Stamford July/August 2022 by Moffly Media

exceptional

quality

136 MAIN STREET WESTPORT 203.227.1300 GLASTONBURY

MOHEGAN SUN

WEST HARTFORD

WELLESLEY

LBGreen.com

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Live your best life in Connecticut’s ﬁnest neighborhood; discover city living coupled with a laid-back lifestyle, easy access to nearby parks, marinas, restaurants, public transportation and more.

A Premier Luxury Waterfront Community Luxury Residential Apartments

Situated Beside the Long Island Sound

Complimentary Trolley Service

2+ Miles of Activated Boardwalk

Access to World-Class Marinas

4+ Miles of Green Space & Parks

Free Seasonal Water Taxi

200+ Yearly Events

Unparalleled Access with Close Proximity to I-95

Children’s Playgrounds

Walking Distance to the Stamford Transportation Center

Resort-Style Amenities

Numerous Restaurant & Retail Options

Free Parking

Dog Parks

State-of-the-Art Commercial Space

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Osteria

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OUTDOOR SEATING , LUNCH SPOT , WINE LIST, SPECIAL OCCASION/DATE NIGHT

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SOMETIMES, A LITTLE CHANGE IS A GOOD THING...

2020 - BEST SERVICE 2021 - BEST OUTDOOR DINING 2022 - BEST WINE LIST CHEERS, TO ALL OUR LOYAL SUPPORTERS! M O F F LY M E D I A

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

(203) 388-8898 • 299 LONG RIDGE RD, STAMFORD, CT COV2_09_STM_TOC_JUL_AUG_2022 GB.indd 5

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contents JULY/AUG 2022 vol. 13 | no. 4

features

departments

14 EDITOR’S LETTER

M O F F LY M E D I A

by diane talbot sembrot

17 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ Fairgate Farm’s mission to share fresh food locally; tips from the mayor’s office redesign; water safety; what locals love

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

The results of our annual readers’ poll are in! Look inside to find out who won the top spots in local restaurants, shops and services across Fairfield County. pg

SHOP Shoreline-to-city chic

DO Spas; cool-off guide to summer; outdoor events HOME A crisp white-and-blue space by Prudence Bailey GO Cruises; heading to The Peninsula Beverly Hills; book bag picks

We also went through the votes to find the local winners, so that you know where to go— right here in our community. pg

MONEY MATTERS Insurance

EAT Pellicci’s at 75; Turning Point Cheese & Provisions; The Taco Project

TOP DENTISTS Smile! Here’s your guide to top local pros. pg

57 PEOPLE + PLACES 60 VOWS

EDUCATION GUIDE

103 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

Special pull-out publication! Experts weigh in on the building blocks of education. —after pg. 48

104 POSTSCRIPT by d onna mof f ly above: Outdoor dining, catching up with friends and family, at Table 104

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photo gr aphy: sant ypan - sto ck.ad obe.c om

STAMFORD MAGAZINE JULY/AUGUST 2022, VOL. 13, NO. 4 // STAMFORD MAGAZINE (ISSN 2153-2680) 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.

KYLE NORTON

on the cover: stamford’s best

stamfordmag.com

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Print_R

WHERE YOU WANT US. WHEN YOU NEED US. Right Around the Corner

Expert, compassionate care is within reach at Stamford Health care center locations in Greenwich, New Canaan and Wilton. We offer unparalleled expertise from primary care, surgery and medical specialty physicians to imaging and lab services. The exceptional care you deserve is only a call or click away. To make a virtual or in-person appointment, visit StamfordHealth.org/carecenters or call 800.347.0357.

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digital content & MORE

july/aug 2022

CELEBRATING THE SCENE STEALERS

WE ALL WIN! Find a complete directory of this year’s winners online. Head to bestofgoldcoastct.com to review the top vote-getters, on the go.

SHARE THE NEWS! Did your business win a Best Of 2022? Get the word out! Head to our Winners Circle for resources to help you share the good news and attract new fans. Go to: bestofgoldcoastct.com/winnerscircle.

JUMP ONLINE

ENJOY OUR ARTICLES AND POSTS ON INSIGHTFUL LOCALS WHO HELP US ALL LIVE BETTER

Visit our directories for resources

PHOTOGRAPHY: WEDDING BY BROOKE ALLISON; STAMFORD HOSPITAL AT JMCLAUGHLIN BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; PRUDENCE BAILEY INTERIOR DESIGN BY ANDREA CARSON; SMARTPHONE ©IEVGEN SKRYPKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

STAMFORDMAG.com

PLUS!

LIGHT A FIRE

Thank those who volunteer and give back to the community every day by nominating them for this award! Do it online TODAY! ilovefc.com/lightafire

stamfordmag.com

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BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; PRUDENCE BAILEY INTERIOR DESIGN BY ANDREA CARSON; SMARTPHONE ©IEVGEN SKRYPKO - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

u o Y k n ! d T ha r o f m Sta M

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

BEST CREATIVE MENU

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vol. 13 | no. 4 | july/august 2022 editorial editorial director Cristin Marandino–cristin.marandino@moffly.com editor, stamford; fairfield living; westport Diane Sembrot–diane.sembrot@moffly.com style & community editor Janel Alexander—janel.alexander@moffly.com

Since 1909, Cummings & Lockwood has provided sophisticated legal representation to individuals, families, family offices, closely held businesses, other commercial enterprises and charitable entities. Our core services include: Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning

International Estate and Tax Planning

Wealth Protection Planning

Business Succession Planning

Philanthropic Giving

Corporate and Finance

Probate and Estate Administration

Litigation and Arbitration

Fiduciary and Trustee Services

Commercial and Residential Real Estate www.cl-law.com

contributing editors Megan Gagnon–editor, athome Elizabeth Hole–editor, custom publishing Julee Kaplan–editor, new canaan • darien Veronica Schoor—assistant editor, athome Amy Vischio–creative director-at-large, athome books correspondent Emily Liebert copy editors Terry Christofferson, Lynne Piersall, David Podgurski contributing writers Liz Barron, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Kim-Marie Evans, Joey Macari, Elizabeth Keyser editorial advisory board Harry Day, PJ Kennedy, Jamie Krug, Michael Marchetti, Arthur Selkowitz, Jami Sherwood, Lou Ursone

art senior art director Venera Alexandrova–venera.alexandrova@moffly.com

HOPE RIDES WITH US.

senior art director Garvin Burke–garvin.burke@moffly.com production director Tim Carr–tim.carr@moffly.com assistant art director

Lisa Marie Servido–Lisa.Servidio@moffly.com senior photographer Bob Capazzo

digital media director of content strategy Diane Sembrot–diane.sembrot@moffly.com

rideclosertofree.org

digital marketing manager Rachel MacDonald–rachel.macdonald@moffly.com digital assistant Lloyd Gabi–loyd.gabi@moffly.com Calendar@Moffly.com Editor@StamfordMag.com Weddings@StamfordMag.com

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please call 203-571-1645 or email reprints@moffly.com. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without express permission of the publisher. ©2022 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.

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Cugines

FINE DINING HAS NEVER LOOKED THIS GOOD

121 TOWNE STREET, STAMFORD, CT @CUGINESITALIAN LULI BURKE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR CUGINE’S ITALIAN

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Is not just something we do; it is what we do. WILLS AND TRUSTS WEALTH TRANSFER TAX PLANNING PHILANTHROPY 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

WE’VE GOT PLANS!

vol. 13 | no. 4 | july/august 2022 publisher

Karen Kelly-Micka karen.kelly@moffly.com

sales & marketing Andrew Amill publisher, greenwich andrew.amill@moffly.com Gina Fusco publisher, new canaan•darien•rowayton gina.fusco@moffly.com Gabriella Mays publisher, westport•weston•wilton gabriella.mays@moffly.com Jonathan Moffly publisher, athome, fairfield living publisher-at-large, greenwich jonathan.moffly@moffly.com Hilary Hotchkiss account executive hilary.hotchkiss@moffly.com Kathleen Dyke partnership and big picture manager kathleen.godbold@moffly.com Rachel Shorten events director rachel.shorten@moffly.com Lemuel Bandala sales assistant lemuel.bandala@moffly.com Eillenn Bandala business assistant eillenn.bandala@moffly.com

SNEAK PEEK AT THE SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER ISSUE business president

Jonathan W. Moffly chief revenue officer

Andrew Amill editorial director

Cristin Marandino director of content strategy

Diane Sembrot

TEENS TO WATCH

Local students makingtheir mark.

STAMFORD TODAY

Locals’s perspective on living here.

JOIN US!

Be sure to subscribe and see our special offer at mofflymedia.com/subscribe.

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Elena Moffly elena@moffly.com cofounders

John W. Moffly IV & Donna C. Moffly PUBLISHERS OF GREENWICH, FAIRFIELD LIVING, NEW CANAAN • DARIEN • ROWAYTON, WESTPORT, STAMFORD and athome magazines 205 Main Street, Westport, CT 06880 phone: 203-222-0600 mail@moffly.com ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: Lemuel Bandala 203-571-1610 or email advertise@moffly.com SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES: email subscribe@stamfordmag.com or call 877-467-1735

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editor’s letter

JULY/AUGUST 2022 / DIANE TALBOT SEMBROT

TA-DAH!

SCAN TO VISIT US

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

Aside from those happy surprises for the owners, there are bound to be a few surprises for you, too—I mean, after all, it would be astonishing if you agreed with all of the wins. That’s just how it is. Sometimes the places we love don’t get the win that we thought was a sure thing. It never it is. All wins depend on the readers who voted on our website over the winter. We encouraged voting online and through our pages; the more, the merrier. Now that all the votes are in, we see that we did hear from a fair amount of you. In fact, we tallied more than 106,000 votes. That number shows how very loyal and supportive you are about your favorite places. And that should be no surprise to them. Now that the issue is done and printed, I hope you can find a moment to sit back and simply enjoy it. Check out the winners, as well as the other stories inside, and if you don’t agree with any wins, perhaps go check out who did take the gold. You never know, you might just find a new favorite; and, more likely than not, you’ll enjoy the pleasure of trying something new. Enjoy these warm days and breezy nights with alluring promise of taking it easy for bit. Start by turning the page. Happy summer reading!

WILLIAM TAUFIC

would like a summer without any surprises. Not good, not bad—I just want to coast. I think that’s one of the reasons I always look forward to this season. It’s a time when we all seem to be able to enjoy life. We slow down and soak in the sun at the beach. If we’re lucky, we jump on a friend’s boat and head out for a sail on Long Island Sound. We sit on a park bench and sip an iced tea while watching a river flowing by. Summer, in short, is the season of bliss—not surprises. Funny then that the issue you hold in your hands includes well over 170 surprises. This is our issue that reveals the winners of our annual readers’ poll: Best of the Gold Coast Connecticut. If you’ve been reading us over the years, you know about this program. Each year we ask you, our readers, to vote for your favorite businesses, including restaurants, shops, salons, gyms and even car washes (and who doesn’t need a good car wash in the summer?). We love this editorial feature because it brings us all together. These pages are a collaboration among readers, local business owners and our creative team. And we really go for it—we list more than 170 winners! Actually, we list even more, because along with our Best of the Gold Coast winners, covering towns along Fairfield County’s coastline, we also present the winners of the Best of Stamford. These are the places close to home; the ones you visit regularly; the ones that are, more likely than not, owned and run by a local person or family. As a family-owned local business ourselves, that means a lot to us.

stamfordmag.com

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You’re at the heart of what we do Your cardiovascular well-being is what makes us tick At the Nuvance Health Heart & Vascular Institute, you and your family have access to a team of specialists to care for your heart. Our skilled, board-certified cardiologists, specialists and surgeons collaborate to provide comprehensive and innovative solutions. We’re with you at every step of your journey. Plus, with locations throughout western Connecticut and New York’s Hudson Valley, you don’t have to travel far for advanced heart care.

