Stamford Magazine, July - August 2018

STAMFORD 2018-2019 EDUCATION GUIDE

220 TOP DENTISTS IN EVERY SPECIALTY

The Best 175+ Celebrate

JULY/AUGUST 2018 | $5.95

WINNERS!

including some new surprises

2018

BARCELONA Scores!

Voted Best In Tapas Menu Wine Bar Girls Night Out

BEST IN STAMFORD

Restaurant Bar Special Occasion Spanish Restaurant Singles Scene (Over 35)

The Hot List In

FOOD & DRINK pg. 58

Trending Now In

What’s Stylin’ In

STYLE & BEAUTY

LIVING & HOME

pg. 72

pg. 84

ON THE COVER: Bacelona’s charcuterie, wine and cheese

2018

Everything you need from a doctor.

From primary care to specialty care.

It’s important to have a doctor who treats you with expertise and understanding. The physicians and medical staff of Northeast Medical Group rank among the top in the nation for outstanding patient satisfaction.* With more than 130 locations, it’s easy to find the right physician. And with Northeast Medical Group, you have access to the resources of one of the best health systems in the nation – Yale New Haven Health.

855-NEMG-MDS NortheastMedicalGroup.org

Erin Culbert, DO *Press Ganey Clinician and Group Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CGCAHPS) national survey

SOME THINGS ARE JUST...

BETTER TOGETHER

463 Elm Street | Stamford, CT | (203) 325-1141 | www.elmstreetdiner.com @ELMSTREETDINER

BEST BREAKFAST

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

BEST BREAKFAST BEST DINER

C

2018

JULY/AUGUST 2018

NTENTS

FEATURES 86 | Best of the Gold Coast 2018

BY DIANE SEMBROT

After counting tens of thousands of votes, we reveal your top destinations for dining, relaxing, shopping, grooming and more.

98 | Best of Stamford

From new finds and old favorites to a few surprises—a city listing of our very own winners, according to you. Plus, summer intel from some of our favorite winning pros.

DEPARTMENTS 12 | EDITOR’S LETTER

BY CAMILLA A. HERRERA

15 | STATUS REPORT Buzz: Melissa Thompson; Summer Skin Care

Shop: Kids’ Fashion: Surfer Girls & Beach Boys

Do: Alive@Five and Wednesday Nite Live; Planning an Outdoor Soirée, Ballet Fitness

Home: Waterfront Gardening

Eat: Harlan Social’s Summer Menu; Amari

40 | DAD ABOUT TOWN

BY KEVIN MCKEEVER

43 | SCENE STEALERS

101 | TOP DENTISTS 2018 111 | INDEX OF ADVERTISERS 112 | LAST WORD

BY BETH LEVINE

86

DiMare Pastry Shop, winner Best Bakery and Best Desserts

Cover photograph by Manny Vargas STAMFORD magazine JULY/AUGUST 2018, VOL. 9, NO. 4 STAMFORD magazine is published bimonthly by Moffly Media, Inc., 205 Main St., Westport, CT 06880. POSTMASTER: Send address changes (Form 3579) to Stamford Magazine, P.O. Box 9309, Big Sandy, TX, 75755-9607.

4

STAMFORDMAG.COM

PHOTOGRAPH BY ANDREW SULLIVAN

Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, Fairfield County’s Community Foundation’s Fund for Women & Girls, Ferguson Library, Mill River Collaborative, planned Parenthood, REACH Prep, Stamford History Center, Stamford Public Education Foundation

PRIMARY CARE

Open and

say ahh”

”

If you’ve ever wondered if all primary care relationships are the same, maybe it’s time to visit WCHN. Our doctors believe the best way to treat you is by getting to know you. That way they can create personalized plans designed to keep you enjoying the moments that make life wonderful.

Get to know a primary care physician at wchn.org/pcp | 1-800-210-1827

eat

people

home

go

shop

buzz

On the go or online at home, you can easily reach our coverage of interesting people, stylish finds and fashion, fun things to do, new restaurants, and more, more, more. All the fun’s at stamfordmag.com. See you there!

facebook.com/stamfordmag instagram.com/stamfordmag twitter.com/stamfordmag

ilovefc.com the best of fairfield county living • published by moffly media

6

STAMFORDMAG.COM

EAT: HARLAN SOCIAL BY JULIE BIDWELL; PEOPLE: WESTPORT ARTS CENTER BY MOFFLY MEDIA BIG PICTURE/KRISTIN BURKE HYNES; HOME: GDV, GREYSON DE VERE, BY MARCO RICCA; GO: WINVIAN, CONTRIBUTED; SHOP: D&G, CONTRIBUTED; BUZZ: AIMEE RAUPP BY CHRISTA MEOLA

stamfordmag.com

VISIT, DISCOVER, SHARE

Long. Lean. Strong.

yoga | pilates | barre

Our new Evolve program is designed to support your personal commitment to physical and spiritual fitness. Challenge yourself to move differently while centering your body and mind at an Evolve yoga, Pilates or barre class.

STOP IN FOR A TOUR OR JOIN TODAY.

chelseapiersCT.com/evolve 1 Blachley Road, Stamford, CT 06902 • 203.989.1234

GREAT FOOD GREAT SERVICE

STAMFORD VOLUME 9 NUMBER 4

JULY/AUGUST 2018

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Amy Vischio

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Cristin Marandino

editorial EDITOR

Camilla A. Herrera MARKET EDITOR

Megan Gagnon

EDITORIAL ADVISOR

Donna Moffly

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Colleen Crowley

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Joey Macari

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Cristin Marandino–GREENWICH Kathryn Satterfield–NEW CANAAN•DARIEN•ROWAYTON Diane Sembrot–FAIRFIELD LIVING and WESTPORT CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick, Alyson Young Gregory, Elizabeth Keyser, Beth Levine, Kevin McKeever, Judy Ostrow COPY EDITORS

Terry Christofferson David Podgurski EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Harry Day Juanita James PJ Kennedy Jamie Krug Michael Marchetti Arthur Selkowitz Jami Sherwood Lou Ursone

art SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

Garvin Burke

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR

Venera Alexandrova

CONTRIBUTING ART DIRECTORS Venera Alexandrova–GREENWICH Katie DeFlorio Conte–WESTPORT Paula Winicur– FAIRFIELD LIVING and NEW CANAAN•DARIEN•ROWAYTON DESIGN ASSISTANT

Taylor Stroili

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Kerri Rak

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bob Capazzo, Lewis Finkel, Happyhaha.com, Minush Krasniqi, Denice Dutra Laveris, Melani Lust, John Martin, Thomas McGovern, Bruce Plotnik, Andrew Sullivan, Bernie Weiss

970 High Ridge Road • Stamford 203.322.9888 mackenziesstamford.com

Visit us on Facebook: facebook.com/mackenziesstamford FOOD UNTIL MIDNIGHT Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11:30am to 12:30am Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 1:30am

8

STAMFORDMAG.COM

digital media DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER

Amber Scinto

Calendar@MofflyMedia.com Editor@StamfordMag.com Weddings@StamfordMag.com TO SUBSCRIBE, renew, or change your address, please e-mail us at subscribe@stamfordmag.com, call 1-877-467-1735, or write to STAMFORD Magazine, 111 Corporate Drive, Big Sandy, TX 75755. U.S. subscription rates: $19.95/1 year, $32.95/2 years; Canada and Foreign, US$40/year, US$66/2 years.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS,

please call 203-571-1645 or email reprints@mofflymedia.com.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED No part of this periodical may be

reproduced without express permission of the publisher. ©2015 STAMFORD Magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by STAMFORD are not necessarily those of the magazine.

Rest easy.

NY Bus. Reg. # 08690 • CT Bus. Reg. # B-1086 • NJ Bus. Reg. # 98083A

By eliminating bedbugs, we give you peace of mind and time to focus on the more important things in life. n You can relax, knowing you and your family are not going to be bitten, not going to be up all night itching and scratching. n And you can relax, knowing we fight bedbugs in eco-smart ways. n Our executives have a BS from Cornell in entomology, a BS in plant pathology and a BS in environmental science. We consult with you and advise you, and develop comprehensive solutions: integrated pest management. n From homeowners to property managers, thousands of people rely on JP McHale Pest Management for a justifiable sense of security. n You can, too. Go to www.nopests.com or call us at 800.479.2284.

Not just good. Guaranteed.

Successful Real Estate Sales Demands Hard Work Your Choice of a Real Estate Professional is Easy

STAMFORD VOLUME 9 NUMBER 4

JULY/AUGUST 2018

PUBLISHER

Karen Kelly PUBLISHER AT LARGE

Jonathan Moffly

sales & marketing SALES MANAGEMENT

Lisa Hingst Lisa.Hingst@Moffly.com Publisher NEW CANAAN•DARIEN•ROWAYTON Trish Kirsch Trish.Kirsch@Moffly.com Publisher GREENWICH and ATHOME Gabriella Mays Gabriella.Mays@Moffly.com Publisher WESTPORT SALES DIRECTORS

Personalized Service * Local Expertise * Global Exposure

Monique deBoer Monique.deBoer@Moffly.com Fashion / Beauty Jennifer Frank Jennifer.Frank@Moffly.com Doctors / Dentists / Finance / Insurance / Business Consulting Hilary Hotchkiss Hilary.Hotchkiss@Moffly.com Schools / Education

Barbara Hickey I bhickey@williampitt.com I 203.912.0578

Rick Johnson Rick.Johnson@Moffly.com Real Estate / Lawyers Jennifer Petersen Jennifer.Petersen@Moffly.com Jewelry

Stamford Brokerage I 3 Roxbury Road barabarahickey.williampitt.com

Ellyn Weitzman Ellyn.Weitzman@Moffly.com Restaurants / Wine & Spirits / Catering

Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, EVENT MARKETING

Laurinda Finelli

DIRECTOR, EVENT MARKETING

Caroline C. Steber

PARTNERSHIP MANAGER

Kathleen Godbold

EVENT COORDINATOR

Stephanie McCarthy

For over a century, Cummings & Lockwood has provided sophisticated legal representation to individuals, families and businesses.

STRATEGIC MARKETING DIRECTOR

Wendy Horwitz

CREATIVE SERVICES ART DIRECTOR

Molly Cottingham

EVENT MARKETING INTERNS

Kelsey Chapderlane, Kathryn Harford, Melanie Murphy, Emily Simonds, Greta Smith, Emily Wolfe

business CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Brian R. Feidt

BUSINESS MANAGER

Elena Moffly

Estate & Tax Planning

Business Succession Planning

Wealth Preservation

Corporate & Finance

Trust Administration

Commercial & Residential Real Estate

Probate & Estate Settlement

Litigation & Arbitration

Charitable Giving

Banking & Lending

PRESIDENT

Jonathan W. Moffly VICE PRESIDENT / EDITORIAL & DESIGN

Amy Vischio

VICE PRESIDENT / FINANCE & OPERATIONS / SALES & MARKETING

Brian R. Feidt

VICE PRESIDENT / TREASURER

Elena Moffly

EDITORIAL ADVISOR

Donna C. Moffly

www.cl-law.com

Stamford

Greenwich

West Hartford

Naples

Bonita Springs

Palm Beach Gardens

COFOUNDERS

J ohn W. Moffly IV & Donna C. Moffly PUBLISHERS OF STAMFORD, FAIRFIELD LIVING, GREENWICH, NEW CANAAN • DARIEN • ROWAYTON, WESTPORT and athome magazines

205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 fax: 203-222-0937 mail@mofflymedia.com

FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES, please call Lemuel Bandala

203-571-1661 or email advertise@mofflymedia.com

10

STAMFORDMAG.COM

EDITOR’S Letter

CAMILLA A. HERRERA

SUMMER IS MY FAVORITE TIME OF THE YEAR.

Not only can I finally wear sandals, but with longer and lazier days come evenings on the deck, enjoying an Aperol spritz (see pg. 38). Meals often consist of something grilled along with fruits and vegetables from the local farmer’s market. Free time is taken up by outdoor activities—fit clubs at Mill River Park and Harbor Point, Alive@Five and Wednesday Nite Live concerts, dinners al fresco with friends.

On weekends you’ll often find me at the beach—hat, sunglasses and sunscreen on—with the latest thriller read. There are movies under the stars, sweet gelato for the occasional treat, sunset sails on the SoundWaters schooner, and, as of this writing, gatherings for World Cup viewing.

Everything that makes this a great season neatly coincides with the annual publication of our Best of the Gold Coast winners—and so many from Stamford!

(See pg. 56). Sure, as you peruse this much-awaited feature, you’ll find a collection of new finds, longtime favorites, even a few surpises. But in covering more than 175 categories in Food & Drink, Style & Beauty and Living & Home, this year’s crop of your favorites also serves as a guide for newcomers and old-timers alike to what to eat, try, wear and do, and who to call to make your everyday simpler. What

12

STAMFORDMAG.COM

I see as an added benefit for all of us is an opportunity to learn about everyone’s picks and supplement the summer fun list with our neighbors’ recommendations.

Speaking of summer, be sure to take a few minutes to review Status Report (see pg. 15). It includes tips on planning an inviting outdoor soirée; an update on the latest fitness craze; medical advice on common skin problems during hot-andhumid season; guidelines on waterfront gardening; our review of Harlan Social’s new menu; and a fashion catalog of some of the most adorable looks for the wee-est kids as they head off to day camp.

We also keep it real in this section, with a Buzz profile of health activist Melissa Thompson, who helped lead the way to major health policy change at the state level to require insurance coverage for fertility treatment based on medical necessity.

And with that, I leave you to taking a few moments to linger over the pages that follow. Better yet, make yourself an Aperol spritz, head out to the deck and begin filling in your calendar. After all, Labor Day is only sixty-four days away.

camilla.herrera@moffly.com

PHOTOGRAPH BY BRUCE PLOTKIN

No Contest

NOW E L A S N O

!

FEATURING TWO-TIME TONY AWARD WINNER SUTTON FOSTER!

NEW THIS YEAR! Support the Playhouse and

join us for the performance and fun after-party, featuring live music, tapas, and dancing.

Eunice & David Bigelow will also be honored for their vision, philanthropy, and friendship over many years.

TICKETS START AT JUST $350. PRE-SHOW DINNER AND VIP EXPERIENCE FOR $1,250 AND UP.

WESTPORTPLAYHOUSE.ORG/GALA2018

| 203 227 4177

BUZZ status report

MELISSA THOMPSON • SUMMER SKIN CARE

Health advocate Melissa Thompson

T

PHOTOGRAPH BY JULIE BIDWELL

Catalyst for

CHANGE

Melissa Thompson, a new mom, becomes the driving force behind a state law that ensures cancer patients receive insurance coverage for fertility preservation

wo years ago, when her daughter, Poppy, was just five weeks old, Stamford resident Melissa Thompson was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer.

At thirty-two, the new mother was confronted with a life-threatening illness as well as a question that would ultimately make her a political crusader responsible for changing the definition of infertility in Connecticut.

“My doctors said, ‘Do you want more children?’ ” the former Goldman Sachs analyst recalls. “And while it still doesn’t seem logical to have a family-planning discussion when facing cancer, I had to think about it because the chemo can make you infertile. So my answer was a stammering, ‘I don’t know…maybe…yes.’ ” To that end, Thompson underwent a retrieval procedure to spare some of her eggs and freeze them, hoping that after beating cancer, she might become a mother again. It was then she learned about a devastating irony in the way insurers viewed fertility-preserving treatments in cancer patients. “Because I wasn’t technically infertile when I had my egg retrieval, my insurer reversed its authorization,” says Thompson, who was stuck with a $12,000 bill because of the denial. “On top of everything else, it just seemed so cruel. And as sick as I was, I couldn’t shake the idea

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

15

FERTILE GROUND

A helpful guide to maximizing fertility and successful conception

W

hile treatments such as chemotherapy can compromise the fertility of male and female cancer patients, there are other factors that play a role in challenging a path to conception. Dr. Josh Hurwitz, a fertility specialist affiliated with Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut, and director of fertility preservation for Western Connecticut Health Network, offers these tips for anyone hoping to maximize their chances of conceiving and giving birth to a healthy baby.

BE PROACTIVE

DON’T SMOKE

Starting in their twenties, women should ask their OB/ GYN for fertility blood tests that can predict their long-term fertility and serve as a baseline for future tests.

It impacts fertility in both genders and diminishes the quality and quantity of sperm and eggs.

LIVE A HEALTHY LIFE Good habits such as uninterrupted sleep, a well-rounded diet and regular exercise contribute to proper wellness and affect hormone production and reproductive health in men and women.

Positive changes can improve someone’s reproductive profile in as little as ninety days.

16

STAMFORDMAG.COM

FREEZE YOUR EGGS Women who don’t think they will start a family until after the age of thirtyfive may maximize their chances of later conception by retrieving and storing eggs for future use.

SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE If a couple has been struggling to conceive for a year (and are younger than thirtyfive) or six months (if older than thirty-five), consult with a fertility specialist.

that this shouldn’t be happening to [anyone] facing cancer.”

Using her personal narrative as a spark for change, Thompson is credited with spearheading passage of what is now known as “Melissa’s Law,” a bill passed by the Connecticut legislature and signed by Gov. Dannel Malloy in 2017. The law expands the definition of infertility to include those facing treatment of cancer and other diseases, including some autoimmune disorders, in which conventional medical treatments often compromise fertility.

“She’s a peaceful warrior for fertility,” says Dr. Josh Hurwitz, a fertility specialist with Reproductive Medicine Associates of Connecticut, with offices in Stamford and Norwalk, and director of fertility preservation for Western Connecticut Health Network. Dr. Hurwitz consulted with state legislators on the merits of the new law and more recently, became Thompson’s doctor. “I continue to be inspired not only by what she did to preserve her own fertility, but also by what she has done—and continues to do—for other men and women who are dealing with the same challenges.”

Dr. Hurwitz says that before Melissa’s Law passed, he often worked with patients who were suffering the emotional and physical traumas of a cancer diagnosis as well as the uncertainty of their future fertility. When it came to spending on procedures such as egg and sperm freezing, “a lot of people felt coerced, like they had a gun stuck to their heads,” he says.

“The insurance companies were

finding all kinds of loopholes that were mean and nasty and kind of playing into the worst stereotype of insurance companies.”

Of the new law, Thompson says: “As much as this is about hope for people with cancer and other illnesses, there’s also a practical, common-sense side to this.”

For example, Thompson notes the cost of egg retrieval is about two-thirds the cost of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, so it’s actually less expensive for insurers to pay for egg retrieval rather than IVF. There is also disturbing research that suggests many male and female cancer patients have historically opted for less aggressive treatments to protect their fertility because they could not afford procedures to save their sperm and eggs. “What we’ve done is made it possible for people who want families to not have to make those kinds of devastating decisions when they’re sick and overwhelmed,” adds Thompson Since the law’s passage, Thompson has emerged as a passionate advocate for similar laws nationwide. “This has essentially become my full-time job,” says Thompson, who at press time was lobbying for passage of a fertility preservation bill in Kentucky and was hopeful that similar laws would be adopted in Maryland and Delaware. “I never set out to be a lobbyist,” she says. “I think one reason why we got things accomplished was I was just a regular person who wanted to fix something I saw as wrong. I’ve learned there’s great power in that.” —Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick

PHOTOGRAPH BY © RAMONA HEIM-STOCK.ADOBE.COM

BUZZ

SUNDAY AUGUST 26TH 1-9PM

SATURDAY AUGUST 25TH 1-9PM

Performing Live

Performing Live

JUMP THE GUNN

40 + Food Trucks + Beer Garden + Kids Zone MOC EATERY • DREWBAQ • MELT MOBILE NOSH HOUND • KONA ICE • GOTTA GO GREEK MAMMA DEE’S ITALIAN KITCHEN • WEENIE LYNNS NOT JUST SAMMACHES • BOOTHBAY LOBSTER RICE & BEANS • SLOPPIE JOES • MAGEES CURBSIDE LEMONADE GRENADE • THE CHAMO TRUCK THE BELGIUM BUS • JEFE’S TACOS • DONUT CRAZY THE GRANOLA BAR • DOUGH GIRLS PIZZA • PITO SOFRITO

MOC EATERY • DREWBAQ • MELT MOBILE NOSH HOUND • HAPA FOOD TRUCK • KONA ICE WALTERS HOT DOGS • DINOSAUR BBQ BROTHER JIMMY’S • WAFFLE BOX • BIG ENZO’S BBQ LONGFORDS • THE MEAT TRUCK THE CANNOLI TRUCK • SPUDS YOUR WAY MAMAS FOOD TRUCK • PIEROGIES ON WHEELS

MILL RIVER PARK, STAMFORD, CT WWW.HEYSTAMFORDFOODFEST.COM FACEBOOK.COM/HEYSTAMFORDFOODFEST

INSTAGRAM.COM/HEYSTAMFORDFOODFEST

TICKETS ON SALE NOW! #HSFF

BUZZ

HEAT WAVE From acne to sunburn—easy solutions to common summer bummers

W

hile there’s something freeing about being able to show a little skin this time of year, the season’s soaring temperatures, humidity and blazing sun can trigger, and exacerbate, a long list of skincare dilemmas. It’s why we asked two local dermatologists to share their insight for treatment and prevention when the heat is on. —Beth Cooney Fitzpatrick

The Problem: BUMPY SKIN Rough, red and bumpy patches of skin that tend to gather on the upper arms and thighs, are known as keratosis pilaris. While they are not unique to summer, they are an annoyance that compels many to seek a warm-weather intervention with a dermatologist.

The Fix: The good news is that these bumps can be sloughed away with a host of bottled treatments that are available over the counter. Look for creams containing glycolic or salicylic acids.

Dr. Evans often recommends CeraVE SA or Gold Bond Rough & Bumpy Daily Skin Therapy. “Use these in combination with sunscreen,” she suggests.

The Problem: SUNBURN Even the most vigilant sunscreen wearers slip up now and then.

Sunburns not only age the skin prematurely, they have a strong link to skin cancer.

The Fix: While a burn means the damage is done, take the sting out by taking an anti-inflammatory pain reliever and applying cool compresses or aloe vera gel, says Dr. Evans. Also, consider taking vitamin D supplements, says Dr. Mraz Robinson, as research has shown that the vitamin can help reduce inflammation and redness.

DR. DEANNE MRAZ ROBINSON, a Westport-based dermatologist, is an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale New Haven Hospital.

The Problem: TOENAIL FUNGUS This common, year-round condition, which leaves nails discolored, brittle and ragged, often has sufferers seeking medical intervention come sandal season.

The Fix: Prescription medicines can help treat fungal infections, “but some have a lot of side effects and they often don’t eliminate the problem,” says Dr. Mraz Robinson. So focus on prevention to keep feet clean as the organisms that cause nail fungus often spread in communal areas. Wear flip-flops in public showers; spritz shoes with anti-fungal sprays, she says.

Tip: If you love pedicures, but worry about hygiene at the nail salon, bring your own instruments or consider booking a medical-grade pedicure. (Dr. Evans offers them at her Stamford practice.) “Make sure [the salon has] high standards for cleaning their foot tubs,” she says.

18

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Tip: A severe, blistery burn may require medical attention. They could be a sign of a second-degree burn, says Dr. Evans.

PHOTOGRAPHS: PORTRAITS CONTRIBUTED; SUNBURN BY ©JIVIMAGES - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

DR. ROBIN EVANS, of Southern Connecticut Dermatology in Stamford, is affiliated with Stamford Hospital.

CANCER REACHES BEYOND THE FIVE BOROUGHS. WE DO, TOO. MSK WESTCHESTER Memorial Sloan Kettering is the #1 cancer center in the northeast. We’re in New York City, Long Island, New Jersey and, most conveniently for you, we have a Westchester County location in West Harrison. With so many options, MSK is also the #1 cancer center in your neighborhood.

Providing care to Fairfield County, Westchester County and the Hudson Valley.

500 Westchester Avenue, West Harrison, NY

MSKCC.ORG/WESTCHESTER

MORE SCIENCE. LESS FEAR.

BUZZ

The Fix: Shaving, waxing and depilatory creams all offer effective, temporary fixes, but laser hair removal is the best long-term solution, says Dr. Mraz Robinson. While this approach is highly effective for some, it only works on those with darker natural hair color. It is not an option for folks with red, gray or blonde hair because lasers do their job by targeting melanin, explains Dr. Evans.

The Problem: OILY, ACNE-PRONE SKIN “With temperature fluctuations from January to July, our beauty and skincare routines must adapt,” says Dr. Evans, who notes anyone prone to oily skin is likely to experience a shiny complexion. For acne sufferers—even those who have an effective skin-care regimen—summer can trigger flare-ups.

The Fix: Modify your regimen, focusing on lighter skincare formulations of products, says Dr. Evans. For example, substitute gel for cream varieties. Keep your hair pulled off your face as oily hair can aggravate acne.

Consider mineral-based makeup options.

Tip: If you see a dermatologist for acne management, summer is a great time to check in.

SPF Smarts By now, most of us know there’s no such thing as a healthy tan and high SPF sunscreen is a summer essential. Yet skin health experts say despite all the public education out there on the benefits of protecting our complexions from cancer and premature aging, too many of us still get sun-safety basics wrong.

Expert tips for improving your SPF IQ include: Numbers Game Don’t assume that layering sunscreen with makeup that contains sunscreen increases your SPF quotient. “If you put a 15-SPF moisturizer with a 15-SPF foundation, you are not increasing the SPF levels on your face to 30,” says Dr. Evans. “It’s still 15.”

Apply & Repeat “Reapply sunscreen all day long,” says Dr. Mraz Robinson, who notes too many people think, “you can put it on in the morning and assume you are good for the day.”

Cover Up Wear a hat in the sun. “The bigger the better,” says Dr. Evans.

The Problem: EXCESSIVE SWEAT For those who suffer from hyperhidrosis, summer means constant worry about wet underarms.

The Fix: “Botox is a total game changer for this problem, which in some people can be absolutely devastating,” says Dr. Evans.

Armpit injections once or twice a year can eliminate hyperhidrosis for some sufferers. Besides this highly effective approach, Dr. Mraz Robinson says there are some excellent clinical strength anti-perspirants that are quite helpful, too.

Tip: Botox therapy for hyperhidrosis is often covered by insurance, says Dr. Evans.

20

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Shady Business In sunny places like the beach or your kids’ outdoor sporting events, “seek shade wherever you can,” says Dr. Evans. “Even if that means sitting with the opposing team’s fans.”

Block the Sun Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen products that contain generous percentages of zinc or titanium. “They give the best coverage,” says Dr. Mraz Robinson.

For Max Results Consider taking sunscreen tablets, which are intended to act as boosters to topical sunscreens.

PHOTOGRAPHS: RAZOR © KORN V.-STOCK.ADOBE.COM; MAN BY ©OLLY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; SUNSCREEN BY ©TIERNEY - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

The Problem: TOO MUCH FUZZ From armpits to the back and bikini area, folks with unwanted hair usually want to banish it come summer.

6th annual

B E ST BARTE N D E R C O NTE ST by

M AG A Z I N E

Presented by

Thank You

to our sponsors and participants for helping make our 6TH BEST BARTENDER CONTEST

another huge success!

SPONSORS:

SHOP

status report

KIDS’ SUMMER LOOKS

3

2 4

1

1. Sam Edelman

surfer

gırls Life’s a beach.

Dress accordingly.

Mackie pineapple metallic slide sandal; $30. Lester’s, Westport, 203-221-0474; lesters.com

2. Vineyard Vines

Girls Otomi print romper; $40.

Greenwich, 203-661-1803; vineyardvines.com

5

3. J. Crew

Girls’ pineapple sunglasses; $16.50.

Stamford Town Center, 203-4069673; jcrew.com

4. Vigoss

Pom-Pom trimmed denim shorts; $15. Saks Off 5th, Stamford Town Center, 203-388-1988; saksoff5th.com

6

5. Maaji 8 7

Cacti Hotel reversible two-piece swimsuit; $62. nordstrom.com

6. Sunnylife

7. Roller Rabbit

Girls Zasris Nabila top; $65. Greenwich, 203-869-1969; rollerrabbit.com

8. Gap

Geometric pom sandals; $40.

Stamford Town Center, 203-3273448; gap.com

22

STAMFORDMAG.COM

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Flamingo fan; $18. sunnylife.com

Thank you to everyone who made the 2018 Stamford Boys & Girls Club Corporate 5K a success! With your help, the event raised $160,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford.

2018 RACE SPONSORS PRESENTING MEDIA SPONSOR

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

GERALD GROUP

BRONZE

RACE SUPPORTERS

To learn more about the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford, visit www.BGCAStamford.org.

SHOP

boys beach 2

1

Summer style starts in the sand

1. Johnnie-O

Deck Jr. T-shirt; $27.

Darien Sport Shop, 203-655-2575; dariensport.com

2. Ray-Ban Jr.

RJ9063S 48; $83.

Sunglass Hut, Stamford Town Center, 203-348-2348; sunglasshut.com

3. JoJo Maman Bébé 8 3

Toucan print shirt; $32. Westport, 203-635-6464; jojomamanbebe .com

4. Vilebrequin

Galak swim shorts; $120. Greenwich, 203-869-6989; vilebrequin.com

7 4

5. Billabong

Podium trucker hat; $20. us.billabong.com

6. Zara

6

7. Ralph Lauren Childrenswear

5

Stripe knit cotton hoodie; $45. Lord & Taylor, Stamford, 203-327-6600; lordandtaylor.com

8. Vans

Denim 2-tone Sk8-Hi Zip; $45. Stamford Town Center, 203-323-2116; vans.com

24

STAMFORDMAG.COM

IMAGES COURTESY OF DESIGNERS/BRANDS

Striped T-shirt with pocket; $ 14.90. Palm tree Bermuda shorts; $25.90. Stamford Town Center, 203-353-1920; zara.com

For 4 decades, Kids In Crisis has worked on behalf of our community every day. isis s ago, Kids In Cr ar ye 40 g in nd u Since its fo eir families. children and th 0 32 3, 14 an th e has served mor pport! nued generous su ti on c r u yo r fo T hank you

Please visit our brand new website www.kidsincrisis.org for more information on how you can become involved.

RESPONDING. RESTORING. REINFORCING.

NEED HELP? Call our 24-hour Helpline 203-661-1911 to speak with a trained Crisis Counselor

DO

status report

WEDNESDAY NITE LIVE • ALIVE@FIVE • ENTERTAINING AL FRESCO • BALLET FITNESS

Starry Nights Downtown music scene welcomes the return of Stamford’s two celebrated outdoor concert series

U

nless you’ve been living under a rock, this is old news to you. More than likely, you’ve probably joined hundreds of fans of Alive@5 and Wednesday Nite Live and made plans to see these popular nostalgic acts as soon as the lineups were announced in early May. If you put your planning off, let this be a gentle reminder to mark your calendars and make your dinner reservations now! You won’t want to miss soulful R&B by The O’Jays, the dynamic musicianship of New Orleans’ Trombone Shorty, the melodic tunes of Gavin DeGraw or energetic live rock by Neon Trees. Fans of ’80s piano-playing singer songwriters, be sure to join us for Joe Jackson! —Camilla A. Herrera

WEDNESDAY NITE LIVE

ALIVE @ FIVE

June 28

June 27

Gavin DeGraw

The O’Jays

July 11 Joe Jackson

July 12 Sean Kingston Sammy Adams

July 19

July 18

July 25 Dennis DeYoung: The Music of STYX

Aug. 1 Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

26

STAMFORDMAG.COM

July 26 Lifehouse

Aug. 2 Neon Trees

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF BANDS AND PERFORMERS

Tonic Gin Blossoms Vertical Horizon

Felix Cavaliere and Gene Cornish’s Rascals

Give peas a chance!

Connecticut 203.353.8000

marciaselden.com

New York 212.921.4100

SPECIAL MEMORIES LAST FOREVER WE HELP create THEM

CO N N ECT ICUT 203.324.6222

STAMFORDTENT. COM

LONG ISLAND 631. 6 4 3 .2 8 4 8

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

27

DO

Party Favors Entertaining essentials for a memory-making seasonal soirée

WOW-WORTHY RECIPES The Main Event Show off your grilling skills and impress your guests with our grilled Tuscan steak. It’s quite simple; you only have to remember to begin marinating your steak the night before.

SETTING THE MOOD Table Talk “Layer textures with different fabric tablecloths for a relaxed but chic look. Start with white, layered with a natural woven cloth and crisp white napkins. Set it with family-style bowls of olives, roasted and marinated veggies, and tapenades with grilled breads and herbed olive oil. Add a platter with great cheeses and your tablescape just became the appetizer and first course.”

Sunsational Drink “Our Blush Grapefruit and Rosé Sangria is light, refreshing and perfect for a crowd.”

Here’s the recipe: 2 cups hulled and sliced strawberries 1 orange, sliced into thin rounds 1 pink grapefruit, sliced into thin rounds

Summer Tunes

Welcoming Scene “We love a Tuscan al fresco feel. Think lots of candles, glittery string lights hung from the trees around your yard. Also, take inspiration from the season. Use fresh fruit or vegetables like whole artichokes, eggplants and herbed plants or succulents.”

28

STAMFORDMAG.COM

“If you’re making a playlist, focus on crowd pleasers, make it about three hours long, and mix classics with current chart toppers. Think ‘Uptown Funk’ by Bruno Mars and ‘Crazy in Love’ by Beyoncé paired with ‘Good Vibrations’ by The Beach Boys and anything by Stevie Wonder. We also like to add in cool, kid-friendly music, like Michael Jackson or Motown hits, music that everyone likes and can sing along with.”

