HOT DOGS

styleshop

FASHION

Accessories + Bridal + Designer Boutique HELEN AINSON helenainson.com

Consignment Shop

DOUBLE EXPOSURE doubleexposureboutique.com

Department Store + Formal Wear + Luxe

Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Women’s Fashion DARIEN SPORT SHOP dariensport.com

Eyewear WARBY PARKER warbyparker.com

Jeans J. CREW jcrew.com

Lingerie + Swimwear SOLEIL TOILE soleiltoile.com

New Shop WEE MODINE weemondine.com

Teen Fashion TOGS togsct.com

Women’s Shoes SHOES ‘N‘ MORE shoesnmore.com

JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry + Estate Jewelry + Fine Jewelry (tied)

+ Selection of Local Designers + Watches MANFREDI JEWELS manfredijewels.com

Everyday Jewelry PENNYWEIGHTS pennyweights.com

Fine Jewelry (tied) + Special Occasion + Wedding/Engagement Rings DAVID HARVEY davidharvey.com

HOME

Antiques & Vintage FOUND & DESIGN foundanddesign.com

Closet/Organization

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS californiaclosets.com

Décor + Furniture

MANDARINE HOME mandarinehome.com

Garden Center NIELSEN’S nielsensflorist.com

Hardware Store + Paint + Windows/Doors RING’S END ringsend.com

Home Tech

ROBERT ALLEN MULTIMEDIA ramultimedia-ctny.com

Kitchen & Bath TRUE NORTH CABINETS truenorthcabinets.net

Outdoor Furniture SEASONS TOO seasonstoo.com

Pool Design

SWIMM POOLS swimmpools.com

PAMPERING

Blow Out + Color + Eyebrow/ Eyelash Services + Facial + Makeup Application + Massage + Men’s Styling/Salon +

Dynamite Decor: Courtney Chessen’s Darien retail shop offers a wide range of products.

Mandarine Home DÉCOR + FURNITURE

Wee Modine NEW SHOP Readers’ Picks

Big on Fashion: This adorable shop in Darien Commons offers artisinal childrens clothes.

Readers’ Picks

Waxing/Hair Removal + Women’s Styling/Salon LANPHIER lanphier.us

Cosmetic Spa ELEMENT MEDICAL AESTHETICS elementct.com

Day Spa + Facial + Massage EGIA DAY SPA egiadayspa.com

Makeup Shop BLUEMERCURY bluemercury.com

Manicure + Pedicure POSH poshct.com

Spray Tan GODDESS GLOW goddessglow.glossgenius.com

FITNESS & GEAR

Activewear

DARIEN RUNNING COMPANY darienrunning.com

Barre THE BAR METHOD barmethod.com

Bicycle Shop

DANNY’S CYCLES dannyscycles.com

Dance Fitness

ANNA KAISER STUDIOS annakaiserstudios.com

Fitness Studio + Virtual Fitness + Yoga KAIA YOGA kaiayoga.com

Golf Equipment TRI-FIT CUSTOM GOLF trifitgolf.com

Gym + Indoor Cycling EQUINOX equinox.com

Pilates CLUB PILATES clubpilates.com

Private Fitness Training EVOLUTION evolutionphysicaltherapy.com

FAMILY LIFE

Art Classes + Children’s Parties MAKE-MODERN make-modern.com

Children’s/ Baby Décor SHE LA LA shelala.com

Children’s Clothes WIGGLES & GIGGLES wigglesandgigglesshop.com

Children’s Haircuts BONBON HAIR STUDIO bonbonhairstudio.com

Children’s Music Lessons JUMPIN’ JAMS jumpinjams.com

Children’s/ Youth Fitness Training DARIEN YMCA darien-ymca.org

College Prep CARNEGIE PREP carnegieprep.com

Toy Store DARIEN TOY BOX darientoybox.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS

Auto Body GRANT’S AUTO BODY grantsautobody.com

Bookstore BARRETT BOOKSTORE barrettbookstore.com

newcanaandarienmag.com

Car Wash SPLASH splashcarwashes.com

CBD Store YOUR CBD STORE getsunmed.com

Dry Cleaning FABRICARE CLEANERS fabricarecleaners.net

Fine Art Gallery GEARY GALLERY gearygallery.com

Florist EARTH GARDEN FLOWERS earthgardenflowers.com

Gift Shop EVERYTHING IS ROSEY everythingisrosey.com

Livery Service HOYT LIVERY INC. hoytlivery.com

Local Hotel THE INN AT GRAYBARNS graybarns.com

Pet Supplies/Clothing PET PANTRY WAREHOUSE ppwpet.com

Photography (Portrait) ABBY COLE PHOTOGRAPHY abbycolephotography.com

Photography (Wedding) CALLALILY STUDIOS callalilystudios.com

Shoe Repair DARIEN SHOE REPAIR 203-655-6169

Stationery/Formal Invitations THE WHITNEY SHOP thewhitneyshop.com

Tailor GREENFIELD CLEANERS greenfieldcleanerct.com

Veterinarian

VCA DARIEN ANIMAL HOSPITAL vcahospitals.com

Tending Barre: Co-owners Anna Trepanier and Lara Meehan in their New Canaan stuido.

MEET FLOWCODE, THE NEXT GENERATION OF QR CODES

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

Smile With Confidence

TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY 2024

Finding the right dentist for you and your family is an important decision. To streamline the process, we’ve compiled our 2024 Top Dentists Guide, featuring the leading practitioners in Fairfield County based on specialty. We relied on the research experts at topDentists™, which has over seventy years in combined experience compiling peer-review referral guides in the legal, dental and medical fields. Through a thorough selection process, the company recognizes the elite dentists chosen by other dental professionals. With more than 200 local practitioners considered the best in their field, our directory can help you find the perfect dentist to suit your needs. »

Scan here to view our digital TOP DENTISTS LISTING!

DENTAL ANESTHESIOLOGY

ABRA DILISIO

Pediatric Dental Sedation Specialists of Connecticut 37 North Avenue, Suite 103, Norwalk 203-817-2534 pdssct.com

ENDODONTICS

BRIAN AMOROSO

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

ALEXANDRA BYRNE 5 Eversley Avenue, Suite 102, Norwalk 203-803-1849

TRISHA CHARLAND

Coastal Endodontics

148 East Avenue, Suite 2F, Norwalk 203-857-1284 coastalendoct.com

JOEL B. CHASEN

Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Road, Suite 2, Stratford 203-377-1331 advancedendo-ct.com

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

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

JOSHUA L. DEMBSKY Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Road, Suite 2, Stratford 203-377-1331 advancedendo-ct.com

DAVID T. FONG

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

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

ANJANETTE W. GJERTSEN 10 Berkeley Street, Suite 4, Norwalk 203-899-1636 microendoct.com

AGNES HERCEG

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 5, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

RUCHIKA JOON

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

CAROLYN KILBRIDE

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk 120 East Avenue, Suite 3E, Norwalk 203-635-6300 rootcanalnorwalk.com

PHILIP R. MASCIA

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

JASMINE OGHAZ

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

DENNIS L. PIPHER

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk 120 East Avenue, Suite 3E, Norwalk 203-635-6300 ctrootcanal.com

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 5, Stamford 203-324-9239 stamfordendo.com

IRENE WONG

Fairfield Endodontics 999 Summer Street, Suite 301, Stamford 203-325-3636 fairfieldendo.com

JOSEPH A. ZERELLA

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

GENERAL DENTISTRY

STEVEN ALTMAN

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

THOMAS ANZALONE

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

JAMES T. ARIS

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

JEFFREY A. BABUSHKIN

Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry

888 White Plains Road, Suite 102, Trumbull 203-268-5881 cpdentistry.com

JANETTE A. BLACK

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

JAMES T. BOWMAN

70 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9506

jamestbowmandds.com

KENNETH N. BRODER 144 Morgan Street, Suite 5, Stamford 203-327-1167 drkenbroder.com