Request an appointment at nuvancehealth.org/heart

Norwalk Hospital

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

PLEASE VOTE TODAY! Go to ilovefc.com/lightafire VOTING DEADLINE: JULY 9

Nominations being accepted in the following categories: Most Involved in the Arts Most Dedicated Committee Member Outstanding Philanthropist Outstanding Teen Volunteer Best Friend to Children Best Health Advocate Lifetime Achievement Best Friend to Seniors Most Involved Couple Corporate Good Neighbor

Gold Sponsor

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

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buzz STATUS REPORT

above: Farm Manager Pete Novajosky leads a healthy-cooking class—outdoors in the fresh air, of course below: Some of the fresh-farm produce at Fairgate Farm

A FRESH TAKE

FAIRGATE FARM PLANTS THE SEEDS FOR A HEALTHIER FUTURE HERE IN STAMFORD

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

he past few years have reopened our eyes to the beauty of the basics. We value simplicity and acceptance of place, people and provisions, especially local ones. This is a throwback to our roots and makes the community-focused, give-back mentality of Fairgate Farm, a volunteer-driven urban farm in Stamford, especially compelling now. Fairgate Farm was established in 2011 on the heels of the newly redeveloped West Side. Starting in the early 2000s, Charter Oak Communities (COC), formerly known as the Stamford Housing Authority, aimed to

Fa sum irgate’ s F eve arm M mer-lo ry T n hur arket g All t throug sday an is held hou ime dS clas s and t the s aturda info eas y ses foun and e for the on. v m d e on t fair arke nts g h t they atefarm eir web can be , also .com site, a con ccept (wher e trib utio financia ns). l

by joey macari

representation of this community’s newly adopted health mission. Thus, Fairgate Farm was formed. “Fairgate Farm became the heart of the area, connecting food, health and community,” says Fairgate Farm Manager Pete Novajosky proudly. “Fairgate Farm was created as a communal enterprise, so we are always welcoming volunteers of all ages to help with the many tasks of cultivating, growing, harvesting and tending our garden.” When Fairgate was formed, fresh topsoil was brought in from eastern Connecticut, debris cleared and fruit trees and vegetable plants were laid down, but it was really

revitalize the area worn down by time and general lack of use. With the advanced Stamford Hospital building up around the community, COC felt like the new state of health should be reflected in the community at large. With the establishment of the Vita Health & Wellness District, health and wellness were prioritized in its affordable, mixed-income housing initiatives, repurposed green spaces and accessible healthcare and community-care efforts. An acre of green space on Stillwater Avenue became the center of the metamorphosis; the district set out to transform into a visual

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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PANDEMIC PROVIDERS

Throughout the pandemic, Fairgate found alternative ways to keep growing and keep its promise of an accessible, communitydriven farm. We are fortunate to be an outdoorfocused organization, which has allowed the farm to continue functioning at a high capacity. But, just as many others have had to do, we have had to pivot, employing technology to offer virtual classes and, for 2020, converting our market to online ordering and curbside pickup. We also utilized our food growing capabilities and numerous community partnerships to supply and donate tons of food during the worst of the pandemic to those in need. The ‘community aspect’ of the farm has surely become more evident to our many participants and beneficiaries during these past couple years. - pete novajosky, farm manager

above: Volunteers help the farm thrive, season to season.

excited to announce that we’ve just switched our market operations to an innovative ‘pay what you can’ model, helping to further break down financial barriers of accessing nutritious food,” he says. “This will allow individuals who may currently be struggling to get our produce at any price that they can afford, and it is our hope that others in the community who are able can give a little more for their neighbors in need to help offset the cost.” Fairgate also extends its mission to engage the city’s green generation through educational mentorship. The farm teaches the Stamford Boys & Girls Club, area schools and ongoing programs on the necessity for food access

the community that grew its heart. Neighbors and volunteers started showing up and then bringing in fig trees and grape vine cuttings from their own backyard gardens. The farm excels in its harvests— offering fresh, locally grown produce to the community at large in its hot-ticket summer and fall Farm Markets—but, as Novajosky explains, the farm is always active. “There’s always something happening at the farm no matter the time of year. Even in the winter, when it looks pretty quiet, behind the scenes there’s already lots of seeding happening, crops still growing in the greenhouses and certainly lots of planning for the upcoming growing season,” he says. “The spring is always a busy and exciting time of year as we ‘wake up’ the farm, start working the soil again and begin planting the majority of the crops for the year. The summer and fall are certainly the most active, and probably most people’s favorite time at the farm, as everything is lush and green and the harvest bountiful.” BETTER TOGETHER With widespread inflation of goods and services creating issues of food and health equity nationwide, Fairgate aims to make things a little easier on families here in Connecticut. “We’re

above: The once abandoned land now serves as a community resource.

and healthy living through farm tours, yoga classes, gardening, composting and nutrition classes and even cooking demonstrations, where volunteers get to make delicious food from the ingredients they grow themselves. Although it’s easy to perceive future generations as techobsessed, the growing need for sustainable and healthy food sources is an intergenerational necessity—one Fairgate hopes to extend to its budding home base. “With the growing ‘disconnect’ between people and their food, it’s more important than ever to get them, especially youth, involved in where food comes from and, perhaps most important, the pleasures of healthy eating,” Novajosky says. “The population is steadily growing so we have a continual increase in demand, meanwhile the majority of farmers are getting older and nearing retirement. It is easy to forget sometimes, with the abundance of food easily obtainable at the grocery store, that all food has to come from somewhere. We’ve seen what can happen these past two years, with cascading disruptions to our daily lives and now with supply-chain issues and cost inflation, how fragile our food system can be. An entire new generation of young, local growers who can provide their communities with nutritious food not only improves the security of our food supply, but also improves the overall health of our communities.” These charitable works provide anecdotal teaching moments about patience and team work, nurture relationships with food and health and set the groundwork for a thriving future. For Fairgate, these acts of generosity, stemming from the next generation of growers, are vital to the success and forward momentum of urban farms everywhere.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

buzz

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YOUR DESTINATION FOR MODERN ITALIAN FARE IN A COMFORTABLY CHIC AMBIANCE

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buzz

The room design was inspired by a photo of Cove Island by Stamford-based photographer Don Hamerman. It hangs behind the mayor’s freshly painted desk and newly upholstered chairs.

Fresh Start New leadership. RENEWED SPACE.

hen Caroline Simmons took office this year, as the city’s first female mayor, she also needed a new office. The space where she would take meetings and make important decisions about the people and places of our city needed to work for her and feel like her. That’s when interior designer Fiona Leonard stepped in. “When tasked with refreshing the office of the new mayor, we realized that we needed her space to represent Stamford’s brighter future and have a more hopeful environment for all,” says Fiona, founder and partner, with Courtney Paré, of the full-service design firm Fiona Leonard Interiors (fionaleonardinteriors .com). One of the critical parts of the redesign was, no matter what changes were made, to keep

by diane sembrot

the space as an ode to the city. “The redesign concept for Simmons’ office focused on repurposing furniture, utilizing local vendors and creating a space inviting to Stamfordites of all ages,” says Fiona. “We started with a captivating photograph of Cove Island by Stamford resident Don Hamerman. The natural elements and bright colors represent the fresh start Simmons brings to the city while highlighting a jewel of Stamford. This photograph created a springboard for the design concept.” The design firm prides itself on personally supervising projects, from initial consultation to installation so that clients are informed and pleased. They also rely on their relationships, built over twenty years, with artisans, craftsmen and subcontractors to help bring

the vision to reality. As for the mayor’s office, the project began with a serious look at decades-old furniture inherited from former administrations. “The upholstered chairs and sofa were in good condition, but the fabric was outdated and worn. Rather than start over completely, we decided to repaint the exposed wood and reupholster in a performance fabric from Stamford-based fabric house Kravet. A local upholsterer worked some magic to refurbish the furniture with a fresh new feel but with a nod to the past. We took the same approach with Simmons desk, a large brown rectangle in the room. This was painted a deep blue, providing a cheerful pop in the heart of the room.” The decisions were creative, thoughtful updates. The office also looks forward in another way. “Simmons is the mother of three boys, including a newborn, and has a strong focus on the future of Stamford,” Fiona says, “so a children’s nook with books, snacks and activities was fitting and appropriate, as we embrace the working parent who reflects the real City That Works.”

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVIDSON MCCULLOH

top: A pedestal-base conference table and modern chairs upgrade and brighten the space. bottom: A nook for kids includes a table for two, Connect Four and snacks.

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Redesign Inspiration

4 TAKEAWAYS TO TRY YOURSELF

REPAINT

Have an old desk (or other furniture) that’s looking dated or doesn’t match new pieces? Consider painting it in a fresh new color.

PHOTOGRAPHS; PAINT CANS © SCANRAIL - STOCK.ADOBE.COM; LIFE JACKET HOOYAH808 - STOCK.ADOBE.COM

USE IT

Be real about what you need from the space. Have kids dropping by? Be sure to include age-appropriate activities and furniture.

3 JOY

You spend a lot of time in your office. Make sure you bring in colors, textures, patterns, etc., that uplift you.

LET IT GO

Get rid of clutter. It might sting for a moment, but open space frees your thinking.

Do Your Part WATER SAFETY for the Whole Family by diane sembrot

STEWIE’S MESSAGE

TRY IT ON FOR SIZE

ummer and swimming go together. They can inspire lifelong memories. Part of that is making sure the little ones and their parents know the basics about water safety. That’s where Stewie the Duck comes in. A mascot for the water-safety nonprofit Stew Leonard III Water Safety Foundation, this duck teaches little people about swimming and reminds parents about life vests, pool covers, CPR technique and more. Kids may even qualify for free or reduced-cost swim classes. The foundation was founded after parents Kim and Stew Leonard lost their toddler to a drowning accident in 1989. From unimaginable heartbreak, they pledged to help other families avoid such a tragedy. Now, it has provided nearly 250,000 swim classes, $2 million in donations to safety awareness, 140,000 Stewie book readings, 225,000 books and more. Stewie continues to carry his age-appropriate message locally and across the country. See more, including a child-friendly app, at stewietheduck.org.

5 Tips for the Right Size from the U.S. Coast Guard

PICK YOUR LIFE JACKET Tips from the U.S. Coast Guard

f you’re headed out onto Long Island Sound, practice water safety, and a life jacket is essential. We headed to the U.S. Coast Guard for tips (below)—see more at uscgboating.org. A PROPER FIT “A life jacket that

fits properly will help keep your head above the water.” TOO BIG “The life jacket will ride

up around your face.” TOO SMALL “A life jacket will not

be able to keep your body afloat.” KNOW YOUR SIZE “Life jackets designed

for adults will not work for children.”

1 // “Check the manufacturer’s label to ensure that the life jacket is a proper fit for your size and weight.” 2 // “Make sure the jacket is properly fastened.” 3 // “Hold your arms straight up over your head.” 4 // “Ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings and gently pull up.” 5 // “Make sure there is no excess room above the openings and that the jacket does not ride up over your chin or face. For the best fit, try the life jacket in shallow water under safe and supervised conditions.”

PLAN AHEAD!

See U.S. Harbors, which provides guidelines about prepping your boat for the season, tide and marine weather guides, and other waterrelated info for over 1,400 harbors in 30 coastal states. Head to usharbors.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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Q& A

buzz

SPOTLIGHT ON LOCALS

Stamford-loving residents share their local favorites

SUZANNE VITA BATTINELLI

SARAH SWANBERG

Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine/Founder of Indigo Wellness Group

Town Tradition ”I love that the St. Leo’s Fair always coincides with the start of the school year. It makes those first few back-to-school days so exciting.”

Founder and CEO of Upper Deck Fitness Years in Stamford “Nearly forty!”

New-Place Pick “I love the energy that The Wheel, Cisco Brewery, Taco Daddy and Half Full are bringing to the South End.”

Town Tradition “The various outdoor concert series. As someone who knew and attended Alive at Five from its inception, I’m a big fan of the mix of music offered, all within the vibe of our city setting.”

Best View “On a clear day, you can see the NYC skyline from the beaches in Shippan.”

Coffee Spot “Humbled Coffeehouse. It’s like sitting in your best friend’s living room. Cozy, down to earth, with none of the pretense that often accompanies the simple ritual of sipping coffee.”

above: The outdoor patio at The Village above: The views from Shippan show Stamford and, on clear days, NYC.

Favorite Spot for Coffee “Lorca, Turning Point and Roost Café inside the Urby apartment building.”

Longtime Business Pick “The Palace Theatre. My husband and I recently were married there, and the history and tradition that runs through that building are an incredible source of energy. Whether it’s seeing a local performance, catching a cover band or attending a fundraiser for a worthy cause, there’s something about stepping through those doors that allows you to forget about life for a while in the best way possible.” [Editor’s Note: See page 58.] New-Place Pick “The Residence Inn downtown is a recent addition, and its tequila lounge in the lobby is a hidden gem.”

Longtime Business Pick “I’m a plant lady and Designs by Lee never disappoints with their selection of beautiful plants for both indoor and outdoor gardening.” Fave Food “The hummus and pita chips from Layla’s Falafel are a family favorite.” What Makes Stamford Great “Stamford has everything! Beaches, nature, great restaurants, wonderful schools, hard-working people and an easy commute to NYC. We love living and raising our daughters here.”

above: The cozy interior of Humbled Coffeehouse

Best View “The rocks at Cove Island. Take a right at the entrance and loop all the way down to climb up them for a view of the Sound. Be sure to leave your phone in the car.”

“Chinese medicine has such a beautiful and timehonored way of looking at health and the way all the systems of our body are connected. I love to educate our patients, and I’m always amazed by the transformations and healing that happen in our clinics.”

Fave Food “The burger at Table 104. Sitting at the bar with good company and a great glass of red, along with this burger, is pure comfort for me. Go more than once and you’ll be remembered. It’s literally like spending happy hour with family.” What Makes Stamford Great “The mix of old and new. As someone who has lived in town for decades, I am grateful for the nostalgia that remains while the city continues to progress and evolve.”

“Nearly every aspect of our lives improves when we start taking care of our physical selves. For me and my team, exercise is a vehicle for self-discovery.”