4 oz. Ketel One Grapefruit + Rose vodka 3 Tblsp. rosé-scented simple syrup 1 bottle rosé wine 2 cups sparkling water In a large pitcher, combine the strawberries and orange and grapefruit slices. Use the end of a wooden spoon to muddle the fruit a little. In a small glass combine the vodka and the simple syrup.

Pour this and the bottle of rosé over the fruit. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour.

Before serving, stir in the sparkling water and enjoy.

Begin by blending 2 Tblsp. extra-virgin olive oil, four sprigs of fresh rosemary, four sprigs of fresh thyme and three cloves of peeled and sliced garlic to marinate one large shell steak (about 24 oz., 2.5 to 3 inches thick) in a plastic container, and refrigerate it overnight.

The next day, remove the steak from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and heat your grill (or a grill pan) to medium-high heat.

Prepare an herbed oil—a mix of juice and zest of one lemon, 2 Tblsp. of extra-virgin olive oil, 1 Tblsp. of chopped Italian parsley, 1 Tblsp. of chopped fresh thyme, ½ tsp. of freshly ground black pepper and 1 tsp. of kosher salt—and set aside.

When you’re ready to grill, season the steak evenly with salt and pepper, place it on the grill and sear for 5 minutes on each side. Then remove the steak to a baking sheet and place it in the oven for 7 minutes for medium rare doneness. Allow the steak to rest for 15 minutes, then slice it, place on a platter and drizzle it with the herbed oil. And voilá!

PHOTOGRAPHS: OUTDOOR LIGHTS BY © RONSTIK- STOCK.ADOBE.COM; GRAPEFRUIT BY ©ROMAN SAMOKHIN - STOCK.ADOBE.COM;ORANGE BY ©MASKARAD - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; STRAWBERRY BY ©SVETAMART - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; STEAK BY © BERND JUERGENS- STOCK.ADOBE.COM

I

t’s finally summer, a time to take it outside to savor longer days and balmy evenings, a perfect setting to get friends together for good times and great food. To help us plan the ultimate gathering, we turned to ROBIN SELDEN, executive chef and managing partner at MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS, for her expert advice on pulling off the kind of party that will have your friends asking when they can come over again. —Camilla A. Herrera

“I love to compete...in business and for fun. And I’ve learned the keys to winning are being in the right place at the right time, anticipating and being prepared. So I depend on Rudy’s to get me everywhere on-time, every time.” ,

C

M

Y

PREPARED.

CM

KNOWLEDGEABLE

MY

CY

DEPENDABLE.

CMY

K

WCTLC 00083-16 | TLC#B02597 | DOT# 1951 | ICC# MC15081

2 0 1 8

THANK YOU STAMFORD MAGAZINE READERS FOR NAMING EXHALE “BEST BARRE - 2018”!

“Best Barre Class” - 2017 “Best Fitness Center + Pilates Studio” - 2016 “Best Yoga Studio + Spinning Studio” - 2015 “Best Fitness + Spinning Classes” - 2014 “Best Place for Core Strength” - 2013

ENJOY 2 CLASSES FOR THE PRICE OF 1 VISIT EXHALESPA.COM/2FOR1CT *Offer valid for new guests only or those who haven’t visited exhale in six months.

150 WASHINGTON BLVD, STAMFORD CT 06902 | 203.391.5350 | EXHALESPA.COM

BARRE • CARDIO • YOGA • HIIT • CYCLE • MIND BODY GYM

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

29

DO

2

AMAZING GRACE

When you take ballet, you’re taught a series of simple exercises called the barre. These are designed to build poise and grace, and are repeated at each class to improve balance and strength. Many ballet classes also teach postural alignment exercises that promote good posture and create an awareness of alignment.

On Pointe Calling ballet the new yoga, Connecticut Ballet Center spotlights the fitness and wellness benefits adults gain from its dance classes

N

ow that we all know how to “om” without the chorus of a Vinyasa class, more adults are turning their attention to, and falling in love with, another centuries-old art form for exercise: ballet. Not the trendy, ballet-inspired fitness you’ll find at a Barre class or boot camp, but pure, unadulterated classical dance as it was meant to be done, requiring proper footwear and a dictionary.

Don’t worry: You can still wear your yoga clothes to class...but why not try ballet instead?

While yoga is an eight-fold path to align the body, mind and soul with universal energies for harmonious and meaningful living, asanas (postures) are only one expression of yoga. Simply put, those students going to yoga because they want to touch their toes and increase flexibility may have more reasons to take a ballet class. Whether you are a beginner or a returning dancer, BRETT RAPHAEL, director of the Connecticut Ballet and its affiliated school, Connecticut Ballet Center (CBC), shares the benefits of classical dance. —Alyson Young Gregory

30

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Corps Strength

5 reasons to add ballet to your fitness regimen

1

CORE ISSUE

Ballet is an excellent form of exercise that strengthens and develops abdominal and back muscles. Ballet participants often notice less back pain, a flatter abdomen and a waistline that becomes more defined over time.

3

BALLERINA BODY

The movements taught in ballet classes are designed to tone and firm muscles so you develop a leaner you.

4

FLEXIBLE BENEFITS

Ballet uses muscles that are seldom used in other sports, giving you a “total-body flexibility workout.” It’s not uncommon to be sore the day after your weekly ballet class (until the body adjusts and extends its range of movement).

5

BRAIN POWER

When you perform ballet exercises and movements, they relax your mind. You focus on each movement, the placement of your legs, arms, even your head.

These help stress melt away, particularly when dancing to beautiful classical melodies or excerpts from famous routines. Learning and recalling a sequence of steps and rapid-fire combinations while keeping time with music increases mental acuity.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF CONNECTICUT BALLET CENTER

An intermediate ballet class at the Connecticut Ballet Center

SHORT-TERM REHAB

We’re there, every step of the way.

Get the short-term rehabilitation you need, right in the heart of Greenwich.

EXPERT AFTER CARE FOR HIP, KNEE, SHOULDER AND JOINT SURGERY IN A STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY.

CALL TODAY! 203-618-4232 or visit nathanielwitherell.org

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

31

HOME

status report

BEACHFRONT GARDENING

Care coastal

What to keep in mind—and avoid—when designing your waterfront garden

32

STAMFORDMAG.COM

GO NATIVE

“I do think by planting native you can be assured that the plants will withstand the salt and wind. I would suggest that property owners take their cues from nature.”

PLACEMENT MATTERS There’s a reason you see “masses of beach grass” close to the coast, says Devore. “They can tolerate the most abuse.

As you begin to move in toward the land (and away from some of the spray and wind) you start to see more shrubs and trees appear.”

LASTING IMPRESSION Not all perennials are created equal.

Though some will grow along the coast, few tolerate salt spray successfully. Among Devore’s favorites for the shoreline are seaside goldenrod (Solidago sempervirens) and sea lavender (Limonium carolinianum).

EDUCATE YOURSELF

Devore recommends University of Connecticut’s information regarding shore planting. They have a helpful coastal landscaping guide at clear.uconn.edu/projects/ crlg. Scroll down to the clickable tool. The guide identifies perennials, shrubs and trees that are salt tolerant.

GRASS COURT Make beach grasses your friend, and plant these closest to the shore, says Devore. “Interestingly, after [Superstorm] Sandy, the native grasses and iris held on,” she says, suggesting homeowners make the following part of their landscaping design plan: American beach grass (Ammophila breviligulata), big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii),sweetgrass (Hierochloe odorata) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum).

Top and bottom: A Shippan garden designed by Diane Devore; center: Goldenrod

PHOTOGRAPHS: TOP AND BOTTOM BY JULIE BIDWELL; CENTER BY ©BUTTERFLY-PHOTOS.ORG - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

I

f you own a place along the water in one of Stamford’s shoreline neighborhoods, you already know that not every plant and shrub can survive wind-driven salt spray.

Indeed, Diane Devore, an award-winning Fairfield County landscape architect who has designed many projects along the Connecticut Gold Coast, has seen the effects of saltwater on a man-made landscape, and offers some pointers based on her experience.

Whether you’re working on a new plot, or just replacing some withered specimens on your shorefront greenery, here’s her take on coastal garden guidance. —Judy Ostrow

2018 Panel of Judges

2018 awards

get your tickets now JOIN US FOR THE A-LIST AWARDS GALA! Wednesday, September 12 at the Palace Theatre in Stamford EARLY SPECIABIRD L TICKE T DISC OUNT Runnin

James Aman

Eric Cohler

AMAN & MEEKS

ERIC COHLER DESIGN

Amy Lau

John Meeks

AMY LAU DESIGN

AMAN & MEEKS

Mario Nievera

Jennifer Post

NIEVERA WILLIAMS

JENNIFER POST DESIGN

Brian Sawyer

SAWYER | BERSON

Edward Siegel EDWARD SIEGEL ARCHITECT

g only J two weeks uly 10– 24

Our 2018 panel of judges will reveal the winners FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO PURCHASE TICKETS, PLEASE VISIT OUR WEBSITE: ATHOMEFC.COM

PRESENTING SPONSORS

Keith Williams

Vicente Wolf

NIEVERA WILLIAMS

VICENTE WOLF ASSOCIATES

EXCLUSIVE WATER SPONSOR

EAT

status report

HARLAN SOCIAL’S SUMMER MENU • AMARO

Summer Lovinˇ left: Spring mushroom dumplings right: The blueberry lemonata with Harlan Chips, housemade crisps with roasted lardon and blue cheese sauce

Harlan Social kicks off the season with a menu that honors its legacy and celebrates fresh ingredients and classic technique

S

ince opening six years ago, Harlan Social has embodied New American cuisine that highlights the craft food movement. With nods to local breads, cheese, beer and artisan products, owner and chef Stephen Lewandowski’s new summer menu—and outdoor sidewalk seating—now gives us more reason to keep coming back to this

Harbor Point pioneer. (Lewandowski has since expanded his brand to SoNo with Harlan Publick and Harlan Haus, a German beer hall in Bridgeport.)

Inside, the high-ceiling dining room reminds me of a city loft. The industrial vibe is warmed by a tall wood shelf of wine. Cozy curved banquettes line two walls, and simple wood tables and chairs

by elizabeth keyser photographs by julie bidwell

34

STAMFORDMAG.COM

sit on wide-planked wood floors. On a recent evening, the bar room was buzzing, high-topped tables filled with friends sipping drinks and sharing dishes. That’s where the casual conviviality of Harlan Social comes into play, with the menu’s Shared Dishes.

Great news: The Harlan Chips are back, housemade crisp, golden potato

CAR WASH

2 0 1 8

50 - 75% off retail!

ROUNDABOUT New & Resale Couture

48 West Putnam Ave, Greenwich (203) 552-0787 606 Post Road East, Westport (203) 227-4334 1100 Madison Avenue, NYC (212) 472-3625 31 East 72nd Street, NYC (646) 755-8009

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

35

EAT right: Sea scallops over big slices of oyster mushrooms and crisp asparagus below: Housesmoked St. Louis ribs for two with macaroni and cheese, cornbread and a pints of Harlan Honey Kรถlsch opposite: Summer berry crumble and fresh brewed coffee

36

STAMFORDMAG.COM

chips sprinkled with roasted lardon and drizzled with blue cheese sauce. It’s the ultimate bar food, great with sweet summer drinks, like the blueberry lemonata, a blend of Absolut Citron, blueberries muddled with basil, and a splash of sprite.

(If you don’t want it too sweet, top with seltzer instead.)

Baja fish tacos look festive, tempurafried nuggets of mahi mahi embellished with colorful, and impressively minced, mango-pineapple salsa. Against a touch of heat from smoky habanero mayo, the salsa is sweet and juicy with the crunch and clean flavor of the steaming white fish. With it, I suggest drinking the equally festive Rum Swizzle, with its sunrise-like layers of color of Real McCoy, an artisan rum from Barbados, aged three years in oak bourbon casks, poured with pineapple and orange juice, bitters and grenadine.

Everyone loves burrata, that round ball of soft, creamy, fresh cheese. Topping it with zesty Meyer lemon jam brings a bright note to a rich dish. It’s served on a thick slice of grilled sourdough (you can add prosciutto). I’d sip Harlan’s cucumber martini with this.

Spring mushroom dumplings were a favorite at our table. Pan-sautéed, with crisp against soft textures, they had a satisfying umami flavor. They arrived in a bowl of finely shredded napa cabbage in what Chef Randall Obach described as kimchi broth. It’s like an ode to the Korean preserved cabbage without the funk. Spicy cocktail lovers like me might pair the dumpling with a Red Tail, pepper vodka, passionfruit and Thai chili.

For hearty eaters looking to share, the house-smoked St. Louis ribs for two is served on a wood board, bearing the bourbon-glazed ribs, macaroni and

cheese, thick-sliced cornbread and salad.

The smoky ribs were tender; the meat pulled from the bone with a tug of the teeth, just as it’s supposed to (check out the St. Louis BBQ Society judging rules).

The cornbread was lightly textured, with a spicy kick from finely minced jalapeño, and it had been lightly toasted before serving, one of those small but important touches that Harlan Social adds.

Sometimes you don’t want to share because you’ve found a dish you love. For vegetarians, sweet corn ravioli is a marvel of lightness, with such thin, delicate pasta encasing creamy ricotta filling.

The bowl was filled with grilled kernels of corn, baby zucchini slices and yellow patty pan squash in a very rich, melted butter-lemon sauce that I wished had a touch more lemon.

Sea scallops, with a caramelized sear, were served over big slices of oyster mushrooms, soft yet meaty, contrasting with rather crisp asparagus. The flavors were boosted by roasted lardon and truffle vinaigrette.

Harlan Social has a good-sized selection of American and European wines, and rotating taps of craft beers, including the Harlan Honey Kölsch, made especially for the restaurant by Captain Lawrence Brewing Company. For wine, with our entrées, we chose Chateau d’Escalan Whispering Angel rosé.

For dessert, our table got back to sharing. We dipped spoons through fluffy whipped cream into dark chocolate pot de crème. It had an intriguing deep, fruity flavor of pomegranate, and was garnished with glistening, crimson pomegranate berries. Summer berry crumble also called to us, and could eat no more after that. We lingered over wine, knowing there will be a next time at Harlan Social.

HARLAN SOCIAL:

121 Towne St. 203-883-8000 harlandsocial.com

CUISINE:

New American

HOURS:

Mon. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m., 4:30–9 p.m.

Tue.–Thu. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m., 4:30–10 p.m.

Fri. 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m., 4:30–11 p.m.

Sat. 11 a.m.–4 p.m., 4:30–11 p.m.

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

37

EAT

Bittersweet!

What you need to know about Italian amari beyond the Negroni and the Aperol spritz

I

t is a common phenomenon that summer travelers to Italy are exposed to, and often grow to love, the Aperol spritz, a fizzy, orange refreshing cocktail made with prosecco, Aperol and a splash of soda. What many don’t realize is that Aperol is an amaro, a “bitter” (and sweet) botanical liqueur in the same family as Campari and Fernet Branca. They’re infused with secret blends of herbs, roots, flowers and spices, then sweetened.

Closer to home, amaro is best known as an ingredient in a Negroni. But in Italy, amari (plural for amaro) are popular and varied, and mark the transition to evening in what is known as an aperitivo.

Café tables fill with friends sipping Aperol and Campari spritzes and nibbling on free appetizers of little sandwiches and cured meats. It’s also commonly enjoyed as an after-dinner digestivo. Both traditions, we happily note, are beginning to take root here now.

It’s about time. —Elizabeth Keyser

TRY THIS

We asked our friends at Fairway to suggest some notable and popular amaro brands.

Aperol

Cynar

With notes of bitter orange peel, herbs and wood, it flavors a spritz.

Bright and light, Cynar is based on artichokes and herbs. Try it with a splash of soda before dinner, or neat after dinner.

Averna

This Sicilian amaro is dark, with caramel flavors, bitter herbs and scent of orange peel.

Campari

Known for its distinctive red color and classic pairing with soda and lime.

Nonino

Prepared with green, unripe walnuts that release chocolate and coffee flavors into this liqueur, that is then spiced with cinnamon and

cloves. Drink in small glasses, on ice.

Ramazotti

Like Averna, with notes of licorice, vanilla and ginger.

Vecchio Amaro de Capo

Secret ingredients include twenty-nine aromatics, with earthy, herbal and anise flavors. Use as a mixer or serve icecold after dinner.

AMARI 101

5 bitter truths about Italy’s botanical liqueur Rumor has it amaro was first created by the Romans, who wrote of medicinal brews made of herb-steeped wines. Medieval monks improved distillation methods and used alcohol as the base of restorative, herbal concoctions.

Amari are high in alcohol, ranging from 16 to 35 percent, yet as a flavoring, they are essential ingredients in low-alcohol, pre-dinner cocktails meant to stimulate the appetite.

Amari were first manufactured in the late eighteenth century, Campari in 1786 and Fernet Branca in 1845, both in Milan.

Amaro’s palatecleansing astringency carries past dinner.

Sipped straight up, it revives a full stomach.

Campari’s red shade originally came from a natural carmine dye made from crushed cochineal bugs. Since 2006, bottles sold in the U.S. use artificial color. S

Elizabeth Keyser has written about beer, wine and spirits for newspapers, magazines and blogs. She has sat on the Yankee Brew News tasting panel and judged craft and European brew contests.

38

STAMFORDMAG.COM

PHOTOGRAPHS: DRINK ©BARBARA MARTELLO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Begin your amari education with an Aperol spritz.

TICKETS ON SALE! Choose from Over 80 Wine and Food Events GET TICKETS!

TICKETS: NYCWFF.ORG HOSTED BY AND BENEFITING

OFFICIAL AIRLINE

OFFICIAL BANK

| 800.764.8773 | @NYCWFF

EXCLUSIVE PROVIDER OF WINE AND SPIRITS

OFFICIAL AUTOMOTIVE PARTNER

BEER AND WATER DISTRIBUTOR

HEADQUARTER HOTEL

TITLE

PREMIER

Must be 21 or older with valid ID to consume alcohol. The Festival promotes responsible drinking.

100% of the net proceeds go to the No Kid Hungry® campaign and Food Bank For New York City | Photos: Courtesy of Getty Images | Sponsors confirmed as of 6.1.18

PRESENTED BY AND OFFICIAL CREDIT CARD

PLATINUM

DIAMOND

DadAboutTown FIREWORKS

by kevin mckeever

All American

On covering Fourth of July fireworks for the local paper, the holiday scene at nearby town parks and cooing “oooh” and “aaah” as the sky is set ablaze

A

green reporter draws the worst assignments a newspaper can offer. Random person-on-the-street interviews, sewage spills and a combination of the two known better as covering the annual Fourth of July fireworks. Added bonus: bombs exploding overhead!

For most of my twenties, as an ink-stained wretch of the local press, Independence Day to me meant hot, sweltering weather filled with gnats biting my ankles and ankle-biters running into my shins as I stumbled through darkened fields of half-bagged picnic trash and picnickers half in the bag. Then came the challenge of writing a story on deadline while avoiding yet another year of leading with the crowds cooing “oooh” and “aaah.”

Worst of all, it meant I was working while the rest of my friends and family were partying in the same crowd.

Most of those July Fourths as a reporter, 40

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Sparklers for Megan at the 2009 Binney Park Fireworks

blanket; others lit silver candelabras, sipped Chardonnay and nibbled pâté. We wore T-shirts and shorts; others sported pressed linen shorts and popped pastel Ralph Lauren collars. I kept waiting to be stampeded by polo horses. The New Canaan fireworks, as you’d expect, were incredible. Our daughter, Megan, age six at the time, loved them; our son, Calvin, then three, covered his ears and yowled and cried. Rhonda had to schlep him a mile back to the minivan less than two minutes into the show.

Wisely, Megan and I did fireworks alone the next summer. A brief rainstorm sprinkled our windshield almost all the way down to Cummings Park in Shippan, ensuring us an excellent parking space and a near empty beach from which to pick our viewing spot.

The skies soon cleared, and the crowds eventually joined us on the shore where we watched the sky be set ablaze while each of S us cooed “oooh” and “aaah.”

Kevin McKeever is a freelance writer and national award-winning newspaper columnist.

His work has appeared in publications and landfills worldwide.

You can reach him at kevin@writeonkevin.com.

PHOTOGRAPHS: McKEEVER BY ANDREW SULLIVAN; OTHERS CONTRIBUTED BY THE MCKEEVER FAMILY

Three generations of McKeevers at the 2014 Binney Park Fireworks: Grandpa Walter; sister, Denise Doria; Megan; Rhonda; and Calvin

as well as of my childhood, were spent just over the Stamford border at Old Greenwich’s Binney Park, a manicured thirty-two-acre green space created by, and named after, Crayola crayons inventor Edwin Binney.

The trees there are now much taller than decades ago when my parents would load me and my sister into the Ford Country Squire station wagon to see the rockets and their many-colored glares, but the view is still pretty fine, as are the surroundings. Especially since the town just last summer dredged the latest batch of muck out of waterway that runs through it.

While hauling our kids across the border is always an option, we don’t always abandon my hometown. Well, not completely.

Last July, some Stamford friends who live on a property adjacent to Darien’s Woodway Country Club invited us to cut through their back lot and onto a fairway to enjoy that “private show” that we had glimpsed many times over the years from the second floor of our own house a few miles west. Best part of seeing it up close? I collected a half dozen stray Titleist Pro-V1s…only to lose them again while playing at the Sterling Farms Golf Course later in the summer.

The most memorable local fireworks event for our family had to be the year we went to New Canaan and paid—paid!—to see the show among the beautiful people gathered in Waveny Park. I’m not being sarcastic. My wife, Rhonda, and I have never felt so outclassed at a function. We put out grocery-store chicken and a sixer on an old

3,724,558 VISITS FOR

BIRTH CONTROL IS PLANNED PARENTHOOD

S TAMFORD GET TO KNOW PLANNED PARENTHOOD WHERE YOUR VOICE GETS STRONGER

BY THE NUMBERS VOLUNTEERS@PPSNE.ORG PPSNE.ORG/DONATE

Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care 77 Third Street | AtriaStamford.com 204182

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

41

JOIN US FOR

The Hottest Party of the Summer!

THURSDAY

•

JULY 19 6:00-9:30

•

ADVANCE TICKETS

STAMFORD HILTON

ON SALE NOW–

VISIT: BESTOFGOLDCOASTCT.COM

2018

LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE!

Go to bestofgoldcoastct.com

GOLD SPONSOR

EXCLUSIVE WATER SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

}

BEHIND THE VELVET ROPE – VIP PRE-PARTY Limited Tickets Available – $100 (6 p.m.)

GENERAL ADMISSION $65 (7 p.m.)

BUSINESS SPONSORS

For Sponsorship Opportunities contact your sales representative or Laurinda Finelli – 203.571.1614 or laurinda.finelli@moffly.com

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to

SCENE Stealers

MILL RIVER COLLABORATIVE • PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/MELANI LUST

1

3

2

4

6

5

Perfect Storm 7

8 7

A

fter a long and rainy spring, the skies parted for more than 750 supporters of Mill River Park, who turned out for the annual Dinner on The Park, this year marking the opening of the Steven & Alexandra Cohen Fountain.

After cocktails and a silent auction al fresco, revelers made their way to the tent to enjoy a grand meal prepared

by Abigail Kirsch. An unexpected downpour did little to dampen the spirits of those in attendance, who raised their paddles, bid on high-priced auction items and celebrated honorees Barbara and Fabrizio Zichichi and Nestlé Waters North America. »

9

1 Andrew Whittingham 2 Chris Micka, Karen Kelly, Tom Rich 3 The crowd enjoying cocktails outside 4 Bruce Huffine, Pat and Bob Phillips, Elizabeth Huffine 5 Arnold and Lisa Karp, Betsey and Arthur Selkowitz 6 Jerry Murphy, Stewart Scharnberg, Kevin Golankiewicz, John Mahon 7 Gloria DePina, Frank and Lori Mercede 8 Barbara and Fabrizio Zichichi 9 Peter and Betsy Kempner, Dana and Carl Weinberg, Cynthia Blumenthal 10 Raasikh Muhammad Joseph, Katie DiLeo

( for more party pics visit stamfordmag.com )

10

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

43

SCENE

| M I L L R I V E R C O L L A B O R AT I V E

1

2

3

4

7

6

44

STAMFORDMAG.COM

8

1 Noah Lapine 2 Cheryl Palmer and Rey Giallongo 3 Auctioneer Lucas Hunt 4 Sharon White and Anthony Dillon 5 Congressman Jim and Mary Himes, Mayor David Martin 6 Dudley Williams, Arthur Selkowitz, Charles Broll, Senator Richard Blumenthal 7 Jed and Alana Selkowitz 8 Beautiful centerpieces »

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLYMEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/MELANI LUST

5

Join CONNECTICUT’S BEST ORGANIZED

RIDE!

Save Lives.

Build Healthier Futures.

Americares saves lives and improves health for people affected by poverty or disaster so they can reach their full potential.

SEPTEMBER 9, 2018

rideclosertofree.org

TRUSTS AND ESTATES

Is not just something we do; it is what we do.

WILLS AND TRUSTS WEALTH TRANSFER

Learn more about our work at americares.org

TAX PLANNING PHILANTHROPY

@americares

DAVIDSON, DAWSON & CLARK LLP COUNSELLORS AT LAW 60 East 42nd Street New York, NY 212-557-7700

18 Locust Avenue, 2nd Floor New Canaan, CT 203-966-8759

www.davidsondawson.com

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

45

SCENE

2

1

4

5

3

6

7

| | FA I R F I E L D C O U N T Y ’ S C O M M U N I T Y

Match Ready

T

8

1 Tricia Hyacinth, Lily Lopez 2 Ellen Komar, Maya Tichio 3 Chief Fire Marshall Charles Spaulding, Billie Jean King 4 Juanita James 5 Billie Jean King, Patricia Sachs 6 Kristy Jelenik, Christel Truglia 7 Marianne Pollak, Liz Lazarus 8 Kashaine Ferryman, a speaker at the event

46

STAMFORDMAG.COM

o help Fairfield County’s Community Foundation’s (FCCF) Fund for Women & Girls celebrate twenty years of community impact, tennis legend Billie Jean King joined FCCF President and CEO Juanita James for a keynote conversation that had close to 1,000 friends and supporters hanging on every word. As a courageous visionary and an inspirational champion for social justice and equality, King offered her wisdom from the past and advice for the future during this special annual luncheon at the Hyatt in Greenwich.

The event raised more than $700,000 that will benefit The Fund’s Family Economic Security Program at Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/MARILYN ROOS

F O U N D AT I O N ’ S F U N D F O R W O M E N & G I R L S | |

SCENE

2

1

6

4

3

PHOTOGRAPHS: 1-3 BY LEWIS FINKEL; 4-8 BY DENICE DUTRA-LAVERIS

| | S TA M F O R D P U B L I C E D U C AT I O N F O U N D AT I O N | |

School Masters

A

bout three hundred community members gathered at the Sheraton Stamford for Stamford Public Education Foundation’s (SPEF) annual Excellence in Education Awards. Ellie Kousidis, media specialist at Rippowam Middle School, was selected among nineteen nominees to receive this year’s Educator Award. Other honorees included Nancy Freedman and Near & Far Aid, who were recognized for their respective leadership and philanthropic support.

The cocktail reception also featured a silent auction and a beer and wine tasting, courtesy of Two Roads Brewing Company and Domaine Bousquet Winery. Proceeds benefit SPEFs educational initiatives, including its flagship Stamford Mentoring Program. »

5

7

1 Nominees Jonathan Ringel, Nancy Stanton, Erik Bieder, Sarah Arnold, Mina Bibeault, Anthony Pollicella, Dawn Greco, Desiree Ronaghan, Marisa Donch, Sandra Carlton, Michael Argenio, Katelyn Tavolacci, Ellie Kousidis, Kyle Beach, Brooke Pelli, Sarah Lane, Jodi Flom Nathanson, Louise McMinn 2 Earl Kim, Nancy Freedman 3 Barbara Aronica-Buck, Lynn Tusa, Matt Quinones 4 Sidney Watson, Matthew Laskowski 5 Regan Downey, Kadasha Lomax 6 Marc Jaffee, Tamu Lucero 7 Kim Meier, Nicola Tarzia 8 Joyce DiCamillo, Gina Wilson, Gloria Sinaguglia

8

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

47

SCENE

1

2

4

3

5

| | P L A N N E D PA R E N T H O O D | |

Plan Ahead

6

7

8

48

STAMFORDMAG.COM

1 Congressman Jim Himes, Mary Himes 2 Hilary Watson, Karen Mewhra, Eunice Burnett, Nicole Heath 3 Helen Bingaman, Rev. Stephanie Johnson 4 David Rosmarin, Tom Athan, Matt Buchsbaum, David Leibowits 5 Kim-Marie Evans, Jim Himes, Keri Cameron 6 Marjori Black, Nancie Schwarzman, Karen Ross 7 Kate Murray, Amanda Skinner 8 Cochairs Sheila Mossman, Danielle Eason, Donna Moffly, Erica Buchsbaum, Diane McEnroe

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MOFFLY MEDIA’S BIG PICTURE/ BOB CAPAZZO

I

t was a memorable afternoon for the 550 attendees of the annual Spring Luncheon to benefit Planned Parenthood of Southern New England (PPSNE).

Held at the Stamford Marriott, it drew people from all across Fairfield County in support of reproductive health. Comedian Jane Condon kept things rolling as Congressman Jim and Mary Himes received the 2018 Community Impact Award; Ali Walensky, a young breast cancer survivor, updated her story about how Planned Parenthood saved her life; and speaker Faye Wattleton, the youngest and first African American woman to head the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (1978 to 1992), got a standing ovation. The luncheon raised over $606,000 for PPSNE, which serves 72,000 patients across Connecticut and Rhode Island. Âť

PRO-AM TENNIS TOURNAMENT Cocktail and Hors d’oeuvre Reception To benefit the Stamford Youth Tennis Academy

The Stanwich Club

Taking a Look Inside Westy...

888 North Street Greenwich Friday, July 20th 5:30PM-8:00PM

For more information and to purchase tickets please visit StamfordYouthTennisAcademy.com

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

49

SCENE

1

2

3 1 Pamela McKoin, Joanne Berger-Sweeney, Cici Holloway 2 Joshua Terry, Carl Jean-Pierre 3 Olivia Craig, Gianfranco Fajardo 4 Adell Vann, Luis Orozco, Leah Attai, Ayna Ramseur-Moore 5 Tiffany Burnette, Trish Davies 6 Lauren Walsh, Toni Subramaniam, Lauren O’Shaughnessy, Liz Roddy, Heather Mosley 7 Kim Augustine, Tracy Grossman, Mary Jeffery 8 Pepper Anderson, Patty Murphy 4

| | REACH PREP | |

High Honors 5

6

7

50

STAMFORDMAG.COM

8

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ELAINE AND CHI CHI UBIÑA/FAIRFIELD COUNTY LOOK

R

EACH Prep, the Stamford-based nonprofit that provides access to transformative educational experiences that empower underserved, highachieving students to graduate from top colleges, hosted its annual Benefit Luncheon at the Hyatt Regency Greenwich. The event brought together guests from Fairfield and Westchester counties to celebrate the achievements of REACH Prep Scholars and the independent schools they attend.

Speakers included Joanne Berger-Sweeney, Trinity College president and professor of neuroscience; Jaimie Lopez, a senior at King School; and Olivia Craig, a seventh grader at Rye Country Day School.

The luncheon raised more than $325,000 to support programming for the Scholars program, which includes the fifteen-month Prep Academy, individualized middle-school and high-school support and college guidance. »

WHAT’S IN YOUR YARD?

DREW KLOTZ

KINETIC SCULPTURE DREWKLOTZ.COM

203 221 0563

SCENE

1

2

3

4

1 Nalini Goolsarran, Gail Goldberg, Gabriela Katze, Margie Benefico, Brian Yomtov 2 Sandy Goldstein, Alice Knapp 3 Eileen Swerdlick and Ellen Bromley 4 Sue Duarte, Gina Frederick 5 Harriette Ketover, Linda Hampton,Leah Baker

5

| | FERGUSON LIBRARY | |

By the Book

T

he Ferguson Library recently hosted its annual Novel Affair benefit, raising about $240,000 for programs at the library’s four branches. Drawing more than 400 supporters, the popular foodie gathering, which included tastings served by area restaurants and caterers, including Amore, David’s Catering, Del Frisco’s Grille, Eventi Café, F.I.S.H., Flinder’s Lane, Harper House Creations, Hudson Grille, Villa Italia and Zach’s Culinary Art, set an attendance record.

Among the evening’s highlights was the presentation of The Ferguson Award to Stamford Downtown President Sandy Goldstein.