DIANA L. CARDONA

116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939

BRIJESH CHANDWANI

493 Westport Avenue, Norwalk 203-842-8658 tmdtmj.com

CHRISTOPHER C. COGGUILLO

Coastal Dental Care of Milford

203 Cherry Street, Milford 203-874-0000 coastaldentalcareofmilford.com

ALEJANDRA G. COSTANTINO-FINIASZ

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

CHARLES A. CRAPE

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

PETER DANTINI

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

ANDREA DEAN

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

VINCENT B. DEFINA

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 202, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

SANTO A. DELALLO

122 West Norwalk Road, Norwalk 203-855-8877

BARBARA J. DEVINE

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 202, Greenwich 203-629-9009 dentistofgreenwich.com

MARK S. DEWAELE

208 South Avenue, New Canaan 203-966-5944 newcanaanctdental.com

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

SASHA DREXLER

Sasha Drexler Dentistry 1305 Post Road, Suite 200, Fairfield 203-255-5999 sashadrexlerdentistry.com

YOLANI P. EDIRISINGHE

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

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

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

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

CAMILLO L. FONTANA Fontana Family Dental Care 1100 Kings Highway East, Suite 3A, Fairfield 203-333-4700 fontanafamilydentalcare.com

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

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

TINA C. GAGE 2945 Main Street, Stratford 203-375-3068 tinacgagedmd.com

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

MARILYN GENI

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

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

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

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

PAMELA A. GIBSON Southport Family Dental 3530 Post Road, Suite 301, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

RISHI N. GOGATE Dearfield Family Dentistry 90 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-717-1717 dearfielddentistry.com

DANIELLE D. GOODWIN Goodwin Dental 31 River Road, Suite 300, Cos Cob 203-869-2552 dgoodwindds.com

KRISTY L. GRETZULA Hawley Lane Dental 475 Hawley Lane, Suite 9, Stratford 203-377-9300 hawleylanedental.com

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

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

STEPHANIE J. HOTCHKISS Greenwich Dental Group 18 Field Point Road, Greenwich 203-869-3984 dentalinformation.com

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI 45 Pine Street, Suite 1A, New Canaan 203-966-5606 matthewjiwinskidds.com

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

THOMAS J. KAHL Greater Danbury Community Health Center 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-743-8100 danburyhospital.org

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

ROBERT ANDREW KRAVECS, JR. Fairfield Dentistry 1817 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 207, Fairfield 203-335-8830 fairfielddmd.com

ALISON KUDISH Trumbull Dental Arts 160 Hawley Lane, Suite 101, Trumbull 203-377-0638 trumbulldentist.com

GEMMA G. KWOLEK Brush & Floss Dental Center 4949 North Main Street, Stratford 203-683-5253 stratfordctdentist.com

MARYANN E. LEHMANN 5 Brook Street, Suite 1B, Darien 203-655-0021 maldds.com

MICHAEL LEVIN Levin Dental 1171 East Putnam Avenue, Suite 1D, Riverside 203-637-5252 doclevindds.com

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

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

ANDREW M. MARCUS Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 Barnum Avenue, Suite 303, Stratford 203-375-6090 goldbergmarcusdental.com

DANIELA MARINESCU 361 Bird Street, Bridgeport 203-330-6000

JACKQUELINE J. MCLEAN McLean Smiles 23 Hoyt Street, Suite 2, Stamford 203-327-6717 mcleansmiles.com

WAYNE A. MICHALKA Commerce Park Cosmetic Dentistry 4699 Main Street, Suite 200, Bridgeport 203-372-3726 commerceparkcosmetic dds.com

DONALD W. MILLER Cosmetic & Reconstructive Dentistry 1275 Post Road, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-255-6878 fairfieldcosmeticdentistry.com

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

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

CARLA M. MONTEIRO Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 Barnum Avenue, Suite 303, Stratford 203-375-6090 goldbergmarcusdental.com