PHOTOGRAPHY: SWANBERG BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO; BEACH BY DIANE SEMBROT; LORCA BY JOE CHARLES, THE VILLAGE BY KYLE NORTON; BATTINELLI BY EMMA ROSE CONNOLLY: HUMBLED BY GARVIN BURKE; PALACE THEATRE BY HAPPYHAHA.COM

Years in Stamford Nine years

by joey macari

stamfordmag.com

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MSC P

Summer Sundays at Greenwich Polo Club

Connecticut 203.353.8000

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shop 2

Styled with Swimwear

style note: This statement skirt needs no introduction. Ground it with a great low-key mesh polo layered over a sunshine shade of swimwear.

IT’S NOT WHAT YOU WEAR, BU T H O W Y O U W E A R I T Clothing can be a great tool. It can influence how you are perceived, how you go about your day, and how you set yourself apart from the masses. Whether it’s a colorful statement skirt or casual cocktail attire, use your swimwear as integral pieces of your summer look that transition from one activity to another. Bonus: These pieces fit in a suitcase easily and move well from beach days to sunset nights!

4 5

by janel alex ander

BBQ AND POOL IMAGES: ADOBESTOCK.COM; MR. SMITH BY ELENA WOLFE PHOTOGRAPHY; ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF BRANDS/STORES

Beach Party B BQ

6 1 TORY BURCH Printed string bikini top, $98, and bottom in yellow garden rose, $98. Tory Burch, Greenwich; toryburch.com 2 WANDER BEAUTY Double Date lip and cheek, $24, bluemercury, Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan, Westport; bluemercury.com 3 PUNTICANA Every occasion handmade sustainable silk skirt, $560, Maison Marche; maisonmarche.com 4 MINNIE ROSE Cotton mesh short sleeve polo, $117, WEST, Westport; west2westport.com 5 JCREW Lucie double-strap block heel sandal, $168, JCrew, Greenwich, New Canaan, Westport; jcrew.com 6 TORY BURCH Reva square sunglasses, $171, Tory Burch, Greenwich; toryburch.com stamfordmag.com

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Pool Side Chic

6 5

style note: Using separates to layer up or down through your day is a great way to keep cool, comfortable and chic!

8 1 CASTAÑER Carina ankle-tie espadrille wedge sandal, $140, Bloomingdale’s, Westchester; bloomingdales.com 2 SWIM TOP Recycled crepe scallop bikini top, $98, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 3 SWIM BOTTOMS Recycled crepe high-waisted bikini bottom, $88, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 4 MR SMITH Sea Salt Spray, $37, and Paste, $37 5 TOP Beach PJ robe, $225, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 6 PANTS Beach PJ pant, $178, Unsubscribed, Greenwich, Westport; unsubscribed,com 7 STEPHEN PINK Porcelain bead earring, $38, Chou Chou, Rowayton; shopchouchou.com 8 BOTTEGA VENETA String jacquard towel tote bag, $1,900, Richards, Greenwich and Mitchells, Westport; shop. mitchellstores.com JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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do b y li z ba rron

Freshen Up AHH, SUMMER…IT’S TIME TO SLOW DOWN, SPEND TIME IN THE SUNSHINE AND CATCH UP ON MUCH-DESERVED SELF-CARE. HERE, A FEW GREAT LOCAL SPOTS TO UNWIND, RECONNECT AND FEEL BETTER THAN EVER

ith the quest for inner harmony constantly growing, the options for finding such solace in Fairfield County are seemingly always expanding. With options ranging from light and cryo therapies, to yoga, massages and tachyon chambers, there is sure to be something for everyone in southern Connecticut looking to improve overall well-being.

1CHECK BODY-MIND 883 Boston Post Road, Darien checkbodymind.com Founder Amber Kemp is a certified clinical hypnotherapist, mindfulness coach, yoga instructor, Reiki practitioner, licensed massage therapist, life

stretching-based offerings. The belief that all aspects of the mind and body must be integrated in order to achieve balance is why the Greenwich and Darien studios also offer massage therapy. Kaia understands that healing touch “is essential to help relieve the daily stresses of your high-paced life.” All locations also offer live stream and interactive classes via Zoom and on demand for those who would prefer to find their Zen at home. Additionally, Kaia provides educational programming such as teacher trainings and workshops in a variety of modalities.

coach, and advocate of Biohacking for longevity. The goal of CHECK Body-Mind is to help clients feel their best by tapping into the mind, body, soul connection by placing equal importance on each element. CHECK Body-Mind offers monthly membership plans as well as one-off specialized treatments such as cryotherapy, LED light therapy, compression therapy, massage and assisted stretch sessions. Its Tachyon Meditation Chamber allows for clients to be induced into a meditative state and experience deep relaxation and peace. “Tachyon is a subatomic energy particle that is said to move faster than the speed of light” and its health benefits range from relaxation to long-term boost of the immune system and detoxification.

RESTORE HYPER WELLNESS 1055 High Ridge Rd., Stamford 877 Post Road East, Westport restore.com

Less inflammation, better sleep, more energy and aging slower— sign us up. Restore Hyper Wellness is all about “proactive healing to help people do more of what they love,” says Uwa Osagie, general manager of the Stamford Restore. With an additional location in Westport, Restore Hyper Wellness creates individualized treatment

KAIA YOGA kaiayoga.com

Kaia Yoga has your workouts covered with locations in Darien, Greenwich, Old Greenwich, New Canaan and Westport. Sign up for power flow and hot yoga classes to barre, meditation and

plans for clients to assist in achieving health and wellness goals. Their list of services ranges from cryotherapy to IV drips and biomarker assessments to oxygen facials. IV drips, they claim, allow for high doses of nutrients to be delivered directly to the bloodstream. Restore offers drips with taurine, an organic amino acid that aids in muscle recovery and increases energy and focus. For those looking for immune support drips with B vitamins, vitamin C or glutathione, the “master antioxidant” are ideal choices.

4 ELEMENT MEDICAL AESTHETICS

80 Main St., New Canaan elementct.com There is nothing quite like the feeling of refreshment and renewal that comes with taking time for yourself. Skin care is part of self care and Element Medical Aesthetics helps clients to bring out their inner glow with both a relaxing and educational experience. Owner and skincare expert Merry Thornton prides herself on providing long consults so clients have time to understand her recommendations. Her approaches can involve improving skin texture and tone with peels and lasers, restoring lost volume with fillers, addressing lines and wrinkles with wrinkle reducers such as Botox, among other treatments. “My favorite part of my job is that I can instill confidence in my patients so that they feel as beautiful,” she explains. “I have been seeing a lot of patients postpartum lately. Between pregnancy and caring for a new baby, they haven't been able to devote time to themselves. When they leave my office, they have a little more pep in their step.”

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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Cool-Off Guide 8 WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT in Stamford This Summer by diane sembrot

No. 1

No. 5

ENJOY A COOL BREEZE

GET SOME SHADE

Check out the Beer Garden at Shippan Landing. You can enjoy a frosty brew and watch the boats go by—and that means a cool breeze off the water. Stay to enjoy live music. See more at beeratthelanding.com.

Escape the heat under the protection of leafy trees. Enjoy a cool walk along the trails of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center (explore the beautiful Bendel Mansion) and Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens (check the website for Forest Bathing Walks to destress and connect with nature). See more at stamfordmuseum.org and bartlettarboretum.org.

No. 2

TRY SOMETHING COLD

Heat getting to you? Dip into Honey Joe’s right downtown. It has a Draft Latte on tap— La Colombe’s signature oat milk latte infused with nitrous oxide for a creamy cold treat. See more at honeyjoescoffee.com.

No. 6

DANCE INTO THE NIGHT

No. 3

TAKE A SWEET SIP

above: The Alive at Five concert series, a crowd-gathering summer event in Stamford. below: Cheer at Stamford's Best Bartender, our very own cocktail-creation competition.

No. 7

JUST CHILL

Enjoy Winfield Street Coffee and music on the plaza, outside the Ferguson Library. A free event to slow down and catch your breath. Starts at 5 p.m. See more at fergusonlibrary.org.

No. 4

No. 8

CATCH A SUNSET

CHEER THEM ON!

This summer, the see-and-be-seen destination is The Village. Located waterside, it offers amazing views of the water, complete with sunsets and breezes, as well as plenty of play options: music, cocktails, Cisco Brewers, The Wheel restaurant and lots of events. See more at thevillagestamford.com.

Join Stamford Magazine’s 10th Annual Best Bartender Contest! The fun event takes place 6:30–9 p.m. on the Harbor Point waterfront patio. It’s the most refreshing evening of the summer. See: ilovefc.com/ stamfords-best-bartendercontest/.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ALIVE AT FIVE, CONTRIBUTED; BARTENDER, BOB CAPAZZO

When it comes to cocktails, sometimes you want a little, sometimes a lot. Step on over to Sign of the Whale. Sip a “Juice Box” (like Golfer’s Transfusion: Absolut vodka, ginger ale and grape juice in a Capri Sun–style pouch). Or take a big sip, with a Bacardi Bucket (like the Blue Whale, with Bacardi rum, blue Curaçao, pineapple juice and Sprite)—a sixteen-ounce smoking cocktail with a popsicle. See more at signofthewhalect.com.

As the sun relents and gives way to cool evenings, take your spot outdoors among other music lovers. Head to townfavorite Alive at Five (if you’re age 21 and up). Concerts take place at Mill River Park. Shows on July 14 (All-American Rejects), 21 (X Ambassadors), 28 (Walk the Moon) and August 4 (T.I.). See more at stamford-downtown.com.

stamfordmag.com

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RHollan

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Y R T IS TH

dia by

sem

bro

Get going! These events will get you up and moving— and having a ton of fun in the sun—in July and August.

PADDLING LONG ISLAND SOUND JULY 16

GROUP OUTDOOR FITNESS THROUGH SEPT. 24

A DELICIOUS FOOD FESTIVAL AUG. 11–21

Make memories while doing good in this year’s FLOTILLA, 7:30 a.m. until noon. In this four-mile kayak and paddleboard tour, paddlers leave from Cove Island Park and head to Boccuzzi Park, where they enjoy food, drinks and fun, and get a shuttle back. Register at soundwaters.org.

Enjoy outdoor FITNESS CLASSES—for free. This is a great time to try Zumba, yoga or a dance class while getting fresh air and sunshine. See the various class options and times, as well as what to bring, online at stamford-downtown.com.

Oh, nothing, just a massive event called the HEY STAMFORD! FOOD FESTIVAL. If you eat and drink, you’ll want to head over to Mill River Park, as the bites and sips are paired with feel-good live music and so much more. See details at heystamford.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY: SOUNDWATERS, DIANE SEMBROT; FESTIVAL, COURTESY OF HEY STAMFORD!

left: Join SoundWaters' annual Flotilla, a paddle tour of the harbor. right: Landlubbers can sink their teeth into the Hey Stamford! Food Festival.

stamfordmag.com

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home by diane sembrot

above: Designer Prudence Bailey transformed an older home in Stamford into a fresh, youthful space for a young family.

NEW STYLE S

ome style is timeless. Yet, new homeowners can, nonetheless, still want to make a few changes here and there to make the space their own. Such is the case when a Stamford couple bought one of their grandparents’ home and then had it completely renovated—even adding on to it. The young family wanted the design to be in style without sacrificing the ease that good function offers. “This was the first room in the home we were working on together, and we needed to create a fresh look incorporating some of their existing furniture,” says Prudence Bailey, the designer who stepped in to transition the initial vision into reality. “It had to be a multipurpose space used by the couple as well as their children. As

the couple entertains frequently, it needed to have multiple seating areas and spaces for conversation and gathering.” In other words, she thought not just about the look, but how the space would be used day to day by this particular family. While much of what the home had to offer worked, especially location, the project needed to make the most of every opportunity in each room. “We wanted to create a place to come and sit by the fire and watch TV in what our clients call their ‘Winter Living Room,” says Prudence. “It needed to feel soothing and calm without being cold.” Much of that goal, to add moments of tranquility and energy, was achieved through careful use of color and light.

A FASHIONABLE MAKEOVER OF A S T A M F O R D LI V I N G RO O M phot o gr aphy by stephane kossmann

above: The family can comfortably gather to enjoy a warm fire or to watch a show on TV. The space has plenty of seating options without feeling cluttered or heavy.

stamfordmag.com

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home “This was the first room in

the home we were working on together, and we needed to create a fresh look, incorporating some of their existing furniture.”

right: Blues, greens and touches of black add interest to a nearly all-white color scheme. below: Layers of texture and shape add endless interest to the space, while the color palette offers plenty of tranquility.

Prudence Bailey, designer

above: A curved window seat is not only another option for cozy seating, but also a serene look in the room. Mixing blue, green and white, it also benefits from abundant natural light.