52

STAMFORDMAG.COM

SCENE

2

3

4

5

7

8

1

6

| | S TA M F O R D H I S T O R Y C E N T E R | |

On Fire PHOTOGRAPHS BY BERNIE WEISS

A

s part of the Stamford History Center’s (SHC) ongoing recognition of the history of the city’s firefighting companies, nearly 200 community members gathered for Honoring Stamford’s Firefighting Heroes benefit dinner, a celebration of Stamford firefighters and their traditions. The event coincided with SHC’s continuing exhibit, “Stamford on Fire”, which tells of the origins and development of the Stamford Fire Department and Volunteer Fire Stations. Mayor David Martin, Stamford Fire Chief Trevor Roach and former State Representative Christel Truglia attended. »

1 Catherine and Bill Wood 2 Captain Philip Hayes, Colleen Hayes, Chief Trevor Roach 3 Mark Diamond, Cynthia Reeder, Steve Kamen 4 Bonnie and Wayne Costanza, Reema Odeh 5 Jeff Pardo, Ron Marcus 6 Mabel and John Lockwood, Chelsea Romanello 7 Thomas Zoubek, Camille Spaulding, Chief Fire Marshal Charles Spaulding 8 Victor Gillespe, Sharon Tappe, Victor Rella 9 Joe Lucio, Karen Chavez

9

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

53

SCENE

1

2

4

3

5

6

| | B OYS & G I R L S C LU B O F STA M F O R D | |

Stage Craft 8

7

9

54

STAMFORDMAG.COM

1 Gayle and Geoff Allswanger 2 Lauren and Bruce Moore Jr., Cheryl and Bruce Moore Sr., Kimberly Kolman 3 Eve and Seth Lapine 4 Neil Frieser, Polly O’Brien Morrow, Mike Cotela, Richard Upton 5 Kristin, Bob and Kaitlyn Morrow 6 Ginny and Jeff Landle 7 Rachel Montoya, Elvira Arias, Sam Fuller 8 Jasmine Garcia, GodDieu Royal and BGCS 2018 Youth of the Year Shyann Taylor 9 Steve and Tracey Burke, Jessica and Brian Carroll, Ailis and Ken Martin

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MINUSH KRASNIQI

A

sold-out crowd of 350 supporters of the Boys & Girls Club of Stamford (BGCS) made its way to the Palace Theatre stage for the annual City Chic fundraising gala, where Polly O’Brien Morrow, vice president of The Pitney Bowes Foundation, was honored with the Guardian of the Community Award. Bruce T. Moore Sr., president and founder of Eastern Land Management, received the Lifetime Achievement Award while Peter S. Duncan, president and CEO of George Comfort & Sons, received the Corporate Partnership Award on behalf of his firm.

About $375,000 was raised at this year’s gala, which also featured live and silent auctions, light bites by David’s Soundview Catering, and a performance by the BGCS Drill Team. S

MOFFLY MEDIA’S

2018

Event Lineup Mark your calendars!

SPRING • SUMMER

2018

July 19 Hilton Stamford

August 6 Delamar Greenwich Harbor Greenwich

FALL • WINTER

Darien’s

B E ST B A RTE N D E R

2018

CONTEST

Presented by NEW CANAAN-DARIEN+ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

September 12 Palace Theatre Stamford

September 27 Nielsen’s Florist & Garden Shop Darien

November 29 Stamford

7TH ANNUAL

For more information and sponsorships please contact Laurinda Finelli at 203.571.1614 Want to see party pics, videos and more details about the 2018 events? Go to ilovefc.com/events

2018

WINNERS

Our annual readers’ poll reveals the top votes for restaurants, bars, fashion boutiques, salons, gyms and more across Fairfield County.

Turn the page to see the winners in more than 175 categories!

HOW TO USE THE GOLD COAST GUIDE GOLD COAST WINNERS The businesses at the top of each write-up have the most votes in the category across all of Fairfield County.

TOWN WINNERS These winners, grouped at the end of the write-ups, are located in the towns that are covered

by Moffly Media magazines, unless otherwise noted.

For a listing of Stamford ONLY winners, go to pg. 98. by diane sembrot

MULTIPLE WINNERS A business that wins more than one Gold Coast category has a write-up for each win if the town winners (grouped at the end of each write-up) are not the same.

• FASHION

• HOME

• GLOBAL CUISINE

• JEWELRY

• FITNESS

• DRINK

• BEAUTY

• ENTERTAINMENT

• GOURMET FOOD

• BRIDAL

• FAMILY LIFE

• SWEETS

LIVING & HOME

• CASUAL EATS

STYLE & BEAUTY

Which places won the most votes in the towns that Moffly Media magazines cover?

Pick a color…

• CUISINE

FOOD & DRINK

FIND YOUR HOMETOWN WINNERS!

PAGES 58-71

PAGES 72-83

PAGES 84-97

G Greenwich RED

S Stamford ORANGE

N New Canaan Darien & Rowayton GREEN

W Westport, Weston & Wilton BLUE

F Fairfield Living PURPLE

FOOD & DRINK THE SPREAD/ GOLD COAST WINNER FOR NEW RESTAURANT Ever since The Spread owners Drey Cortes, Chris Hickey, Shawn Longyear, Carlos Baez and Chris Rasile opened their doors in Greenwich, it’s been a packed house. And with good reason.

There’s nothing on the menu that disappoints.

(The short ribs pictured here are one of our all-time favorites.) We asked Executive Chef CARLOS BAEZ what he’s going to tempt us with next. “Hamachi Crudo is a new menu item that I’ve been trying to create, and I have finally figured out the right balance of ingredients.

It’s amazing and we can’t wait for people to try it.” left Grass-fed short ribs with baby spinach, bonito broth, garlic chili oil, shaved shiitake mushrooms

BOTH PHOTOS BY JULIE BIDWELL

2018

washi

2018

GOLD COAST WINNERS ON: WHAT’S NEW GREENWICH MAGAZINE

UPPER CRUST BY JULIE BIDWELL: PRIME AND WASHINGTON PRIME BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; WHELK BY ANTHONY KOSTELIS; BADSONS, CONTRIBUTED

UPPER CRUST BAGEL COMPANY

STAMFORD MAGAZINE

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

PRIME

WASHINGTON PRIME

THE WHELK

For nearly twentyfour years the Upper Crust team has been satisfying our craving for the perfect bagel.

(The shop has sold well over a million of them!) And yet, as much as we may like to, man can’t live on bagels alone.

“To round out our menu offerings we’ve introduced Upper Crust Lite. The menu includes gluten-free, dairy-free and raw vegan items,” says owner Rob Guerrieri.

“The most popular are Paleo Egg White Salad, Southwest Quinoa Salad, Spa Chicken Salad, Raw Taco Salad, Tuna Collard Wrap and the Hummus Collard Wrap.”

There’s so much to love about Prime, especially this time of year. There’s the elegant décor, the impeccable service, the scenic harbor views and delectable menu offerings that include juicy steaks and mouthwatering seafood. “We’ve recently introduced dry-aged Wagu beef to the menu, served with a truffle-soy emulsion,” says Executive Chef Julio Genao, who likens the dish to a “meltin-your-mouth flavor experience.” Also new to this location is the renovated Cabana Bar, where guests can enjoy the balmy sea air to live music, light snacks and new cocktail specials.

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Bagels

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Service

Yes, happiness can be bought. In fact, you can get a deal, such as 50 percent off drinks, apps and raw bar between 4 to 6 p.m. at this stylish SoNo spot— so close to New Canaan, Darien and Rowayton. Come in for the cocktails, then stay for the swoonworthy and satisfying steaks and seafood, including fresh clams (below). “We shift our menus in the summer to be more seafood-heavy,” says owner Rob Moss.

“The standout dish is always our Giant Brazilian Lobster Tail—two pounds of meat served lazy style with clarified garlic butter. It can be shared by the table or tackled alone.”

When the Whelk opened, it was a major part of the revitalization of the Saugatuck neighborhood in Westport. It too overhauled our expectations of a seafood menu.

Take, for example, its Soft Shell Crab Tempura with Ramps and Jalapeño Mayo (below). “The Whelk’s menu exemplifies a seasonally simplistic and organic approach to seafood,” says owner/ Chef Bill Taibe.

The restaurant’s upscale feel, enviable water views and commitment to sustainable seafood and local produce set the stage for its commitment to always try new things.

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Happy Hour

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Creative Menu

FAIRFIELD LIVING MAGAZINE LOCAL KITCHEN AND CRAFT BEER BAR A hot summer’s day and an icecold beer in hand is a match made in heaven—maybe not Shakespearean romance, but irresistible nonetheless. So locals head to Local Kitchen and Craft Beer Bar for plenty of options from local brewers or simply appeal to local pride. “We have always tried to support the growing local craft beer market by carrying their products,” says restaurant owner William da Silva.

“One of the newest local craft breweries is from BadSons of Derby [below] and has been selling like crazy at Local Kitchen.”

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Beer Selection

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

59

2018

CUISINE

55 WINE BAR & WOOD GRILLE / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR WINE LIST ON…A NEW WINE OFFERING “We are thrilled and honored to be given the Best of the Gold Coast’s Best Wine List award this year,” says co-owner Kleber Siguenza. “Over the summer we will be introducing several new rosé wines, but one in particular that we can’t wait for customers to try is the Band of Roses. This award-winning wine is very fresh and vibrant, with notes of lilac, guava and passion fruit, which is sure to make it the silky and fruity drink of the summer.” Try it during one of the fun events, such as live music every Wednesday, DJs on Friday and Saturday, and jazz during Sunday brunch.

The Spread That old saying about too many chefs doesn’t translate to restaurateurs—at least not at The Spread. Longtime friends Chris Rasile (who grew up in Greenwich), Chris Hickey, Shawn Longyear, Drey Cortes and Chef Carlos Baez opened the first location in SoNo and are now winning over Greenwich. It boasts a rustic-chic vibe with its exposed ceiling and food served on mismatched china.

And it works, because the place is often packed with hungry diners and happy cocktailers. You might find yourself hanging out at the seventy-foot bar. Cheers, because the juices for the cocktails are

60

STAMFORDMAG.COM

pressed in-house daily. Savor Beverage Director Sean Nye’s The Amelia, with vodka, St. Germain, lemon-blackberry cordial and mint—snappy. Then dig into the shareable small, medium and large plates with classic favorites, like shaved foie gras, and totally unexpected takes and weekly specials, such as tomato tartare and scallop crudo with green strawberries. (See also “Weekend Brunch.”)

18 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1887 | 70 N. Main St., South Norwalk, 203-939-1111 thespreadrestaurants.com

TOWN WINNERS The Spread Flinders Lane Knot Norm’s Catering Co.

Match Burger Lobster Revolucion

Tequila

WINE LIST

55 Wine Bar & Wood Grille From “age is just a number” to “the 7:27 now arriving on Track 3,” numbers matter. Take for example, Fairfield’s 55 Wine Bar & Wood Grille. The perfect temperature for wine is 55 degrees, so the perfect location for a wine bar is, of course, No. 55 Miller Street. Coincidence?

We think not. The owners, the Siguenza family, know exactly what they’re doing. If the 55 thing doesn’t prove it to you, then tap into your inner wine critic as you

review their wine list. Whether a Chardonnay from California or a red from Italy, the glass can never seem full enough. Seconds, please!

55 Miller St., Fairfield, 203-955-1178 55winebar.com

TOWN WINNERS l’escale Bar Rosso Barcelona (Norwalk) Tarantino Restaurant & Bar 55 Wine Bar & Wood Grille

STEAK

The Capital Grille There are certain foods that we humans simply crave unapologetically. And steak is at the top of the list. So when you’re in the mood for a perfectly prepared

55 WINE BAR BY JULIE BIDWELL; HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED

NEW RESTAURANT

filet mignon or New York strip, it had better be perfect. Our readers follow the discriminating herd to The Capital Grille. Here, they know they’ve met like-minded steak aficionados, from the in-house butchers to the servers who know how to soothe “hangry” guests.

Take the edge off with a cocktail and a few starters, knowing the entree will satisfy. There are locations across the country, but The Capital Grille somehow feels like the capital of Stamford.

230 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203967-0000 thecapitalgrille.com

TOWN WINNERS Blackstone’s Steakhouse Washington The Capital Grille Prime (SoNo) Jesup Hall Blackstone’s Steakhouse

TAPAS MENU

Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar When that certain notion comes to mind—tapas!—our readers instantly think of Barcelona. With multiple locations across the county (OK, and, yes, in multiple states), this restaurant and wine bar requires coordinating at which one to meet your friends. Then don’t worry about decisions, because, really, isn’t there enough to stress about in Fairfield County without having to decide on what to eat? Just order a bunch of small plates and share freely.

You’ll find plenty to like, including potato tortilla, truffle bikini, queso a la plancha, blistered shishito peppers—and plenty of new friends to add to your crowd. (See also “Wine Bar” and “Girls Night Out.”) 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-2550800 barcelonawinebar.com

TOWN WINNERS Douro Restaurant & Bar Barcelona bartaco

SEAFOOD

The Whelk One might be tempted to accuse Chef Bill Taibe of being obsessed with food. But maybe he actually has a taste for gold? After all, year after year, he brings home the gold from our foodie readers. His seafood restaurant, The Whelk, has been a hit since day one. Part of it goes

to the perfect location along the river. Also, its design is comfortable and fresh; the staff is friendly and knowledgeable; and the food never misses. Try Seafood Stew with fregula, calabrian chilies and garlic, or Head-on Prawns with paprika butter toast and onion escabeche.

Seems like Taibe just drops a line in the water and comes up with a winner. (See also “Creative Menu.”)

575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203557-0902 thewhelkwestport.com

575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203557-0902 thewhelkwestport.com

Delicious food, sophisticated cocktails and a relaxing atmosphere, Prime–An American Kitchen and Bar, knows what diners crave. More to the point, people want steak and seafood prepared perfectly, as well as being treated well. At Prime, from the cocktail napkin to the final bite and dabbing the corner of your upturned lips with a crisp white dinner napkin, things are smooth sailing. Not a surprise; this place has a sister restaurant across the Sound in Huntington, which you’d swear you could see from the restaurant’s wall of glass.

Enjoy the water views—that is, if you can tear your eyes away from the illuminated glass wine room (with over 750 labels that are chilled to the perfect temperature), raw bar, sushi and USDA Prime 21-day dryaged beef. Sit along the deck with cocktails from the cabana bar—and expect snappy service with a smile.

TOWN WINNERS Elm Street Oyster House The Restaurant at F.I.S.H. Rowayton Seafood The Whelk

SPECIAL OCCASION/DATE NIGHT

Artisan Southport Not a master of romance? No worries, because Artisan at Delamar has everything that’s needed to create a little magic: a beautiful location that feels secluded, upscale and serene décor, polite staff and fine French cuisine that always delights the senses. Consider, for example, the preserved lemon risotto, English peas, corn, grilled radicchio, bacon gastrique or the simply excellent Stonington jumbo sea scallops. You can’t help but make a good impression, whether it’s a first date or a golden anniversary. (See also “Hotel Restaurant” and “American.”)

275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203307-4222 artisansouthport.com

TOWN WINNERS Homestead Inn Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar Match (SoNo) Artisan The Whelk Southport

CREATIVE MENU

The Whelk Ever look in a completely full refrigerator and see absolutely nothing to make for dinner? While a common trick of the eyes to some of us, this phenomena has, seemingly, never happened to culinary geniuses at The Whelk. From bitter greens with kohlrabi, green tomato, anchovy and soft egg to brook trout with porky lentils, kale and salsa verde, you’ll see a menu flush with creative dishes. You’ll ask yourself, Why didn’t I think of that? If it’s all a bit too much and you can’t decide, try the raw bar—pure and simple New England slurpy goodness. (See also “Seafood.”)

TOWN WINNERS Le Fat Poodle Harlan Social The Spread The Whelk Flipside Burgers & Bar

BEST SERVICE

Prime Restaurant

78 Southfield Ave., Stamford, 203817-0700 restaurantprime.com

TOWN WINNERS The Waters l’escale Prime Edge at Giovanni’s (Darien) The Whelk Flipside Burgers & Bar

OUTDOOR DINING

bartaco Some combos are made in heaven, like beer and fish tacos or blue and white checks or outdoor water views and dining. Hold up! Our readers figured it out: bartaco is the place for a fun night out— especially on a warm summer day or night, when you can enjoy dining along the river. Order a round of margaritas with gauc and chips and an assortment of creative tacos.

Claim your space on the patio. It’s going to be a moment for summer memories with the perfect combo: bar and taco. (See also “Restaurant Bar” and “Margaritas.”)

20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-2228226 | 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226 bartaco.com

TOWN WINNERS l’escale

Crab Shell

Sunset

Grille bartaco Southport

Artisan

HOTEL RESTAURANT

Artisan Southport The Delamar’s forty-four guest rooms and suites, with handcrafted furniture and plush terry robes, feel like home (without the Legos underfoot). Everything’s just beautifully designed—a world of comfort. Plus, you’re only steps away from meals at Artisan.

Whether you’re putting guests up in the hotel or just meeting friends in the upscale “tavern,” trust that Artisan watches the big picture and every detail. Stop by the patio with outdoor bar to meet local fans who treat it like a home away from home.

(See also “Special Occasion/Date Night” and “American.”)

275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203307-4222 artisansouthport.com

TOWN WINNERS l’escale Stamford Mariott Hotel & Spa Roger Sherman Inn Artisan Pearl at Longshore Southport

WEEKEND BRUNCH

The Spread Looking to ward off the Sunday Blues? Make your weekend last longer: Go to brunch. It’s like stopping the clock. The Spread is a delicious break from the daily grind.

Consider the Alaskan Benny with poached egg, smoked salmon and hollandaise on an English muffin or a crepe with Nutella, bananas, walnuts and cream cheese. Whether you’re easing into a new work week or recovering from a toolate Saturday night, here’s some timeless advice: Take it easy like Sunday morning, but with good food. (See also “New Restaurant.”)

18 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1887 | 70 N. Main St., South Norwalk, 203-939-1111 thespreadsono.com

TOWN WINNERS The Spread Elm Street Diner Terrain Garden Café The Chelsea

VEGETARIAN / HEALTH FOOD

The Lime Restaurant Being vegetarian doesn’t make you a fussy eater, despite all the jokes to the contrary. It just means you don’t eat certain foods, not

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

61

that you don’t enjoy well-prepared dishes. The Lime Restaurant gets it. Its menu has plenty of vegetarian options, including zucchini loaf with carrots, sesame and sunflower seeds, cheese and tahini and black bean burritos. But bring your steak and tuna eating pals, because this place appeals to anyone who enjoys good food, not fussiness.

168 Main St., Norwalk, 203-8469240 limerestaurant.com

TOWN WINNERS Green & Tonic Tabouli Grill The Lime Restaurant (Norwalk) b.good Organic Market

ITALIAN

Café Silvium The country that bestowed the world with Sophia Lauren and Luciano Pavarotti generously continued to give with fresh pasta, fresh mozzarella and fresh bruschetta. When it comes to Italian, it’s all fresh and it’s all loved around the world. Our voters chose Café Silvium, a trattoria in the southern Italian tradition, to indulge in the culinary delights. With Sophia, we’d choose the Cavatelli con Cime di Rape, and with Luciano, we would have tried the Branzino

Mediterraneo. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, veal, fish, beef, chicken or maybe even wild boar, you’ll be transported and charmed by the serious dishes here.

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

TOWN WINNERS Water’s Polpo Café Silvium Edge at Giovanni’s (Darien) Bianco Rosso (Wilton) Brick + Wood

AMERICAN

Artisan Southport Artisan’s partner and Executive

Chef Frederic Kieffer is from France. Director of Operations Hicham Amaaou comes from Morocco. Its general manager, Nani Crespo, hails from Venezuela. David Aguirre, the chef de cuisine, came here from Guatemala, and the pastry chef, Reka Csernus, from Hungary. Could there be anything more American than global? Its elegant American cuisine comes to the table as grilled Vermont Cavendish quail with grits cake, grapes and verjus glaze or Chicken Liver Mousse with grilled bread and pickled cherries. Our voters consider it the best American. (See also “Special Occasion/Date Night” and “Hotel Restaurant.”)

275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203307-4222 artisansouthport.com

TOWN WINNERS Little Pub The Capital Grille Gates Restaurant & Bar The Cottage Artisan at Delamar

ASIAN FUSION

Kawa Ni

2018

Not sure what you’re craving, but it’s along the lines of Szechuan or dumplings? Great, get your passport stamped at Kawa Ni, which not only has Szechuan pork dumplings with barrel-aged ponzu and garlic hot oil (zing!) but also some serious Kani crab salad with mango, cucumber and tobiko (a flying fish roe, because what else can you do when that craving hits). Our Best Of voters find lots of reasons to enjoy this creative local powerhouse that turns out authentic and irresistible dishes.

(See also “Japanese.”)

GLOBAL CUISINE

19A Bridge Sq., Westport, 203-5578775 kawaniwestport.com

TOWN WINNERS Asiana Café Asiana Bistro Mecha Noodle Bar (SoNo) Wild Rice Kawa Ni

FRENCH

Crowds line up to score a table at this Stamford landmark.

Co-owner Nick Petrafesa says one reason patrons keep returning is he and his brother, Vincenzo, are committed to culinary tradition.

“We pride ourselves on our pastas and mozzarella, which are made in-house,” he says. “From classics like veal parmigiana to fresh seafood and game—rabbit, wild boar and lamb—our dishes are inspired by the flavors of our hometown in southern Italy.” Be sure to check out the wine list for a tasting of the real thing.

62

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Le Penguin We’ve never been able to master the French accent, but, not to worry, we speak French cuisine fluently. And you know what sounds really good right now? Escargots de Bourgogne or maybe Pâté de Campagne Alsachen, or, since we’re getting hungry, Calamars à la Provençale with just the right amount of garlic and lemon juice.

Le Penguin sets the mood with such

CONTRIBUTED

CAFÉ SILVIUM / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR ITALIAN CUISINE ON… MAKING CUSTOMERS HAPPY

menu choices, a fresh and vibrant atmosphere, and the friendly welcome of a bon vivant. Of course, we’re also not opposed to a glass of Champagne—frankly, that’s speaking our language.

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

TOWN WINNERS Le Penguin Volta Gelateria Creperia Roger Sherman Inn Martel Bistro & Bar

JAPANESE

Kawa Ni It’s a first date, and you’re not sure it’s going to work out? Consider a bite at Kawa Ni, an Izakaya-inspired restaurant. The communal tables and bar seat only fifty, so that takes some pressure off. It’s easy to talk and you can bond over exotic menu options, such as Peekytoe crab rangoon with ginger-carrot dressing, pork belly bahn mi or barbeque eel with celeriac and black garlic. It’s a culinary adventure in a petite package, with the restaurant tucked away in a corner of Westport.

If the date doesn’t go well, it’s a quick sayonara and home in fifteen minutes flat; otherwise, stay for some sake tasting. Kanpai! (See also “Asian Fusion.”)

19A Bridge Sq., Westport, 203-5578775 kawaniwestport.com

TOWN WINNERS Kira Sushi Kiku Sushi Kazu Sushi Japanese Cuisine Bar & Japanese Restaurant (SoNo) Fin Japanese Kawa Ni Restaurant

SUSHI

Fin Japanese Restaurant It’s no little thing, getting Gold Coasters to choose you for best sushi. The bite-sized treats are carefully created to look good and make the most of flavors and textures. Fin offers an extensive menu of sushi and sashimi choices a la carte. Whatever you have in mind—scallop, squid, eel, salmon, tuna—this Japanese restaurant has it. If you’re ready for a taste explosion, try one of the rolls. Take, for example, the Tiger Roll, with shrimp tempura, spicy salmon, cucumber and avocado wrapped in white seaweed. We’re so hooked.

1241 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-2556788 fin-sushi.com

TOWN WINNERS Kira Sushi Kiku Sushi Kazu Sushi Japanese Cuisine Bar & Japanese Restaurant (SoNo) Pink Sumo Sushi & Sake Café Fin Japanese Restaurant

MEXICAN/LATIN FUSION

Bodega Taco Bar If it comes with avocado, lime and a beer, chances are we’re going to like it. But if it happens to be tacos from Bodega Taco Bar, we’re sure to love it. The Argentino comes with hanger steak, charred onions and sala de chili de arbol, while the Calexico has fried avocado, refried beans and queso. Beyond tacos, consider chicken enchiladas or a pulled pork torta with serrano crema, Swiss and chili-cured pickles. It’s all good, right down to the brilliant margarita cheesecake.

980 Post Rd., Darien, 203-6558500 | 1700 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9590 bodegatacobar.com

TOWN WINNERS Boxcar Cantina Brasitas Valencia Luncheria (Norwalk) Bodega Taco Bar bartaco

SPANISH

Valencia Luncheria “Come as you are” means, “Sure, wear jeans,” but it doesn’t mean you have to check your discriminating palate at the door. At Valencia Luncheria, diners don’t have to choose between being comfortable and enjoying a plate packed with culinary delights, such as a Venezuelan handmade corn cake with spinach, bacon, onion and queso (or your choice of filling) or an empanada stuffed with chorizo and pepper. Come hungry, because no one stops at the ceviche. There’s a world of robust flavors from which to choose, right down to the arroz con leche.

164 Main St., Norwalk, 203846-8009 see all locations at valencialuncheria.com

TOWN WINNERS Barcelona Valencia Luncheria (Norwalk)

INDIAN

Coromandel Cuisine of India

American food doesn’t stop at meat and potatoes. And, in the same regard, Indian food goes far beyond Chicken Tikka Masala.

Coromandel Cuisine of India has an eye-opening number of menu options, so whether your tastes tend to seafood and chicken or lamb and beef, or maybe vegetarian, you’ll find something to like. There are also regional specialties, such as Navratan Korma and Beef Coconut Fry. With all of the options in preparation, not to mention mix of spices, seeds, herbs and sauces, you might need help making up your mind. Just ask for recommendations.

68 Broad St., Stamford, 203-9641010 | 25 Old Kings Highway N., Darien, 203-662-1213 | 17 Pease Ave., Southport, 203-259-1213 see other locations at coromandelcuisine.com

TOWN WINNERS Mumbai Times Coromandel (Stamford, Darien) Bangalore

CHINESE

The Little Kitchen Our Best Of voters know that The Little Kitchen is not so little and not a kitchen—it’s a large and handsome restaurant in the center of town. It started off small and humble, but has since become unrecognizably cool on the other side of the décor spectrum. The menu includes all of your longtime favorites, yet also elevated. It’s soothing to enjoy your chicken Lo Mein, Thai grilled shrimp or Mongolian beef with green onion, cauliflower and chilies in the glitzy black-and-red dining room, but you can still get take-away.

423 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-4545524 littlekitchenwestport.com

TOWN WINNERS Tengda Asian Bistro Ching’s Table Bistro Kitchen Wild Rice

Asiana The Little

THAI

Rainbow Thai Thai food is just one of those things—when you want Thai, nothing else will do. And that means the Thai food you choose had better be good. Head to Rainbow Thai, because the food is good and there are so many options. There’s simply no way not to find the dish—be it Duck Choo Chee or Peanut Shrimp Curry—to hit the spot. The mix of

curries, coconut, mango and other traditional ingredients are prepared in fascinating variety. There’s no end to it, but we’ll chase it like the end of the rainbow.

5 Bridge Sq., Westport, 203-5579000 | 57 Unquowa Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-3933 rainbowthaict.com

TOWN WINNERS Little Thai Kitchen (Greenwich, Darien) Little Buddha Rainbow Thai Lucky Thai Kitchen

GREEK

EOS Greek Cuisine Our readers just need to buy a ticket and fly off to Greece. After all, year after year, they vote EOS Greek Cuisine as the best in the county.

The restaurant serves dishes of lamb, octopus, sea bass, chargrilled chicken, salmon and steak that are as authentic as you can get outside of the country set between the Aegean and Ionian seas. Speaking of the sea, consider adding grilled octopus to your salad or ordering the branzino with olive oil, lemon, oregano and sea salt. If you happen to be a Greek cuisine newbie, this is a great place to try moussaka or a gyro pita—a world away from the options that you may be used to.

490 Summer St., Stamford, 203569-6250 eosgreekcuisine.com

TOWN WINNERS Famous Greek Kitchen EOS Meditarraneo Greek Cuisine (Norwalk) Layla’s Falafel

MEDITERRANEAN

Layla’s Falafel Owned and run by Dino and Layla Sakakini, Layla’s Falafel offers shawafal, kabob and falafel, prepared following generationsold family recipes. Over time, try the whole menu. Return again and again for the hummus, tabbouleh and grape leaves, but also discover the grilled lamb and chicken. Come as you are. No need to expect white tablecloth service, just a happy tummy.

926 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203461-8004 | 245 Main St., Stamford, 203-316-9041 | 1535 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-955-1583 | 2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-3840100 laylasfalafel.com

TOWN WINNERS Mediterraneo (Greenwich, Norwalk) Layla’s Falafel

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

63

2018

DRINK

BARTACO / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR RESTAURANT BAR ON…THE BEST DRINK TO GO WITH TACOS “The margarita is our signature drink,” says Gretchen Thomas, wine and spirits director. “We even custom made our tequila to be perfectly blended for our recipe—I really like margaritas that use both blanco and reposado. We also use extremely good orange liqueur and squeezed-to-order lime juice. Our margarita is dry, crisp, mouthwatering and refreshing—with some spice and a hint of agave aromas in the scent. It’s great paired with our entire taco line-up—the flavors in our food are so bold, they need a high-energy cocktail to keep up.”

bartaco Do we like bartaco more for its restaurant or for its bar? Ha, trick question: We love both. The white-washed walls, blue-andwhite-shirted servers, plentiful tacos, refreshing tequila, the views (a.k.a. people-watching)—it’s all just so snappy and fun. And that is exactly what one wants when heading out for summertime bites and sips. Before you fill up on food, though, do try the creative and fresh margaritas. (See also “Outdoor Dining” and “Margaritas.”)

222 Summer St., Stamford, 203323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226 bartaco.com

64

STAMFORDMAG.COM

TOWN WINNERS l’escale Barcelona Washington Prime (SoNo) Flipside Burgers & Bar bartaco

PUB

Little Pub Little Pub has a quaint, historic tavern feel that puts people at ease.

They offer riotously large portions of soon-to-be-your-new favorite fare, such as the Jamburger with roasted garlic, cream cheese, jalapeños and bacon jam; The Ships seafood bisque with langoustines, shrimp and clams in a creamy sherry bisque; and moo shu pork tacos with shredded pork, orange-ginger BBQ sauce, green

onion–Thai peanut slaw, wasabi aioli in a soft flour tortilla. A pub’s purpose is about good food and drink at its heart, but when it’s a favorite gathering place in the neighborhood—that’s gold.

531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 59 Ethan Allen Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-5449222 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 littlepub.com

TOWN WINNERS Pub

Little Pub Tigín Irish O’Neill’s Pub (SoNo)

WINE BAR

Barcelona Restaurant

& Wine Bar With nearly 400 wines on the wine list at Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar, one has to wonder how much wine Fairfield County is drinking. You need something to wash down the tapas shaped

by Mediterranean, Spanish, and South American influences, right?

Barcelona has plenty of options from around the world to suit even true aficionados; its collection is one of the largest wine programs in the country, serving some forty by the glass. (See also “Tapas Menu” and “Girls Night Out.”) 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-

TACOS BY TOM MCGOVERN; DRINKS BY BRUCE PLOTKIN

RESTAURANT BAR

SEPTEMBER 15−16, 2018 SANDANONA SHOOTING GROUNDS Millbrook, New York

orvis.com/gamefair

255-0800 barcelonawinebar.com

TOWN WINNERS Harvest Wine Bar Barcelona TIED Harvest Wine Bar and Rizzuto’s Restaurant and Bar 55 Wine Bar & Wood Grille

HAPPY HOUR

Washington Prime The workday whistle sounds and it’s time to kick back. Shrug off the office stress with the time-honored happy hour. Think of your best friends and group-text plans to head to Washington Prime, where you all can happily consider the lengthy list of the wine, beer and cocktail options. Nothing says the workday is behind you like wetting your whistle with a Barrel Aged Manhattan.

141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314 | 19 Main St., Georgetown, 203-587-1488 washingtonprimect.com

TOWN WINNERS J House Sign of the Whale Washington Prime The Whelk Flipside Burgers & Bar

SINGLES SCENE UNDER 35

Sign of the Whale Are you chasing “the one”?

Casting an eye far and wide for the impossible catch? Drop a line at Sign of the Whale, where there are many fish in the sea.

The daily catch includes tacos, pizza, burgers and entrees like Maryland crab and shrimp ravioli, and massive drinks. Consider The Blue Whale with vodka, rum, blue curacao, pineapple juice and Sprite.

The events/parties make meeting people as easy as a day at the beach. (See also “Outdoor Bar.”) 6 Harbor Point Rd., Stamford, 203883-8282 signofthewhalect.com

TOWN WINNERS The Ginger Man Sign of the Whale Match (SoNo) bartaco Flipside Burgers & Bar

SINGLES SCENE OVER 35

Spotted Horse Tavern Your days as a prized pony are not behind you. Stop by Spotted Horse Tavern to find over-35’s enjoying good food (maybe Chicken Milanese with lemon vinaigrette on an arugula salad with tomatoes and Reggiano); good drinks (perhaps the creative U-Pick It Texas Lemonade, a swirl of

66

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Tito’s handmade vodka, lemonade, strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint and seltzer); and good company (like that cutie in the corner). Strut your stuff.

26-28 Church Ln., Westport, 203-557-9393 spottedhorsect.com

TOWN WINNERS Ten l’escale Barcelona Twenty Post (Darien) Spotted Horse Tavern 55 Wine Bar & Wood Grille

OUTDOOR BAR

Sign of the Whale Votes suggest Fairfield County wants a whale of a good time—so they’re heading to Sign of the Whale.

Everything’s done bigger here: the giant portions (such as Agrodolce BBQ chicken spring rolls); massive Tidal Wave drinks (hang on while trying the Gummy Bear Grog— Smirnoff Cherry Vodka with peach Schnapps, pineapple juice and Sprite); and a rooftop view that goes on for miles. Go big, or go home.

(See also “Singles Scene Under 35.”)