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

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

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

EDWARD D. PAUL 161 East Avenue, Suite 202, Norwalk 203-838-3938 norwalkdentistoffice.com

DAVID A. PEREIRA

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

JEFFREY M. PIVOR

495 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3321 pivornorwalkdentist.com

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

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

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

PETER J. RATHMAN 125 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 204, Stamford 203-327-1470

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

STEVEN M. REGENSTEIN Esthetic Dental Group of Westport 327 Riverside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Westport 203-227-3421 edgw.us

MARK S. ROISMAN 225 Main Street, Suite 304, Westport 203-227-6338 mywestportdentist.com

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

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

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

DAVID ROSH 1 Strawberry Hill Court, Suite L1, Stamford 203-359-2244 roshdental.com

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

KEITH L. RUDOLPH 140 Sherman Street, Suite 3A, Fairfield 203-254-9533 drkeithrudolph.com

JOHN J. SCHINTO III

Schinto Dental

2001 West Main Street, Suite 110, Stamford 203-978-1184 schintodental.com

JASON M. SCULLY

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

CAROLINE A. SHENKER

Perfect Smiles of Fairfield 60 Katona Drive, Suite 20, Fairfield 203-366-7655 perfectsmilesoffairfield.com

FRANCIS SHIN

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

JERRY M. SIMON

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

DAVID R. STEBBINS

148 East Avenue, Suite 3J, Norwalk 203-866-0415 davidstebbinsdmd.com

MICHAEL B. STEIN

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

JOSEPH P. SUAREZ

153 East Avenue, Suite 23, Norwalk 203-838-9997 josephsuarezdds.com

MARK R. SUTTON

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

SEAN A. SUTTON Greenwich Dentistry 391 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-2066 greenwichdentistry.com

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

KENNETH B. TEMPLE

40 East Putman Avenue, Cos Cob 203-622-4243

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

ROBERT N. TRAMPOSCH

Greenwich Smiles 25 Valley Drive, Suite 2A,

Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

DOUGLAS M. TREPP

The Town Practice 500 West Putnam Avenue, Suite 4, Greenwich 203-869-9252 treppandmiller.com

GEORGE TSANGAROULIS

Greenwich Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite G2, Greenwich 203-633-4927 greenwichfamilydental.com

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

JACK VAYNER Vayner Family Dentistry 1735 Post Road, Suite 8, Fairfield 203-336-1275 vaynerfamilydentistry.com

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

ROBERT S. WARREN

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

STEVE WECHSLER

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

DAVID J. WOHL

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

MASIS YETERIAN, JR. My Creative Dentist 211 East Putnam Avenue, Suite 2-6, Cos Cob 203-529-4217 dentist-greenwich.com

DAVID A. ZADIK

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

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

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

GARRICK ALEX

Greenwich Oral Surgery 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ABED ALKHATIB

Oral Surgery Associates 1305 Post Road, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-259-2665 oralsurgeryassociatesct.com

YAAKOV ALLAEB

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

MICHELE S. BERGEN

Infinity Oral Surgery

49 Lake Avenue, Suite LL4, Greenwich 203-661-4231 infinityoralsurgery.com

TODD E. BLOOM

Fairfield Oral Surgery

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

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

Associated Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons 107 Newtown Road, Suite 1A, Danbury 203-797-0012 aomspc.com

PAUL M. CIUCI

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

JON COHEN

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

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

Northeast Implant & Oral Surgery 27 Hospital Avenue, Suite 306, Danbury 203-797-0008 neimplantandoralsurgery.com

NAUSHAD R. EDIBAM

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

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

The Facial Surgery Center 115 Technology Drive, Suite B-101, Trumbull 203-261-7800 drflorio.com

ROBERT HORNE

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

VASILIKI KARLIS

Maxillofacial Surgery of Greenwich 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 205, Greenwich 203-717-1222 maxfacsgreenwich.com

MARSHALL D. KURTZ

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

KEVIN S. MCLAUGHLIN

Norwalk Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants 148 East Avenue, Suite 2F, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