“The white backdrop of their existing chair and sectional needed to have color and some patterns layered in to add depth, texture and warmth. A piece of modern art in blues, greens and blacks became the inspiration for the color story. The blue/green color palette was selected for its freshness and was utilized in fabrics, ceiling and furniture.” Beyond color, the designer turned her experienced eye to the layout and colors of the furniture. “To anchor one end of the room, we put in a game table, which

could double for homework, drinks, etc. We upholstered the curved banquet in the same fabric as the chairs. Subtle details like the upholstered chair legs and window treatments really finish the room and make the space pop. By keeping the fireplace mantle and surround in the same white as the rest of the room, it allowed for great sculpture to anchor, yet not overpower, the mantle.” In fact, the game-table chairs became one of the designer’s favorite moments in the completed project. “I love fashion,

above: The handsome fireplace, with ornate woodwork, is a favorite focal point in the room.

and dressmaker details are the little touches that can make something be subtle yet standout,” she says. “The fully upholstered chairs, including the legs, are so beautiful with the Martyn Lawrence Bullard fabric.” So while everything turned out perfect, no project is without its challenges. In this one, it was the shape of the room—long and narrow. The game table was the solution. “Since we already had plenty of seating, we needed to think what went at the other end of the room that would fit the space and be functional for them,” she explains. “We chose to add a game table to the room where they could utilize it as a game table or eat while watching TV.” Problem solved! She also added a high-gloss ceiling. “It’s so stunning and a real showstopper with the HVL chandelier.”

stamfordmag.com

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Angélique Kidj0, August 6

Brian stokes Mitchell, July 9

J’Nai Bridges, mezzo-soprano, July 7

2022 Summer Season June 18 – August 7

Cl as sical / Roo t s / Ja z z / Worl d / Family F un / al l in open-air venues

Tickets & Information

Join us for a season of discovery, inspiration, and delight!

Including Bill Barclay’s The Chevalier, Kronos Quartet, Matthew Whitaker, Stephanie Blythe, Rachael & Vilray, Shemekia Copeland, the Jazz Festival, Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens, Marc-André Hamelin, and more! Plan your summer at Caramoor! Before the concert, explore our Sound Art installations, tour the historic Rosen House, or pack a picnic to enjoy with friends in our gardens.

caramoor.org 914.232.1252

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LOCATED in Katonah, NY / free shuttle from the katonah train station

6/14/22 1:38 PM

go Sea & Be Seen WE CHECK OUT THE NEW HIGH-END, ADULTS-ONLY CRUISE LINE FROM THE SAME MAN WHO’S MAKING SPACE TRAVEL ACCESSIBLE TO MERE MORTALS by kim-marie evans 7

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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Virgin Voyages' first ship, Scarlet Lady, will sail from Port Miami for her inaugural season with itineraries to the Caribbean. Virgin Voyages' second ship, Valiant Lady, will sail with seven-night Mediterranean itineraries out of Barcelona, where she recently debuted. Prices vary widely, depending on itinerary, ship and class of cabin.

The DJ booth

SEA TERRACE CABINS I shared my cabin with my daughter, and despite having piles of shoes, bags of makeup, and dueling curling irons, we both had more than enough space. Each cabin at this level has a spacious balcony with a red hammock woven by female artisans from Thailand’s Mlabri tribe for swinging and watching the sea go by. A digital tablet controls everything, including the mood lighting. Our favorites were “Hangover” and “Zen.”

ROCKSTAR QUARTERS Being a rock star has its privileges. You get an agent—kind of like a butler, but cooler. You also have access to Richard’s Rooftop—a secluded getaway on the top deck with daybeds, personal service and smooth jazz. Sailors

top: The Dock Bar bottom: The living room of the Massive Suite

CONTRIBUTED

ate cruises? Hate even the idea of cruising? This article is for you. Like many you, the thought of eating buffet food with a few thousand strangers trapped—I mean floating—at sea, has never sounded like a vacation to me. I was allowed to write this piece with that editorial caveat. Sir Richard Branson also hated cruising, despite never having set foot on a ship deck. But instead of avoiding cruises, he created his own cruise line. It’s the only ship he’s ever sailed on. Since he has yet to invite me to cover a space voyage, I embarked on the Scarlet Lady, Virgin Voyage's first ship of what will be a four-ship fleet, to give an honest review. The ship was pitched to me as a “boutique hotel on the sea.” I scoffed. How can a yacht with more than 1,300 cabins feel like a boutique hotel? I hate being wrong, but at every turn, I had to tip my hat to Sir Richard and Virgin Voyage’s CEO, Tom McAlpin. (Over dinner one night, I learned that Tom served as the head of Disney Cruises, the only other cruise I've ever—mostly—enjoyed.) From the designer décor to the Zagatworthy restaurants, the Scarlet Lady did feel like a boutique hotel. “We've done away with some of the traditional cruise formalities but have not compromised on offering refined luxury that allows sailors [sailor means guest in Virgin speak] to curate their experience in their own way,” says McAlpin. The cabins are fabulous, and the public spaces really set Virgin Voyages apart from the mall-like environment often associated with cruises. From The Dock at the stern of the ship designed to feel like your favorite beach club on the Vineyard to the DJ booth with authentic vinyl to the games area with wooden swings, endless free candy and Pac-Man machines, there’s the perfect spot for every mood.

stamfordmag.com

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Maggie’s Tavern Cocktails & Casual Dining at Winvian Farm

winvianfarm.com

FAIRFIELD COUNTY’S SUMMER CONCERT HOME! 3 EARTH, WIND & FIRE

2 H.E.R.

WED

THU

5 A DAY TO REMEMBER

3 LEE BRICE

FRI

6 JASON MRAZ

SAT

9 DISCO BISCUITS WITH

7 STEELY DAN

UMPHREY’S MCGEE

SUN

9 BRIT FLOYD

10 SAMMY HAGAR & THE CIRCLE FRI

W/ GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS

24 BIG TIME RUSH FRI

TUE

AUGUST

JUNE

THU

27 THE BLACK CROWES

FRI

TUE

19 FRI

WARREN HAYNES, JOHN SCOFIELD, JOHN MEDESKI, JOHN MOLO

THU

28 BOYZ II MEN SUN

30 JASON ISBELL & 400 UNIT TUE

7 MAREN MORRIS

JULY

THU

13 JACKSON BROWNE

FRI

15 CHEER LIVE

9 STING

FRI

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FRI

SEPTEMBER

29 STEVE MILLER BAND

VAN MORRISON

2 DARIUS RUCKER

WED

20 HALESTORM W/ THE WED PRETTY RECKLESS

THE BEACH BOYS & THE TEMPTATIONS

25 DISPATCH & O.A.R.

2 LYNYRD SKYNYRD WITH THE OUTLAWS

THE DOOBIE BROTHERS W/ MICHAEL MCDONALD

OUTLAW MUSIC FESTIVAL WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY, BILLY STRINGS & MORE

SUN

TUE

14 TENACIOUS D

WED

15 JON PARDI

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MON

11 GREENSKY BLUEGRASS

THU

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

23 RINGO STARR & FRI HIS ALL STARR BAND

5/4/22 7:53 AM

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THE DIFFERENCE

Branson has focused on those things we all detest about cruises— even if we've never been on one.

Grab a Boozy Sailor and Chicago hot dog at The Social Club

CRUISE DETERRENTS

Branson’s answer 1. OTHER PEOPLE’S CHILDREN

All ships are strictly eighteen-plus.

staying in RockStar quarters have their own wardrobe team to help unpack and repack, complimentary pressing service and a nightly express swimsuit drying service—because no rock star should ever have a wet bottom. All of the suites have in-room bars, with the first round on the house. If a sailor needs to restock, your RockStar agent can assist. And, of course, the rooms are more spacious. There are four categories, the largest being the Brilliant Suite at 481 square feet.

Suite (2,147 square feet). I'm confident this is where Virgin Voyages’ investor and Chief Entertainment and Lifestyle Officer Jennifer Lopez stays when on board. It has a music room stocked with guitars and an amplifier nd a vinyl turntable in the adjacent living room.

Invite friends for dinner on your massive terrace with a private hot tub, stargazing loungers, hammocks and an outdoor dining table with a staircase to encourage table dancing. All Mega RockStars get complimentary access to spa amenities.

above: Sailors enjoying a meal at one of the ship’s twenty restaurants, Gunbae below: The ship’s DJ spinning tunes

Dine at Gunbae, the signature Korean restaurant where you cook your meal on the specially engineered flameless grill in the middle of the table. The night begins with a waiter leading a game of Sam Yuk Gu, also known as Three Six Nine. It seems simple enough. You count around the table, clapping for each number that has a three, six or nine in it—taking a shot when you inevitably mess up. Dance in the pool at the Scarlet Night outdoor dance party. The pool floor rises to a reasonable four to six inches, so no worries about submerging your best cocktail attire. Use the Shake for Champagne feature on the app. Shake, push the button, and a $95 bottle of bubbly will find you. The magic of technology. In addition to the Bahamas, the Fire and Sunset Soiree cruise stops at Bimini, where Virgin takes over the Resorts World beach club for the day. Snag an inflatable unicorn and have your drink delivered to the pool during the flotilla party. Rock stars, of course, have a private beach setup sectioned off by a velvet rope.

MEGA ROCKSTAR SUITE In true rocker fashion, sailors can send a rider stipulating specific needs and requests ahead of time. There are four levels of Mega RockStar Suites— the largest aptly named the Massive

The spa is its own destination with mud baths, heated quartz beds, a salt room and hot and cold plunge pools. Access is complimentary with a treatment, but it's worth $39 for the three-hour pass to enjoy the amenities.

2. NASTY BUFFET FOOD

There are twenty restaurants, each with its own kitchen and executive chef— no buffets. 3. ENFORCED DINING TIMES

Eat when you want (reservations needed for some) and no assigned seating, ever. 4. CHEESY ENTERTAINMENT

Performances include acrobatic shows, sex therapy shows (yup), and more. 5. CRAMPED DARK CABINS

The cabins are sleek and hi-tech, with 86 percent featuring a balcony and 93 percent an ocean view. 6. YOUR GRANDMA CRUISES

The first at-sea tattoo parlor, Squid Ink, will make the hipsters happy. 7. BEING NICKELED AND DIMED

There are no restaurant upsells, you won’t see a separate line item on your bill for gratuities, and group workouts and Wi-Fi are included in the fare.

CONTRIBUTED

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left: The gorgeous entry to The Peninsula Beverly Hills center, top: The welcoming front desk to the spa center, bottom: The Living Room at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is lush, luxurious and regal—a wonderful place to sit and talk with a friend. right: Room service is next-level at the hotel.

A SHINING STAR

TRADITIONAL LUXURY IN THE CITY OF ANGELS

ocated in the heart of Beverly Hills, a short walk from Los Angeles’ iconic Rodeo Drive, The Peninsula Beverly Hills offers lavish accommodations, mouthwatering cuisine and a newly designed world-class spa. Cushioned by lush, tropical gardens, the property feels like a private home, with its welcoming staff and unparalleled service. Upon arrival, I was escorted to my room, where a plate of artfully displayed handmade macarons and a pillowcase monogrammed with my initials awaited me. (Yes, you get to take the pillowcase home!) If you’re in search of a truly special destination for your next vacation out west, look no further. And don’t be surprised if you spot a few celebrities in the lobby.

STAY Featuring 195 luxurious guest rooms, including thirty-eight suites and seventeen private villas, the accommodations are appointed with expertly curated, custom-made furnishings that reflect the hotel’s subdued opulence. I stayed in one of the 585-square-foot Villa Studios, which feature large sleeping and sitting areas, a modern fireplace, and a private entrance, allowing guests complete privacy. The serene color palette and rich wood furnishings completed the overall sumptuous décor. If you’re interested in a larger space, book one of the 825-square-foot Peninsula Villa Suites, which are set in free-standing villas, boast spacious garden-view balconies and are bathed in plenty of natural light. Guests can also hang their hats in one of the four signature one-bedroom suites, each with its own color palette, ranging from tranquil rose and blue hues to soothing green and white. These suites combine classic elegance and state-of-the-art technology and also include contemporary kitchens with Viking and Sub-Zero appliances. Of course the pièce de résistance is the 2,336-square-foot Peninsula Villa, which is the property’s largest accommodation. Nestled

above: Be enveloped in a masterful mix of white, cream and blue in the main bedroom of the Grand Deluxe Suite (also called The Blue Suite) below: The Peninsula Suite (or Green Suite) Living Room, in a harmonious, and even royal, palette of green and gold.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LIEBERT PORTRAIT BY DREAMSCAPE STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY; HOTEL, COURTESY THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

BY EMILY LIEBERT

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in a landscaped garden patio, this spectacular two-story bungalow is accented with blue-andwhite Chinese porcelain pieces and opens onto a private patio with a hot tub and gate to the street.

above: When you're ready for some pampering and wellness treatments, book time in the spa; here, one of the treatment rooms. below: Cool off by the hotel's pool.

WINE & DINE With culinary offerings at The Peninsula are a feast for the foodie soul. Start off with a cocktail at The Club Bar with its dark wood, California birch panels and deep leather chairs encircling the fireplace. Options include rare single-malt whiskies, scotches, tequilas, and cognacs, as well as a broad assortment of wines. I loved the “La Drama,” made with Suntory Haku vodka, grapefruit, crème de mûre, lime zest and a spicy note of jalapeño. The Roof Garden is a destination for both locals and hotel guests, serving inspired Californian cuisine with fresh herbs and vegetables grown in the rooftop garden. Favorites are the Octopus Tostada with avocado mousse and cucumber radish and the Skirt Steak with crispy potatoes, pork chorizo and tomatillo.