6 Harbor Point Rd., Stamford, 203883-8282 signofthewhalect.com

TOWN WINNERS l’escale Sign of the Whale Sunset Grille (Norwalk) bartaco 55 Wine Bar & Restaurant

SPORTS BAR + BIG GAME DAY

The Blind Rhino We’ve heard about three blind mice, but a blind rhino? That’s a new one for us; but not for our Best Of voters, who gave it the top spot for best sports bar. It has twentyeight TVs and a bar in full swing, so sports fans can see every detail of the winning play. And because sports fans come in all shapes and sizes, the best way to pick them out of a crowd is to wait for the big game day. They’ll be the ones standing in an endless line to get seats in the stadium—or they’ll be gathered together blissfully screaming at the TV, play after play, at The Blind Rhino. They’re soaking in the full Big Game Day experience.

Every day, there’s a game on. Wash it all down with plenty of draft beer and fan-favorite foods, such as potato skins, burgers, cheese steaks and wings. Who wins? Rhino.

In between innings, could you explain the Blind Rhino thing?

15 North Main St., Norwalk, 203-956-7243 theblindrhino.com

TOWN WINNERS Sundown Saloon Bobby Valentine’s Restaurant & Sports Bar The Blind Rhino (Norwalk) Archie Moore’s

GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT

Barcelona When the girls get together, there is lots of wine. This night out is about talking and laughing, commiserating about life and sharing stories that no one else quite appreciates like your besties.

Barcelona sets the stage with a gorgeous restaurant and wine bar.

Order shareable tapas and sample favorites from the wine list—and keep ‘em coming, because there’s just so much to catch up on. (See also “Tapas” and “Wine Bar.”) 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203255-0800 barcelonawinebar.com

TOWN WINNERS Douro Norwalk) Molto

Barcelona (Stamford, Pearl at Longshore

BEER SELECTION

Local Kitchen & Craft Beer Bar Having a favorite beer doesn’t mean you always want the same one.

Maybe it’s time to cast your eye over the beer horizon and try something completely different. Go on a beer adventure close to home at Local Kitchen & Craft Beer Bar, where, in a converted factory with soaring sixty-foot-high ceilings, beer-lovers have their choice of thirty different options on tap. Doesn’t matter if you like draft, your buddy likes bottle, and your date prefers cask beer, there is an almost overwhelming amount of choices. We love that alongside beers from California, Colorado and throughout New England, there are also picks from Branford and Stratford. There’s also a bourbon room, because this barrel-aged distilled spirit deserves some love too.

68 Washington St., Norwalk, 203- 957-3352 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-955-1920 sonolocal .com

TOWN WINNERS The Ginger Man Coalhouse Pizza The Blind Rhino

Little Barn (Norwalk) Kitchen & Beer Bar

Local

MICROBREW

Half Full Brewery Half Full Brewery is seemingly on a mission to make everyone happy.

Stop by its tasting room for what a “year-round beer,” such as the Liquid Hoptimism (points for the name), which is a Double IPA— Citra and Centennial hops with tropical notes. Otherwise, maybe a Community Sourced Ale or the Grace & Darkness, a limited-edition oyster stout collaboration with Copps Island Oysters of Norwalk.

43 Homestead Ave, Stamford, 203658-3631 halffullbrewery.com

TOWN WINNERS Little Pub Half Full Brewery O’Neills Pub & Restaurant (SoNo) Little Pub (Wilton, Fairfield)

MARGARITAS

bartaco When it comes to the margarita, the unofficial drink of summer, bartaco concedes the field (we mean, the beach) to no one. Born of the coastal cultures of Brazil, Uruguay and California, this place prides itself on its creative concoctions to get the party started. Its win is your delight. (See also “Outdoor Dining” and “Restaurant Bar.”) 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226 bartaco.com

TOWN WINNERS Boxcar Cantina bartaco Tequila Mockingbird Flipside Burgers & Bar

MARTINIS

J House You sipped the J House’s 5 o’clock (tequila, vodka, lime, orange liqueur and basil), sampled the Biscotti Old Fashioned (four roses, Johnnie Walker Black, Faretti biscotti and orange bitters), and tried a Riverside Car (cognac, orange liqueur and rose-petal water). Yet the classic martini won your vote.

With good reason. It’s delicious.

1114 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203698-6980 jhouserestaurant.com

TOWN WINNERS J House The Capital Grille Match (SoNo) Jesup Hall Flipside Burgers & Bar

Market knows how to keep up with the times. These days, we have a taste for gourmet food that we can pick up and keep going with our day, fast. Also, we have high expectations of our prepared food. Palmer’s does it all, with a smile. Why cook when you can pick up beef burritos, country-style meatloaf, Chicken Parmesan or filet of sole almondine without a care in the world? The market also offers catering, so you can throw that summer soirée with aplomb.

Palmer’s is part of the family that is Fairfield County—the good-cooking part of the family.

2018

SPECIALTY FOOD

264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-6552077 palmersdarien.com

TOWN WINNERS Aux Délices Fairway Market Palmer’s Market Garelick & The Pantry Herbs

HEALTH FOOD MARKET

Whole Foods Market

CITARELLA / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR GOURMET GROCERY ON…CREATING THE PERFECT MEAL

Whole foods, or whole world? After all, Whole Foods Market seems to have everything we could want in a market—all the raw ingredients we could ever hope to use for our gluten-free, no-carb, vegan masterpieces as well as prepared foods, from sushi and salads to traditional comfort foods that ease a chilly day. Wine, chocolate, baked goods, yogurt, cheeses, fruit, cereal—it’s all here. The only thing you need to bring is your creative culinary inspiration and cooking confidence. And if you leave that home, just pick up some takeout from the hot bar.

GOURMET

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

“We work hard to set the standard in gourmet foods. We carry the freshest local seafood, the best selection of prime, dry-aged meats, the highest-quality produce, as well as handcrafted pastries,” says Joe Gurrera, owner of Citarella Gourmet Markets.

“Our chef-prepared foods are made from our own family recipes. Right next door to our Greenwich market is Citarella Wines & Spirits—our first and only wine shop, with our hand-selected collection. At Citarella, we have everything you need for a terrific meal.”

FROM JOE KNOWS FISH, © 2018 JOE GURRERA. PHOTO BY BILL MILNE

GOURMET GROCERY

Citarella Gourmet Market This family-run business, with seven markets, in Manhattan, the Hamptons and Greenwich, has been around since 1912. Clearly, they know what we of Fairfield County crave, which is to say, the best. Fresh seafood (oysters, clams, lobsters, mussels, scallops, crab, etc.), dry-aged meats, a hot-food station with pizza, a salad station, and more. There’s even a wine store next door, so you’re sure to have absolutely everything you need to indulge and share your refined palate. We’re going back

again and again, proving we can’t get too much of a good thing.

600 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-861-6900 citarella.com

TOWN WINNERS Citarella Gourmet Market Palmer’s Fairway Market Market (Darien) Balducci’s The Pantry

CATERER

Marcia Selden Catering & Event Planning Repeat after me: “It was no trouble.

I love throwing parties!” Now, to make that believable to your guests, call the pros at Marcia Selden Catering. They’ll come

in and create the event of your dreams, meaning it will be perfect planning, presentation and food— and it will be easy on you. Our voters turn to Marcia Selden for special get-togethers, from fun and festive beach parties to elegant and formal weddings.

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

TOWN WINNERS Watson’s Catering Marcia Selden Catering & Events Palmer’s Catering (Darien) AMG Catering & Events (Wilton) The Pantry

GOURMET TO GO

Palmer’s Market Five generations strong, Palmer’s

TOWN WINNERS Green & Tonic Fairway Market Whole Foods Market Organic Market

FISH MARKET

Fjord Fish Market You’re watching what you eat—we get it. Fjord is clearly on your radar, as you, our Best Of voters, chose the fish market as the place to pick up premium, responsibly sourced seafood. What’s that mean? It’s free of antibiotics and artificial colorings, because the only

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

67

additive you really need are juicy lemon wedges. If it comes from the Big Blue, Fjord has it: oysters, lobster, shrimp, clams and lots of fish. Pick up fresh to cook at home or prepared food for takeout— everything from lobster rolls and fish tacos to sushi and whole lobster dinners. If you try their catering for a beach bash, send us an invite. We’re so in.

158 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203- 661-5006 | 22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-2029473 | 1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-255-9331 fjordfishmarket.com

TOWN WINNERS Fjord Fish Market New Wave Seafood

BUTCHER SHOP

Fleishers Craft Butchery Your relationship with your butcher is like the foundation you have in a best friend. There has to be trust, consistency and tender loving care—or at least a tender pork chop. Fleishers, which prides itself on the highest standards, transparency and forging strong relationships with their customers, understands that when it comes to quality meat, a lot of other competitors just don’t make the cut. Founded in 2004, this craft butchery brings new meaning to customer service by raising the animals itself. When it comes to your meat, you won’t have a beef with your butcher.

160 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1800 | 580 Westport Ave., Westport, 203-226-6328 fleishers .com

TOWN WINNERS Fleishers Craft Butchery Darien La Rocca’s Market Butcher Shop Custom Meats

BAKERY

DiMare Pastry Shop Baking is like magic. A little flour, a bit of sugar, some eggs and other essentials, and poof!, a cake. Of course, if it were that easy, our readers wouldn’t turn to DiMare Pastry Shop year after year to proclaim it tops. From fancy birthday cakes to perfect cannolis, all your favorite sweet treats are found at this family-owned shop.

And when you set them out on the

68

STAMFORDMAG.COM

table for your guests, the desserts seem to disappear instantly—as if by magic.

1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781 | 12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-9672253 | 12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253 dimarepastry.com

TOWN WINNERS Wave DiMare Pastry Shop Hill Breads (Norwalk) Dough & Co. (Weston) Billy’s Bakery

COFFEE SHOP

Lorca Coffee enthusiasts know that not all coffee shops are created equal.

Not by a long shot. Sure, we love the buzz, but taste matters—and so does the vibe of the place. Founder Leyla Jenkins and her team of baristas totally understand both flavor and environment. The cool yet comfortable coffee bars in Stamford and Cos Cob are moodelevating even before the first sip.

And it takes a coffee lover to know one—thank caffeinated goodness, Lorca is here. For fun, each season it offers new homemade syrups; this spring it was a chamomile honey latte made with Rishi Tea’s chamomile flower buds. Stop by for a summertime sip—it’ll be so good, you’ll want to slow down.

125 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-5042847 | 160 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-930-2401 lorcacoffeebar.com

TOWN WINNERS Ada’s Kitchen + Coffee Lorca Espresso NEAT (Darien) Las Vetas The Granola Bar

WINE SHOP

Ancona’s Wines & Liquors Whether it’s been a long week or just the dawn of another great summer weekend, locals stop by Ancona’s to pick a bottle or two to savor with friends. Celebrating eighty-five years as a family business calls for cheers with your favorite wine, Champagne, cocktail or beer. Try small-batch bourbon with friends around a late-night fire pit, have a port tasting or serve a Bordeaux that’s all the rage with a new recipe you’re trying at an upcoming dinner party. It’s all here.

5 River Rd., Wilton, 203-2107399 | 720 Branchville Rd., Ridgefield, 203-544-8958 | 17B Governor St., Ridgefield,

203-544-9017 anconaswine.com

TOWN WINNERS Old Greenwich Fine Wines & Cheese Stew BevMax Leonard’s Wines (Norwalk) Ancona’s Wines & Liquors (Wilton) Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market

LIQUOR SHOP

Total Wine & More There are lots of ways to ask for seconds without speaking. Tap the table twice. Tip your glass toward the server. Look pleadingly at the person holding the wine bottle.

They all get your glass refilled. And, let’s be honest, sometimes we just want more. When our voters were asked about where they get their liquor, they went big: Total Wine & More, a serious shopping experience. With thousands of choices of wine, beer, spirits and more filling the aisles, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.

If you need help, you might have to speak up and ask.

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

TOWN WINNERS Val’s Putnam Wines & Liquors Total Wine & More BevMax (Norwalk) Ancona’s Wines & Liquors (Wilton) Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market

SWEETS

DESSERTS

Palmer’s The family-owned Palmer’s is a go-to for locals who love a sane shopping experience, no frenzy. We can’t say your guests will have the same self-controlled decorum when it comes to the desserts you set out on the table. From cakes and cupcakes to cookies and pastries, the selection here runs from fun and festive to elegant and refined.

Let’s see your guest even try to pass on dessert—it’s impossible.

264 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-6552077 palmersdarien.com

TOWN WINNERS DiMare Pastry Shop Palmer’s Saugatuck Sweets The Pantry

CUPCAKES

Forever Sweet Bakery What is your little princess or prince into? Unicorns, airplanes,

mermaids or all things Frozen? No matter what it is, there’s a cupcake to suit. Forever Sweet Bakery seems to delight in the challenge of creating the most imaginative cakes for all occasions. We have to admit, we’re out of our depths when it comes to creating a sweet something, nevermind traversing the ground between Sweet 16 cupcakes with roses and LAX cupcakes for the winning champs.

Luckily, we do know just who to call.

4 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk, 203-939-9600 sweetendingsbakery.com

TOWN WINNERS Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes (Cos Cob) DiMare Pastry Shop Forever Sweet Bakery (Norwalk) The Pantry The Country Store

CANDY STORE

Saugatuck Sweets A favorite childhood memory has to be holding a paper baggie in one hand, a scoop in the other, and in front of you, rows and rows of candy bins filled to the brim. Just time me. So if your little ones (or inner little one) have been really good, pop by Saugatuck Sweets.

Kids enjoy selecting gummy worms, sharks and frogs and others from a wide selection of treats. Good memories are in the bag. (See also “Ice Cream/Gelato.”)

575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203642-4615 | 28 Reef Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8550

TOWN WINNERS Mackenzie’s Sweets

Saugatuck

CHOCOLATE SHOP

Chocolate Works Why just eat chocolate when you can mold it, decorate it and dip it? Here, you can use one of the dozens of molds to create a Belgian chocolate creation that is distinctly yours. The shop hosts workshops, parties, play dates and walk-in activities. So, come in and play, or just stop by and fill up a sack with your favorite chocolate bites, such as Champagne truffles, chocolatecovered almonds or butter crunch.

25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203202-7067 chocolateworks.com

TOWN WINNERS Chocolate Works (Darien) Le Rouge Chocolates by Aarti Isabelle et Vincent

fare. And the Harvest Kale Bowl and El Gaupo burger with bacon, jalapeno slaw and ranch tells us you’ll like doing it. So, go ahead, tell us to b.good—we’re so on it.

Terrain Garden Café’s popular Harvest Bowl with quinoa, spring vegetables, kale falafel and tahini dressing

1460 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-2928970 bgood.com/fairfield

TOWN WINNERS Méli-Mélo Capriccio Café Valencia Luncheria (Norwalk) Flipside Little Pub (Wilton) Burgers & Bar

CAFE/BISTRO

Terrain Garden Café Something about a café wants to make us tip our chapeau to passersby. But, of course, times have changed—and Terrain Garden Café is a café for today. Its upscale gardener-chic vibe is as organic and fresh as the hand-selected local produce, meats and dairy used for the seasonally adaptive dishes. Consider, for example, the quinoa and cauliflower salad with chickpeas, Brussels sprouts, spinach and cranberry-turmeric dressing or maybe sharing a Blood Orange Frangipane Tart. It just might have you tipping that nonexistent hat at the chef.

ICE CREAM/GELATO

Saugatuck Sweets A perfect summer night concludes with a round of ice cream cones and big smiles. Bring the troupe to Saugatuck Sweets, where you can choose your favorite ice cream and maybe a few toppings. This shop is fresh and appeals to today’s sweet tooth, yet also has that perfect nuance of an old-fashioned, slowdown “shoppe.” We think it’s the influence of honest goodness; plus, we like chocolate syrup. (See also “Candy Store.”)

575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203642-4615 | 28 Reef Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8550

TERRAIN BY JULIE BIDWELL; FLIPSIDE, CONTRIBUTED

TOWN WINNERS Gofer Ice Cream Gelateria Creperia Artisan Gelato Sweets

Volta Gelatissimo Saugatuck

FROZEN YOGURT

16 Handles Ladies, remember your Sweet 16?

Here’s a twist on sweet and 16: discover 16 Handles and its options for frozen yogurt and toppings.

Perhaps it was straight-up Cotton

561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2732 shopterrain.com/ westport-restaurant

TOWN WINNERS Méli-Mélo ZAZA Italian Gastrobar & Pizzeria SoNo Baking Company & Café Terrain Café Madeline Garden Café

HAMBURGERS

Flipside Burgers & Bar When you’re beyond hungry, entering that “hangry” zone, nothing else will satisfy like a burger. And if you get it at Flipside Burgers & Bar, not only will your belly be happy, so will your overall mood. The place exists to have a good time, and the happiness begins with a review of the fun burger options. Consider this mouthwatering example: the Fairfield Fire Burger, featuring pepper jack cheese, roasted jalapeño trio, chipotle mayo topped with a fried jalapeño. If that doesn’t flip that mood, just add a Grand Margarita. Done.

1125 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8233 flipsiderestaurant .com

Candy, next time a Berry Medley Sorbet with fresh blueberries, blackberries and strawberries. New this summer is the Cerealiously Toasted flavor with Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal and the Cerealiously Loopy with Froot Loops. Customize the fro-yo experience to your taste.

219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203817-0707 | 1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841 16handles.com

TOWN WINNERS Gofer Ice Cream (Greenwich, Darien) 16 Handles Top This

CASUAL

LUNCH SPOT

b.good Many of us grew up hearing, “Be good!” And that poor Johnny fellow was told to be good all the time— like a craze. But it never really sounded like fun, just a demand to do the right thing in company.

Then, a revelation: b.good opened in Fairfield and it was not only the right thing to do (eat well), it was also seriously easy to do. Here you can choose foods that are sourced sustainably and cooked seasonally—so you support the community and eat super-fresh

Flipside’s Waldorf Burger (topped with gorgonzola cheese, apples, candied walnuts and a cranberry aioli)

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

69

SKINNY PIZZA / We haven’t been this excited about a food trend since Ben and Jerry got into the fro-yo game. Build a pizza from the (very thin) crust up. Calorie counts are available for sauces, cheeses, toppings and drizzles— so it’s easy to create a healthy pie. 30 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,

HUMBLED COFFEEHOUSE / As soon as this cozy neighborhood, family-owned gem opened, caffeine addicts were catching up with friends over steaming cups of BonJo Coffee. Make it a breakfast date; they serve Liz Sue Bagels, too. 575 Hope St., Stamford, 475-619-9915 humbledcoffeehouse.com

203-769-1234 skinnypizza.com

TOWN WINNERS

Duck Café

Little Pub Plan B Burger Bar BJ Ryan’s (Norwalk) Shake Shack Flipside Burgers & Bar

PIZZA

HOT DOGS

Super Duper Weenie This is not first date kind of food, unless it’s a let’s-get-real test.

Super Duper Weenie serves serious hot dogs—they’re good and filling and the toppings are piled on. But they’re also that really good kind of no-Instagram-photos messy.

Go classic-with-a-twist with a New Englander (sauerkraut, bacon, mustard, sweet relish and onion) or all-out funky with the Georgia Red Hot (spicy Southern sausage with sauerkraut, mustard and fresh sweet relish). Second date? Sure.

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

STAMFORD MAGAZINE

Super Duper Weenie

Letizia’s Pizza In the ongoing Fairfield County pizza wars, this year’s gold goes to Letizia’s Pizza. Its thin Neapolitan-style pie is said to hold family secrets. With a joint like this, we’re happy to leave the preparations to the pros and take that pizza piled with pepperoni and onions to go. The only secret we need to know is where to get a good pizza. Now we have it.

666 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-8476022 letiziaspizza.com

CAVA WINE BAR & WOOD GRILLE / Chef Nube Siguenza takes such care that every dish we’ve tried tastes like perfection on a plate.

And the cool cave-like remodel makes us feel like we’re in a private club, sans attitude.

2 Forest St., New Canaan, 203-966-6946 cava.com

cavemen—but they did have all-day barbeque. If only. At least when our Best Of voters are hankering for real smokehouse dinner—messy, piled high, juicy and sticky—they can turn to Dinosaur Bar-B-Que. The black-T-shirt-and-jeans appeal, blues rockin’ in the background, and food on metal trays says this meal means business. Choose your favorite wood-grilled, house-cured meat and add on the extras, from sweet onions to fiery BBQ sauce.

Your inner caveman thanks you.

845 Canal St., Stamford, 203-5173272 dinosaurbarbque.com

TOWN WINNERS

Upper Crust Bagel Co. Why are its bagels better? They’re baked daily on the premises, using only natural ingredients—plus it’s family owned, which adds to the commitment to perfection. Top that bagel with an old favorite, like cream cheese and jelly, or stack it high with The OG (Nova Scotia lox, Philadelphia cream cheese, Bermuda onion and tomato). Bagel pride is a good thing for everyone.

197 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich, 203-698-0079 uppercrustbagel.com

TOWN WINNERS

TOWN WINNERS

Bobby Q’s Pit Stop Dinosaur Bar-B-Que BJ Ryan’s (Norwalk)

Upper Crust Bagel Co. Bagels Bagel King Bagels

Planet Pizza Colony Grill Letizia’s Pizza (Norwalk) Brick + Wood Westport Pizzeria

BAGELS

DELI

306 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203334-3647 superduperweenie.com

RIBS/BARBEQUE

Upper Crust Bagel Co.

A&S Italian Fine Foods

TOWN WINNERS

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

We in Fairfield County are “keeping it real” at the local barbeque joint, yet getting all uppity about our bagels. This year the honors go to

Deli sandwiches—on a hero, roll or wrap—are crowd-pleasers. It’s even better when that deli is A&S Fine Foods. Get your prosciutto,

Joey B’s Famous Chili Hub Bridge Street Wienery Black

70

STAMFORDMAG.COM

We doubt every day was good for

Liz Sue Village

SKINNY PIZZA BY JULIE BIDWELL; HUMBLED BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; CAVA, CONTRIBUTED

GREENWICH MAGAZINE

CANDLEWOOD MARKET / Hydrate, people—fresh-roasted coffee in the a.m., kombucha from the tap at mid-day; tea with lemon for an afternoon perk. Check out the Nitro Bar with your chilled favorites in this energizing new place in the Sportsplex. 85 Mill

6 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-5578404 okokitchens.com

Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8559 candlewoodmarket.com

2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600 asfinefoods.com

TOWN WINNERS

OKO, CONTRIBUTED; CANDLEWOOD BY KATIE SETTEL

FAIRFIELD LIVING MAGAZINE

OKO / The votes for our Best Of poll were in before this Japaneseinspired restaurant opened, but there was zero chance we wouldn’t include the new sister restaurant of The Cottage. Chef Brian Lewis’s OKO is a must-try for a nearby food adventure.

mozzarella, provolone, salami or roast beef stacked in just the right order and combo that you crave, topped with roasted red peppers or crispy romaine. Order one or order many, this place can handle anything you throw at it and please everyone.

Corbos Corner Deli Rye Angelo’s Specialties Ridge Deli (Norwalk) A&S Fine Foods Gold’s Delicatessen

FOOD TRUCK

Melt Mobile We’re not saying Fairfield County drivers are the worst. Yet, we’re glad when the food comes to us—especially when it involves melted cheese. The folks at Melt Mobile, who create masterworks of artisanal breads, imported cheeses, organic meats and produce had us at melted Vermont

FOOD & DRINK

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

EDITOR PICKS

2018

cheddar, swooning at Gruyere and wooed by fresh mozzarella. The bacon had us floating on air—again, not driving.

Check online for daily specials and schedules. melt-mobile.com

TOWN WINNERS LobsterCraft Melt Mobile Super Duper Weenie

DINER

Elm Street Diner There you are, Fairfield County, running around, doing this, doing that—pushing hard to get through your to-do list. When, bam, your stomach says: “Food. Right. Now.” Turn into the parking lot of the Elm Street Diner. You’ll find a hearty menu of options. Choose your favorite breakfast meal or maybe a milkshake and cheeseburger.

There’s dozens of choices—and, of course, come as you are—just pull the car over and relax. (See also “Breakfast.”)

463 Elm St., Stamford,

203-325-1141 elmstreetdiner.com

TOWN WINNERS Glory Days Diner Elm Post Road Diner Street Diner (Darien) Orem’s Diner (Wilton) Circle Diner

BREAKFAST

Elm Street Diner Do I smell bacon? If you don’t care that it’s five hours past breakfast time and your stomach is grumbling for fried eggs and crispy bacon, you’re Elm Street Diner kind of people. French toast with berries, chocolate peanut butter pancakes, quesadillas with chorizo and eggs, and more—along with a bottomless mug of coffee—starts the day off.

Long day, actually; it’s open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (See also “Diner.”)

463 Elm St., Stamford, 203-325-1141 elmstreetdiner.com

TOWN WINNERS Ada’s Kitchen + Coffee SoNo Elm Street Diner

The Baking Company & Café Granola Bar Chef’s Table

JUICE BAR

Embody Fitness Gourmet Pull your way through the heat wave to Embody Fitness Gourmet, which offers freshly made juices.

Refresh with a classic green juice (kale, spinach, celery and cucumber with your choice of extras, like mint) or something new, like the Island Hop, a passion and hibiscus iced tea, pressed orange, cinnamon and light agave. Refresh your body and tastebuds.

380 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-2022760 | 21 Forest St., New Canaan, 203-594-9348 | 545 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-4144 embodyfitnessgourmet.com

TOWN WINNERS Green & Tonic Robeks TIED Catch a Healthy Embody Habit and Organika Kitchen

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

71

STYLE & BEAUTY SOLEIL TOILE/ GOLD COAST WINNER FOR LINGERIE “We love the fit and size range of the Madison Bra from Prima Donna. It has wonderful support and can accommodate a variety of shapes,” says STACEY SCHUMER of just one of the many pretty and figure-enhancing options at her lingerie and swimwear boutique.

“As one of the unique local family businesses, we at Soleil Toile Fine Lingerie and Swimwear are thrilled to be recognized for offering the best in selection, service, and size range. We truly love what we do!” left The Madison set from Prima Donna

CONTRIBUTED

2018

Rthe

2018

GOLD COAST WINNERS ON: WHAT’S HOT NOW

FACIAL ©PROSTOCK-STUDIO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; ROUNDABOUT BY BY BECKY HOVING; OTHER IMAGES, CONTRIBUTED

GREENWICH MAGAZINE

STAMFORD MAGAZINE

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN

NEW CANAAN, & ROWAYTON DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE MAGAZINE

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

FAIRFIELD MAGAZINE

COLOR CAFE

LORD & TAYLOR

LANPHIER DAY SPA

ROUNDABOUT

BED, BATH & BEYOND

Long summer days may nurture our body and soul but they can take a toll on our locks. However, no need to rock a pony tail all summer long. Kim Sclafani, owner of Color Café has some product advice. “As a L’Oreal Professional National Artist, I believe in Serie Expert from the Loreal Professional line,” says Kim. “For this time of year, to fight frizz from the humidity, I recommend the

It’s no secret this iconic store is a must-visit for the latest in casual chic.

To look your stylish best, Christopher Steinmann, director of merchandising for Lord & Taylor, recommends stocking up on a romper (or two). “They are a versatile look you can wear over a swimsuit for a beach day or for a night out. This Design Lab piece [below] incorporates a nautical print with an off-the-shoulder silhouette to create the ultimate summer look.” After you’re done shopping, grab a snack at any of the food trucks that will be lined up outside well into fall.

Located in the center of Darien next to the Tilly Pond Park, Lanphier Spa has catered to its clients’ needs for twentyfive years. “While women are looking for more natural hair color and styles, men’s grooming has become very popular,” says owner Jurga Rimkute, ”which has led to an expansion of our new product line for grooming, Baxter.”

One indulgent and soothing package for gentlemen includes a facial, full-body massage, steam shower, manicure/pedicure and complimentary shampoo. Women will find plenty of facials as well as other treatments, too.

“Look for easy, casual, breathable clothes with fun accessories,” says manager Ivonna Gruber about summer essentials.

“Right now we have this beautiful vintage Halston beach hat with a detailed trim.

We have a wide array of hat brands, and they always go quick. I would pair a hat like this with a flowy maxi dress and some sandals.” She adds that the most unique thing about Roundabout is its “extensive selection of designer clothing at amazing prices.

Our customers love to come to look for high-end dresses like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo, Gucci, Prada.”

“Our summer assortment is boasting with bright colors and chic designs to liven up any outdoor space and keep the fun going all season long,” says Christina Pastushenko, social media coordinator.

For newlyweds with a pragmatic yet stylish eye for keeping things up to speed at home, the store’s registry appeals to today’s taste for everyday items—coffeemakers, everyday dishware, towels—and occasional splurges.

The powers that be at Bed, Bath & Beyond add ease and speed by providing registries that are simple to use yet also have plenty of options.

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Facials

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Consignments

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Wedding Registry + Gifts

LISS UNLIMITED

line, and its musthave product is the Blow Dry Thermo Smoothing Cream. It is a leave-in product and anti-humidity and anti-frizz and lasts up to four days.”

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Colorist

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Department Store, Swimwear + Men’s Shoes

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

73

2018

STYLE

MITCHELLS AND RICHARDS / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR GALA ATTIRE ON...LOOKING YOUR BEST Some of us are devoted to high fashion, and some of us simply appreciate well-made clothes that fit us perfectly—yet we all agree that what we choose to wear reveals something about ourselves.

It expresses a part of our personality the moment we walk into the room. Mitchells and Richards live and breathe that understanding, from everyday outfits to gala fundraisers (such as the Near & Far Aid event above). Andrew Mitchell-Namdar, vice president of marketing and creative services, reminds us: “For sixty years, we have been here to help our clients find clothes that not only make them look great, but also feel wonderful—because confidence is always the best accessory.”

was smart of you (see, smart really is sexy).

Soleil Toile

44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-9662887 | 24 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-8688 soleiltoile.com

LINGERIE

It’s been said that women find intelligence attractive in a man. But you know what men find sexy? Well, it might be best to just show you.

Head to Soleil Toile, an independent store that has been ruling the super-wow factor for ladies since 1990. Mother-daughter team Marilynn Lipton Blotner and Stacey Lipton Schumer have an eye for the elegant lines that get his heart racing—La Perla, Marie Jo, Simone Perele, Cosa Bella and more—and make you feel body confident and your clothes fit better. Now that

74

STAMFORDMAG.COM

TOWN WINNERS Petticoat Lane Soleil Toile Secret

Lord & Taylor Victoria’s

GALA BLACK-TIE ATTIRE

Mitchells/Richards When the invitation doesn’t include the line “come as you are,” it’s time to look your best. Prep to glow or be your dashing best, head to toe. When Fairfield County’s most stylish social circles call for

impeccable outfits, savvy shoppers head to Mitchells in Westport or Richards in Greenwich. The familyowned and -run stores offer luxury designer attire for men and women that is perfectly suited for every special occasion that pops up on the calendar. This is your chance to stand out from the crowd for all of the right reasons—just like these two stores stand out in the minds of our Best Of voters. These stores pride themselves on providing excellent customer service. You’ll enjoy the shopping experience and feel 100 percent confident in your selections. For your next big social gathering, you provide the always-ready sparkling personality, let Mitchells/Richards outfit your look. (See also “Men’s Fashion” and

“Menswear for Weddings.”)

Richards, 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | Mitchells, 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2275165 shop.mitchellstores.com

TOWN WINNERS Richards Lord & Taylor Helen Ainson (Darien) Apricot Lane Mitchells

COCKTAIL ATTIRE

Helen Ainson Some women master cocktail party chit-chat, others work at it—both types enjoy wearing a knockout outfit that makes a statement without saying a word. Fairfield County ladies bring their good

RUNWAY IMAGES BY LANDINO PHOTO; HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED

FASHION

looks and good taste to Helen Ainson, a boutique with fashionable styles that will flawlessly express your personality. The selection is handpicked, so the shop is tailored to appeal to local trends. Grab a sophisticated off-the-shoulder ivory bodycon or a demure blushcolored A-line and pair with strappy slingbacks and dangle earrings— done! You’re ready to pop that cocktail umbrella.

1078 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-9841 helenainson.com

TOWN WINNERS Copious Row Lord & Taylor Helen Ainson (Darien) Apricot Lane Mitchells

WOMEN’S FASHION

Saks Fifth Avenue Are you sweet on such tastemakers as Valentino, Alexander McQueen and Jason Wu? Then you know Saks Fifth Avenue is like a grown-up candy store for women who love to shop style. As girls we loved candy ribbon and candy dots; now we like fringe, polka dots, checks, bold stripes and shimmery sequins. This iconic department store has a bountiful collection of sophisticated, on-trend fashions to delight even the most discerning shopper. Aside from the clothes, Saks also has an obsessive eye for eye-catching belts, bags, shoes, scarves, sunglasses and other essentials that complete the look.

You’ve been good; go treat yourself.

205 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203862-5300 saksfifthavenue.com

TOWN WINNERS Saks Fifth Avenue Lord & Taylor Togs B Chic (Wilton) Apricot Lane

WOMEN’S SHOES

Stuart Weitzman You once believed fairy tales about finding happiness in some mystical neverland. Then you grew up and found joy as near as the Stuart Weitzman boutique in Greenwich.

It’s a sure way to add a spring (and style boost) to your step.

The iconic footwear designer is an almost mystical force of creativity, with endless designs in sandals, pumps, flats, kitten heels and more.