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

ALAN R. RISSOLO

Oral Surgeons Associates 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4B, Norwalk 203-853-0500 norwalkdentalimplant.com

LOUIS V. THEODOS 52 Federal Road, Suite 2A, Danbury 203-790-6288 drtheodos.com

MICHAEL F. TROFA

Norwalk Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery & Dental Implants 148 East Avenue, Suite 2F, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

JOSEPH F. WALLACE III

Greenwich Oral Surgery 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

THOMAS B. WILSON

Greenwich Oral Surgery 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ROBERT M. YUDELL

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Center of Stamford 90 Morgan Street, Sutie 207, Stamford 203-327-9966 oralsurgeryofstamford.com

BRETT ZUCKMAN

Greenwich Oral Surgery 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

FIGEN A. BAYDUR

Baydur Orthodontics 1817 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 104, Fairfield 203-333-0050 drbaydur.com

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

IAN BOLIN

Bolin Orthodontics 44 Old Ridgefield Road, Suite 218, Wilton 203-762-2322 bolinortho.com

CASS D. BURRELL

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

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

TIFFANY CHRISTENSEN Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 204, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

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

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

JEFFREY S. DRAYER Stamford Orthodontics 999 Summer Street, Suite 201, Stamford 203-325-3331 stamfordortho.com

EMILY C. DRIESMAN Embrace Orthodontics 24 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-227-6061 westportortho.com

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

MARK P. FEINBERG 4 Corporate Drive, Suite 195, Shelton 203-513-2014 feinsmiles.com

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

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

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

ROBERT B. GOLDMAN Goldman Orthodontic Arts 1200 High Ridge Road, Suite 5, Stamford 203-329-2712 goldmanorthodontics.com

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

SCOTT L. KESSELMAN Riverside Orthodontics 1171 East Putnam Avenue, Suite 2C, Riverside 203-450-4969 riversideortho.net

MELISSA LANDIN Fairfield Orthodontic Associates 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-256-9500 fairfieldorthodontic associates.com

BLAINE J. LANGBERG 17 Danbury Road, Suite 6, Ridgefield 203-431-4466 braceyourselves.com

FERNANDA D. MARCHI Fairfield County Orthodontics 1275 Post Road, Suite 211, Fairfield 203-292-6644 bracesfairfield.com

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

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

M. BINA PARK

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

MARK E. PREVITT 676 New Haven Avenue, Suite 6, Derby 203-734-1411 previttortho.com

MARY E. RITTER

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

GARY J. ROMEO

Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1460 Post Road East, Suite 9, Westport 203-226-9579 westwalkortho.com

ROSEMARY RYAN

Greenwich Braces 4 Dearfi eld Drive, Suite 204, Greenwich 203-869-2044 greenwichbraces.com

UTTAMPAL SINGH

Advanced Orthodontics

2832 Whitney Avenue, Suite A, Hamden 203-248-0001 advancedorthollc.com

MONICA A. TEREDESAI

Smile Art Orthodontics

126 Old Ridgefi eld Road, Wilton 203-210-7375 smileartortho.com

REBECCA VOLDMAN

Embrace Orthodontics 24 Imperial Avenue, Westpor t 203-227-6061 westportortho.com

GARRICK F. WONG

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

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

HANNAH AHN

2001 West Main Street, Suite 235, Stamford 203-489-2112 aroundtheworldsmiles.com

DANIEL BREIN

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

JESSICA CORRIEL

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

ALEXI M. DAMASCUS

Ridgefi eld Pediatric Dentistry

22 Prospect Street, Ridgefi eld 203-403-3009 ridgefieldpd.com

JENNIFER D. EPSTEIN

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

EMILY GABELER MANHEIMER

Greenwich Pediatric

Dental Group 4 Dearfi eld Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

ARIEL GINSBERG

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

LAURA HULING

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Suite 201, Newtown 203-426-5891 dentalassociates.us

SILVESTRO IOMMAZZO

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

JOHN IWASAKI

Nuvance Health 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-739-8100 findcare.nuvancehealth. org/provider