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY THE PENINSULA BEVERLY HILLS

RELAX & REJUVENATE The newly renovated spa is home to seven treatment rooms, a nail suite and a serenity lounge ideal for recharging. I recommend the 24K Gold Age-Defying Facial, an invigorating treatment that will heal and enrich your skin. It also boosts collagen production and cell renewal, while reducing fine lines and wrinkles, through the restorative powers of 24K gold leaf. It will leave you fresh faced and glowing from the inside out. If you have trouble sleeping or feel low on energy, try the Recovering Traveler, designed to bring balance to the body and relieve jet lag. The experience includes marma work, lymphatics and a bronze

kasa bowl technique to draw out excess heat. Additionally, it helps eliminate fluid retention and strengthens the immune system. Once you’ve been appropriately pampered, rent one of the twelve private cabanas by the sixty-foot outdoor rooftop pool and hot tub and unwind on a deluxe chaise lounge with a signature cocktail or fruit smoothie. Each cabana is equipped with cordless telephones, flat-screen TV, Bluetooth speakers, heaters, fans and a safe. For a one-stop shop, book the spa cabana and enjoy a manicure, pedicure or massage while your family and friends go for a swim. If exercise is your preferred method of relaxation, head to the Fitness Centre, which is outfitted with state-of-the-art Life Fitness equipment, including treadmills, cycles and elliptical trainers, and strength and weight training apparatus by HOIST. Post-workout delight in the Himalayan Salt Saunas.

Dine at The Belvedere for Parisian-style brasserie fare with a modern twist on classics such as Saffron Risotto Croquette and Rotisserie Chicken Crepe. My top choices were the Charred Caesar with Brussels sprouts, kale, garlic croutons and white anchovy and the Seared Diver Scallops with chanterelles, zucchini flower and lobster jus. Celebrate with a complimentary Laurent Perrier champagne toast every evening at 8 p.m. Last, but definitely not least, afternoon tea in The Living Room is a must. In addition to the extensive menu of green and exotic flavored teas and the free-flowing bubbly, the towers of sweet and savory bites are accompanied by a classical harpist. I’ll admit it was hard to select only a few items, but I relished the pastrami with horseradish, pickles and mustard caviar along with the curried chicken with almonds and raisins. If dim sum is your thing (it’s definitely mine!), go for the Shanghai pork dumplings and the Peking duck pot stickers. For dessert, the strawberry elderflower cake and the Purple Haze and peach crostini are winners. SIGNATURE TOUCHES The Peninsula stands out for its enduring attention to detail and unique special events. Along these lines, every Thursday at 5 p.m. guests can partake in a cocktail-making lesson with a professional mixologist (tastings included!). Another fabulous feature, if you book one of the hotel’s elegant suites, is the complimentary use of a luxury BMW for the length of your stay. This will allow you to drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu or continue on past Santa Barbara to Santa Ynez wine country. If you’re on a tight time schedule, you’ll appreciate the hotel’s ‘Peninsula Time’ offering —a distinctive experience which provides guests the flexibility to check in and out at any hour at no extra cost (black-out dates and booking channels do apply). When traveling with children in tow, upgrade your reservation to include Camp Peninsula, a program that embodies the spirit of camping right at the hotel. It kicks off with a special welcome from the property’s lifesized mascot, Peter Bear, and continues with a camp counselor whisking the kids away to their guestroom where an enchanting teepee awaits…and then engaging them in a hotel-wide scavenger hunt with a decadent treat of flameless s’mores to top it off.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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BOOK NO FURTHER SEARCHING FOR SUMMER’S HOTTEST READS? YOU’VE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE. THESE EIGHT PAGE-TURNERS ARE PERFECT FOR A DAY AT THE BEACH OR A LOUNGE BY THE POOL.

FOUR WAYS TO WEAR A DRESS BY GILLIAN LIBBY

PLEASE JOIN US BY CATHERINE MCKENZIE

WEST SIDE LOVE STORY BY PRISCILLA OLIVERAS

THE BEACH TRAP BY ALI BRADY

Westport native Gillian Libby delivers a sparkling debut with this buoyant novel about protagonist Millie Ward, who’s been fired from her job and decides to visit her best friend Quincy in California. While she’s there, she wouldn’t mind a romantic interlude with Quincy's brother, Pete. As her friends from home help her pack for the trip, the little black dress they shared in college resurfaces and reminds them of the luck it brought them back then. The question is, will the dress works its magic again and help Millie find the happiness she truly deserves?

Nicole Mueller’s life is a mess. Her success as a lawyer is in jeopardy and she’s about to lose her apartment. Enter Panthera Leo, a private networking group for professional women. In an attempt to resuscitate her career—despite her husband Dan’s concern that it sounds like a cult—Nicole joins their retreat in Colorado where she’s grouped with a CEO, an actress, a finance whiz and a congresswoman. When Nicole returns home, things quickly turn around thanks to her new network, until she’s called on by the congresswoman and coerced into covering up a crime.

In this star-crossed love story about two feuding Texas familias, Mariana was raised in the nurturing household of Casa Capuleta. As a means of helping her adoptive parents resolve their financial issues, she and her younger sisters must win the Battle of the Mariachi Bands against Hugo Montero, their father’s biggest rival. There’s just one thing standing in the way…Mariana’s illicit attraction to Angelo Montero, who also has feelings for her. Will their relationship survive the challenges inherent in their situation? And will they be able to bring peace to their long-disputing familias?

Fifteen years ago, at the age of twelve, Kat Steiner and Blake O’Neill became best friends at Camp Chickawah. Then they found out that they were actually half-sisters and broke all ties with each other. When their father dies suddenly and leaves them both a beach house in Florida, the two women are not happy about it. But they formulate a plan—to refurbish the decrepit home so that Kat can buy Blake out. Of course their visions for renovation are not the same. Add in their shared pasts and a couple of summer romances and they may become the sisters they never were after all.

MORE BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS on the next page

CONTRIBUTED

by emily liebert

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Law Offices of

Attorney Sue Georgiades earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Connecticut in 2010 and received her J.D. from the University of Connecticut in 2013, where she concentrated her elective studies in matrimonial law and was an editor of the Connecticut Insurance Law Journal. Her internships with the supervising judge of the Nassau County, New York Family Court and Nassau County Coalition Against Domestic Violence further developed her credentials as a superior family lawyer.

GARY I. COHEN, P.C.

Both attorneys proudly affirm that, “Our firm does not handle cases; we represent people who give us the privilege of seeking to resolve their family dispute issues with competence and sensitivity by the application of our training and experience as both negotiators and litigators.”

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Mr. Cohen adds, “I have had the honor of being named to Super Lawyers for many years, but my pride in my nomination pales in comparison to my pride and pleasure in Sue Georgiades’ well-deserved recognition this year as a Rising Stars honoree among Connecticut’s family bar. Congratulations, Sue!”

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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Silvermine

Come Learn Where Art Cultivates Life.

Silvermine School of Art 1037 Silvermine Road New Canaan, CT www.silvermineart.org

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BOOK NO FURTHER

THE LADY DI LOOK BOOK BY ELOISE MORAN

THE CHARMED LIST BY JULIE ABE

MY WIFE IS MISSING BY D. J. PALMER

What happens when Freya Scott, a recently rejected bride, has to attend seven weddings in one summer? Her friends create a major distraction by devising a series of crazy challenges for her to fulfill at each event. For example, getting stuck in an old church bathroom until she’s rescued by the vicar and, also, making out with a barman at a French château. As the “fun” ensues, Freya begins to realize that saying “I do” isn’t the be all and end all, that there may still be a love story in her future.

What was Diana trying to tell us through her clothes? This visual psychobiography of icon Lady Di poses and answers this question through its stunning images and new interviews with some of the people who dressed Diana. From her pink gingham pants and pastel-yellow overalls to her sexy Versace dresses, power suits and athleisure, British fashion journalist Eloise Moran has studied thousands of pictures of the princess and brings to light things no one has noticed before. In addition to being a feast for the eyes, this book is a comprehensive study in the way the world’s most adored royal communicated through fashion.

High school student Ellie Kobata leads a very private life. So private, in fact, that she can’t even tell her best friend what she’s hiding… that she’s part of a secret magical community. The only person who would really understand is Jack Yasuda, a childhood friend who inexplicably no longer associates with her. By senior year, Ellie is tired of being a wallflower and ready to take some risks—for better or for worse. So she makes a list of thirteen things what will help her come out of her shell. When number four—revenge on Jack—goes seriously awry, Ellie ends up stuck in a car with him driving to a magical convention and she’s convinced she’ll never complete her list. Only she may be very wrong, since number thirteen is “fall in love.”

Michael Hart’s wife, Natalie, and their two young kids have disappeared from their New York City hotel room while on a family vacation, and he suspects they’ve been kidnapped. Unfortunately, Michael is wrong. Natalie left quite willingly without explanation and both he and the police want to know why. Of course he can’t tell them that a shocking revelation about him might have encouraged her quick escape. Natalie, for her part, knows that’s exactly why she left and she has no intention of returning. There’s just one issue— her chronic insomnia has caused disabling delusions. Now, with her children’s lives on the line, Natalie is desperate to stay one step ahead of Michael, as she begins to recognize that she’s the only person who can save all of them.

CONTRIBUTED

THE WEDDING SEASON BY KATY BIRCHALL

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money matters LOOK UP

Lindsay Rand McGuckin

ome prices have soared in Fairfield County since the pandemic, leaping 53.2 percent from March 2020 to March 2022, according to the William Pitt/Sotheby’s Market Tracker. New construction is surging. Renovations have reached record numbers. Has your home insurance coverage kept up? Hint: The answer has less to do with your home’s sticker price, than, say, the cost of those new countertops.

BY CAROL LEONETTI DANNHAUSER

PROTECTING YOUR BIGGEST ASSET WITH INSURANCE

“You have to remember that market value is very different from replacement value,” says Lindsay Rand McGuckin, vicepresident of Rand Insurance in Greenwich. “We want to make sure that if your house burns to the ground, you have enough to replace it.” A number of variables factor into how much your premium costs, from your home’s location to its age, size, type of house, surrounding property values, your claims history and more. Inflation is also a consideration. Many policies automatically hike a premium by a few percentage points each year to guard against inflation, McGuckin says. But the cost of materials for home construction—for plastics, steel, fuel, paint and the like— leapfrogged even higher than inflation last year, increasing more than 20 percent, according to the Associated General Contractors of America. So that built-in inflation protection might not cover the cost of rebuilding and furnishing your home if, say, a water pipe bursts or a fire breaks

out while you are out of town, destroying your home and its contents. That kind of catastrophe “can leave you really open to some heartache,” McGuckin says. She recommends a “guaranteed replacement value” policy, which means that your home and your stuff will be replaced in the event of a disaster, even if the cost to replace them exceeds your policy limit. That coverage isn’t cheap, but it can mean many thousands of dollars heading your way when you need it most. Replacement-cost protection is all the more important if you’ve done a recent renovation, as many homeowners in lower Fairfield County have since Covid. “Oh my gosh, we’ve had people tear their homes down and rebuild and we’ve had to tell them, ‘Oh, by the way, your coverage could be in jeopardy,” McGuckin warns, adding that a clause in all policies cautions against doing work without informing your insurance company, as this can void the policy. “We definitely prefer that you tell us ahead of time.”

If your agent isn’t asking you each year for an update on your home and its contents, you should do a review yourself. Examine your coverage and premiums— particularly the values listed on your policy. Did you remodel the basement or garage recently, or make upgrades in technology and equipment to work remotely? Did you install an outdoor kitchen or a pool, or add other distinctive features? Before you connect with your agent, take the time to go around the house and conduct an inventory. Don’t overlook your personal items or valuable collectibles, such as art, jewelry or gadgetry, especially if they are rare or expensive. Your agent might suggest a “rider” for these to act as a kind of extra insurance that will cover their verified appraised value. “Everything now has gone up in terms of cost of labor and supplies,” McGuckin says. Make sure your policy reflects these upgrades. Otherwise, you might be on the hook for replacement costs if disaster strikes.

Some additions to your home can actually lower your insurance costs. Updating your electrical system or your pipes, or replacing your roof, for example, can trim the cost of your policy, as a safer home means lower chance of damages. The same goes for installing a monitored home security system, centralized fire alarm or water-leak detector. A generator that automatically turns on when the power goes out cuts insurance costs as well, as burst pipes due to freezing are among the biggest culprits when it comes to claims.