Currently, we’re obsessing over the Riviera Flat, a handwoven leather loafer in dreamy ocean blue. If you’re going to be transported to your happy place, the moral of the

story is: Wear good shoes.

lordandtaylor.com

120 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203622-5036 stuartweitzman.com

TOWN WINNERS

TOWN WINNERS Stuart Weitzman Shoes n’ More

Lord & Taylor DSW

MEN’S FASHION

Mitchells/Richards There is absolutely, positively zero reason for a man to be stuck in a fashion rut. Mitchells and Richards are here to prove that there are many wonderful choices to update his look. And, yes, people notice when he walks into a boardroom in a perfectly tailored suit or just heads out for a no-stress day of R&R in a stylish outfit. Finding new pants, shorts, sport shirts or other wardrobe essentials is a can’t-lose confidence builder. This family-run business is devoted to two things: style and customer service, just what he needs to give his look a power boost. (See also “Gala/ Black-Tie Attire” and “Menswear for Weddings.”)

Richards, 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | Mitchells, 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2275165 shop.mitchellstores.com

TOWN WINNERS Richards Lord & Taylor Darien Sport Shop Mitchells

MEN’S SHOES

Lord & Taylor Ladies, don’t let men fool you—they love shoes. Love. Shoes. Granted, they may not have as many as we do, but the ones that make it into the closet were chosen very carefully. Our guys hold a poker face at cocktail parties about such things, but when shopping, they look at how the shoes are made, scrutinize how they feel on a test stroll, debate colors for different go-to outfits, agonize if they want to be brand-loyal or try a new designer, and on and on. They reveal this interest when they go to Lord & Taylor for a new pair of shoes and try on loafers, oxfords, boat shoes, boots, Chukkas, sneakers and more. You may lap him in quantity of shoes, but he’s keeping pace with style.

(See also “Department Store” and “Swimwear.”)

110 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-6600 | 5065 Main St., Trumbull, 203-374-5700

Richards Lord & Taylor Darien Sport Shop Mitchells

DESIGNER BOUTIQUE

Copious Row All of your friends ask you where you get your clothes. It’s up to you to tell them that your go-to for never-miss fashion is Copious Row. The Greenwich boutique carries apparel in designer styles that you can’t wait to wear, from a high-neck, floral silk blouse by Mary Katrantzou to a super-chic and icy-white fitted mini by Emilia Wickstead. The handbags, jewelry and plentiful accessories round out the next outfit your admiring friends will ask you about.

86 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-2720 copiousrow.com

TOWN WINNERS Helen Ainson Copious Row (Darien) B Chic (Wilton) Apricot Lane

DEPARTMENT STORE

Lord & Taylor Women come in all shapes and sizes, and some are jet-setting around the world, while others are racing to Mommy-and-Me Class.

Yet, Best Of votes reveal that all agree on where to get a style fix: Lord & Taylor. Slow down and enjoy spending time looking through the different departments that seem, somehow, tailored to our favorite looks. Gala gowns, cocktail dresses, business suits, breezeloving flouncy tops and edgy jeans—and lots of shoes, jewelry, scarves, handbags and more to round things out. The challenge is not to find something that works, but to settle on the one (or two or three) that make it into our wardrobe. (See also “Men’s Shoes” and “Swimwear.”)

110 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-6600 | 5065 Main St., Trumbull, 203-374-5700 lordandtaylor.com

TOWN WINNERS Saks Fifth Avenue Lord & Taylor Darien Sport Shop Mitchells

JEANS

B Chic

From chic to comfy, jeans are the ultimate multitasker. They work for grocery runs and grabbing drinks with gal pals. It makes sense to have jean options on hand. Our Best Of voters turn to B Chic to stock up on favorites and to keep their look current. Cropped, fringe, skinny, boyfriend, dark rinse, distressed—there are dozens of options for the No. 1 wardrobe go-to. This Wilton boutique is like a jean whisperer when it comes to finding pairs that flatter, no matter where you’re headed next.

78 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton, 203-210-7037 bchichct.com

TOWN WINNERS Richards Havana Jeans Darien Sport Shop B Chic Apricot Lane (Wilton)

TEEN FASHION

Lester’s Your little darling used to raid your closets and steal your best sweaters and shoes. Now the emerging fashion diva has found Lester’s, a store that has her new favorites. It’s a fun place to shop, stacked with dozens of brands worthy of her Instagram feed: J Brand, Hunter, Joie, Michael Lauren, Sundry, etc. Mom, you might want to drive her to the store, because it carries tees, jeans, hoodies and other finds that will also suit you. You and your daughter can partner up and raid the store together.

606 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2210474 lesters.com

TOWN WINNERS Madewell Forever 21 Caren Forbes & Co. Lester’s Apricot Lane

SWIMWEAR

Lord & Taylor Thank you Pilates practice! Well done, spin class! Yes, best buddy, barre session! It’s swimwear season and we’re showing off our shore-ready body. Our voters say they head to Lord & Taylor to find swimwear that hugs their curves in just the right way. A Ralph Lauren one piece, a tummy-revealing Trina Turk or a Tommy Bahamas tropicalprint bikini perhaps? If we’re going to the beach or to a poolside party, we want to make a splash, looking our best. (See also “Men’s Shoes” and “Department Store.”)

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

75

TOWN WINNERS Everything But Water Lord Swim & Taylor Soleil Toile ‘N Surf

ACCESSORIES

Anthropologie The best-kept style secret is accessories. They can make or break an outfit—but, most important, they can be a lot of fun. Anthropologie has countless accessories: tortoise hair clips, dozens of sandals, slides and sneakers, sunhats with wide scalloped brims or straw fedoras with embroidery, sunglasses, bags, scarves, and shimmery jewelry.

The extras earn you major style points—and our Best Of voters are racking them up.

59 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-0015 anthropologie.com

TOWN WINNERS Copious Row Lord & Taylor Darien Sport Shop Apricot Lane Anthropologie

EYEWEAR

Optical Alternatives We’re loving the chic-geek trend!

OK, we’re actually starting it, and it’s not just because we like libraries, wearing our hair in buns and sporting blocky heels. The truth is, eyeglasses change lives—seeing the world. Also, Clark Kent was superhero cute when he pushed his specs up the brim of his nose. In real life, glasses that don’t fit are more annoying than adorable. At Optical Alternatives, Gold Coast voters trust they can get a good fit, the right prescription and superhero-level style. After all, there are so many books to read, and cuties to see.

2480 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield, 203-372-2010 opticalalt.com

TOWN WINNERS Sunglass Hut LensCrafters Specs (Darien, Westport) Optical Alternatives

CONSIGNMENT

Roundabout Designer Closeouts & Consignments 76

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Consignment shops are winners for buyers and sellers—almost by fate, the right items find their way into the right hands. Our voters give the thumbs up to Roundabout Designer Closeouts & Consignments, which specializes in luxury resale and discount couture. Fairfield County has an eye for high-end designer styles, and this local shop plays its part in offering an everchanging selection of apparel and accessories from dreamy brands, such as Chanel and Hermès. It’s a good bet you’ll find a few things that feel like they were destined for you.

48 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-552-0787 | 606 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4334 roundaboutcouture.com

and tucked to perfection makes your investment pieces last longer and look better. This year’s Best Of goes to Simonetti Custom Tailoring.

Hailing from Calabria, Italy, Master Tailor Pietro Simonetti has been working his magic (actually, it’s a trained skill, talent, dedication and attention to detail) on the fine garments of the county’s bestdressed men and women for more than thirty-five years.

1011 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-595-0771 simonettis customtailoring.com

TOWN WINNERS Ted the Tailor Custom Tailoring Tailoring (Darien)

Simonetti Giovanni’s Bae’s Tailor

TAILOR

Simonetti Custom Tailoring Once you find a good tailor, hold on tight. Having your clothes nipped

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

TOWN WINNERS Betteridge NAGI Jewelers David Harvey Jewelers (Darien, Norwalk) Lux Bond & Green Henry C. Reid & Son Jewelers

MEN’S WATCHES

TOWN WINNERS Roundabout Chic Jack’s Double Exposure Roundabout Twice As Nice

this trustworthy, family-owned business. It was founded in 1897, opened in Greenwich in 1952, and is up to date on all the most desirable timepieces of today: Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, A. Lange & Söhne and other luxury brands. If you’ve long wanted an heirloom-quality watch, what are you waiting for?

(See also “Men’s Watches” and “Wedding Rings.”)

Betteridge

JEWELRY

WOMEN’S WATCHES

Betteridge Time matters. Look at five generations that have built Betteridge into the jewelry store that it is today. When it comes to picking out a watch for her, our voters tell us the best place to go is

Patek Philippe 5146G from Betteridge

There are a dozen reasons for him to love timepieces—the details of the mechanics, the good looks of the crocodile strap and gold accents, the data display. They all come down to one indisputable point: He just does. Betteridge, too. While we can glance at the time on our phones, that lacks all of the commanding and sophisticated appeal of consulting an elite, precision timepiece. (See also “Women’s Watches” and “Wedding Rings.”)

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

TOWN WINNERS Betteridge NAGI Jewelers David Harvey Jewelers (Darien) Lenox Lux Bond & Green Jewelers

SELECTION BY LOCAL DESIGNERS

R. Hollander Master Goldsmith

Who is the best jewelry designer around? You! When you stop by Russ Hollander Master Goldsmith’s shop in downtown Stamford, you can describe your dream piece— and, in every detail, this artist can create it. Or you might find your new favorite piece in his existing collection of unique rings, necklaces and earrings. If you love supporting local designers, see what Best Of voters love about this shop.

154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203363-2200 ringart.com

TOWN WINNERS Richards R. Hollander Master Wave Goldsmith Faye Kim Altan Jewelers Designs

JAMES KATT

110 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-6600 | 5065 Main St., Trumbull, 203-374-5700 lordandtaylor.com

Š2016 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times. Optional equipment shown is extra.

The key turns, the heart starts.

There is no feeling quite like being behind the wheel of the new 911. Totally reengineered at its core with enhancements to the classic design on the outside, it was built to create a bond between car and driver like never before. Its new optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) allows for faster shifting speeds, and the new Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) system adds horsepower while using less fuel. This is without question a feeling unlike any other. To feel the absolute melding of driver and machine for yourself, visit your local authorized Porsche dealer today. Porsche.

There is no substitute.

The new 911. Experience the reengineered legend.

New Country Porsche Greenwich 241 West Putnam Avenue Greenwich CT 06830 (203) 869-8900 www.new-country.porschedealer.com

LOCAL JEWELRY BOUTIQUE

COSTUME JEWELRY

Steven Fox Jewelry

Dovecote

Some of life’s most important moments—weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, graduations—involve jewelry. We celebrate and commemorate with heirloom-quality pieces. Our voters tell us they trust Steven Fox Jewelry for its owner’s years of experience and impressive knowledge of each and every piece in the shop. The thoughtfulness of the moments you’re celebrating is reflected in the jewelry and masterful fittings. Also, a favorite inherited piece can be repaired using laser technology and traditional techniques by hand.

Commitment-phobes, we have found a solution for your style needs: costume jewelry. These are the rings, necklaces and so forth that look great and are completely on-trend—yet don’t blow your discretionary spending for the month. These are the style indulgences that you can enjoy guilt-free and wear every day. Stop into Dovecote to see an impressive collection that reflects a variety of looks to switch up your favorite outfits. See something you like? Go ahead, it only looks like a million bucks. (See also “Luxury Imports.”)

8 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-6293303 stevenfoxjewelry.com

56 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-7500

TOWN WINNERS

TOWN WINNERS

Steven Fox Jewelry NAGI Jewelers Pennyweights Faye Kasson Jewelers Kim Designs

Splurge Lord & Taylor Pennyweights Dovecote Apricot Lane

ESTATE JEWELRY

DESIGNER JEWELRY

Peter Suchy Jewelers

Copious Row

Titanic shows Rose tossing the Heart of the Ocean overboard in its final moments. So, that gem’s gone.

But estate jeweler Peter Suchy has plenty of other treasures, including a vintage golden topaz and yellow gold ring, a 9.25-carat Edwardian sapphire and diamond pendant in platinum, and antique Art Deco diamond and 42-carat emeralds in platinum earrings. The styles, gems and precious metals are as endless as a beautiful sunset at the end of a romantic movie.

When you make a selection, hold onto it tightly.

1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203327-0024 petersuchyjewelers.com

TOWN WINNERS Betteridge Peter Suchy L’Armoire Jewelers Kasson Wilton Jewelers Jewelers

78

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Gold Coasters aren’t known for being wallflowers—they shine brightly. When they drop into Copious Row, therefore, you might see them gravitate to a Ruifier Moyen LOL emoji pendant designed with 18-ct. yellow gold, white diamonds and topaz. Made in the U.K., they have a certain British cheek to them. Otherwise, check out the edgy Duo Claw stack diamond ring by Kavant & Sharart that looks like it might bite you.

Life’s too short to be dull—might as well sparkle with attitude. Copious Row has plenty of ways to help you shine. (See also “Designer Boutique.”)

86 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-2720 copiousrow.com

TOWN WINNERS Copious Row NAGI Jewelers David Harvey Jewelers (Darien) Kasson Faye Kim Designs Jewelers

Steven Fox Jewelry

PETER SUCHY BY JULIE BIDWELL; STEVEN FOX, CONTRIBUTED

Peter Suchy Jewelers

Attention Best of Winners!

2018

You asked for it and we listened!

We received hundreds of requests on how you can get additional marketing materials and signs to announce YOUR BEST OF WIN! We’re proud to announce Moffly Media’s official Best Of The Gold Coast & Best Of Town ONLINE STORE! Proudly display your win to the community with:

PLAQUES

•

COUNTER CARDS

•

WINDOW CLINGS

•

BANNERS

Counter Card (Front and back)

ORDER NOW at bestofgoldcoastct.com These special keepsakes provide yearlong in-store marketing for your business!

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN ON BEING A 2018 WINNER!

Lanphier Bachelda of Noëlle Spa Day Spa (Darien) Rick Garcia H Salon Salon

BLOW OUT/UPDO

H Salon

2018

Sometimes we have to look our best—wedding, gala fundraiser, college graduation. Other times we’re just in a rut and want to give our day a boost. Easy. Go for a much-too-fancy-to-do-yourself updo at H Salon. Then return for a I-just-can’t/don’t-want-to-do-thismyself blowout. These hair experts love making you look your best for special occasions as well as provide everyday sort of indulgence. (See also “Men’s Salon.”)

BEAUTY

2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-2550798 hsaloncolorcutdesign.com

TOWN WINNERS Hopscotch Salon Noëlle Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) Spa H Salon Blow Dry Bar

“Mark Woolley is an award-winning hair stylist, international creative director and entrepreneur behind the exclusive Electric brand,” says H Salon co-founder and co-owner Marisa Fearon. “Mark had launched his line in the states, and we are involved in putting together a team of ambassadors to bring awareness and his methods of education here.”

SELF

MEN’S STYLING

H Salon Short or long, a lot or a little, wavy or straight—no matter what kind of hair you have, gentlemen, invest in a good cut and color. Our voters head to H Salon, where Marisa Fearon, Jackie Fernandes and their team of stylists, love what they do—creating hair styles that bring out the best features of each client.

It starts with a cut and ends with a bit of product. You’ll enjoy the boost you get from knowing you look every bit yourself at your very best. (See also “Blow Out/Updo.”)

2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-2550798 hsaloncolorcutdesign.com

TOWN WINNERS Classic Barber Noble Salon Andrew Stefanou Salon & Spa (Darien) Greg & Tony

80

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Ouidad Salon

H Salon

WOMEN’S STYLING

Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) Greg & Tony Ouidad Salon H Salon

Noble Salon

COLORIST

It’s been said that women focus on relationships. It’s true. Just look at the one they have with their hair.

The importance of a smart cut, the richness of the color, the right amount of shine, the flawlessness of each wave or curl, the perfected highlights and such is as tricky as that mathematical equation posted on the board in Good Will Hunting.

Go for the extra oomph at Noble Salon, and get the look you’ve long admired on others. This place listened to what our voters wanted and delivered by bringing out their best look and having fun doing it.

The Color Café You’re tired of hearing that blondes have more fun. It’s time to put it to the test. March your brunette roots over to The Color Café and ask for a switcheroo. Go blonde for summer and try a few red highlights, just because we’re hoping it’s about to have a moment. The master colorists at this salon—which is friendly, calming and cozy, by the way—are up to speed on the latest trends and techniques; they can even keep up with your color cravings on a whim.

848 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-322-8483 noblesalon.com

23 Benedict Pl., Greenwich, 203769-1929 colorcafestudio.com

TOWN WINNERS

TOWN WINNERS

The Color Café

Noble Salon

The Color Café

Albert

DAY SPA

Noëlle Spa For anyone who has ever felt like they’re running in circles, maybe making endless laps all over Fairfield County, make a well-earned pitstop at Noëlle Spa. Just like race cars need maintenance, so do you. At this spa for beauty and wellness—the two go hand in hand—you’ll be able to slow way down, linger and idle in blissful peace as you get head-to-toe pampering. The haircuts and treatments, various massages, hand and foot services and wellness therapies here are practical, yet also soothingly indulgent—and should get you back up to speed. But first, rest.

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

TOWN WINNERS Delamar Greenwich Harbor Versailles Medical Noëlle Spa Spa (Darien) Dream Spa & Salon All About You Medical Spa

FACIAL

Lanphier Day Spa Although Lanphier Day Spa has many options for facials for women and men (even a special one just for teens), the spa recently added a couple of new temptations. The Dr. Dennis Gross Vitamin C Medical Facial, which promotes luminosity

MEN’S HAIR CUT ©YAKOBCHUKOLENA - STOCK.ADOBE.COM: HEADSHOT BY BECKY HOVING

H SALON / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR MEN’S STYLING ON…HOT PRODUCT

and brightness, is a good choice to treat sun damage. Also, the shiny new 24k Gold Leaf Facial uses gold because of its antibacterial properties; it is also thought to stimulate collagen production—so, buh-bye fine lines and wrinkles, and hello oohs and ahhs.

20 West Ave., Darien, 203-656-4444 lanphierdayspa.com

TOWN WINNERS Celia B. Skin Care Noëlle Spa Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) All About Dream Spa & Salon You Medical Spa

MASSAGE

Massage Mavens Our voters seem to be in on the secret—that hitting the gym, training hard (maybe a little too much), racing without recovery or working through the pain (when your body is saying, “No, really, stop.”), could be costing your performance, comfort or just some peace. The licensed therapists at Massage Mavens work out specific knots, elongate overworked muscles and break down scar tissue from a possible injury while also improving circulation and easing muscle tension throughout the body. Best of all, you get complete privacy and convenience, because the therapists come to you—at home or at the office—to do their work.

203-340-2518 massagemavens.com

TOWN WINNERS Massage Mavens Noëlle Spa Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) Sabita Dream Spa & Salon Holistic Center (Southport)

MAKEUP STORE

Bluemercury Fairfield County beauties want cosmetics that work, last and complement—and they find everything they need at Bluemercury. This cosmetic store is obsessed with bringing in the high-end lines, both new and longtime favorites, that they’re willing to stand behind. You’ll also find expert help in choosing and applying the powders, gels, stains and glosses to highlight your best features as you learn about the newest highperforming products.

120 Main St., New Canaan, 203972-7100 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900 | 57

Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222 other locations at bluemercury.com

TOWN WINNERS Sephora MAC Cosmetics Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) Bluemercury

MAKEUP ARTIST

Shealeen Worby of H Salon Shealeen Worby at H Salon has moves—Gold Coasters love the beauty products she chooses and the way she applies them. She can probably see your inner beauty, but she’ll mostly focus on the amazing outer beauty as she emphasizes your best features. You may be up on the latest trends or relying on a familiar look that makes you feel comfortable. That’s fine. But the number of votes we got for Shealeen suggests that more than a few of you are putting your best face forward thanks to her.

2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-2550798 hsaloncolorcutdesign.com

TOWN WINNERS Elena of Christopher Noland Salon and Beauty Spa Noble Williams & Company Salon (Darien) Arleigh Cole at W Salon Shealeen Worby of H Salon

WAXING

The Waxing Spot Everyone seems obsessed with brows these days—full, shaped, smooth. For lashes, we’re tinting, lifting and multiplying. And, being summer, more than a few people are asking for bikini waxes. Really, we don’t have to get into details to know that women and men want a clean, smooth look and that for these personal treatments, they trust The Waxing Spot. It offers four types of hard wax and two soft waxes.

Plus, the studio is clean, bright and instantly comfortable.

420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-2285118 thewaxingspot.com

mani-pedi. There’s a full list of services available, from your go-to regular mani-pedi to UV gel sets for fingers and toes. But you can also add on a spa treatment. The Posh Spa, for example, features a tea tree oil soak, a tropical citrus scrub, moisturizing mud mask and citrus massage cream. Otherwise, try the Grape Peel, which features grape and Champagne-infused ingredients to treat inflammation and irritation, or the Organic Stone Crop Therapy, which moisturizes and works on reducing pigment for a balanced skin tone. So, ask yourself, which nail color goes with totally blissed-out?

195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099 | 1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454 | 401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-2228830 | 2600 Post Rd. E., Southport, 203-319-9333 poshct.com

TOWN WINNERS Cozy Nail & Spa Gloss Luxury Williams & Company Nail & Spa (Darien) Posh Nail & Spa

SPRAY TAN

Zen Bronze Skip the beach. Get that sun-kissed glow at Zen Bronze Healthy Tanning.

It offers a custom airbrush tanning service that is done in only twenty minutes—and, yes, it moisturizes and provides natural-looking color.

With the original option, the color can take between eight to twelve hours to develop; but with the express airbrush tan, you will be able to shower within only one to four hours. You can even arrange for mobile tanning—it’s as if the sun works around your schedule.

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

TOWN WINNERS Zen Bronze (Darien, New Canaan, Westport) Palm Beach Benefit Cosmetics Pink Tan Soda

TOWN WINNERS Celia B. European Wax Center Lanphier Day Spa (Darien) Total Look The Waxing Spot Salon & Spa (Southport)

MANICURE + PEDICURE

Posh Nail Spa At Posh Nail Spa, our Best Of voters can get more than just a

BRIDAL

BRIDAL GOWNS + BRIDESMAID DRESS BOUTIQUE

A Little Something White Bridal Couture Each dress at A Little Something White Bridal Couture is hand-

picked to appeal to the brides of Fairfield County. Ashley Krauss’ wedding and bridesmaid dress shop, by appointment only, is a serene oasis in the midst of all the things to do in preparing for the big day. Looking through her selection of couture gowns, veils and jewelry, brides (and bridesmaids and flower girls) can expect to be bathed in a soothing and happy energy.

Wedding planning, after all, should be a joy. Brides and bridesmaids will find a selection of dresses, from traditional to contemporary.

For this most romantic of days, the wedding party can dress to suit the couple’s style and help make their dream moment come true. (See also “Bridal Gowns.”)

1292 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203309-5110 alittlesomethingwhite.com

TOWN WINNERS Marietta C. Designs Allure A Little Something White Bridal Bridal Couture (Darien) The Plumed Serpent

MENSWEAR FOR WEDDINGS

Mitchells/Richards The bridegroom may choose a very traditional suit or something totally unique. No matter how he chooses to express himself on his wedding day, the better the suit fits, the better he’ll feel. His groomsmen, the father of the bride and other male guests will also find what they need at Mitchells and Richards. This destination for the savviest of the fashion-minded has a flair for the finer things in life. That includes good dressing and savvy style as well as plenty of options, advice you can trust and being treated well. (See also “Black-tie Gala Attire” and “Men’s Fashion.”)

670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2275165 shop.mitchellstores.com

TOWN WINNERS Richards Men’s Wearhouse Brooks Brothers (Darien) Mitchells

WEDDING RINGS

Betteridge Fairfield County lovebirds say they chose (or will choose) Betteridge for their wedding rings. We love that because this family-owned shop, founded in 1897, knows about commitment, timeless love stories and, of course, the bands and rings that celebrate the incredible

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

81

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

STAMFORD MAGAZINE

HOBBS / Our love affair with British style may have started with Kate and Meghan, but we don’t have to swoon from afar.

Hobbs of London offers the ultimate in feminine, polished English fashion on this side of the pond (without a royal price).

HEART OF GOLD / There’s no

SALON KIKLO / We feel like

shortage of gift ideas at this bling boutique. In addition to bridal jewelry, you’ll find lovely collections, American Craft designs and one-of-a-kind special attention that will ensure you leave with the perfect gem.

we’re in SoHo at this SoNo salon, which does its best to work around customers’ busy schedules—even taking clients outside its regular business hours. Its professionally trained colorists get it right every time.

243 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-439-3816 hobbs.com

930 Hope St., Stamford, 203-9970626 heartofgoldfinejewelry.com

126 Main St., New Canaan, 203-956-7100 salonkiklo.com

lifetime vow between two people.

When the jewelry is this special, our voters say they turn to a one-ofa-kind shop with heart. We’re not crying, you’re crying. (See also “Men’s Watches” and “Women’s Watches.”)

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

TOWN WINNERS Betteridge NAGI Jewelers David Harvey Jewelers (Darien) Altan Lux Bond & Green Jewelers

WEDDING PLANNER

Ashley Douglass Events When you’re planning a wedding, so many things require your attention. That’s why a good wedding planner can be your best friend. Our voters say that’s Ashley Douglass Events. Push the worry and stress aside because this planner has the taste, experience, vendor connections, people skills and commitment to guide you

82

STAMFORDMAG.COM

through each decision. You want unwavering attention, eye for detail, plenty of options and clear communication. Done. A planner keeps the happiness going, from tasting cakes to exchanging of the vows and long into the night, dancing and popping Champagne.

34 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 917-748-6281 ashleydouglassevents.com

WEDDING GIFTS

Bed Bath & Beyond The lovebirds want and, in many cases, need a few essentials to set up their new life together. As a wedding guest, you can be sure to pick out something they’ll be delighted to receive as a wedding gift and use for years to come.

Just head to Bed Bath & Beyond, which is packed with essentials for a happy home. (See also “Wedding Registry.”)

See all locations at bedbathandbeyond.com

TOWN WINNERS Hoagland’s of Greenwich Whitney Shop Juliska Bed Bath & Williams-Sonoma Beyond

Center Gary Z of Stamford Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck (Darien) KD&J Botanica Hansen’s Flower Shop

WEDDING FLORAL DESIGNER

WEDDING INVITATIONS/ STATIONERY

Flowers and Flowers

by Adam Manjuck

MK & T Design and Print

With beauty and gentle fragrance, wedding flowers add to the romance for the bride and groom.

You find them along the aisle and surrounding the couple as they exchange their vows; they serve as lush centerpieces on the tables at the reception; they are added to the bride’s hair and create her beautiful bouquet; they are wrapped into the bridegroom’s boutonniere and more.

For all of it, Adam Manjuck creates fresh, creative and sophisticated pieces. (See also “Florist.”)

876 Post Rd., Darien, 203-662-9666 flowersandflowers.net

TOWN WINNERS McArdle’s Florist and Garden

Set the stage for your nuptials with the kind of wedding invitation you send. MK & T Design and Print is a print shop that offers wedding packages with plenty of style options. Our Best Of voters tell us that they trust this shop’s printing and design services for all things wedding, from invites to thank-you notes as well as stationery with the bride’s new monogram.

250 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203295-8211 mkatdesign.com

TOWN WINNERS MK & T Design J Papers & Print Bespoke Designs Party Party Invitations

HOBBS, CONTRIBUTED; HEART OF GOLD BY GARVIN BURKE; KIKLO, CONTRIBUTED

GREENWICH MAGAZINE

NIC + ZOE, CONTRIBUTED; SALTWATER, COURTNEY ANN PHOTOGRAPHY

FAIRFIELD LIVING MAGAZINE

NIC + ZOE / Women’s fashions

SALTWATER / Ahoy, all coastal-

that fit and go with everything makes it easy to pick out outfits.

That makes the new shop Nic + Zoe, which masters in neutral foundation pieces and statement pieces, an essential addition to Westport—that, plus its new line of shoes. 7 Church Ln., Westport,

town lovers! This adorable boutique had us at nautical baby blankets, rompers, toys and more. We go moony-eyed over the summery dresses for girls and mommy-and-me jewelry.

Go for gifts, catch a beachtownchic treat for you. 45 Unquowa

203-557-8178 nicandzoe.com

Rd., Fairfield, 203-254-1432 saltwaterct.com

WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Longshore

Melani Lust Photography

You love each other so much, you’d exchange your vows anywhere, anytime. But, yes, it would be very nice to have one of those once-ina-lifetime shots with the perfect setting to capture the romance and happiness of the moment. That’s why so many choose Longshore.

It’s hard to beat a water view and gentle breezes, not only for photos of the wedding party, but also for memorable festivities that go far into the night. Longshore’s romantic setting is available yearround and hosts only one wedding at a time. Dancing, dining and onsite accommodations add up to a perfect reception.

260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, 203226-3316 innatlongshore.com

TOWN WINNERS Delamar Greenwich Harbor The Bank Street Events Waters Edge at Giovanni’s (Darien) The Burr Longshore Homestead

Photographer Melani Lust is a romantic at heart. She can’t hide it. The sweetest thing is that you’ll never see her working a room—she’s as sneaky as Cupid preparing to shoot the dart as she finds perfect moments. When you review the full album, you’re in for a delightful surprise. She will have confidently and warmly told the story of your big day, from the most poignant moments (like the father-daughter dance) to the joyful asides (such as the flower girl trying on the veil).

Melani’s kindness shines through.

being sweet, it’s no wonder that the wedding cake is such an important part of the wedding experience.

Best Of voters tell us they turn to Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite cakes to make sure the cake rises to the occasion. This bakery offers highend, custom designs with cascades of favorite flowers or accents of gold and pearl. Each is as unique and beautiful as each couple’s love story.

3 Field Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-9545 sweetlisas.com

TOWN WINNERS Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes Palmer’s DiMare Pastry Shop Market Bakery (Darien) The Pantry

203-454-5878 melanilustphotography.com

WEDDING DJ/LIVE MUSIC

WEDDING CAKES

A wedding is a celebration. When Kunjan Collective plays the music at a reception, the couple can be sure to have plenty of company on the dance floor. This DJ knows how to read the room and select just the right songs to enhance the moment.

Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes Sweetheart, sweetie, honey bunny— with so many terms of endearment

Kunjan Collective

STYLE & BEAUTY

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

EDITOR PICKS

2018

652 Glenbrook Rd., Stamford, 855881-7700 kunjancollective.com

TOWN WINNERS Richie Vance Productions Dance to Kunjan Collective the Music Entertainment

WEDDING REGISTRY

Bed Bath & Beyond It can be quite eye-opening to realize how much stuff it takes to make a home together. Local couples can find much of it at Bed Bath & Beyond. Registry consultants are on hand to help, the Registry Analyzer makes sure couples include plenty of price points, and the mobile app lets couples manage the registry on the go, among other perks. (See also “Wedding Gifts.”)

See all locations at bedbathandbeyond.com

TOWN WINNERS Hoagland’s of Greenwich Bed Bath & Beyond Williams-Sonoma

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

83

LIVING & HOME SAM BRIDGE NURSERY AND GREENHOUSES/ GOLD COAST WINNER FOR GARDEN CENTER Tired of highmaintenance plants? Have no fear, MAGGIE BRIDGE of Sam Bridge Nursery and Greenhouses has the perfect solution. “There are so many wonderful heatand droughttolerant plants on the market.

Succulents of any kind are at the top of the trends and thrive on neglect.

They come in a bevy of colors, shapes and textures,” she says. “I also love flowering vinca, mandevilla, hibiscus, portulaca, angelonia, lantana and verbena. They’ll give you lots of color while standing up to the dry heat.”

left In full bloom at Sam Bridge Nursery and Greenhouses

JULIE BIDWELL; HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED

2018

2018

GOLD COAST WINNERS ON: MAKING LIFE EASIER GREENWICH MAGAZINE

KSEPKA BY JULIE BIDWELL; PUTTER BY AMANDA JONES ; WHITNEY BY NEIL LANDINO; SHARKEYS AND MOLINA, CONTRIBUTED

BRUCE MUSEUM Head to the Bruce, where “National Geographic Photo Ark”—an exhibition of large-scale animal photographs taken by National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore—is currently on view. An ongoing project committed to documenting every species in the world’s zoos and wildlife sanctuaries.

“The images are breathtaking, amusing and poignant,” says Dr. Daniel Ksepka, curator of science.

“We hope visitors enjoy the splendor of nature’s diversity and leave with an appreciation of how many of these species are imperiled.”

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Art Gallery

STAMFORD MAGAZINE

SPOT ON VETERINARY HOSPITAL & HOTEL

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

DARIEN SPORT SHOP

Since our furry family members can’t tell us when something hurts or they feel unwell, it is crucial we keep up with their regular checkups, says Dr. Philip Putter, owner and founder of Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel. “Preventative care can help detect and treat problems early before they progress,” he says.

Lucky for us that Spot On also provides boarding, day care, training, grooming and retail facilities, making it a one-stop shop for all our pet care needs. Too much to do at home? They even offer house calls and pet-chauffeur services, too.

In this busy world, convenience is key. “We are a onestop shop for the local customer,” says General Merchandising Manager Tom Whitney. He notes that in just one trip to Darien Sport Shop “you can get a kayak, a suit and a gift for your child.”

Of course, there’s so much more. Another perk: When you’re in a hurry or too busy to stop in to the store, try free delivery service ferried to your home in an undeniably adorable Smart Car. “That’s our mission; we try to make the shopping experience pleasant and easy for our customers.