DURGESH A. KUDCHADKAR

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

GORDON K. LEE

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

MEENAKSHI MADHU

Sensitive Care Dental 55 Old Gate Lane, Milford 203-878-6699 sensitivecare.net

GREGORY S. MOKOTOFF

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

ASHLEIGH SEBRO

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

STEPHANIE JOSS SERPA

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

ANNA SIMONIS

New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry 65 Locust Avenue, Suite 10, New Canaan 203-594-9500 newcanaanpediatric dentistry.com

ANDREW SPADINGER

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

GABRIELLE SYKOFF

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

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

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

LILIAN R. VIERA

Children’s Dental Care of Norwalk 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4C, Norwalk 203-866-5020 childrensdentalcareof norwalkllc.com

STACY ZARAKIOTIS ALEXANDROU Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfi eld Drive, Greenwich 203-422-5437 greenwichkidsdentist.com

PERIODONTICS

LAWRENCE A. DELIBERO 115 Technology Drive, Suite C304, Trumbull 203-966-1210 drdelibero.com

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

SELMA KAPLAN Periodontics & Dental Implants 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4A, Norwalk 203-442-9554 norwalkperio.com

SUNGEUN STEPHANIE KOO

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

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

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

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

RANDALL H. NEICHIN

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

RYAN J. PRICE

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

E. J. TRAYNOR

Traynor Periodontics & Implants 15 Valley Drive, Suite 302, Greenwich 203-661-5885 tpigreenwich.com

ALEXANDER VOLCHONOK AV Periodontics Four Dearfi eld Drive, Suite 104, Greenwich 203-293-9555 avperio.com

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

PROSTHODONTICS

JOHN CORINO

Norwalk Dental Arts 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 2C, Norwalk 203-854-9565 norwalkdentalarts.com

JACK DEGRADO

Stamford Dental Group 47 Oak Street, Suite 220, Stamford 203-325-4700 stamforddentalgroup.com

MARIE E. FALCONE

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Suite 101, Darien 203-836-2744 dentalspecialistsofdarien. com

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

JEFFREY D. O’CONNELL Gold Coast Dental 1177 Post Road, Suite 2A, Fairfi eld 203-292-9292 goldcoastdentalpros.com

MIN SUNG YOON

Evergreen Family Dental & Southbury Smiles

1300 Post Road, Suite 101, Fairfi eld 203-259-7870 evergreenfamilydental group.com

WILLIAM ZAPATA

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien dentalspecialistsofdarien.com

Top Dentists

The Process Behind the List

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

INTRODUCTION

This list is excerpted from the 2024 topDentists™ list, a database which includes listings of more than 210 dentists and specialists in the Fairfield County area. The list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dental professionals by their peers. The complete database is available at usatopdentists.com. For more information, call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903 or visit usatopdentists.com.

SELECTION PROCESS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disclaimer

This list is excerpted from 2024 the topDentists™ list, which includes listings for over 210 dentists and specialists in the Fairfield County area. For more information, call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email help@usatopdentists.com or visit usatopdentists.com. topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2010-2024 by topDentists, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

PROFILES 2024 Dental

Spotlight on Health

Did you know that having healthy teeth, mouth and gums plays a vital role in your overall health? Regular dental care will not only help decrease your risk of gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis, but also other issues such as stroke our heart attack. Finding the right dentist can be a challenge, so we’ve made it easier for you. The following pages introduce some of Fairfield County’s most prominent dental professionals who put your health at the forefront of their priorities. Choose a trusted individual to provide you and your family with the utmost care you deserve. A happy smile is a healthy one.

Dr. David A. Pereira, DDS

DENTAL ARTS OF DARIEN

SPECIALTY: General Dentistry

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

Dr. David A. Pereira has been helping patients achieve healthy, functional and beautiful smiles for almost 11 years. Raised in a family of physicians and dental professionals, Dr. Pereira has always had a natural passion and commitment to helping people live healthier and happier lives. This is apparent in his excellent academic and professional achievements, his compassionate bed side manner and extensive knowledge of dentistry and medicine.