CONTRIBUTED

RENOVATIONS THAT PAY Home Investments

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O v E r5 0F o O dV e N d O r ST h R o U g H o U tt W ow E e K e N d S , B e E rG a R d E n , K i D sa C t I v I t I e S&m O r E ! S c A nF o RT i C k E t S 48_49_STM_FOB_Money Matters_JUL_AUG_2022.indd 49

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eat

ast year Toni Pellicci-Lupinacci looked around Pellicci’s dining room and her eyes welled with tears. Every seat in the Italian-American family restaurant was filled. After decades of success and expansion, the empty days of the pandemic hit Pellicci’s hard. But with the second and third generations working in the back and front of the house, they pulled through. This past June, Pellicci’s celebrated their seventy-fifth anniversary. It’s the oldest restaurant in Stamford continuously owned by the same family. The casual, family-friendly Italian-American restaurant opened its doors in 1947 in the city’s Italian neighborhood on the West Side, with a thirty-seat dining room and ten-seat bar, and Mama Fran Pellicci in the kitchen rolling out sheets of pasta by hand for her homemade lasagna. Pellicci’s expanded in the ’50s, adding dining and event rooms, which have become a repository for customers’ shared memories. Business continued to grow, and as the waiting lines swelled in the ’80s, the family added another dining room. Everybody’s got a memory, says PellicciLupinacci, who is the co-owner with her sister Fran and sister-in-law Ann. They all share a memory. “My first date was here.” “My mother’s baby shower was here.” “My father’s stag was here.”

left: The Chicken Scarpiello, made from a secret family recipe, with a glass of white wine and bread baked fresh on the premises. below: Toni Pellici-Lupinacci, Ann Pellicci and Fran Pellicci-Camaniti

PHOTOGRAPHY: PORTRAIT, CONTRIBUTED

That’s Amore Pellicci’s Celebrates 75 YEARS IN STAMFORD by eliz abeth keyser phot o gr aphy by andrea carson

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left: Never any doubt who owns the kitchen—Mama Fran Pellicci below The relaxed and welcoming dining room

The filling entree Seafood Rosalina

Today, a plaque reading “Fran’s Kitchen” is affixed over the kitchen door. Pellicci’s menu is based on her original recipes, the homemade bread, and meatballs and gravy—that’s “gravy,” not “sauce.” The lasagna is her recipe, made with homemade noodles and a touch of nutmeg in the gravy. The warm layers of noodles, sauce, meat and melting cheese have comforted customers for seventy years. Veal scallopini continues to be a customer favorite, whether Marsala, Francaise or piccata. A specialty of more recent decades is Anthony’s recipe for Seafood Delight for two—a hearty bowl of clams, mussels, calamari, shrimp and a whole lobster over pasta. Believe it or not, it used to be bigger. Anthony was the son who started helping his mother, Fran, in the kitchen when he was still in high school. “No one could make a pizza like my brother Anthony,” Toni says, of her late brother. “He ran the kitchen, and then he branched into front of the house. This place was his soul.” Pellicci’s isn’t just about the past. New customers have been discovering the cozy atmosphere decorated with Fran’s paintings and signed celebrity headshots. Young people from the UConn campus dorm down the street are drawn to the casual atmosphere and comfort food. Along with all those memories, the family is hearing something new: “It’s my first time here!”

left: Long-time and first-time guests agree that the Antipasto Freddo Speciale is a must below Order your favorite cocktail to complete your meal

Pellicci’s menu is based on Fran’s original recipes, the homemade bread, and meatballs and gravy—that’s “gravy,” not “sauce.” JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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eat

Just In TURNING POINT CHEESE AND PROVISIONS Opens in Bulls Head Shopping Plaza by eliz abeth keyser

hen you walk into Turning Point Cheese and Provisions (turningpointcheeseandprovisions .com), the first thing you see is the cheese counter—a marble slab laden with hunks of gloriously aged cheeses. This cozy temple to cheese, charcuterie and chocolate opened at 71 High Ridge Road in the Bulls Head Shopping Plaza in May. “We want to be a foodie paradise,” says Cody Hart, cofounder. “Stamford needs this.” With this much love, they treat cheese like a living, breathing thing, and Turning Point’s staff treats the classic European and artisan American options with respect. “Cheese was never meant to be wrapped in plastic,” says Hart, who readily offers tastes. “Everything is cut to order from a fresh, healthy hunk

of cheese, and when you get it home, it is perfectly ready to eat.” (I can attest; I bought a piece of the most ideally ripe Taleggio—a soft, Italian, washed-rind cow’s milk cheese—that I have ever had the pleasure of savoring.) What’s the latest trend in artisan cheese? Cheesemakers are creating flavor profiles during aging. That can include wrapping the cheese in a band of spruce, as in Vermont’s Jasper Hill Farm’s Harbison, or washing it in brine, as in Connecticut’s Cato Corner’s Hooligan. “We’re becoming huge fans of cider-washed cheese,” Hart says. “It gives it a fruity funk that contrasts with the salty creaminess.” Herbs and flowers are part of European aging traditions. “We just got a cheese from Switzerland that is covered in ten different herbs and flowers. It’s stunningly beautiful.”

above: Stock up on gourmet specialty items, too

Turning Point also sources from Crown Finish Caves in Brooklyn, which specializes in “affinage,” aging American and European cheeses in the 50-degree F temperatures in the tunnels of a former brewery. They also offer cured meats from Larchmont Charcuterie, which is run by a former French chef, and the Lady Edison Extra Fancy Country Ham, which is produced in North Carolina from a cross-breed of Heritage pigs. “It’s not for the faint of heart,” Hart says of the ham’s distinctive funk. As for Insta-worthy cheese and charcuterie board, abundant with ripe cheeses, folded cured meats, dried fruits, toasted nuts, sweet chutneys, crackers and flatbreads (including gluten-free and vegan), the staff will help you build your own or prepare one for you in advance. Local foodies are embracing the trend of including tins of preserved seafood from Spain or Portugal, long a staple of Spanish tapas bars. Turning Point plans to add classes in cheese and wine-and-cheese pairings in collaboration with Turning Point Coffee and Wine Bar (just a couple of doors away), which was founded by Chris Hallowell (the cheese shop owner and cofounder) with his wife, Nicole. “We came to cheese through wine,” says Hallowell, a former editor at Wine Spirits magazine. Terroir is at the root of the all the fine provisions at Turning Point, from cheese to chocolate. It all works beautifully together.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GARVIN BURKE

above: The new shop has plenty of meat and cheese options and also creates charcuterie and cheese boards.

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tickets on SALE Don’t miss the 15th anniversary of New York City’s premiere wine and food festival where the country’s most celebrated chefs, food personalities and winemakers unite to support New Yorkers living with severe illness.

Get Tickets: NYCWFF.ORG HOSTED BY

OFFICIAL MOBILITY PARTNER

EXCLUSIVE PROVIDER OF WINE AND SPIRITS

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For more information, please call 800.764.8773

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Must be 21 or older with valid ID to consume alcohol. The Festival promotes responsible drinking. Photos: Courtesy of Getty Images | Sponsors confirmed as of 5.27.2022

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1 Southwest-inspired wall mural sets the stage 2 Orders of tacos, burritos and bowls to keep everyone happy 3 The neon sign reminds you to have a little fun 4 Along with soft drinks, The Taco Project also serves wine, beer and more. 5 Opened in spring, the place is already a draw. 6 Plenty of seating options in the new eatery with urban design influences. 7 Did someone say cocktails?

WRAP IT UP by diane sembrot

ometimes you’re running all over town, getting things done—we see you; we’re right there trying to find a parking spot, too—and, suddenly, it’s way past lunchtime. You realize you are starving; far too hungry to wait until you get home to eat. So, you start thinking of a quick stop. Stamford has plenty of quick eats to choose from, and now there’s another delicious option. Its name is The Taco Project (thetacoproject.com), and we are happy to help them do research.

above: The owners of The Taco Project—Carmelo Milio, Nick Mesce and Sebastian Aliberti—who recently opened a location in Stamford

The owners have other locations in New York; Stamford’s is found at 1111 High Ridge Road. It is casual dining—welcoming, fun and flipflop friendly. Also, its menu reads like a list of the most popular belly-filling choices, such as chicken tacos with chipotle, cilantro, jicama and radish as well as BBQ pulled pork with caramelized onions, cilantro and radish. The eatery also has burritos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, salads and desserts (round of churros for the table?). Don’t skip the housemade sangria.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

THE TACO PROJECT OPENS IN STAMFORD

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•

Our Mission The mission of Breast Cancer Alliance is to improve survival rates and quality of life for those impacted by breast cancer through better prevention, early detection, treatment and cure. To promote these goals, we invest in innovative research, breast surgery fellowships, regional education, dignified support and screening for the underserved.

Taking a Look Inside Westy...

To learn more visit breastcanceralliance.org Breast Cancer Alliance, 48 Maple Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830 info@breastcanceralliance.org Yonni Wattenmaker, Executive Director

breastcanceralliance

@BCAllianceCT

@breastcanceralliance

Comedy

AGAINST CANCER An Evening of Comedy Honoring

RANDY SALVATORE to Benefit the American Cancer Society

Thursday, September 22, 2022 The Italian Center, Stamford CT

www.acscomedyagainstcancer.org For More Information, Please Contact: kelsey.mcgettigan@cancer.org

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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10TH ANNUAL

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

M AG A Z I N E

Tuesday, July 26 • 6:30-9:00 p.m. (Rain Date Wednesday, July 27)

Harbor Point, Stamford Taste creative craft cocktails by top area bartenders Savor bites from Stamford’s best restaurants Enjoy live summer calypso music

BestBartenderStamford.com Tickets: $35 in advance, $40 at the door Presented by

BECOME A SPONSOR, FEATURED BARTENDER or RESTAURANT! For information please contact Karen Kelly publisher of Stamford Magazine at Karen.Kelly@Moffly.com

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6/14/22 12:27 1:40 PM 5/4/22

people&PLACES by diane sembrot

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CARA GILBRIDE OF CALLALILY STUDIOS 1

STAMFORD MUSEUM & NATURE CENTER / An Evening with Geoffrey Zakarian

Good Taste

he Stamford Museum & Nature Center recently honored Geoffrey Zakarian and his wife, Margaret, at a fundraiser in the Knobloch Family Farmhouse. A chef, restaurateur and Food Network personality—the Emmy-nominated Iron Chef is a judge on Chopped, cohost of The Kitchen and host of the new primetime show Big Restaurant Bet. More than 120 guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the Overlook Terrace with the Zakarians, followed by a four-course dinner prepared by Chef Robin Selden of Marcia Selden Catering. The event included wine pairings thanks to Glenville Wine & Spirits. Leigh Diffey served as MC. The event, “An Evening with Geoffrey & Margaret Zakarian,” owes its success to cochairs Lynn Villency Cohen and Carol Fedele and the generosity of corporate sponsors and individual donors. It will support SM&NC’s educational programming, both on-site and in classrooms. See more at the center at 39 Scofieldtown Road and online at stamfordmuseum.org. »

1 Geoffrey Zakarian, Harry Day, Melissa Mulrooney, Margaret Zakarian 2 Geoffrey Zakarian addresses guests, with Margaret at his side 3 Karen M. Kelly with Kathleen Bordelon 4 Geoffrey Zakarian, Madeline Zakarian, Melissa Mulrooney, Robin Selden, Anna Zakarian and Margaret Zakarian 5 Selkowitz Family Great Room at Knobloch Family Farmhouse 6 (front) Jennifer Lapine, Marsha Shendell and Mark Lapine; Melissa Mulrooney and Harry Day 7 Event Cochairs Lynn Villency Cohen and Carol Fedele 8 Leigh Diffey JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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WHITTINGHAM DISCOVERY CENTER DEDICATION / Mill River Park Collaborative

At the Center

ill River Park Collaborative recently held the dedication for its new Whittingham Discovery Center. U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, Governor Ned Lamont and Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons spoke about the investments and programming efforts. Nette Compton, CEO of the Collaborative, said it “will be integral in bringing awareness to the Mill River and the ecosystems we work to restore every day.” Cousins Adam and Paul Whittingham, sons of brothers Andrew and Michael Whittingham, for whom the center is named, shared that it encapsulates their fathers’ desire to provide experiential educational opportunities to children who lack equitable access to the environment. “Without the inspiration, leadership and generosity of the Whittingham brothers, this building would never have happened,” noted Arthur Selkowitz, chair of the board. Part of a master plan to connect the downtown to the coastline this summer. Visitors will be able to learn through interactive exhibits, film screenings, talks, demonstrations, science shows and programs for all ages.