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Veterinarian

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Sports Gear

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

FAIRFIELD LIVING MAGAZINE

SHARKEY’S CUTS FOR KIDS

ORANGETHEORY FITNESS

No more tears about haircuts. “Once children come to the salon, they want to come again and again for the overall experience,” says Scott Sharkey, co-owner with wife, Linda. “Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids of Westport really sets itself apart from the competitors with our well-planned design and unequaled entertainment factor, along with our amazing staff. …

We keep our clients coming to Sharkey’s for many years and that is our specialty.

We have extremely high brand loyalty among our young customers and their parents.”

“ We all want more.

More energy. More strength. More results.

Orangetheory is designed to give you that, and more,” says Mark Molina, owner of local studios. “Our total-body workout, named ‘the best one-hour workout in the country’ by the NY Times and numerous other national publications, changes you at the cellular level and is scientifically proven to give you a longer, more vibrant life.

And your first class is free!” Each one efficiently mixes weight room, treadmill and rowing work in a coached group. Easily schedule classes with an app.

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Haircuts for Kids

WINNER OF BEST OF THE GOLD COAST Fitness Studio

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

85

holiday-table centerpieces; wedding aisle decorations, arches and bouquets; prom boutonnieres and corsages—flowers bloom during the most important moments of our lives. With endless shapes, colors and fragrances, they make us happy or even give us comfort. Adam Manjuck knows how much flowers can move us—he’s dedicated his professional life to them, and his enthusiasm shows in his business name: Flowers and Flowers. Our voters find an abundance to love about what he creates. Stop by and smell the roses. (See also “Wedding Floral Designer.”)

2018

HOME

876 Post Rd., Darien, 203-662-9666 flowersandflowers.net

TOWN WINNERS McArdle’s Designs by Lee Flowers and Flowers by Adam Manjuck (Darien) KD&J Botanica Hansen’s Floral Design Studio Flower Shop

FURNITURE STORE

Lillian August

“I would say a big trend in home design for summer is to mix and match. This is easy to accomplish with home linens and soft furnishings, whether on the bed, on the sofa or on the table” says Liz King, owner. “Mix prints and textures, mix scale, mix materials, and always add something unexpected.”

LINENS

throw pillows, delicately patterned towels and more. The shop carries complementing accessories, such as fabric-covered tissue boxes, porcelain bowls and glass jars, to name a few, to elevate the everyday to a moment evocative of breezes and sunshine.

The Linen Shop

21 Elm St., New Canaan, 203972-0433 thelinenshopct.com

GARDEN CENTER

TOWN WINNERS

Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses

Sam Bridge Designs by Lee Nielsen’s Florist & Garden Shop (Darien) Ganim’s Terrain Garden Center & Florist

With some forty-eight ancient and agriculturally preserved acres in Greenwich, Sam Bridge Nursery & Greenhouses is a natural paradise.

You might ask if you’re at the NY Botanical Gardens. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, the lush plants, bushes, grasses and flowering trees will have your design plans taking flight like butterflies going from flower to flower. Here you’ll also find plenty of expert, down-to-earth help.

437 North St., Greenwich, 203-869-3418 sambridge.com

86

STAMFORDMAG.COM

The iconic image of a perfect summer day is a bedsheet drying on a line in a glorious field. People try to bottle it, but New Canaan shoppers find it at The Linen Shop.

One chooses boutiques for the same reason one indulges in fine linens: Quality makes life wonderful.

Soak in an utterly serene experience as you choose from crisp-white bed linens, deep-ocean-blue linen

TOWN WINNERS Lynnens Inc. HomeGoods The Linen Shop Fig Linens

FLORIST

Flowers and Flowers

by Adam Manjuck Celebratory arrangements and

26 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-489-3740 | Warehouse at 47 John St., Stamford, 203847-1596 | Design Center at 32 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-8473314 | Annex at 85 Water St., South Norwalk, 203-838-0153 lillianaugust.com

TOWN WINNERS Restoration Hardware Lillian United House Wrecking August (Norwalk) Tusk Home + Design

KING CONTRIBUTED; LINENS BY KYLE NORTON

THE LINEN SHOP / GOLD COAST WINNER ON…SEASONAL SWITCHES

Lillian August should put out a welcome mat that reads: “Living the Dream.” Fancy you and your taste for high-end designer style!

Lucky for you, Lillian August has the same spirit and enthusiasm for good taste around the home. Their multiple retail spaces showcase an enormous range of furniture for the whole house, from contemporary, total-boast attitude couches to romantic, vintage-inspired vanities; plus accessories galore, from beachy lighting to a farmhouse weather vane. Tell them about your style, and you’ll get help realizing your vision with just the right pieces in just the right positions to make living beautiful and functional.

Lillian August can even handle huge projects, like full interior design services, and the many possibilities of a new construction fires up their imagination. (See also “Rugs.”)

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

United House Wrecking You can’t change your view of the neighbor’s yard, but you can transform the seating area on the back patio. What style are you in the mood for? Even if you only have a vague notion, take an afternoon to wander United House Wrecking.

You’ll never know what you’ll find when you’re furniture hunting. The enormous shopping area spills to an outside area with furniture and home accessories across the spectrum of styles and price points.

When you see the perfect piece, you’ll know it and nothing else will do. You just might spy a piece that inspires a whole new outlook that makes the neighbors envious. (See also “Antiques/Vintage Store.”)

535 Hope St., Stamford, 203-3485371 unitedhousewrecking.com

TOWN WINNERS Patio.com United House Lillian August Wrecking (Norwalk) Crate and Barrel

HOME ACCESSORIES BOUTIQUE

Splurge You just finished a yearlong homedesign project and all of the big pieces are finally in place. Or maybe that big redo was completed a few years ago. Whether you’re looking to finish off a project or indulge in a quick refresh, accessories are the fun, personality-revealing extras. Seasonal throw pillows boost the vitality in a room. A vase enhances the soothing qualities you’ve so carefully crafted. A silver frame embraces a loved one’s image. Splurge carries such finishing touches from Julia Knight, Mariposa, Beatriz Ball, etc. Splurge also carries town-themed gifts that will delight anyone proud to call Greenwich home.

39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203869-7600 splurgegifts.com

TOWN WINNERS Splurge Juliska HomeGoods (Norwalk, Westport) Lattice House

CONTEMPORARY FURNISHINGS

CONTRIBUTED

Dovecote It’s your style and you love, love, love it…until you don’t. If the style you adopted years ago no longer brings you joy, you’re in a design rut. Contemporary furnishings

3314 | Annex at 85 Water St., South Norwalk, 203-838-0153 lillianaugust.com

can shake off a look past its prime.

Dovecote has a collection of unique finds, from jazzy-colored, textured and fringed throw pillows to sleek, glossy and bright lamps. It’s our voters’ pick for redirecting a home space to a forward-looking style.

(See also “Luxury Imports.”)

TOWN WINNERS

56 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2227500 dovecote-westport.com

If you keep looking at the floor, people are going to think you’re shy. Unless they see what you see, that gorgeous rug underfoot. The pattern, the colors, the weave— beautiful. The right rug can pull a whole room together, so Fairfield County homeowners and home designers make their rug selection very carefully. Lillian August seems to pride itself on making that decision agonizing—so many good choices. From super high-end one-of-a-kind pieces from around the world to transitional modern runners that can be switched out with the seasons, the Lillian August stores have options to the horizon—enjoy the ride, some call it magical. (See also “Furniture Store.”)

CHINA

26 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-489-3740 | Warehouse at 47 John St., Stamford, 203847-1596 | Design Center at 32 Knight St., Norwalk, 203-847-

TOWN WINNERS

TOWN WINNERS Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams Lillian Design Within Reach August (Norwalk) Dovecote

ANTIQUES/VINTAGE STORE

United House Wrecking There’s old and tired—and then there’s wicked-cool vintage and antique. If you indulge in nostalgia or even feel connected to a period before you were born, you should time travel with United House Wrecking. The sentimental among us love looking through its diverse collection of furniture and home accessories—everything from fireplace mantels and couches to planters and frames. And even if your home is all white and glass circa 2018, you might appreciate the long tradition of real craftsmanship on full display in pieces from our history. Or just that funky lamp, because it’s fun, right?

(See also “Outdoor Furniture.”)

The Drawing Room Solutions Dovecote

Design

RUGS

Lillian August

TOWN WINNERS Turabian & Sariyan Safavieh Lillian August Crate and Barrel

Hoagland’s of Greenwich A town tradition known to area lovebirds was born in 1937— registering for china at Hoagland’s of Greenwich. The store is still the place to pick out beautiful and special china sets that dress to impress (the table, that is) now and become loving heirlooms for generations to come. The shop offers plenty of styles to suit any occasion the newlyweds choose to host, and experts at the shop are happy to help make the best selection.

175 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-2127 hoaglands.com

Hoagland’s of Greenwich Design Solutions Juliska Simon Pearce

535 Hope St., Stamford, 203-3485371 unitedhousewrecking.com

TOWN WINNERS Estate Treasures of Greenwich Found United House Wrecking Lattice House Dovecote

LUXURY IMPORTS

Dovecote While it would be lovely to fly off to Europe and stop into a few favorite secret places for irresistible extras for the home, our voters have an elaborate to-do list here at home.

Instead, they turn to Dovecote’s owner, Sarah Kaplan, with the arduous task of tracking down gorgeous jewelry, throws, accent tables, mirrors and so on, that tell the tale of a well-traveled life.

These are the pieces that add a layer to the story of your home. She does the shopping, bringing it to her shop, so when you do escape abroad, you can simply enjoy the sights. (See also “Contemporary Furnishings.”)

56 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2227500 dovecote-westport.com

Find wool and silk Tamarian carpets made in Nepal as close as Lillian August.

County TV & Appliance People say they couldn’t live without their cell phones. Have you tried even a day without your home appliances—the grill, the refrigerator, the oven, the dryer, the air-conditioner and so many others pieces that keep our homes running smoothly? Our voters give the Best Of nod to County TV & Appliance for their selection of hard-working—and, these days, high-tech—appliances from the top brands. Our cell phones may get the lion’s share of our attention, but perhaps that’s just because our appliances work so smoothly.

2770 Summer St., Stamford, 203-327-2630 countytv.com

TOWN WINNERS Partridge & Rockwell County Aitoro Appliances TV & Appliance (Norwalk) Marsillio’s Appliance & TV

COOKING CLASSES

Aux Délices Diving into your white bean and arugula soup or taking your first bite of the roasted salmon with mango salsa, you realize that you may be a foodie with great taste, but an Aux Délices chef you are not. Brush up on your culinary skills with one of their classes. They offer different programs for kids, adults and even corporate team building (hello, food fight). Classes are hands-on demonstrations, so you walk away with skills you are confident using at home. Of course, you can always just order from Aux Délices as a backup plan.

Catering & Event Planning You are a force to be reckoned with in the boardroom, on the golf course, in any negotiation. Yet, somehow, cooking calls to mind images of smoke and hysteria. We all have our strengths. Luckily, Fairfield County has Marcia Selden, who is a culinary power player. No matter your preferences or dietary restrictions or the mixture thereof in your family, she can whip up something delicious— no smoke, no chaos.

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

TOWN WINNERS The Cooking Fairy Marcia Amanda Smith Selden Catering Caterers (Darien) Cinch

LIVERY SERVICE

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Pray Body Shop It wasn’t your fault. That other driver came out of nowhere. Trust us, we drive I-95, too. But if you see a little ding, or even experience major damage to your car, you can roll over to Pray Body Shop. This is a family-owned and -operated autocollision repair shop that has been open since 1982. It works on all makes and models and knows the tales of driving, parking, swerving and screeching to a halt throughout Fairfield County. Their work will put that fender bender in your rearview mirror.

When you turned sixteen, you couldn’t wait to get your driver’s license and get behind the wheel of some sweet ride. Now, a few years on, you’re quite happy to let someone else take the wheel, so you can talk on your phone, catch up on some work, daydream out the window, even nap. That’s the beauty of Rudy’s Executive Transportation—to find free time.

Zelenz Brothers Pray Body AC Auto Body & Mechanical Shop Service Inc. Christie’s Service Fairfield Collision Center Station

85 Old Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-609-8000 rudylimo.com

TOWN WINNERS

CAR WASH

Splash Car Wash One sure way to get it to rain is to have your car washed. Every.

Single. Time. The funny thing about rain, it doesn’t actually clean the

car; it just leaves streaks and even dirt. So roll on over to Splash Car Wash, which will polish things up, inside and out. With plenty of locations, one will be nearby whenever you want an express exterior wash done by hand, or you may want to join the monthly club program, so when it does rain on your newly washed car, you can just circle back.

1-888-697-7527 see all locations at splashcarwashes.com

TOWN WINNERS Splash Car Wash Westport Wash & Wax

DRY CLEANER

Fabricare Cleaners No more outfits lost at the dry cleaners. Best Of votes tell us you’re going to Fabricare Cleaners, a full-service green dry cleaner with independently run divisions.

It provides pickup and delivery dry cleaning and laundry service right to your front door in Darien, Fairfield and Norwalk (where the stores are located) and in other towns along I-95.

312 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-6553381 | 5 Holmes St., Norwalk, 203229-0001 | 2130 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-2725 fabricarecleaners.net

TOWN WINNERS Thomas Cleaners Bull’s Head Fabricare Cleaners Dry Cleaners Friendly Minute Man Cleaners Cleaners

STORAGE FACILITY

Westy Self Storage You loved it when you bought it (that huge antique pine cabinet, that rare set of vintage books, the contemporary rug that was going to tie the whole room together, the bookshelf, desk, pet crate, artwork, kayaks, and on and on). Until you weren’t so sure. No worries. Westy Self Storage will keep your stuff safe. When you take that yearlong assignment in Japan or your collegeage kids swear they won’t be moving home after graduation, you can box it up and know it’s safe, clean and easy to retrieve—when you’re sure.

Aux Délices Culinary Works/ Kitchens by Deane (Stamford, New Canaan) TIED! Culinary Works/ Kitchens by Deane (Stamford, New Canaan) and Sugar + Olives (Norwalk) AMG Catering & Cinch Events (Wilton)

88

AUTO REPAIR SHOP

336 Elm St., Stamford, 203-3593025 praybodyshop.com

TOWN WINNERS

Marcia Selden

Rudy’s Executive Transportation Hoyt Livery Inc. Regency Limousine Inc. (Wilton) TIED! Serlin International Limousine and Post Road Limousine

Rudy’s Executive Transportation

3 W. Elm St., Greenwich, 203-622-6644 | 1075 E. Putnam Ave, Riverside, 203-698-1066 | 25 Old Kings Hwy., Darien, 203-662-1146 | 1035 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-9600 | 44 Church Ln., Westport, 203557-6605 auxdelicesfoods.com

PERSONAL CHEF SERVICES

TOWN WINNERS

80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford | 50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton | 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 855-417-1284 westy.com Aux Délices helps home cooks sharpen their culinary skills.

TOWN WINNER Westy

CONTRIBUTED

APPLIANCES

next round, invest in the right set of clubs. Golf Galaxy (“world” wasn’t big enough) offers ten custom fittings by certified professionals.

With 552 grip options and nearly 800 shaft options (this place did more than 52,000 shaft fittings last year), you’ll be playing your best. You will also find other necessities, such as balls and shoes, even lessons.

2018

FITNESS

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

TOWN WINNERS Joe Felder’s Golf Shop at the Griffith E. Harris Golf Club Sterling Golf Galaxy Farms Golf Club Garner Golf Studio Golf (Wilton)

FITNESS WEAR

lululemon athletica Don’t you wish someone could bottle the motivation to work out?

All you’d have to do is pop one open and get going. Well, you sort of have that in lululemon athletica.

The fitness wear looks and feels so great, you want to get up and run to your next group class (or, at least, errands around town).

151 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203622-5046 | 91 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1378 shop.lululemon.com

TOWN WINNERS

PACIFIC CYCLING & TRIATHLON / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR BICYCLE SHOP ON…CYCLING FOR NEWBIES

CONTRIBUTED

“Make sure you are riding the proper size bike,” says Julie Gabay, owner. “Your local shop can ensure this and provide routine service.”

Also, invest in a helmet, shorts, top and gloves. Join a cycling club to meet fellow riders, try guided rides and learn safe routes. “Don’t ride where you drive. The best routes are off the beaten path.”

BICYCLE SHOP

TOWN WINNERS

Pacific Cycling & Triathlon

Dave’s Cycle & Fitness Pacific New Canaan Cycling & Triathlon Bicycles Cycle Dynamics Zane’s Cycles/Trek

Anyone who commutes via I-95 or the Merritt Parkway has endured time-stopping congestion. It’s so bad, you’re sure you could be passed by a bicycle. Truth is, with advances in design and equipment, not to mention seriously fit cyclists, today’s riders could pass you easily.

Luckily, they prefer the long-andwinding backroads—and, for them, all roads lead to Pacific Cycling & Triathlon. Here, athletes gear up with choices from a world of cycling products. Maybe sprint there?

984 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-504-8960 pacificsbr.com

disks, croquet, bag toss and other faves. The name is on the building, so we’ll have to stick with it, but score gear for various sports here.

1127 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2575 dariensport.com

SPORTS GEAR STORE

TOWN WINNERS

Darien Sport Shop

Bruce Park Sports The Darien Sport Athlete’s Source ASF Sports & Outdoors Shop

They chose the name—Darien Sport Shop—so who are we to weigh in on it? But wouldn’t Darien Sports (plural) Shop be a better fit? We’re just saying, it carries gear for more than just one sport. Yes, there is a lot of serious equipment for lacrosse players (shoulder pads, sticks, bags, gloves and so on), but it also has options for backyard sports, like archery, Mega Bounce Ball, sport

GOLF EQUIPMENT

Golf Galaxy Despite the old quip that golf is a nice walk ruined, the game is partly about patience, strategy, practice, natural ability—and the right equipment. Whether your ego or a business deal is on the line in the

lululemon athletica Pacific Darien Sport Cycling & Triathlon Shop Athletic Shoe Factory

GYM

Underground Fitness When you’re twenty, you have excess energy. At thirty, you’re looking for time to squeeze in a workout. Come forty, you’re ready to try something new to stay fit.

Fifty and up, you can’t sleep even though it’s 2 a.m. Come one, come all—Underground Fitness is open 24/7. Try weights, treadmills, bikes, fitness classes and more to chase fitness goals at every age.

473 Hope St., Stamford, 203-5693640 undergroundfitnessct.com

TOWN WINNERS Equinox Underground Fitness The Edge Fitness Club (Norwalk, Fairfield) Saugatuck Rowing Club + Fitness Center

FITNESS STUDIO

Orangetheory Fitness Some of us are self-motivated fitness buffs; others, pack animals who do our best in a group under

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

89

the leadership of an alpha figure.

Orangetheory Fitness has figured out the formula that gets people of all fitness styles to push themselves to the next level. It’s a mix of support from the group, directions from a motivating coach, an ever-changing routine, and feedback from your heartrate monitor. The high-energy music and low-level lights help, too.

of your classmates/dance troupe.

800 Post Rd., Darien, 203-2027975 | 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-8825 | 25 Sylvan Rd. S., Westport, 203-557-6737 barmethod.com

TOWN WINNERS Go Figure Exhale Mind Body Spa The Bar Method (Darien, Westport, Fairfield) Pure Barre

205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-8836070 | 645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262 | 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-8838220 see all locations at orangetheoryfitness.com

DANCE FITNESS

Connecticut Dance Center

Elliptica Upper Deck Fitness Orangetheory Fitness (Norwalk, Westport, Fairfield)

YOGA STUDIO

Focus on intense and precise movements at The Bar Method.

Stamford Yoga Center Yoga is not for the perfect; it’s for those who practice. At Stamford Yoga Center, leave your worries about whether you’re doing this or that the right way at the door; all levels are welcome. Improve together. The center’s special events and workshops help you work on strength, focus, breath and relaxation without judgment and with plenty of support. Sounds perfect.

13 Spring St., Stamford, 203-2745235 stamfordyogacenter.com

TOWN WINNERS Kaia Yoga (Greenwich, Westport) Stamford Yoga Center Saraswati’s Yoga Joint (Norwalk) Yoga for Everybody

CROSSFIT

BK Athletics You may not have known how far you can push yourself—at least not until the day you walk into Ben Kelly’s gym, BK Athletics. Here, longtime athletes and athletesto-be lift, race, hoist, sprint and heave to find their higher fitness level. Under the direction of the coach and fellow members, each client digs deeper to uncover transformation. Most recently, BK introduced a HIIT class called The Super Circuit. Super work deserves super results.

85 Mill Plain Rd., Ste. G, Fairfield, 203-292-8770 bkathletics.net

TOWN WINNERS Division 1 Prep CrossFit Achieve Fitness Stamford

90

STAMFORDMAG.COM

(Norwalk) CrossFit Westport BK Athletics

PILATES

SPINNING CLASSES

Long, lean, strong muscles that enjoy fluid full-range of motion— who doesn’t want that? But only those who put in the work with Pilates get it. Following a series of strength-building, flexibilityproducing movements—on mats or state-of-the-art equipment— those who practice Pilates reap the rewards of their efforts at the studio. Westport Pilates offers mat and reformer classes in private, duo and trio sessions.

JoyRide Cycle Studio Feel like your fitness routine is getting you nowhere? Kick it into high gear with spinning classes at JoyRide Cycle Studio. Once the lights drop down and the music goes up, the class instructor will do whatever it takes to get you up to speed, climbing hills like a beast and sprinting through the finish line. You will be out of breath and sweating—and happy. Each ride comes with a free shower of affirmations. To mix things up, the innovative studio regularly updates its classes, too. The Westport studio just got new bikes that feature improved adjustments, an exclusive sprint shift feature and more advances.

25 Old Kings Hwy. N. (Goodwives Shopping Center), Darien, 203-2029712 | 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454 | 3 Godfrey Pl., Wilton, 203-762-6122 | 62 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield, 203-403-6874 joyridestudio.com

TOWN WINNERS SoulCycle Chelsea Piers Connecticut JoyRide Cycling + Fitness (Darien, Westport, Wilton) ZenRide Spinning Studio

Westport Pilates

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

TOWN WINNERS Core Pilates Greenwich Chelsea JoyRide Cycle Piers Connecticut Studio (Darien) Westport Pilates Black Rock Pilates Studio

BARRE

The Bar Method Maybe you missed the big audition (Mom’s fault, whatever), but you just know you could have been a dancer. Well, at least you can have a dancer’s body if you commit to the classes at The Bar Method in Fairfield and Westport. This is where grace and strength meet determination and focus. Every class challenges you to give your best effort and rely on the support

Imagine the spotlight’s warm glow. You are front and center and ready to show your appreciative audience what you can do. Or just have fun with dance. Its full-body movements work range of motion, flexibility, strength, coordination and balance, while the routines keep your mind focused on the steps.

The Connecticut Dance Center gets you going with hip-hop, jazz, tap, ballet and contemporary dance. The schedule overflows with options for all ages, abilities and interests. Why step to the front row, when you can gracefully leap there?

76 Viaduct Rd., Stamford, 203-5693131 ctdancecenter.com

TOWN WINNERS Arthur Murray Dance Studio Connecticut Dance Center TIED! New Canaan Dance Academy and Intensity Fitness (Norwalk) Westport Academy of Double Up Dance Studio Dance

OUTDOOR SPORTS (BOARDS & BOATS)

Downunder Kayaking Fairfield County, thanks for noticing that we live on the coast. That means we absolutely should be getting out on the Sound as often as possible. If you don’t own a boat, head to Downunder Kayaking. It offers lessons, hosts kayaking tours, rents paddleboards, runs summer camps for kids and more.

157 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-642-3660 | 155 Nearwater Ln., Darien | 575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-956-6217 downunderct.com

TOWN WINNERS Landfall Navigation TIED: Downunder Kayaking (Rowayton, Westport) and The Dock Shop Fairfield Swim N Surf

© 2018 PAMELA EINARSEN PHOTOGRAPHY

TOWN WINNERS

2018

ENTERTAINMENT

FTC / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR LIVE MUSIC SPOT ON… MUST-SEE SUMMER SHOW

FRANKENREITER BY SCOTT VINCENT; LOVETT AND HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED

”Lyle Lovett, [above, right] a four-time Grammy Award winner and renowned songwriter, has long buttered his bread with his ability to incorporate damn-near the entire spectrum of American music into his songs and performances,” say Alexandra Toombs, FTC marketing associate.

“He’s a true Texas original and a singular voice. We speak from experience when we say that this is a concert you won’t want to miss.” FTC holds shows at The Warehouse (above, left Donavon Frankenreiter) as well as The Klein, where you can catch Lovett on August 9.

LIVE MUSIC SPOT

Fairfield Theatre Company The gazebo on the Fairfield Green may be the official center of town (we don’t know for sure; we’re just guessing), but Fairfield Theatre Company is without a doubt the unofficial centerpoint for all things rockin’-n-rollin’, jazzy, poppin’ and totally funk. The nonprofit attracts both big musical acts and solo shows to town. It has two connected venues: StageOne (seats 225) and The Warehouse (seats 640). But who sits? The powerful shows get people up and out of their seats. When people say, “Let’s meet up in town,” they

mean the center of all things music and fun night out: FTC. (See also “Music Lessons.”)

70 Sanford St., Fairfield, 203-259-1036 fairfieldtheatre.org

TOWN WINNERS Beach House Café Alive@Five The Goose Stamford Downtown (Darien) Black Duck Café Fairfield Theatre Company

PERFORMING ARTS

Stamford Symphony Call us sentimental, but there are classical pieces that literally move us to tears every time we hear them. These works may not be on high rotation on the

biggest radio programs, but they top our personal music streams.

The impact is even more moving when experienced with a live performance by the Stamford Symphony. The talented ensemble of dedicated musicians, who also perform with the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Ballet, American Symphony Orchestra and New York Pops, are everything you love about classical music without the drive.

263 Tresser Blvd., Stamford, 203-325-1407 stamfordsymphony .org

TOWN WINNERS Greenwich Symphony Stamford Symphony Darien Arts Center

LOCAL ROCK BAND

Tangled Vine OK, fine, so you didn’t snag the Bruno Mars tickets that your bestie offered you. And you will forever regret not catching Prince or The Rolling Stones in concert when you had a chance (yeah, bad call).

But that’s OK, because Fairfield County Best Of voters are huge fans of Tangled Vine. This group of musicians—Christine Tambakis, Kevin Totoian, Andy Abel and Nick Saya—rock out to the most popular songs that will get you dancing, swaying, fist pumpin’ and forgetting about all the stress and regrets of concerts missed. tangledvine.com

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

91

“Live Music Spot.”)

RADIO AM

The Short Bus

338 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-690-1888 fairfieldschoolofmusic.org

WSTC / 1400

If you want your party guests to have a great time, provide them with plenty of good food and wine.

But if you want your partygoers to rock out long into the night, hire The Short Bus. This local group is made up of, technically, musicians playing all the good-time tunes people know by heart; but, unofficially, they’re full-on people pleasers. Gold Coasters call them back for multiple encores. theshortbusrocks.com

MUSIC LESSONS

Fairfield School of Music “Do I have to go to school today?”

Many parents hear this from their kids at some point (or multiple points) as they go through their school years. But they don’t hear it when it comes to Fairfield School of Music. Here, musicians—from budding to experienced—practice and refine their vocals, wind instruments, piano, strings, horns and percussion skills. (See also

Part of learning music at Fairfield School of Music is learning performance skills.

TOWN WINNERS Atelier Constantin Popescu School Lenox School of Music of Rock Suzuki Music School Fairfield School of Music

PERFORMING ARTS VENUE

Fairfield Theatre Company Bravo, Fairfield Theatre Company!

You’ve got big plans for what you can bring to Fairfield County—from massive performance spaces in The Warehouse to more intimate shows at StageOne. But we know FTC always has something waiting in the wings—lots of music but also comedy, film series and even arts-education programs for kids.

There’s something for everyone.

70 Sanford St., Fairfield, 203-2591036 fairfieldtheatre.org

TOWN WINNERS Alive@Five Westport Country Fairfield Theatre Playhouse Company

WSTC, dubbed “Fairfield County’s Favorite Radio,” never misses a beat. The Stamford-based station covers everything from FCIAC sports to the latest area trends.

Now with the ever-popular TuneIn app, you can take WSTC with you on the go. Listen to your favorite pop hits like “The Middle,” by Zedd, or hear Danielle Costa discuss emojis with WSTC Radio.

Listen at tunein.com/radio/WSTC1400-s22986

TOWN WINNER WGCH

RADIO FM + RADIO PERSONALITIES

The Anna & Raven Show/Star 99.9 What does a former casino dealer and a Zumba teacher have in common? They’re our Best Of favorite radio personalities. While 6–10 a.m. can be a stressful time for commuters, Star 99.9’s radio duo entertains with anecdotes, funny news and, of course, today’s “best

mix.” The next time you’re driving around, tune into your favorite songs and personalities. star999.com

ART GALLERY

Bruce Museum of Arts & Science There’s always something going on at The Bruce. The multiple art exhibits rotate on a regular basis.

A current example is photography of wild bees by photojournalist and writer Paula Sharp and nature photographer Ross Eatman. Then there are the ancillary programs, like meeting the artists, a field trip to a state park preserve, a mini-symposium on bees and a honey tasting. The museum also has impressive collections for art, textiles, science, ethnology and history, and a full roster of special events and festivals. The way they fit so much into one place is an art in and of itself.

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

TOWN WINNERS Bruce Museum of Arts and Science Franklin Street Works Silvermine Arts Center Westport Arts Center J. Russell Jinishian Gallery

MUSEUM

Maritime Aquarium Dory, a famously forgetful animated fish, sang, “Just keep swimming,” and coined a life maxim. The seas have so much to teach us, and the place to learn about fish, water creatures, coastal habitats and all such things is at the Maritime Aquarium. The kids love the hands-on touch tanks and the huge aquariums for small fish and even sharks. Everyone loves the seals. The Maritime also has special events, the ever-popular IMAX theater and lighthouse and sunset cruises—anything to keep you curious about the sea (and if you forget what you learned, just go back).

10 North Water St., Norwalk, 203852-0700 maritimeaquarium.org

TOWN WINNERS Bruce Museum Stamford Museum & Nature Center Maritime Aquarium (SoNo) Westport Historical Society Fairfield Museum and History Center

SEAN BUTLER, CAUGHTLIGHT STUDIO

LOCAL COVER BAND

2018

FAMILY LIFE

COLONY GRILL / GOLD COAST WINNER FOR FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT ON…MAKING KIDS HAPPY Have little ones to keep happy during the long days of summer? There’s a can’t-lose place: Colony Grill in downtown Fairfield. Its casual vibe and always popular pizza win over fans, large and small.

“Colony Grill is very appreciative to be recognized as the Gold Coast’s best family restaurant,” says Ken Martin, co-owner and operator of the eighty-three-year-old Connecticut pizza chain. “Part of our mission is to be a safe, comfortable destination for people from all walks of life, and we believe that local families in particular view our brand as an extension of their own kitchen table.”

COLONY BY VENERA ALEXANDROVA; HEADSHOT, CONTRIBUTED

FAMILY-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

Colony Grill Did the baseball team just win the game—or at least play with heart?

Are you celebrating a graduation from elementary school or maybe acceptance into an Ivy League dream choice? Maybe you just want a family dinner out without side-eyed looks from fellow diners?

Pile in the car and head to Colony Grill. This classic pizza joint is comfortable for the whole family, and everyone can agree on the hot-oil thin-crust pie and a round of root beer to cheer one another.

Bonus round: A new location is opening in Port Chester.

172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, 203359-2184 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-5252 | 1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-1989 | 36 Broad St., Milford, 203-876-1935 see all locations at colonygrill.com

TOWN WINNERS Boxcar Cantina Remo’s Brick Cherry Street Oven Pizza Co. East Café (Darien) Little Barn Colony Grill

TOY STORE

New Canaan Toy Store If you want your kids to put down their phones, to stop watching TV, or stop saying, “I’m bored,” join

our Best Of voters at New Canaan Toy Store. This is where the fun is—kids love seeing the shelves piled high with all kinds of games and toys. Maybe a family night with a round of Monopoly Junior on the back patio or maybe a new dump truck to shape the terrain at the local sandbox or beach; a doll to push in a carriage; an action figure to ignite adventures of the imagination. This sweet shop has a great selection.

94 Park St., New Canaan, 203-966-2424 newcanaantoystore.net

TOWN WINNERS Smart Kids’ Toys Stamford New Canaan Toy Store Toys

PLACE FOR CHILDREN’S PARTIES

Great Play of Stamford Because childhood birthdays are a huge deal, there’s no waffling about where our Best Of voters are hosting the next birthday party for their kids: Great Play. Birthday boys or girls enjoy celebrating their day by burning off energy. Check out this part party space and part gym-and-training center that works on developing motor skills, sports skills, fitness and coordination in an interactive space. When your child throws a ball at an interactive screen and the ball lands in the animated bucket, the image reacts.

The parties are filled with jumping,

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

93

2000 West Main St., Stamford, 203-978-1333 greatplay.com/stamford

TOWN WINNERS Stepping Stones Great Play Museum for Children (Norwalk) Hands on Pottery Splatterbox

CHILDREN’S CLOTHES

Groove You had the baby years to dress them and pick out their toys and room accessories. Now, they are big kids, tweens or teens, and they know exactly what they want, thank you. At Groove, you’ll both agree the T-shirts, swimsuits, hats, jeans, pillows, shades, bags, cups and all things fuzzy, glittery or otherwise kid-adorable and trendy is here. Walk them in and let them go. They’ll love shopping; you’ll both agree on what they pick out; and you’ll get a chance to kick back. (See also “Baby Store.”)