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

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

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

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

Professional Affiliations

• American Dental Association

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry

• International Congress of Implantology, Fellow

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

Randy Matusow Photography

2024 | Dental PROFILES

42 Sherwood Place

Greenwich, CT

203.900.1111

drbinapark.com

Come visit Dr. Bina Park in her warm and friendly office! She is dedicated to creating customized and individualized treatment plans for each patient. We are a boutique practice that treats adults and children in an environment with a commitment toward the best possible care and experience. Dr. Bina feels that orthodontic appointments should be the most fun and least painful of all our doctor visits and ensures that each patient understands their goals and treatment plan. She is passionate about the field of orthodontics and the gratification of being able to bring beautiful smiles and the changes that they can bring to people’s lives, including increased self-confidence. She makes an effort in giving

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS OF GREENWICH

1212 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 203.698.0794

childrensdentistryandorthodontics.com

Silvestro Iommazzo, DDS & Victor Pardi, DDS

Why did you choose your specialty?

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

What sets you apart from your competition?

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

every patient the experience that makes the journey of orthodontics fun and appreciates getting to know her adult patients, children and families during the process. Dr. Bina finished her dental training at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas and obtained her Master’s degree for Orthodontics at the University of Michigan. During her years at Baylor College, she received numerous research awards including AADR Student Research Fellowship, Dr. Allan D. Pearsall III Memorial Research Award and a NIH-NIDR Traineeship. She received national recognition when she won the Harry Sicher First Research Essay Award and presented her research at the annual session of the American Association of Orthodontics

(AAO) in Hawaii in 2002. She has been practicing since 2002 and has practiced in a high profile Upper East Side office in Manhattan.

Dr. Bina continues to devote a few days a week to her New York City practice. She and husband, Dr. Michael Koch and children reside in Greenwich, Connecticut where they love being part of the Greenwich community.

In her free time, she enjoys traveling (when she can), skiing, and loves ballroom dancing.

Our orthodontic mission, here at Dr. Bina Park Orthodontics, is to provide excellent orthodontic care in a warm and caring environment where the focus is on creating amazing, functional smiles.

We are excited to meet you.

RIVERSIDE ORTHODONTICS

SPECIALTY: Orthodontics

1171 E Putnam Ave #2c, Riverside, CT 06878 203.698.0045 | RiversideOrtho.net

Award Winning Orthodontist

Meet Dr. Scott Kesselman, a highly regarded orthodontist and premier Invisalign provider serving the Greenwich, Stamford, and surrounding communities. His extensive education includes completion of studies at Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Committed to community involvement, Dr. Kesselman generously donates his time and resources to sponsor local athletics, community service, and theater initiatives, reflecting his dedication to both professional excellence and community well-being.

Family Friendly Practice

Our top priority is to provide our “family” of patients with the highest quality orthodontic care in a warm, welcoming environment where they feel valued and cared for. We strive to create a friendly atmosphere where patients feel comfortable and relaxed during their visits.

Technology Driven Treatment

At Riverside Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing our patients with the latest advancements in orthodontic technology to ensure that every treatment journey is as efficient, comfortable, and effective as possible.

25+ Years of Practice

With over 25 years of dedicated practice, our team at Riverside Orthodontics brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every orthodontic treatment we provide!

Dr. Scott Kesselman

DR. BINA PARK ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Bina Park

postscript

THE SECOND ACT

By the time you read this, the New Canaan Playhouse will again be open for business. The theater first opened in the fall of 1923 with a showing of Down to the Sea in Ships. In later years, The Playhouse was operated by Bowtie Cinemas, who was forced to close its doors during the Covid-19 pandemic. Four long years later, New Canaanites are ready to celebrate as the renovated and refreshed theater reopens under it new operators, CinemaLabs. The second act of The New Canaan Playhouse is set to begin on Friday, June 28 and there is bound to be a standing ovation from eager crowds!

CONTEST BEST BARTENDER

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