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

1 Speakers at the dedication: Governor Ned Lamont, Chairman of the Board of Mill Park Collaborative Arthur Selkowitz, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, Deputy Commissioner of Connecticut’s Dept. of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) Mason Trumble, Mill River Park Collaborative CEO Nette Compton 2 Arthur Selkowitz addresses the guests 3 U.S. Rep. Jim Himes 4 A viewing the new Center 5 Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons 6 Whittingham Discovery Center Sign

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STAMFORD HOSPITAL / J.McLaughlin & Monogram Mary

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JULIA D’AGOSTINO

Let’s Get Personal

rooke Shepard and Maggie McDonald recently hosted a lovely ladies’ shopping event at J.McLaughlin to raise funds for Stamford Hospital’s Women and Babies Campaign. Local foodies from the Habitual Hostess made the perfect spring punch and snacks, and complimentary monograming was offered with every purchase. stamfordhealth.org; jmclaughlin.com; monogrammary.com »

1 Brooke Shepard, Maggie McDonald of J.McLaughlin, Kathleen Silard, CEO Stamford Hospital 2 Treats from Stephanie’s Kitchen Counter 3 Kaki McGrath, Brooke Shephard, Jennifer Warm, Kelly Oleksak, Lauren Stephens 4 Pretty shades of pink 5 Leigh Hansen, Alston Calabrese from Habitual Hostess 6 J.Mclaughlin and Monogram Mary colab cuteness 7 Amy Guzzi 8 Georgia Grace Pendleton, Samantha Varvel 9 Punch with a kick by Habitual Hostess JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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vows by diane sembrot

SUZANNE VITA PALAZZO & CARL BATTINELLI III 1

M 9

any make New Year’s Resolutions to get in shape, but Suzanne Palazzo and Carl Battinelli III were already fit. The CEO of Upper Deck Fitness, Suzanne launched the business in 2015 and three years later introduced virtual fitness (critical during the pandemic). Carl is the gym’s training director. They both love fitness and coaching—and each other. Surrounded by family and friends, they exchanged vows and celebrated their new beginning together. The ceremony, officiated by Dawn Greco, took place at The Palace Theatre in Stamford. “As a dancer who grew up performing on the Palace stage, it felt symbolic to celebrate such an important milestone in my life by going back to my roots,” says Suzanne. “Furthermore, given the pandemic and getting married on New Year’s Eve, Carl and I wanted to remind people about the power of theater to escape reality and transport to another time and place.” The romantic event was the culmination of an engagement that started with a surprise. Carl and Suzanne started dating seven years before he popped the question on her birthday in August. During a dinner with family at Valbella, he presented his grandmother’s engagement ring and asked that life-changing question. She enthusiastically said yes. Suzanne Palazzo graduated from Trinity Catholic High School in Stamford and earned her BFA from Fordham University. She is the daughter of Michelle Vorvis and Nicholas Palazzo of Stratford. Carl Battinelli III graduated from Stamford High School and earned his bachelor’s degree in exercise science from UConn. His is the son of Sue Bailey and Carl Battinelli of Stamford. The couple currently lives in Wilton and have plans for a honeymoon in Antigua.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANTHONY PETROZZA OF RICKY RESTIANO PHOTOGRAPHY

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1 Suzanne Vita Palazzo and Carl Battinelli III 2 The bride before the ceremony 3 Carl gets ready 4 Carl and his brother, Paul Battinelli 5 Matron of Honor Dayna Macari, sister of the bride 6 Paul gives his speech 7 Liz Maida Fusaro, Kara Tramaglini, Katelyn Battinelli, Suzanne, Emelia Tramaglini, Dayna Macari and Dawn Greco 8 Guests at the theater 9 Nicholas Palazzo 10 Exhanging vows 11 The couple with groom’s parents and aunt and uncle, Marta and Robert Bailey 12 Bride and father dance 13 Michelle Voris and Nicholas Palazzo with their daughter 14 The newlyweds celebrate New Year’s at their wedding 15 First dance 16 The groom and his mother, Sue Battinelli 17 Flower girl 18 Suzanne was ready to dance.

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M O F F LY M E D I A

2022 w inners

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

170+ Categories!

We asked our readers to vote for their favorite places throughout Fairfield County. The more than 170 categories are grouped in three sections: FOOD + DRINK (such as, new restaurant and local pub), SHOP + STYLE (such as swimwear and shoes), and SERVICES + TO-DO’S (such as car washes and pet care). These are the PLACES THAT MAKE LIVING HERE BETTER THAN ANYWHERE ELSE. Of course, we think our readers are the best!

To check out ALL OF OUR WINNERS digitally, scan here

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BEST OF the BEST FOOD

SHOP

SERVICES

DRINK

STYLE

TO-DO’S

PG. 64

PG. 74

PG. 82

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

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2022 w inners of

Next time you want to catch up with what’s going on in your friends’ lives, all the details, SPEND TIME TOGETHER WHILE ENJOYING GOOD FOOD AND DRINKS. Here’s the list of local restaurants, cafés, bars, grab-and-go places, food and drink markets and more that our readers picked as their favorites. No matter where you are in Fairfield County, there’s a place nearby ready to serve.

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READERS’ PICKS

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

THE WINNERS LIST If it’s seafood, then it’s on the menu at The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood.

RESTAURANTS Best Service Match 98 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-852-1088; matchsono.com Business Lunch + Outdoor Seating Artisan Southport 275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-307-4222; artisansouthport.com Creative Menu Taco Daddy 121 Towne St., Stamford, 203-541-5770; tacodaddystamford.com Hotel Restaurant + Special Occasion/Date Night Tavern at GrayBarns 194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900; tavernatgraybarns.com New Restaurant The Wheel 4 Star Point, Stamford, 475-270-1300; thevillagewheel.com

MORGAN IONE PHOTOGRAPHY

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

THE RESTAURANT AT ROWAYTON SEAFOOD // Winner of BEST Outdoor Dining and BEST Seafood

Pickup/Delivery Option Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

here can you go that’s both upscale and perfectly comfortable? You found it. This family-owned restaurant, located right along the Five Mile River, is a hit. The views are spectacular, assuming you like sailboats and sunsets on a watery horizon—and the seafood is delicious, again assuming that super-fresh lobster, fish, shrimp and all things from the sea have you reaching for the lemon wedges. It’s the kind of place that knows you expect the best but also want to feel like you’re at home. JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

When only a steak will do, it’s time to head to Washington Prime.

SIGNATURE STEAK Grab a knife, because we’re talking Beef Wellington (prime filet mignon, wrapped in puff pastry, foie gras and truffle mushroom duxelles, asparagus, mashed potatoes, Bordeaux bordelaise).

left: Spicy miso ramen with tamago (egg), chasu (pork belly) and mushrooms with homemade chili oil below: Belly up to the noodle bar

MECHA NOODLE BAR // Winner of BEST Asian Fusion + Bowls above: A perfectly cooked rib eye— who’s hungry now?

ome days (quite often, actually) all you want is the comfort of a freshly made bowl of pho. With locations in Stamford, Norwalk and Fairfield, you don’t have to drive far to get to Mecha Noodle Bar, our readers’ pick for best Asian fusion and best bowls. We admit that we thought best bowl would be about açaí, but our readers reminded us that pho and ramen are hard to beat. Sure, there’s a bit of slurping, but that just makes it all the better. Vegetarians, try the Kinoko, with mushrooms galore. It’ll hit the spot.

ENHANCEMENTS Want to level up your rib eye or New York strip? Consider “With Surf” (Maine lobster tail with tarragon butter), “Oscar Style” (lump crab meat, béarnaise sauce) or “Blue” (topped with melted blue cheese).

ON THE SIDE Steak may be in the spotlight, but it can share the stage with delicious extras. Consider, for example, fingerling potatoes with lemon juice and garlic butter, or cauliflower gratin with fennel, garlic, three cheeses and Aleppo chili flakes.

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READERS’ PICKS Private Dining/Intimate Venue Oak and Almond 544 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-846-4600; oakandalmond.com Steak Washington Prime 141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314 washingtonprimect.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: BEER BY MICHAEL GIACALONE: CAFE SILVIUM, CONTRIBUTED: OPPOSITE PAGE; WASHINGTON PRIME AND MECHA NOODLE BAR, CONTRIBUTED

Sushi Nordic Fish 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8400; nordicfishfairfield.com Tapas Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com

French Bruxelles Brasserie 63-71 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-857-1494; bruxellessono.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES American Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

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

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

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

WINNING ADVICE

Delicious dishes at Café Silvium when you want something with your pasta.

Indian Coromandel Cuisine of India 25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203-662-1213; coromandeldarienct.com Italian Café Silvium 371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651; cafesilviumct.com

Chinese Village Gourmet 22 Chestnut Hill Rd., Norwalk, 203-849-8788; villagegourmetnorwalk.com

above: The feel-like-family environment at Café Silvium

CHICKEN Pollo con Carciofi e Funghi is a chicken breast sautéed with artichokes and mushrooms in a white wine sauce. Add a glass of wine and all is beautiful in the world.

LITTLE PUB// Winner of BEST American, Salads, Pickup/Delivery Option and Beer Selection + Pub

SEAFOOD

he Little Pub that could! It won a slew of great all-American categories. From salads (like the cilantro-lime chicken salad with greens, corn, black beans, pico, olives, avocado, cheddar, tortilla strips and chipotle ranch), pulled pork mac-n-cheese, and insane burgers (maybe the “Three Hands,” with cheddar, fried onions, mac-n-cheese and red-hot buffalo sauce). Of course, you’ll want something refreshing to wash it all down. Luckily, this winning pub also has all your favorite beers. If you’re in the mood for a surprise, try the “Mystery Tap.” Really, you just can’t lose here— which is why Little Pub won “Best Of ” big time.

Try the roasted Mediterranean bass with lemon and extra virgin olive oil or maybe the red snapper, which is sautéed with onions, olives and capers in a marinara sauce.

VEAL We had to pick a veal dish. Consider the La Milanese, a breaded pan-fried veal cutlet topped with arugula and tomato salad. It will remind you that doing a simple dish perfectly is wildly underappreciated.

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GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

HINOKI GREENWICH // Winner of BEST Japanese

e know that tapas are a bit trendy, and we’re not above jumping on board with the rest of the crowd. Hinoki specializes in tapas-style Asian cuisine. It’s upscale, beautiful and delicious. Take the rock shrimp tempura, the duck dumplings or the crispy bronzino. Add in grilled asparagus or even a tuna/salmon pizza—fried tortilla topped with avocado, tobiko, eel sauce and spicy mayo—and it’s like global travel in a bite. This Izakaya-style restaurant is so filled with delights, that of course you would want to invite your closest friends to share it with you. Let’s order the table a round of sake (Hinoki has plenty of lip-smacking options).

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

above: Nori Tacos, yellowtail with avocado yuzu sauce; uni with caviar; spicy crunch tuna below: Miso black cod and co-owners K. Dong and Chef Steven Chen

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READERS’ PICKS Japanese Hinoki 363 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-0011; hinokigreenwich.com

Hamburgers Match Burger Lobster 580 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-8800; matchburgerlobster.com

Mexican bartaco 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226 | 20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226; see all locations at bartaco.com

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

Spanish Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com Thai Little Thai Kitchen 21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-2972 | 4 West Ave., Darien, 203-662-0038; littlethaikitchen.com

CASUAL FOOD

PHOTOGRAPHY: BURGER BY JEFF KAUFMAN; SIGN BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

Bagels Liz Sue 63 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-323-4611 | 120 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk, 203-849-1322; lizsuebagelsinc.com Bowls Mecha Noodle Bar 151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577 | 116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718 | 1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222; see all locations at mechanoodlebar.com Burritos Valencia Luncheria 164 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-8009; valencialuncheria.com Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles 219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-817-0707 | 1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841; see all locations at 16handles.com

Ice Cream Gofer Ice Cream 522 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-9080 | 551 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-990-0094 | 869 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-504-3105 | 103 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-1342 | 1020 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-2022661 | 379 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-210-5546; see all locations at gofericecream.com

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

above: A bit of beef education below: The best burger in Fairfield County

MATCH BURGER LOBSTER // Winner of BEST Hamburgers

hat’s better: a great burger or fresh lobster? Correct, it’s both! And that’s why Match Burger Lobster is unmatched for top choice this year. It pretends to be a humble roadside shack, but it’s powered by some serious chef skills. If you’re a first-timer, bite into The Match Burger, a classic arrangement of burger, bacon, cheddar dip and onions on a mouthopening bun. The more experienced among you might be ready for something like the Lamb Burger with yogurt, feta, red onion raita, spicy cucumbers and a pomegranate aioli. Tip: Have napkins ready.

Pizza Letizia’s 666 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-6022; letiziaspizza.com Ribs/Barbecue Hoodoo Brown BBQ 967 Ethan Alley Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-438-6033; hoodoobrownbbq.com Salads Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

DROP-IN SPOTS Breakfast + Food Truck The Tasty Yolk 1505 Pequot Ave., Southport, 203-726-6520 | 999 Brookside Dr., Fairfield, 203-526-9745 | 4700 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-572-8884 | storefront: 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311; thetastyyolk.com

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C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

Marc Penvenne, owner of Méli-Mélo on Greenwich Avenue

Eating healthy on the run with Organic Krush options for everyone.

JUICES A salad is tempting, but you’re juicing today. Try “Fighter,” with carrot, orange, grapefruit, lemon and ginger, or throw back a “Wellness Shot” with lemon, orange, ginger, turmeric and cayenne.

GLUTEN-FREE If you’re avoiding gluten, you’re in good hands here. Consider the Paleo Muffin with chocolate espresso, banana spice or sweet potato chai, or the superseed muffin with seeds, nuts, pear, carrot and cinnamon.

Brunch + Lunch Spot Terrain Garden Café 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-27350; shopterrain.com

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

Café/Bistro Méli-Mélo 362 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-6153; melimelogreenwich.com above: Choose from a variety of muffin flavors.

ACAI BOWLS Pick up a store combo, like the Elvis with peanut butter, banana and dark-chocolate chips or make your own with granola, maca, spinach, almonds or any of your faves.