115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-9201700 | 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111 grooveforkids.com

TOWN WINNERS Anna Banana Lord & Taylor Darien Sport Shop Groove

BABY STORE

Groove

or, at least, they’ll have a lot of fun working on a sports-related skill or get-up-and-move activity.

Great Play offers a patented interactive technology as well as trained coaches to develop skills for football, baseball, hockey, soccer and so forth. You’ll find lots of options to suit your child, a full schedule of activities, and plenty of advice—even for reluctant participants.

2000 West Main St., Stamford, 203978-1333 greatplay.com/stamford

TOWN WINNERS Great Play of Stamford Darien YMCA Wilton YMCA Sportsplex

MUSEUM FOR CHILDREN

Stepping Stones Museum for Children If you are a parent or grandparent to a child under ten, you might have faced that long summer day when you’re not sure what to do or a rainy day with a pack of bored kids. Stepping Stones Museum for Children to the rescue! This place is designed for the way kids explore: hands-on. It has plenty of exhibits that just look like fun to a child.

And, Mom and Dad, you can be sure that they are safe and happy in this colorful and cheerful fun zone.

Check the event calendar online for special programs and activities.

1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-5578700 sharkeyscutsforkids.com

303 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-0606 steppingstonesmuseum.org

Generations Barber Parlor Johnny’s & Noble Salon Company (Darien) Sharkey’s H Salon Cuts for Kids

TOWN WINNERS Bruce Museum of Arts & Science Stamford Museum & Nature Stepping Stones Center (Norwalk) Fairfield Earthplace Museum and History Center

CHILDREN’S HAIRCUTS

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids Gold Coast babies, kids and tweens enjoy having a hair salon that lets them be kids. Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids soothes their nerves about the wash, cut and blowdry by offering them happy distractions, such as gaming stations, balloons, lollipops and kid-appealing chairs. Tweens get their own section, where they can master manis, fancy hairstyles and every makeup tip and trend they’ve picked up from a favorite YouTuber. The salon knows that getting a haircut is only part of the reason to go to a salon; just like

At Stepping Stones Museum for Children kids learn through play

adults, part of it is relaxing.

TOWN WINNERS

NANNY/BABYSITTING SERVICES

Nannies As Needed Score! You finally got the tickets to the big show you’ve been dying to see. Or, wow, you just got a huge promotion and you want to celebrate with the hubby. But, wait, what about the kids? No problem, Fairfield County—just call Nannies As Needed. This sitting service provides professional staff who are screened in a comprehensive interview process and then matched to the best placement.

Choose from temporary, shortterm or emergency coverage.

Yes, snagging big tickets counts as an emergency.

203-874-4939 nanniesasneeded.com

ART CLASSES

Silvermine Arts Center

115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-9201700 | 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111 grooveforkids.com

The Silvermine Arts Center is a serious arts center for developing amateurs and established professionals. But artists have to learn, so this place offers installations, workshops and education for adults as well as outreach programs to schools, camps for kids and a teen arts studio. They can choose to study painting, ceramics, drawing, glass work, jewelry making, photography and more, depending on age. Let the center know what you might be interested in, and it will find an option for you—after all, this place is dedicated to creativity.

TOWN WINNERS

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

This fun shop will put even tired mamas in the mood for a little shopping. It’s bright and fresh, and its energy is always gives shoppers a positive boost. Check out the baby playsuits, onesies, dresses and sunhats as well as toys and accessories. You can completely suit up baby to be ready for his or her next posting to friends and family on Facebook. (See also “Children’s Clothes.”)

Whitney Shop Anna Banana Magic Beans Groove

KIDS’ FITNESS/SPORTS TRAINING

Great Play of Stamford This interactive gym, with programs for ages six months to ten years, can bring out the budding sports star in your child—

94

STAMFORDMAG.COM

TOWN WINNERS Silvermine Action Art School Arts Center Westport Arts The Studio Center

COLLEGE PREP COURSES

Carnegie Pollak As much as you’d love to take the PSAT, SAT or ACT for your

CONTRIBUTED

swinging, sliding and lots of realtime fun. Go for the birthday gold.

MOFFLY 8 T H A NMEDIA’S NUAL

WOMEN, WEALTH AND WISDOM

Thank You!

To our keynote, sponsors, honorees and everyone who helped to make our 10th annual WOMEN IN BUSINESS conference such a success…

CHECK OUT PARTY PICS + VIDEO

MELANI LUST PHOTOGRAPHY

WOMENINBUSINESSFC.COM PRESENTING SPONSORS

SIGNATURE SPONSORS

2

WINE SPONSOR

EXCLUSIVE WATER SPONSOR:

FLORAL SPONSOR:

A portion of the ticket proceeds benefitting:

BREAST CANCER ALLIANCE

TOGAS / For over 100 years the Togas family has prided itself on producing the ultimate in luxurious beddings, linens and accessories. Today, the company is a global brand and found in the most fashionable of homes (and palaces) around the world.

51-53 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1555 togas.com

teen (who doesn’t love reliving a highlight of the high-school years— hint, no one), you can’t. It’s up to them. But what you can do to help is prep them. What’s that, they don’t listen to you? Then turn to the pros at Carnegie Pollak. They have college-testing prep courses that will boost their test-taking skills and confidence.

136 Old Stone Bridge Rd., Cos Cob, 203-352-3500 carnegiepollak.com

TOWN WINNERS Carnegie Pollak The Collaborative Center for Learning Sylvan and Development Learning Center (Darien) Freudigman & Billings LLC Mathnasium of Fairfield

LANGUAGE CLASSES

ABC Languages Not everyone can be a whiz at learning languages. That’s OK— break it down to the basics with ABC Languages. This independent language school has locations

96

STAMFORDMAG.COM

NEW CANAAN, DARIEN & ROWAYTON MAGAZINE

STAMFORD MAGAZINE THE COLLECTIVE / Attention amateur scavengers and serious decorators alike: Time to check out this new kid on the antiques district block. It’s cozy, inviting and chock-full of furniture, accessories, art and all kinds of vintage and modern finds. 50

THE TIPSEA TRAILER / This is

John St., Stamford, 203-569-9225 thecollectivect.com

203-461-4291 tipseatrailer.com

around the country as well as private tutoring in more than twenty languages. They’ll find the help they need to either fill in the gaps that are holding them back or polish up skills they’ve recently learned. They also offer online classes, which are one-on-one, private lesssons with a tutor. abclang.com

TOWN WINNERS

practice here. Plus, they work on their performance skills.

338 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-690-1888 fairfieldschoolofmusic.org

TOWN WINNERS Atelier Constantin Popescu Giuliano’s School of Music TIED! Jay and Ray Music for Everybody and Stepping Stones Museum Suzuki Music Fairfield School of School Music

Chinese Language School (Riverside) The German School Lingua School of Connecticut for Kids (Darien) Franc-O-Fun ABC Languages (Wilton)

BOOKSTORE

KIDS’ MUSIC LESSONS

Barnes & Noble

Fairfield School of Music If your child loves the spotlight and can carry a tune or tickle the ivories, you’ve probably heard of Fairfield School of Music. Wind, brass, strings, percussion or voice, music comes through in various ways, and children can learn and

upcycling at its best: Once used to transport horses, this trailer-turned-party mobile comes with coolers and just the right trappings to make your fête a fan favorite. We like the customizable cups!

Movies, music, toys, games, calendars, planners, stationery, magazines (yeah!), and, of course, books and ebooks—so many choices at today’s Barnes & Noble. Stop by any day and you’ll find plenty of fellow readers.

The children’s section draws in families picking out either baby’s first book or the latest Wimpy Kid title. Cooks are checking out the

latest cooking and entertainment offerings. Whether you choose the latest publication on the state of politics or a nerve-tingling chill from Stephen King, people come here to escape, find insight, get inspiration, indulge in some entertainment and learn something new. Plus, you’re likely to run into someone you know nearly every visit. “Have you read the latest…?” Yes. 1076 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-7955 barnesandnoble .com

TOWN WINNERS Diane’s Books of Greenwich Elm Street Barnes & Noble Books Fairfield University Bookstore

PET SUPPLIES/CLOTHING

Pet Pantry Warehouse If you haven’t heard, most dogs love to jump in the car. Take your fur baby to Pet Pantry Warehouse.

Founded in 1945 in Greenwich, it

TOGAS, CONTRIBUTED; THE COLLECTIVE BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; TIPSEA BY GARVIN BURKE

GREENWICH MAGAZINE

JOEY’S BY BECKY HOUVING; QUICK CENTER, COURTESY OF ARTIST

JOEY’S BY THE SHORE / Many

FAIRFIELD LIVING MAGAZINE

people have told us one of the reasons they moved to Westport is Compo Beach, but its biggest fan is Joey Romeo. He runs the popular concession stand at the beach. On any given summer’s day, you’ll find your friends and neighbors lining up to grab a quick bite or cold drink.

QUICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS / The quality and variety—lectures, dance, music, children’s programs, theater, live-streaming of opera—at the Quick deserve a Gold Coast–wide standing ovation. It offers experiences that entertain, enlighten and challenge. 1073 N. Benson Rd., 203-

64 Compo Beach Rd., Westport

254-4010 quickcenter.fairfield.edu

remains an independent, familyowned retailer. Whether your pets run, slink, hop, scurry or pitterpatter—take a cue from them and get going. This place has everything for pet health, nutrition, care and entertainment.

family members. It is part hospital for all of their medical needs, including alternative medicine, and part grooming and pampering; training and day care; luxury boarding and more. (See also “Veterinarian.”)

1191 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-344-9295 | 21 Grove St., New Canaan, 203-801-0444 | 3 Godfrey Pl., Wilton, 203-761-0444 see all locations at ppwpet.com

184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203973-7768 spotonvet.com

TOWN WINNERS Pet Pantry Warehouse Pet Valu Petco (Norwalk, Fairfield) Earth Animal

TOWN WINNERS The Pampered Pooch (Cos The Bark Cob) Spot On Club (Norwalk) TIED! Canine Creations by Carmella and Town House for Dogs and Cats Greenfield Hill Dog Grooming

DOG GROOMER/PET SPA

VETERINARIAN

Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel

Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel

Fairfield County loves its pets, and Best Of voters tell us that they trust Spot On Veterinary with the health and well-being of their dogs, cats and other furry, fuzzy, scaly, sleek

Dr. Putter loves animals and puts them first—which is good for pet parents, because his vet center (part hospital, part hotel) is fresh, contemporary, clean

and bright. That makes it a calm and pleasant experience during wellness visits and when you must follow a treatment plan.

This is luxe, with appointments that aren’t rushed, no run-around when you need to reach someone, and even pet chauffeur service— plus, house calls. From routine dental exams to endoscopy or radiology to emergency care or even surgery, Spot On can handle it with compassion. (See also “Dog Groomer/Pet Spa.”) 184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203973-7768 spotonvet.com

TOWN WINNERS Greenwich Animal Hospital The Veterinary Spot On Cancer Center (Norwalk) South Wilton Veterinary Group (Wilton) Southport Veterinary Hospital

LOCAL HOTEL

Delamar Southport Guests of the luxurious Delamar Hotel in Southport relish in the

LIVING & HOME

WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON MAGAZINE

EDITOR PICKS

2018

quaint, New England décor harkening back to a grander and gentler time. Relaxation here means curling up in a terry plush robe on a king-size mattress, rejuvenating your mind and body with a hotstone massage, and savoring fine cuisine and a perfect glass of French wine. As one reviewer notes, “This is my home away from home when in Connecticut.” Everybody’s definition of “home” is a little different, but the Delamar’s fortyfour guest rooms, with handcrafted furniture and luxury amenities (down comforters, hardwood floors, marble bathrooms, and such) are universally soothing.

Even its special packages, like the Delamar Romance and Delamar Doggies, show that this hotel can charm anybody.

275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203259-2800 delamar.com/southport

TOWN WINNERS Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel Courtyard by Marriot Zero Degrees (Norwalk) The Delamar Southport Westport Inn

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

97

TOWN WINNERS: SUMMER IN THE CITY

For Flinders Lane Head Chef Brad Stewart, nothing makes it feel like summer more than a great meal prepared outdoors on a grill. In fact, in addition to his protein of choice, he enjoys adding seasonal fruits and vegetables— think peaches, plums, pineapple and asparagus— to the heat.

“Grilling gives them a nice charred flavor that goes well in a light summer salad and also draws out the natural sweetness that a lot of fruits have.” Plus, they make for a great accompaniment with that juicy steak. Yum!

FLINDERS LANE New Restaurant

98

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Coalhouse Pizza Owner Gerard Robertson knows his beer.

His faves for hot, muggy days?

New Englandstyle IPAs. “Hazy and super juicy, these brews are packed with fruity, floral flavors like pineapple, mango and tangerine.

Fortunately for all of us, we are surrounded by incredible craft brewers like New England Brewing, Beer’d Brewing, Kent Falls Brewing, Counterweight Brewing, Lock City Brewing. I am very excited about Tribus Beer Company opening this summer!”

COALHOUSE PIZZA Beer Selection

Classic looks never get old, says Russ Hollander. That is why “you can’t go wrong with wearing pearls this summer, especially the artsy Baroque and natural Keshi pearls in cool whites and golden butterscotch or pistachio hued Tahitian black pearls.” Just skip them when you go to the pool. “Chlorine will turn them green,” he says.

Saltwater, on the other hand, is just fine, so head on down to the beach!

RUSS HOLLANDER MASTER GOLDSMITH Selection of Jewelry by Local Designers

“Waves are the go-to look for everyone, short lengths and long,” says Noble Salon Owner Maureen Clark Newlove.

Just skip the blow dry and “let the sun airdry your locks.”

Use a curl-anddefine mousse or styling spray— Sebastian’s Twisted line— and “a two-inch curling wand to create big barrel curls mid-length down.” Also, to maintain shine, avoid daily shampoo. In fact, “alternate shampooing days with conditioning rinse days and let the natural oils do their job.”

NOBLE SALON Men’s and Women’s Salon + Makeup Artist + Kids Haircuts

If you’re like Mind and Body Business Director Nicole Romano Uribarri, you love to take exercise outdoors. But, she says, it’s important to hydrate more than usual.

Why? “Outdoor cardio and HIIT workouts may feel more intense because of the higher temps,” she says. Also, before heading out, pack a water bottle, towel, hat and sunglasses, and apply sunscreen (and bug spray, if needed).

Deodorant and facial wipes are also good to have on hand to freshen up post-exercise.

EXHALE Barre

STEWART BY THOMAS MCGOVERN ; HOLLANDER BY RANDY MATUSOW; NEWLOVE BY PJ KENNEDY; OTHERS CONTRIBUTED

It’s probably safe to say we are ready for a little seasonal heat and all the food, drink, fashion and fun that come with it. So we turned to our expert friends for tips on making the most of our favorite time of year. These guys know their stuff so heed their advice. Fall will be here soon enough.

STAMFORD’S

TOWN WINNERS CUISINE

SWEETS

JEWELRY

FITNESS

American + Steaks + Martinis The Capital Grille Asian Fusion + Chinese Asiana Bistro French + Ice Cream/Gelato Volta Gelateria Creperia Greek EOS Greek Cuisine Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India Italian Café Silvium Japanese + Sushi Kiku Sushi Mediterranean Layla’s Falafel Mexican/Latin Fusion Brasitas Restaurant Seafood F.I.S.H. Restaurant & Bar Thai Little Buddha Vegetarian/Health Food Tabouli Grill Best Service Prime Restaurant & Bar Creative Menu Harlan Social Hotel Restaurant Bar Zepoli New Restaurant Flinders Lane Outdoor Dining Crab Shell Special Occasion/Date Night + Tapas Menu + Spanish + Girl’s Night Out + Restaurant Bar + Singles Scene (Over 35) + Wine Bar Barcelona Restaurant & Wine Bar

Bakery + Cupcakes + Desserts + Wedding Cakes DiMare Pastry Shop Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles

Designer Jewelry + Local Jewelry Boutique + Men’s Watches + Women’s Watches + Wedding/ Engagement Rings NAGI Jewelers Estate Jewelry Peter Suchy Jewelers Selection of Jewelry by Local Designers Russ Hollander Master Goldsmith

Barre Exhale Mind Body Spa Bicycle Shop + Fitnesswear Pacific Cycling & Triathlon CrossFit CrossFit Stamford Dance Fitness Connecticut Dance Center Fitness Studio Upper Deck Fitness Golf Equipment Sterling Farms Golf Course Gym Underground Fitness Outdoor Sports (Boards & Boats) Landfall Navigation Pilates + Spinning Classes Chelsea Piers of Connecticut Sports Gear Store Athlete’s Source Yoga Studio Stamford Yoga Center

DRINK Beer Selection Coalhouse Pizza Big Game Day + Sports Bar Bobby Valentine’s Restaurant & Sports Bar Happy Hour + Outdoor Bar + Singles Scene (Under 35) Sign of the Whale Margaritas bartaco Microbrewery Half Full Brewery Pub Tigín Irish Pub Wine List Bar Rosso

GOURMET Butcher Shop LaRocca’s Country Market Caterer + Personal Chef Services Marcia Selden Catering & Event Planning Fish Market New Wave Seafood Gourmet Grocery + Gourmet to Go + Health Food Fairway Market Liquor Store + Wine Shop BevMax

CASUAL Bagels Liz Sue Bagels Breakfast + Diner + Weekend Brunch Elm Street Diner Café/Bistro ZAZA Italian Gastrobar & Pizzeria Coffee Shop Lorca Deli Rye Ridge Deli Food Truck MeltMobile Hamburgers Plan B Burger Bar Hot Dogs Bridge Street Wienery Juice Bar Robeks Lunch Spot Capriccio Café Pizza Colony Grill Ribs/Barbecue Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

ENTERTAINMENT Art Gallery Franklin Street Works Fine Arts Venue Stamford Symphony Live Music Spot + Performing Arts Venue Alive@Five Museum + Museum for Children Stamford Museum & Nature Center

FASHION Accessories + Cocktail Attire + Department Store + Gala/ Black Tie Attire + Lingerie + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Swimwear + Women’s Fashion + Women’s Shoes + Costume Jewelry + Children’s Clothes Lord & Taylor Consignment Chic Jack’s Eyewear LensCrafters Jeans Havana Jeans Tailor Simonetti Custom Tailoring Teen’s Fashion Forever 21

SELF Blow Out/Updo + Colorist + Day Spa + Facial + Massage Noelle Spa for Beauty & Wellness Makeup Store MAC Cosmetics Manicure + Pedicure Gloss Luxury Nail Spa Men’s Styling/Salon + Women’s Salon + Makeup Artist + Kids Haircuts Noble Salon Spray Tan Palm Beach Tan Waxing European Wax Center

BRIDAL Bridal Gowns + Bridesmaids Dress Boutique Allure Bridal Menswear Men’s Wearhouse Wedding Deejay/Live Music Kunjan Collective Wedding Floral Designer Gary’Z of Stamford Wedding Registry Bed Bath & Beyond Venue Bank Street Events

HOME Antique/Vintage Stores + Furniture Store + Outdoor Furniture United House Wrecking Appliances County TV & Appliances China + Home Accessories Boutique + Wedding Gifts Juliska Contemporary Furnishings Design Within Reach Florist + Garden Center Designs by Lee Linens HomeGoods Rugs Safavieh Home Furnishings Auto Repair Shop Pray Body Shop Car Wash Splash Car Wash Dry Cleaners Bull’s Head Dry Cleaners Livery Service Rudy’s Executive Transportation Storage Facility Westy Self Storage

FAMILY College Prep Courses The Collaborative Center for Learning and Development Cooking Classes Culinary Works/Kitchens by Deane Children’s Music Lessons Giuliano’s School of Music Family-Friendly Restaurant Remo’s Brick Oven Pizza Kid’s Fitness/Sports Training + Place for Kid’s Parties Great Play of Stamford Language Classes The German School of Connecticut Local Hotel Courtyard by Marriott Music Lessons Lenox School of Music Bookstore Barnes & Noble Toy Store Stamford Toys Pet Groomer/Pet Spa + Veterinarian Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing Pet Valu S

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

99

Josephine Furlin

Erik Zeiss

Melisa Viggiano

Stephen Maggiola

Meredith Scheine

You’re invited to

CURTAIN CALL’S Thomas Carlucci

Chris Fry

Nadia Elissa Fiorita

s at u r d a y , m ay 19, 2018

Tracey Sposi Downey

THANK YOU to all who participated as dancers, sponsors, attendees and more, for making this one of our best events.

Lisa Saba-Price

Willard Miley

Professional Dance Partners Arthur Murray Grande Ballroom of Greenwich Justin Allen, Katie Arbulu, Billy Blanks, Jr., James Calixte, Cuong Nguyen, Ricardo Sopin

Dance on the DL, LLC Linda Cicero

Diva Star Productions Lauren Nicole Sherwood

Latin Moves Dance Studio Bob Blank, Kimberly Charles

Independent Choreographer Julia Maggiola

Food Sponsors Chocolate Works Columbus Park Trattoria David's Soundview Catering DiMare Pastry Shop Flinders Lane Granola Bar Judy's Bar and Kitchen Myrna’s Kitchen Marcia Selden Catering

Beverage Sponsors Nikki Glekas Events Parkway Diner Riko’s Pizza Sign of the Whale Some Things Fishy Catering Sushi Village Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes The Water's Edge at Giovanni's Westfair Productions

Broken Shed Vodka Crystal Rock Heineken USA

Media Sponsor Moffly Media

Men’s Wardrobe

Beauty & Fashion Sponsors

Zemo Men’s Store

Chanel, Lord & Taylor Stamford Noble Salon

Signage

Flowers Nikki Glekas Events

Graphic Design Bob Callahan Design

Simply Signs

Video Team William Squier David Klein

B RUS H I N G

I

U P

O N

2 2 0

TO P

D E N T I STS

I N

EV E RY

S P EC I A LT Y

All Smiles

t’s no secret that finding a dental pro you can trust, one who has a gentle hand and skills to match, can be as challenging as remembering to replace your toothbrush every three months. It’s the reason we turn to Top Dentists, a leading dental data research firm, for its inventory of elite practitioners in Fairfield County.

To compile this list, Top Dentists surveyors asked area specialists who are members of the American Dental Association to evaluate their peers. The criteria included experience, continuing education, patient care

and use of new technologies. Respondents were also asked to put aside personal and political bias and use only their knowledge of a peer’s work when evaluating other nominees. Final selections were made after careful examination of credentials and past records with state academies and dental boards.

Need a new dentist? Turn the page to find one.

Whether you’ve put off your regular cleaning, your kid needs braces or it’s time to consider Invisalign, the list that follows is sure to include a specialist who can take care of your family’s oral care. »

+

10

TIPS ON IMPROVING YOUR ORAL HEALTH CARE FROM THE PROS

Al lS m ile s

R U S IS HI T NG S IN UP EV O E N R 2 Y 2 S 0 P EC TO IA P LT Y

BRIAN AMOROSO

T

259 Stillson Rd., Fairfield 203-333-3636

D

E

N

B

ENDODONTICS

Dr. Scott Kesselman RIVERSIDE ORTHODONTICS

1.

Flossing 411

Push a little toothpaste between your teeth first [then floss]. This will improve the cleaning of opposing tooth surfaces. Also, water flossers are an excellent addition to brushing when wearing braces. They can remove additional debris and clean under and around the braces as well as between the teeth.

stamfordendo.com

ALBERT N. BONANNO

JOSEPH A. ZERELLA

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

ALEXANDRA BYRNE

5 Eversley Ave., Norwalk 203-803-1849

JOEL B. CHASEN

Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Rd., Stratford 203-377-1331

3.

Brace Yourself

You’re never too old for braces or Invisalign.

102

STAMFORDMAG.COM

DOMINICK P. AGOSTIN

fairfieldshoreendodontics .com

JOSHUA L. DEMBSKY

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

DAVID T. FONG

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033

Microendodontics of Southern Connecticut 10 Berkeley St., Norwalk 203-899-1636 microendodonticsct.com

AGNES HERCEG

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

GERALD H. HYMAN

Shore Endodontics Associates 40 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-625-7686 westchesterrootcanal.com

PHILIP R. MASCIA

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

DENNIS L. PIPHER

Endodontic Associates of Norwalk 120 East Ave., Norwalk 203-853-0880 ctrootcanal.com

Elke Cheung Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 43 North Ave., Norwalk 203-846-0400 drcheungsmiles.com

CHRISTOPHER C. COGGUILLO

Cogguillo Family Dentistry 203 Cherry St., Milford 203-874-0000 drcogg.info

ALEJANDRA G. COSTANTINO

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033 thesteindentalgroup.com

CHARLES A. CRAPE

ELIOT S. ESSENFELD

Vanlang & Essenfeld 53 Old Kings Hwy N., Darien 203-655-8887 dariendentists.com

WILLIAM J. FESSLER

116 East Ave., Norwalk 203-838-3939 williamfesslerfamilydentistry .com

ANTHONY T. FESTA

New Canaan Dental Care 116 South Ave., New Canaan 203-966-9696 newcanaandentalcare.com

SCOTT R. FISHER

4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-869-2929

CAMILLO L. FONTANA

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

VINCENT B. DEFINA

fontanafamilydentalcare.com

dentalassociates.us

dentistofgreenwich.com

STEVEN ALTMAN

SANTO A. DELALLO

ROBERT S. ALEDORT

Fairfield Shore Endodontics 61 Sherman St., Fairfield 203-255-3636

ELKE W. CHEUNG

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

15 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton 203-762-9907

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

ANJANETTE W. GJERTSEN

Don’t rush when you brush.

GENERAL DENTISTRY agostindentalcare.com

advancedendo-ct.com

Daily Care

zerellaendo.com

advancedendo-ct.com

Advanced Endodontics of Connecticut 95 Armory Rd., Stratford 203-377-1331

2.

Zerella Endodontics 1275 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-553-9700

dentalcarestamford.com

ANDREA GENTILE-FIORI

G R E E N W I C H B R AC E S

Advanced Endodontics & Microsurgery of Stamford 44 Strawberry Hill Ave., Stamford 203-324-9239

amorosoendo.com

thesteindentalgroup.com

Dr. Rosemary Ryan and Dr. Tiffany Christensen

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Fieldpoint Rd., Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup.com

JEFFREY W. ANDERSON Anderson Dental 351 Main Ave., Norwalk 203-286-8668 andersondentalct.com

THOMAS ANZALONE

Integrity Dental Greenwich 235 Glenville Rd., Greenwich 203-531-5595 integritydentalgreenwich .com

JAMES T. ARIS

Wilton Center Family Dentistry 436 Danbury Rd., Wilton 203-762-5100 drjamesaris.com

JEFFREY A. BABUSHKIN Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry 888 White Plains Rd., Trumbull 203-268-5881 cpdentistry.com

CYNTHIA A. BARTOLONE 2150 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 203-333-2060

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-629-9009

122 W. Norwalk Rd., Norwalk 203-855-8877

CARL F. DELUCIA

3100 Main St., Bridgeport 203-374-0082

BARBARA J. DEVINE

Fontana Family Dental Care 1817 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 203-333-4700

JOSEPHINE A. FRANZESE

Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield 203-544-2630 danajonesdds.com

ADAM J. FREEMAN

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

Devine Dental 4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-629-9009

TINA C. GAGE

dentistofgreenwich.com

tinacgagedmd.com

MARK S. DEWAELE

ROBERT GALELLA

208 South Ave., New Canaan 203-966-5944

newcanaanctdental.com

VERNON D. DOMMU

2945 Main St., Stratford 203-375-3068

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

Vayner Family Dentistry 195 Tunxis Hill Cutoff S., Fairfield 203-336-1275

MARILYN GENI-BLANEY

vaynerfamilydentistry.com

genidmd.com

EVELINA DRAGNEVA

MICHAEL D. GENTILE

dentalcarestamford.com

ALAN GOLDBERG

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

BRIAN S. DUCHAN

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

Imperial Dental Associates 15 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-2520

49 Lake Ave., Greenwich 203-869-2090 Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 BarnumAve., Stratford 203-375-6090 goldbergmarcusdental.com

DANIELLE D. GOODWIN

JANETTE A. BLACK

YOLANI P. EDIRISINGHE 53 Cherry St., Milford 203-878-1766

Goodwin Dental 31 River Rd., Cos Cob 203-869-2552

drscullyandblack.com

familydentistrymilford.com

dgoodwindds.com

JOSEPH R. BOLDT II

MARK L. EINZIG

LARRY I. GOTTLIEB

69 Sherman St., Fairfield 203-255-1545

69 Fairfield Rd., Greenwich 203-629-3735

JAMES T. BOWMAN

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

Ridgefield Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 90 Grove St., Ridgefield 203-438-0120 markeinzigdds.com

RICHARD A. EPSTEIN

Bridgeport Family Dentistry 4697 Main St., Bridgeport 203-612-5870 bridgeportfamilydentist.com

KRISTY L. GRETZULA

Two Red Coat Rd., Westport 203-222-1227

Hawley Lane Dental 475 Hawley Ln., Stratford 203-377-9300

thefamilydentist.com

hawleylanedental.com

ANGELO M. GUERRERA 2979 Madison Ave., Bridgeport 203-372-7700

guerreradentistry.com

PAUL D. HARBOTTLE

162 East Ave., New Canaan 203-972-0588 paulharbottle.com

Dr. Masha Kogan T H E D E N TA L C E N T E R O F W E ST P O R T

4.

Flavored Seltzer

Carbonated drinks are having a moment, but they are acidic— pH of 5.5—and therefore damaging to your teeth. It is also damaging to enamel especially with prolonged sipping. Enjoy your fizzy water with a meal, but don’t sip it all day.

5.

Teeth and Gum Health

“Vitamin C deficiency gives bacteria a chance to cause more infection and is associated with increase in bone loss and gum disease. Fruits that are high in vitamin C are guava, kiwi, oranges and strawberries.

Make sure to have plenty this summer!”

6.

Juicing 101

Commercial fruit juices are six to eight times more erosive than self-pressed ones. Make your own and prevent tooth erosion.

MATTHEW HERBSTMAN

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

JEFFREY C. HOOS

Brush & Floss Dental Center 4949 N. Main St., Stratford 203-378-9500 bettersmile.com

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

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI

45 Pine St., New Canaan 203-966-5606 matthewjiwinskidds.com

DANA C. JONES

Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield 203-544-2630 danajonesdds.com

PAMELA A. KARKUT

Imperial Dental Associates 15 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-2520 genidmd.com

STANLEY H. KESSLER

14 Elizabeth St., Bethel 203-797-8070 dockessler.com

BOZENA KIERSKI

44 Strawberry Hill Ave., Stamford 203-348-5612 bkierskidds.com

MASHA KOGAN

The Dental Center of Westport 250 Main St., Westport 203-227-8700 dentalcenterwestport.com

GEMMA G. KWOLEK

Brush & Floss Dental Center 4949 N. Main St., Stratford 203-378-9500 stratfordctdentist.com

MICHAEL LEVIN

1171 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside 203-637-5252

HAROLD ORLOW

WILLIAM SCHMID, JR.

555 Newfield Ave., Stamford 203-323-1551

DAVID A. PEREIRA

Dental Arts of Darien 800 Post Rd., Darien 203-656-8079

STEPHEN J. SCOTT

52 Beach Rd., Fairfield 203-259-7073 drsusanlevine.com

dentalartsofdarien.com

CAROLINE A. SHENKER

MICHAEL J. MACK

SALVATORE M. PIZZINO

SUSAN K. LEVINE

40 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-661-2279 michaelmackdds.com

ANDREW M. MARCUS

Goldberg & Marcus Dental Associates 1825 Barnum Ave., Stratford 203-375-6090

Southport Family Dental 10 John St., Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

MICHAEL J. PIZZO

goldbergmarcusdental.com

Ridgefield Cosmetic and General Dentistry 65 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield 203-438-8866

JACKQUELINE J. MCLEAN

DONALD A. POGODA

Mclean Smiles 23 Hoyt St., Stamford 203-327-6717 mcleansmiles.com

WILLIAM J. MCPADDEN, JR. 135 Anton St., Bridgeport 203-371-6586

JOSEPH D. MICELI

8 West End Ave., Old Greenwich 203-637-0554

LON M. POLVERARI

DNL Dental 21 Sherman Ct., Fairfield 203-349-6601 dnldental.com

Middlesex Dental Group 106 Noroton Ave., Darien 203-529-4682

DUSTIN F. RABINE

dentist-darien.com

dustinrabinefamilydentistry .com

WAYNE A. MICHALKA

7365 Main St., Stratford 203-375-1932

Commerce Park Cosmetic Dentistry 4699 Main St., Bridgeport 203-372-3726

PETER J. RATHMAN

commerceparkcosmeticdds .com

peterrathmandmd.com

DONALD W. MILLER

Esthetic Dental Group of Westport 327 Riverside Ave., Westport 203-227-3421

Fairfield Cosmetic Dentistry 1275 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-255-6878

125 Strawberry Hill Ave., Stamford 203-327-1470

STEVEN M. REGENSTEIN

fairfieldcosmeticdentistry .com

edgw.us

ANDREW L. MOGELOF

2600 Post Rd., Southport 203-256-8900

Mogelof Dental Group 2499 Main St., Stratford 203-378-5588 drmogelof.com

SCOTT A. MOGELOF

Mogelof Dental Group 2499 Main St., Stratford 203-378-5588 drmogelof.com

CARLA M. MONTEIRO

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

DAVID L. MOSKOWITZ

MICHAEL J. REYNOLDS

michaelreynoldsdds.com

MARK S. ROISMAN

1411 Black Rock Tpke, Fairfield 203-384-6389

JON C. ROSENBLITT 509 Glenbrook Rd., Stamford 203-348-1632

rosenblittdentistry.com

dentalcarestamford.com

MARYANN E. LEHMANN

THOMAS M. OHLSON

5 Brook St., Darien 203-655-0021 maldds.com

25 Valley Dr., Greenwich 203-625-0301 greenwichfamilydentistry .com

JERRY M. SIMON

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

DAVID R. STEBBINS

148 East Ave., Norwalk 203-866-0415 davidstebbinsdmd.com

MICHAEL B. STEIN

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033 thesteindentalgroup.com

MARK R. SUTTON

391 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-869-2066 greenwichdentistry.com

JEFFREY A. TAMUCCI

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

KENNETH B. TEMPLE

40 E. Putman Ave., Cos Cob 203-622-4243

DAVID J. THIBAULT

15 Commerce Rd., Stamford 203-965-7795 davidthibaultdmd.com

CHRISTINE L. TIERNEY

beautifuldentistryof greenwich.com

MICHAEL A. NOCERINO

michaelnocerinodds.com

FRANCIS SHIN

JOSEPH M. ROMANELLI

MICHAEL LAZARUS

dentist-stamford.com

perfectsmilesoffairfield.com

mywestportdentist.com

ZACHARY M. ROTH

1809 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 203-335-4413

Perfect Smiles of Fairfield 60 Katona Dr., Fairfield 203-666-2920

Beautiful Dentistry of Greenwich 40 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-392-1177

225 Main St., Westport 203-408-3165

1 Strawberry Hill Ct., Stamford 203-327-5300

125 Strawberry Hill Ave., Stamford 203-324-4252

40 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-629-4598

dentalcarestamford.com

32 Church Hill Rd., Newtown 203-426-5891

WILLIAM P. LABELLA

55 Danbury Rd., Wilton 203-762-5800

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

KEITH L. RUDOLPH

140 Sherman St., Fairfield 203-254-9533 drkeithrudolph.com

Comprehensive Dental Group 999 Summer St., Stamford 203-359-3296

JOHN J. SCHINTO III

pogosianohlsondental.com

schintodental.com

Schinto Dental 2001 W. Main St., Stamford 203-978-1184

ADRIANA TORENA

Allure Dental Group 4699 Main St., Bridgeport 203-368-9016 dentistryfairfield.com

ROBERT N. TRAMPOSCH

2 Benedict Pl., Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

DOUGLAS TREPP

Trepp & Miller 500 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich 203-869-2510 treppandmiller.com

GEORGE TSANGAROULIS

Greenwich Family & Cosmetic Dentistry 4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-869-4755 greenwichfamilydental.com

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

»

103

Al lS m ile s

R U S IS HI T NG S IN UP EV O E N R 2 Y 2 S 0 P EC TO IA P LT Y T

Vanlang & Essenfeld Family Dentistry 53 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien 203-655-8887

N

B

QUYNHCHI N. VANLANG

D

E

dariendentists.com

JEFFREY S. WARREN

1735 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-259-1460 drjeffreywarren.com

Dr. William J. Fessler WILLIAM FESSLER FA M I LY D E N T I ST R Y, N O R WA L K

7.

Enamel Matters

The hard, outer layer of our teeth, also known as enamel, is precious. We must do everything we can to preserve our enamel and prevent its breakdown. Most people believe that brushing harder is the way to do this.

However, the most effective way to brush our teeth and rid our mouths of harmful bacteria is to hold the tooth brush softly, at a forty-five-degree angle and brush in a circular motion. This will help reduce plaque buildup and biofilm around the gum line, thereby preventing cavities and periodontal inflammation.

Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and consistently flossing between the teeth will lead to a healthy, happy, pain-free smile.

STEVE WECHSLER

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

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

PAUL M. CIUCI

Milford & Derby Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery One Golden Hill St., Milford 203-874-1664

thesteindentalgroup.com

ctomfs.com

ERNEST J. WHITTLE III

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

284 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich 203-637-4660

DAVID J. WOHL

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

MASIS YETERIAN, JR.

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

DAVID A. ZADIK

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Fieldpoint Rd., Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup.com

MARK L. ZAMAT

1200 Linden Ave., Stratford 203-378-0182

CHARLES M. ZATZKIN

391 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-869-2066

JOHNA D. ZITNAY

Brush & Floss Dental Center 4949 N. Main St., Stratford 203-378-9500 bettersmile.com

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Oral Surgery Associates 1305 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-259-2665 oralsurgeryassociatesct .com

MICHELE S. BERGEN

Infinity Oral Surgery 49 Lake Ave., Greenwich 203-661-4231 infinityoralsurgery.com

TODD E. BLOOM

Fairfield Oral Surgery 760 Kings Highway W., Southport 203-259-2227 fairfieldoralsurgery.com

STEVEN BRODY

Greenwich Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

STAMFORDMAG.COM

greenwichoralsurgery.com

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033

ABED ALKHATIB

104

23 Maple Ave., Greenwich 203-661-5858

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

ROOLS L. DESSIEUX

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

NAUSHAD R. EDIBAM

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

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

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

VASILIKI KARLIS

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

CHRISTOPHER J. LANE

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033 thesteindentalgroup.com

KEVIN S. MCLAUGHLIN

Norwalk Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Centers 148 East Ave., Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

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

ALAN R. RISSOLO

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

STEVEN E. SMULLIN

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

HOWARD B. TWERSKY

EMILY C. DRIESMAN

oralsurgeryassociatesct.com

westportortho.com

JOSEPH F. WALLACE III

AUSTIN W. FEENEY

Oral Surgery Associates 4747 Main St., Bridgeport 203-371-5595

Greenwich Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 23 Maple Ave., Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

THOMAS B. WILSON

Greenwich Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 23 Maple Ave., Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ROBERT M. YUDELL

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

BRETT ZUCKMAN

Greenwich Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 23 Maple Ave., Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

Embrace Orthodontics 24 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-6061

45 Pine St., New Canaan 203-966-3042 feeneysmiles.com

PETER FEIBISH

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

MARK P. FEINBERG

4 Corporate Dr., Shelton 203-892-6822 feinsmiles.com

ROBERT J. GALLOIS

Dr. Fields & Dr. Gallois Orthodontics 125 Strawberry Hill Ave., Stamford 203-348-7571 drsfieldsandgalloisortho .com

STEVE GIANNOUTSOS

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

FIGEN A. BAYDUR

ROBERT B. GOLDMAN

drbaydur.com

goldmanorthodontics.com

PATRICIA A. BENDICK

NIKA GRIGAITIS

dentalcareorthodontics.com

bluewaveorthodontics.com

DEBI G. BERGER

SCOTT L. KESSELMAN

commerceparkdental.com

riversideortho.net

CASS D. BURRELL

BLAINE J. LANGBERG

Baydur Orthodontics 1817 Black Rock Tpke., Fairfield 203-333-0050

Dental Care Orthodontics 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

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

First Impressions Orthodontics 1476 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-292-9595 fairfieldorthodontist.com

TIFFANY CHRISTENSEN

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

DAVID H. COWIN

Danbury Hospital 52 North St., Danbury 203-792-7722 danburyhospital.org

ALIKA L. CREW

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033 thesteindentalgroup.com

JEFFREY S. DRAYER

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

Goldman Orthodontic Arts 1200 High Ridge Rd., Stamford 203-329-2712

Blue Wave Orthodontics 777 Boston Post Rd., Darien 203-202-7610

Riverside Orthodontics 1171 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside 203-698-0045

17 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield 203-431-4466 braceyourselves.com

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

GREGORY A. MCKENNA

McKenna Orthodontics 131 Deer Hill Ave., Danbury 203-790-9155 mckennaortho.com

GARY L. OPIN

Opin Wide! Orthodontics 266 Broad St., Milford 203-877-3231 opinorthodontics.com

ALLAN S. PHILLIPS

Braces CT 8 Prospect St., Ridgefield 203-438-6922 bracesct.com

»

CELEBRATE YOUR WEDDING

TOP DENTISTS

plus M

A

G

A

Z

I

N

E

BESTOF STAMFORD

2018

THREE DENTAL OFFICES ALL IN ONE LOCATION

Dental Care of Stamford, Dental Care Kids & Dental Care Orthodontics

1500 Summer Street, Stamford, CT ● Please call (203) 324-6171 ● fax (203) 348-5392 NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

TOP TOP TOPDENTIS DENTIS DENTI

Dental Care of Stamford started in 1972 with a mission to bring the best of dental care to Fairfi eld County.

Drs. Drs. Drs. Jerry Jerry Jerry Simon, Simon, Simon, Evelina Evelina Evelina Dragneva Dragneva Dragneva &&&

Today, Dental Care, modeled after the worldDental Dental Dental Care Care Care ofofStamford, ofStamford, Stamford, Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care Kids Kids Kids &&& Den De D renowned Mayo Clinic, occupies its own 11,000 1500 1500 1500 Summer Summer Summer Street, Street, Street, Stamford, Stamford, Stamford, CT CT CT • •tel • tel tel (203) (203) (203) 324-61 324-6 324square-foot building with three separate offices: Dental Care of Stamford for adults, Dental Care Kids www.DentalCareStamford.com www.DentalCareStamford.com www.DentalCareStamford.com • •www.DentalCareKids.com • www.DentalCareKids.com www.DentalCareKids.com • •ww • ww for Pediatrics, and Dental Care Orthodontics for Invisalign® and Orthodontics.

Dr. Jerry Simon TOP DENTIST 2013-2018

Dental Care offers general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, IV sedation for fearful patients, and Board-Certified dental specialists for root canal, gum treatment, oral surgery, orthodontics, Invisalign® and pediatric dental care all in one convenient location with state-of-the-art equipment and dental technology.

Visit our websites to see why Dental Care has been selected as a top dental office year after year.

Dr. Dr. Dr. Jerry Jerry Jerry Simon Simon Simon

STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Dr. Neichen Periodontist

We welcome wedding announcements together with candid photographs.

Weddings should have a current Stamford family connection and must be submitted within three months of the wedding day.

Regretfully, we are unable to run every wedding submitted.

Send Information to: editor@stamfordmag.com Stamford Magazine 205 Main Street Westport, CT 06880

Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care of of Stamford ofStamford Stamford started started started in in 1972 in1972 1972 with with with a mission aamission mission to tobring tobring bring thethe the best best best of ofdental ofdental dental care care care to toto Fairfield Fairfield Fairfield County.

County.

County.

Dr. Bonanno Dr. Sykoff Dr. Kapp Endodontist

Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric Dentist

Today Today Today Dental Dental Dental Care, Care, Care, modeled modeled modeled after after after thethe the world world world renowned renowned renowned Mayo Mayo Mayo Clinic Clinic Clinic occupies occupies occupies itsitsits own own own 11,000 11,000 11,000square-foot square-foot square-footbuilding building buildingwith with withthree three three separate separate separate offices: offices: offices: Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care of of Stamford ofStamford Stamford forfor for Dr. Dr.Dr. Dr. Neichen Neichen Neichen Neichen Periodontist Periodontist Periodontist adults, adults, adults, Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care Kids Kids Kids forfor for Pediatrics, Pediatrics, Pediatrics, and and and Periodontist ® ® ®® Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care Orthodontics Orthodontics Orthodontics forfor for Invisalign Invisalign Invisalign and and and Orthodontics.

Orthodontics.

Orthodontics.

Dr. Durgesh Pediatric Dentist

Dr. Desieux Dr. Scher Dr. Feibish Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care offers offers offers general general general dentistry, dentistry, dentistry, cosmetic cosmetic cosmetic Oral Surgeon Orthodontist Orthodontist

Dr. Zmuidzinas Orthodontist

Dr. Hemal Dr.office Pincus Dr.has Zack Roth has has been been been selected selected selected as asaastop aPatel atop top dental dental dental office office year year year General and after after after year. year. year. Adult Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry Cosmetic Care

dentistry, dentistry, dentistry, IVIV IV sedation sedation sedation forfor for fearful fearful fearful patients patients patients and and and Board-Certified Board-Certified Board-Certified dental dental dental specialists specialists specialists forfor for root root root canal, canal, canal, gum gum gum treatment, treatment, treatment, oral oral oral surgery, surgery, surgery, ® ® ®® orthodontics, orthodontics, orthodontics, Invisalign Invisalign Invisalign and and and pediatric pediatric pediatric dental dental dental Dr.Dr. Dr. Kapp Kapp Kapp Kapp care care care allall in allin one inone one convenient convenient convenient location location location with with with statestatestate- Dr. Pediatric Pediatric Pediatric Pediatric Dentist Dentist Dentist Dentist PP of-the-art of-the-art of-the-art equipment equipment equipment and and and dental dental dental technology. technology. technology.

Visit Visit Visit ourour our websites websites websites to toto seesee see why why why Dental Dental Dental Care Care Care

DentalCareStamford.com DentalCareStamford.com DentalCareStamford.com DentalCareStamford.com

Dr. Bendick Orthodontist

DentalCareKids.com DentalCareKids.com DentalCareKids.com DentalCareKids.com

DentalCareOrthodontics.com DentalCareOrthodontics.com DentalCareOrthodontics.com DentalCareOrthodontics.com

Dr. Dr.Dr. Dr. Scher Scher Scher Scher Orthodontist Orthodontist Orthodontist Orthodontist

DentalCareStamford.com | DentalCareKids.com DentalCareOrthodontics.com 203-324-6171

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

105

Al lS m ile s

R U S IS HI T NG S IN UP EV O E N R 2 Y 2 S 0 P EC TO IA P LT Y T

previttortho.com

MARY E. RITTER

D

E

N

B

MARK E. PREVITT

676 New Haven Ave., Derby 203-734-1411

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

Dr. Steven Regenstein E ST H E T I C D E N TA L G R O U P O F W E ST P O R T

8.

Oral Health

A healthy mouth should not bleed when you floss or brush. That is a sign of inflammation, which can have links to myriad systemic disease entities. Proper flossing and using an interdental brush with an antibacterial rinse on it can help to reduce the bacteria between the teeth and help to reduce the inflammation.

DAVID A. ROMEO

Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1460 Post Rd. E., Westport 203-226-9579 westwalkortho.com

GARY J. ROMEO

Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1460 Post Rd. E., Westport 203-226-9579 westwalkortho.com

ROSEMARY RYAN

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

GREGORY W. SANFORD

Sanford Orthodontics 44 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton 203-762-2322 sanfordorthodontics.com

STEVEN L. SCHER

Embrace Orthodontics 24 Imperial Ave., Westport 203-227-6061 westportortho.com

9.

Treat Yourself

Go ahead and eat some dark chocolate! It is a much better treat for your teeth, mouth and body. Avoid sour, sugary gummy candies, as they will lead to a much higher rate of decay and, even worse, cause acidic tooth erosion.

10.

Straight Talk

Having straight teeth is not just a cosmetic issue. If teeth do not bite properly, it can lead to improper wear, chipping and cracking. Also, teeth that are crowded can lead to improper cleaning, decay and gum problems.

Clear aligners help to gently move teeth to their proper location.

UTTAMPAL SINGH

Dental Care Orthodontics 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcareorthodontics.com

DISC L AIMER STAMFORDMAG.COM

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

LAWRENCE DINKES

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

JENNIFER D. EPSTEIN

Kids First 1478 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-571-4507

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

RANDALL H. NEICHEN

dentistryforchildrenct.com

dentalcarestamford.com

LILIAN R. VIERA

JOHN P. RALLO

Dentistry for Children 149 East Ave., Norwalk 203-838-4191

Children’s Dental Care of Norwalk 10 Mott Ave., Norwalk 203-866-5020

Dental Associates of Connecticut 19 Padanaram Rd., Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

DANA L. KAPP

Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4431 dentalcarekids.com

sonickdmd.com

PERIODONTICS RICHARD F. AMATO

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

ROBERT CHUNG

4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-661-3733

dentalcarestamford.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY HANNAH AHN

Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Ave., Westport 203-227-3709

PERRY A. WASSERLAUF Fairfield Periodontics 71 Beach Rd., Fairfield 203-255-7771

fairfieldperiodontics.com

Westport Pediatric Dentistry 305 Post Rd. E., Westport 203-226-5500

LAWRENCE A. DELIBERO

norwalkdentalarts.com

zerocavityzone.com

drdelibero.com

MEENAKSHI MADHU

LAWRENCE B. GELB

GORDON K. LEE

Sensitive Care Dental 55 Old Gate Ln., Milford 203-878-6699

115 Technology Dr., Trumbull 203-966-1210

535 Saybrook Rd., Middletown 860-346-9665

kidsfirstdentistry.com

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

tpigreenwich.com

JOHN CORINO

273 Post Rd. W., Westport 203-226-7788

smileartortho.com

SIMON ZMUIDZINAS

Traynor Periodontics & Implants 56 Lafayette Pl., Greenwich 203-661-5885

BRUCE K. DAVIDSON

dentalcarekids.com

TERENCE S. JACKSON

drgarrickfwong.com

E. J. TRAYNOR

PROSTHODONTICS

Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4431

GREGORY S. MOKOTOFF

40 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob 203-625-9888

Fairfield County Implants and Periodontics 1047 Old Post Rd., Fairfield 203-254-2006

ctperio.com

DURGESH A. KUDCHADKAR

Smile Art Orthodontics 126 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton 203-210-7375

GARRICK F. WONG

thesteindentalgroup.com

greenwichkidsdentist.com

laserperioct.com

MONICA A. TEREDESAI

The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope St., Stamford 203-329-2033

MICHAEL SONICK

Greenwich Pediatric Dental Group 4 Dearfield Dr., Greenwich 203-422-5437

kidsfirstdentistry.com

JOHN IWASAKI

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4433

STACY ZARAKIOTIS

sensitivecare.net

westportdental.com

106

PAULA C. CERQUEIRA

Kids First 1478 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-571-4507

ANNA SIMONIS

Periodontics and Implant Dentistry Center 47 Oak St., Stamford 203-252-2252 stamfordperio.com

New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry 65 Locust Avenue, Suite 10, New Canaan 203-594-9500

SELMA KAPLAN

newcanaanpediatricdentistry .com

norwalkperio.com

ANDREW SPADINGER

1047 Old Post Rd., Fairfield 203-254-2006

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

GABRIELLE SYKOFF

Dental Care Kids 1500 Summer St., Stamford 203-883-4431 dentalcarekids.com

Periodontics & Dental Implants 10 Mott Ave., Norwalk 203-635-4250

RUI “RAY” MA

sonickdmd.com

JENNY MATHEWS

131 Kings Hwy. N., Westport 203-227-8990 jennymathews-perio.com

BRETE D. MORAN

67 Cherry St., Milford 203-876-0304 drbretemoran.com

Norwalk Dental Arts 10 Mott Ave., Norwalk 203-854-9565

JACK DEGRADO

Stamford Dental Group 47 Oak St., Stamford 203-883-6074 stamforddentalgroup.com

MARIE E. FALCONE

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Hwy. S., Darien 203-655-1541 dentalspecialistsofdarien .com

STANLEY P. FREEMAN

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

JEFFREY D. O’CONNELL Park Avenue Smiles 1177 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-292-9292

parkavenuesmiles.net

STEVEN J. ROTHENBERG

Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Hwy. S., Darien 203-836-2744 stevenrothenbergdmd.com

MIN-SUNG YOON

Evergreen Family Dental 1300 Post Rd., Fairfield 203-259-7870 evergreenfamilydentalgroup .com S

This list is excerpted from 2018 the topDentists™ list, which includes listings for 220 dentists and specialists in the Fairfield County area.

For more information, call 706-364-0853; write P.O. Box 970, Augusta, GA 30903; email info@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 2010-2018 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.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2018

Dental

PROFILES

GIVE YOURSELF SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT Did you know that oral health is critical to your overall health? Taking care of your mouth, teeth and gums can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis. Research has proven that a healthy mouth has protected against other medical disorders as well, such as stroke and heart attack. On the following pages, meet some of Fairfield County’s most prominent dental professionals who can get you started on the best dental regimen for you. Don’t forget, a healthy smile is the prettiest thing you can wear.

2018 | Dental PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Where did you go to school?

Rosemary Ryan DDS Tiffany Christensen DDS, MS GREENWICH BRACES, LLC SPECIALTY: Orthodontics 4 Dearfield Drive Greenwich, CT 203.869.2044 greenwichbraces.com

Years in practice?

Twenty-two years

What sets you apart from your competition?

Proudly, we are the choice for many pediatricians’ and dentists’ children.

What is your greatest achievement?

When past patients come back with their children for me to treat, it is the greatest compliment I can ever receive!!

Why is it important for children to get screened by the age of 7?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends an evaluation by an orthodontist by age seven because many times early developmental treatment guides permanent teeth into a more favorable position, lowers the risk of dental trauma and can correct skeletal discrepancies.

108

STAMFORDMAG.COM

Dr. Ryan: DDS: Columbia University-College of Dental Medicine; General Practice Residency: Lenox Hill Hospital, NYC; Orthodontic Residency: Montefiore Medical Center Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

Dr. Christensen: DDS: Columbia University-College of Dental Medicine; MS, Orthodontic Residency: Columbia University-College of Dental Medicine

Years of practice?

Dr. Ryan has been practicing for twenty-six years. She graduated dental school in 1992 and completed her orthodontic training in 1995.

Dr. Christensen has been practicing for eleven years.

She graduated dental school in 2007 and completed her

orthodontic training in 2010.

What sets you apart from your competition?

At Greenwich Braces, two orthodontic minds, with years of extensive training and experience, go into formulating each orthodontic treatment plan. Dr. Ryan and Dr. Christensen combine the greatest aspects of their skills and experience to provide the best care possible to our patients.

Over the past 20 years, we have treated more than 3,500 orthodontic patients with braces, Invisalign® and a variety of other treatment modalities. Some of our patients have even commuted from as far away as London, Qatar, Atlanta, Chicago, New York and New Jersey, to be treated in our office.

Scott Kesselman D.D.S

We feel it is important to recognize a need for compassion beyond braces.

We want our patients to feel beautiful and smile on the inside, as well as on the outside. Our motto is to treat each patient as if they are our family member. We truly enjoy our patients and look forward to their visits. We try to make our office a sanctuary in a hectic day. Additionally, we feel blessed to live and work in such a great community.

Dr. Ryan and Dr. Christensen believe in paying it forward.

We support local charities to make our community a better place for everyone. Every month, we commit a portion of our proceeds to a charitable organization. Doing this makes our community and our world a better place.

CHILDREN’S DENTISTRY AND ORTHODONTICS OF GREENWICH

RIVERSIDE ORTHODONTICS

1212 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 203.698.0794 childrensdentistryandorthodontics.com

SPECIALTY: Invisalign® and Braces For All Ages 1171 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 203.698.0045 riversideortho.net

How do you change people’s lives?

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 stateof-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.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Jack DeGrado, DDS STAMFORD DENTAL GROUP, LLC

SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics: Specialize in Complex, Restorative and Implant Dentistry 47 Oak Street, Suite 220 Stamford, CT | 203.202.3529 stamforddentalgroup.com info@stamforddentalgroup.com

Garrick F. Wong, DMD GARRICK F. WONG, DMD, LTD. SPECIALTY: Orthodontics 40 East Putnam Avenue Cos Cob, CT 203.625.9888 drgarrickfwong.com

2018 | Dental PROFILES

Jack DeGrado founded

studied with top educators in New York City in the field of dental implantology. He also co-founded a study club in Connecticut and publishes a newsletter for other dentists on current advances in restorative techniques and dental implants.

As a prosthodontist, Dr. DeGrado gets referrals from various dentists and specialists in the greater Fairfield County area, earning him the reputation as “the dentists’ dentist.” Because of his expertise, patients come from the tri-state area seeking his professional care.

His research and techniques have been published in the Journal of Oral Implantology.

He also contributed to the Stamford Times, the Stamford Advocate and the Greenwich Times. Since 2009, Dr. DeGrado has been

listed as a Top Dentist in Stamford and Greenwich Magazines, as voted by peer dentists. He also appeared on NewsChannel 12 CT. Dr. DeGrado’s core belief is giving back to his community. He hosts events such as Dentistry From the Heart annually at his office, providing free dental care to those who cannot afford it. In addition, he is a supporter of Operation Smile, an organization that provides surgeries to children with facial deformities.

Stamford Dental Group proudly supports Food Bank of Fairfield County, Toys for Tots, as well as Breast Cancer Alliance on an ongoing basis.

Dr. DeGrado and his team are commited to providing the highest standard of care at the best value.

Dr. Gary Wong is an

Education. This way he has been able to keep up with the latest trends in orthodontic methods and technologies.

One of his most recent continuing education experiences includes the completion of his second Invisalign Orthodontic Master’s Program.

In growing children and adolescents, Dr. Wong can use a variety of methods that utilizes their growth potential. This allows him to improve/correct any predetermined growth patterns or destructive oral habits that are causing the patient’s malocclusion. In adult orthodontic cases, there is no growth to help correct their malocclusions. Therefore, the orthodontic treatment goals, methods and prognosis are very different from that of a growing child. In more

complicated adult cases, the lack of growth sometimes makes it necessary to design an interdisciplinary treatment plan. This requires collaboration with the patient’s general dentist, and/or other dental specialists.

Dr. Wong’s orthodontic practice has prided itself in providing the highest quality of service for every child, adolescent or adult patient that come to his office.

He has always believed in maintaining the highest level of professional ethics, and he will only start orthodontic treatment if and when it is appropriate to do so. His capable and friendly staff has always tried to make every patient’s orthodontic treatment an enjoyable experience in a comfortable, relaxed environment.

Stamford Dental Group in 2000. It is a private dental practice composed of three prosthodontists and one general DDS, who provide complex restorative dental care, which requires the coordination of treatment with different specialties. Dr. DeGrado is regarded as an authority in the field of dental implants and restoration of teeth.

Dr. DeGrado graduated from Columbia College of Dental Medicine in New York. Upon graduation, he completed a two-year fellowship in oral implantology and biomaterials at Brookdale Hospital. He also completed a residency specializing in prosthodontics at Montefiore Hospital, an institution known for its center for craniofacial disorders. Dr. DeGrado

orthodontic and dentofacial orthopedic specialist who has practiced in Greenwich, Connecticut for the past twenty-four years. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Tufts School of Dentistry; and completed his Postdoctoral Program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine.

Dr. Wong has taught as a clinical instructor in the Undergraduate Dental Program at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine; and was also an associate professor in the Graduate Orthodontic Program at New York University, College of Dentistry.

Beyond his basic orthodontic training, Dr. Wong has always been a strong believer of Continuing

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

109

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

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.

LEARN MORE! CONTACT KATHLEEN GODBOLD AT KATHLEEN.GODBOLD@MOFFLY.COM OR 203.571.1654

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ARTS & ANTIQUES AUTOMOTIVE

SoundWaters HarborFest . . . . . . 49 Stamford Boys & Girls Club Corporate 5k Thank You . . . . . . 23 Women in Business Thank You . . . 95

New Country Porsche Greenwich . . 77 Splash Car Wash . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

FASHION

Drew Klotz Kinetic Sculpture . . . . 51

BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT JP McHale Pest Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

BUSINESS & FINANCE Cacace, Tusch & Santagata . . . . . 31 Cummings & Lockwood LLC . . . . . 10 Davidson, Dawson & Clark LLP . . . 45

ENTERTAINMENT 95.9, The Fox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Curtain Call Theatre . . . . . . . . . . 11 Stamford Tent & Event Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

EVENTS 2nd Annual Hey Stamford!

Food Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 6th Annual Best Bartender Contest by Stamford Magazine Thank You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 A-list Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Andalusian Nights A Gala Evening/ Westport Country Playhouse . . . 14 Best of the Gold Coast . . . . . . . . 42 Best of the Gold Coast Online Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Closer to Free Ride . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Curtain Call's Dancing with the Stars Thank You . . . . . . . . . . 100 Moffly Media's 2018 Event Lineup . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 NYCWFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Orvis Game Fair and Sporting Weekend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Pro-Am Tennis Tournament/Stamford Youth Tennis Academy . . . . . . . 49

NONPROFIT Americares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Kids in Crisis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Planned Parenthood of Southern New England . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Roundabout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

REAL ESTATE

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING

Barbara Hickey, Sotheby’s/ William Pitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Elm Street Diner . . . . . . . . . . . 2, 3 Mackenzie’s Bar & Grill . . . . . . . . . 8 Marcia Selden Catering & Events . . 27 Savannah Bee Company . . . . . . . 35 Total Wine & More . . . . . . . . . . . 13

HEALTH & BEAUTY Atria Stamford . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Children's Dentistry and Orthodontics of Greenwich/Silvestro Iommazzo, DDS & Victor Pardi, DDS . . . . . 108 Dental Care Kids . . . . . . . . . . . 105 Dental Care of Stamford . . . . . . 105 Dental Care Orthodontics . . . . . 105 Garrick F. Wong, DMD, LTD . . . . . 109 Greenwich Braces/Rosemary Ryan, DDS & Tiffany Christensen, DDS, MS . . . . . . 108 Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 The Nathaniel Witherell . . . . . . . . 31 Noble Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 2 Riverside Orthodontics/ Scott Kesselman, DDS . . . . . . 108 Stamford Dental Group, LLC/ Jack DeGrado, DDS . . . . . . . . 109 Stamford Health . . . . . . . . . Cover 3 Western Connecticut Health Network . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Yale NewHaven Health/ Northeast Medical Group . . . . . . 1

JEWELRY Lux Bond & Green . . . . . . . . Cover 4 Marco Bicego . . . . . . . . . . . Cover 4

SPORTS & FITNESS Chelsea Piers Athletic Club . . . . . . 7 Exhale Spa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

TRANSPORTATION Rudy's Executive Transportation . . 29

MISCELLANEOUS Big Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Westy Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . 49

PLAN AHEAD

Teens to Watch

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER AD RESERVATION CLOSE: WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1

JULY/AUGUST 2018 STAMFORD

111

Last Word POINT OF VIEW

by beth levine

Matter of Opinion T

he other day I was in Lorca, the intimate little coffee shop on Bedford Street. I was researching an article on my laptop when a couple plopped down next to me. And this is what he said to her: “Well, you are the complete package. You can be sensual fun for a week, and then it’s over.”

Well! You expect me to go back to parsing out the causes of rheumatoid arthritis after that? It took all my strength not to grab my churros and chocolate dipping sauce, pull my chair up to their table, pop my chin in my hands, and say, “Please continue. I have thoughts on this.”

You see, I believe everyone is welcome to my opinion. I was the kid in the front of the class wildly waving my hand to weigh in on every subject, whether I had knowledge of

112

STAMFORDMAG.COM

it or not. Because to me, the most important thing in life is stories. I want to know everyone’s story: I want to discuss, chew and study them. I am always ready to engage. Should you leave your spouse? Does that dress make you look fat? What should you have for dinner? I always have an opinion. Go ahead and ask me!

It used to be that the only way I could be helpful was when letting people know that their babies needed to wear hats in the sun, or that the end of the line is back there. I will occasionally still pen a self-righteous letter to the editor to The Advocate. This age of social media, however, has expanded my chances to aid others, whether they want my help or not. I’m the one on Facebook who will not let an argument rest. I’m sure that if I keep at it, explain it just right, my interlocutor will have to appreciate my insight. I even tweet back to the President and other major figures, sure that my 280 characters will change their minds.

I wonder, then, why so many of you fail to appreciate my assistance. (I’m thinking of you, lady in the Government Center parking lot, who ended our discussion about what constitutes a subcompact vehicle with the head-scratcher, “I pay my taxes.”) Is it the fact that I have no boundaries? That my husband and son beside me are dying a thousand deaths of mortification? Is it because you

never asked me for my input? Tut-tut. Here’s why you really should listen to me: 1. I watch Law & Order religiously, and I can tell you who did it within five minutes.

I also always know who is going to get the axe on Project Runway halfway through. It’s a gift, what can I say?

2. I am very, very loud. Everyone knows that the louder you are, the better your points are. Plus, I have an unparalleled eyerolling technique accompanied by perfectly timed exhalations, which anyone can tell you is the sine qua non of excellent arguing.

3. I always know exactly the right emoji to use to set the tone for my posts. This is not something everyone just knows; it’s something you have to feel deep in your soul.

As for that Lorca couple, the rest of their conversation got lost in the noise. Had they asked my opinion, my Law & Order Spidey Sense would have told them to run before one of them became roadkill by the next commercial. Am I right? Or am I right? S Beth Levine is free for consultations on all matters, great and small. She lives to serve even if you don't think she should.

Bethlevine.net; @BethLevine75

PHOTOGRAPHS: PORTRAIT BY JOHN MARTIN; CAFE BY ©MAVOIMAGES - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

The art of dispensing advice and sharing political positions, whether warranted or not

N

NEUROSURGERY

THE FIRST THING OUR NEUROSURGEONS DO IS REMOVE YOUR NEED TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE. Expert surgeons. Accomplished and close.

At Stamford Health, our neurosurgeons aren’t just exceptional—they’re local too. We offer advanced back, neck and brain surgery right here in your region, so you can get the neurosurgical care you need, with your friends and family nearby.

And using the latest minimally invasive techniques, we can shorten hospital visits and accelerate recovery.

To request an appointment, call 877.497.4584 or visit StamfordHealth.org/Neurosurgeons.

MARCOBICEGO.COM

136 MAIN STREET WESTPORT 203.227.1300 LBGreen.com

GLASTONBURY MOHEGAN SUN WEST HARTFORD BOSTON WELLESLEY

800.524.7336