Health/Organic Food Mike’s Organic 377 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, 203-274-6495; mikesorganic.com

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

Juice Bar The Stand Vegan Cafe 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-873-0414; thestandvegancafe.com

Deli A & S Italian Fine Foods 2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600; asfinefoods.com

Vegetarian Organic Krush 374 Post Rd. E., Westport, 475-477-1275; organickrush.com

MÉLI-MÉLO // Winner of BEST Café/Bistro

ur dear Best Of voters are to be commended for placing the laurels on a longtime champion, rather than being distracted by some flashy new cafe. Méli-Mélo opened in 1993 and has become a culinary landmark in Greenwich. Everyone, it seems, has been here and continues to recommend it to others. It’s hard to beat a classic French creperie, with freshly made salads, sandwiches like the Croque Monsieur Veg, and soups—not to mention outrageous crepes. We don’t mean to be loud Americans about this, but Goat Cheese Crepe, Chicken Rata Crepe, Salmon Crepe, or, oh my, a Dulce de Leche Crepe? That deserves to have praises sung loud and wide—right after this bite.

MARKETS + MORE Bakery + Cakes/Cup Cakes + Desserts DiMare Pastry Shop 1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781 | 12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253; dimarepastry.com Butcher A & S Italian Fine Foods 2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600; asfinefoods.com Caterer + Gourmet to Go Marcia Selden Catering & Events 65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000; marciaselden.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: ORGANIC KRUSH, CONTRIBUTED; PENVENNE BY GARVIN BURKE

GOLD COAST

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PHOTOGRAPHY: PAVLOVA, CONTRIBUTED BY MARCIA SELDEN CATERING AND EVENTS; TABLE BY MAGGIE MARGUERITE PHOTOGRAPHY; DRINKS BY FROM PARRIS WITH LOVE

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above: A Strawberry Lemon Pavlova below, left: A party at the Seldens’s NYC venue, Above Twelve below, right: Pink Lady

MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS // Winner of BEST Caterer + Gourmet to Go

veryone is going to RSVP yes to your next party. We know this because it’s going to be catered by Marcia Selden, and no one throws a festive feast like this outstanding local business. While the food, drinks and tablescapes are all done to perfection, there is also the X factor. Things just seem to flow without you having to worry, and that is because Marcia Selden and team have been at the top of their game for years. They know exactly what you’re expecting, and do more. All that’s left to do is enjoy every bite and sip and the beautiful moment.

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C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS Gourmet Grocery Balducci’s 1050 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-637-7600 | 1385 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-254-5200; balduccis.com

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

Grocery Pickup/Delivery Option Mike’s Organic 377 Fairfield Ave., Stamford, 203-274-6495; mikesorganic.com

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

Liquor Store Total Wine & More 380 Main St., Norwalk, 203-840-0007; see all locations at totalwine.com above: The bartaco restaurant in Westport

Organic Food Market Westport Farmers’ Market 50 Imperial Ave., Westport; westportfarmersmarket.com

bartaco // Winner of BEST Mexican + Margaritas

Seafood Market Fjord Fish Market 158 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-5006 | 22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-9473 | 1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-2559331; see all locations at fjordfishmarket.com

n the summer, we love a bit of salt in the breeze, maybe even a bit of salt spray in our hair, but, most especially, a bit of salt on our lips. Another round of margaritas, please! And, yes, add in a pack of tacos for the table. If you’ve been to bartaco even once (and you have; everyone has), then you know this is just the beginning of your order. Any time of day is a good time to drop by and enjoy the cozy, coastal vibes of this place. If we can’t be on a Mexican beach, this will do nicely.

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

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

Summer’s perfect drink, an ice-cold margarita, best served with Mexican food

Microbrewery Half Full 43 Homestead Ave., Stamford, 203-658-3631; halffullbrewery.com Mobile Bar The Vintage Horse thevintagehorses.com Outdoor Bar Cisco Brewers at The Village 4 Star Point, Stamford, 475-270-1300; thevillagestamford.com/ cisco-brewers Restaurant Bar BJ Ryan’s 57 Main St., Norwalk, 203-866-7926; bjryans.com Sports Bar Blind Rhino 15 N. Main St., Norwalk, 203-956-7243 | 3425 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-362-5001; theblindrhino.com Wine Bar Barcelona Wine Bar 222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800 | 515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600 | 4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800; see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com Wine List Table 104 299 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-388-8898; table104stamford.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: INTERIOR BY MANNY VARGAS; MARGARITAS BY THOMAS MCGOVERN

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If we’ve learned anything from Cisco Brewers, it’s that life is better chilled.

PHOTOGRAPHY: DRINKS BY MORGAN IONE PHOTOGRAPHY: TABLE 104 BY THOMAS MCGOVERN; CISCO, PROVIDED BY BRAND

BREWS Founded on Nantucket, Cisco Brewers is authentic New England. Its brews: Wandering Haze Hazy IPA (Azacca, Citra, and Galaxy hops); Gripah Grapefruit IPA (citrus and tropical hops); Whale’s Tale Pale Ale (English style pale ale); Shark Tracker Light Lager (supports shark research); Grey Lady Wheat Ale (hazy wheat ale with citrus flavor).

When you’re feeling oh so fancy, head to Tavern at GrayBarns.

TABLE 104 // Winner of BEST Wine List

White or red? You can’t go wrong with the endlessly good list.

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TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS // Winner of BEST Martinis + Hotel Restaurant + Special Occasion/Date Night f you happen to be new to Fairfield County, let us explain that “tavern” and “barn” are exceptionally misleading for Tavern at GrayBarns. This place is beautiful. It’s like imagining where you can cast all your worries to the breeze and simply enjoy the finer things in life—and then exceeding even that dream. Its upscale sophistication isn’t the stuffy kind though. It’s just nice, as in fine wine, roasted oysters, wild swordfish, prime strip steak with béarnaise, and maybe even flourless chocolate torte. It’s the kind of nice that delivers the perfect martini to your table and you can almost taste it; and when you do, it’s even better.

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s it called Table 104 because of the number of times we’ve been here or for the number of wines it has in its collection? We confess that we don’t know.* And now that we’re looking at the wine list, we’re not sure it matters. Our focus is absorbed in picking from options among the Italian pinot grigios and the Californian Sauvignon Blancs, not to mention, of course, the French Cabernets. With many wonderful choices, it’s safe to have a favorite wine— they probably have it and look forward to uncorking it at your table. This restaurant is serious about its providing choices, and it sets a relaxing scene for you to enjoy whichever bottle you pick. (*P.S. We’re kidding—it’s located on Route 104.)

above: Refresh with a drink from Cisco Brewers—now in Stamford

SUMMER SPECIAL Cisco’s Summer Rays Golden Ale captures the spirit of the season. They call “Hoppy, tropical.” We call it “Happy, tropical!” They also have Hard Tea (Island Lemon, Surfside Peach, Atlantic Orange and Wild Blueberry) that aren’t too sweet.

THE GETAWAY Cisco also runs Triple Eight Distillery (like Cranberry Vodka and Nor’ Easter Bourbon) and Nantucket Vineyards. Beers, Triple 8 products and canned cocktails at The Village (no roadtrip needed).

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STYLE & SHOP

One of the best things about living in Fairfield County is THE AMAZING SHOPPING, from the local, independent boutiques to nationally known names. Getting ready for an event, changing up the wardrobe or house for a new season, or buying a gift for a lucky someone is all the more fun because of the shopping options in our area. If you’re a new resident, here’s your guide to must-see places. Longtime residents, check if your favorite made the list! stamfordmag.com

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READERS’ PICKS The iconic face of Darien Sport Shop, a landmark store in town for seventyfive years.

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THE WINNERS LIST FASHION Accessories + Designer Boutique Darien Sport Shop 1127 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-2575; dariensport.com Consignment Olive My Stuff 39 Sanford St., Fairfield, 203-261-2783 Department Store + Women’s Fashion Nordstrom at the The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-642-2634; nordstrom.com and thesonocollection.com Event Dresses/Bridal Gowns/Bridesmaid Dresses Marietta C. Designs 436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich; mariettac.com Eyewear Warby Parker 344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-433-7701 | The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689; warbyparker.com and thesonocollection.com

CONTRIBUTED

Jeans + Teen Fashion + Virtual/Online Shopping Services Apricot Lane 1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888; apricotlaneboutique.com

DARIEN SPORT SHOP // Winner of BEST Accessories + Designer Boutique

hether we’re headed out to a game of tennis or a Saturday night fundraiser, we know where to find our look: Darien Sport Shop. For generations, it’s been stocked with the styles that work, with selections from dozens and dozens of designer brands, including Ralph Lauren, Billy Reid, Longchamp and Stuart Weitzman. No matter what your day brings, you can suit up head to toe with fresh style. Plus, rare these days, you will find expert help, free local delivery, curbside pick up, free alterations, personal shopping and more.

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

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WINNING ADVICE

Get ready for a little summer romance, thanks to Love Shack Fancy’s flirty styles.

FRILLS Yes, embrace the fun of dressing with super-feminine ruffles and flowy waves. This shop puts it on arm sleeves and dress hems to perfection. Check out the Mayze mini skirt with three tiers.

SHEER Not everything has to be totally sheer, despite what we see on the Hollywood Red Carpet. Sometimes, just a touch of it will do—a bit at the shoulder, a hint at the hem. For example, the lace-accented Camisha maxi.

COLOR Face your fear and embrace bold, look-at-me color. From bright pinks to crisp blues—and even pops of metallics—you’ll find vibrancy here. Check the Avignon Cropped Cardigan in Sunset Coral—and pair it with everything.

above: A suit by Atelier Munro is tailored to your form and your taste.

MITCHELLS/RICHARDS // Winner of BEST Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Personal/Private Shopping Services

ere’s the good news. Whether you question your own sense of style or you are solidly self-confident in your outfit-building skills, you are in good hands at Mitchells and Richards. There is no wrong here. You can choose from the world’s best designers and feel like you’re among family. Stop in to one of the trunk shows, consult your personal style advisor, view all of your purchases in your online “closet,” get expert alterations and more. You’ll enjoy shopping, because it feels like you’re just having a good time with your style-savvy friends.

PHOTOGRAPHY: LOVE SHACK FANCY BY ALISON NICHOLS: ATELIER MUNRO BY SERGIO KURHAJEC

above: A few of the ultra-feminine finds at Love Shack Fancy

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Turn heads in the Murcia heartshaped bikini from Marie Jo Swimwear. You’ll have total comfort, too, with padded cups and underwire for unrivaled support. The suit here is seen in the neon yellow with drop tassel.

SOLEIL TOILE // Winner of BEST Lingerie + Swimwear

COURTESY OF THE BRAND

e know you’re comfortable in your skin, and we love that. We celebrate that. Good for you! Now, let’s talk about feeling that way when you’re headed poolside or to the beach or when you’re getting ready for date night. Head to Soleil Toile, the local shop that has dozens of options for body-loving lingerie and swimwear in many styles. You’ll also find expert help, so what you select is not only flattering, but also so comfortable that it borders on magic. You’ll choose from the best brands in the business: Lelo, PrimaDonna, Marie Jo, La Perla and more. Being you just got that much more fun.

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ALL THAT GLITTERS Jewelry always makes a statement, so speak up, loud and clear. The most fashionable among us know that an outfit is made or broken with accessories, especially when it comes to jewelry. Whether it’s finishing off a trendy look just for fun or a power suit that is all business, choose your final touches wisely. Here are just a few of the top picks from our readers’ favorite jewelry destinations.

BETTERIDGE Winner of BEST Designer Jewelry

LUX BOND & GREEN Winner of BEST Fine Jewelry Emerald cut diamond engagement ring with trapezoid side stones. 5.85 ct center diamond, 80c side stones, set in hand-made platinum setting. $306,500

JL ROCKS Winner of BEST Local Jewelry Boutique Rose gold and enamel single diamond rings $475 each

Chanel LES INFINIS DE CAMÉLIA Transformable long necklace, 18K yellow gold, diamonds $41,400 Chanel BOUTON DE CAMÉLIA EARRINGS 18K yellow gold, diamonds $11,000

MANFREDI JEWELS Winner of BEST Watches PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF BRANDS

Grand Seiko Series 9 design. $9,100

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Luxe Leisurewear + Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Personal/Private Shopping Services Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW Winner of BEST Special Occasion Jewelry

New Shop Love Shack Fancy 113 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-7915; loveshackfancy.com

5.80 carat Platinum Argyle Fancy Intense Pink Diamond Necklace. $1,500,000

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

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

HENRY C. REID JEWELERS Winner of BEST Wedding/Engagement Rings Hand-Forged Platinum Engagement Ring, Center stone 1.58CT, 18 diamonds on shank .18 CTW. $19,870

Estate Jewelry Peter Suchy 1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-0024; petersuchyjewelers.com Everyday Jewelry ASHA 409 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-0100; ashabyadm.com Fine Jewelry Lux Bond & Green 136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300; lbgreen.com

R. HOLLANDER MASTER GOLDSMITH Winner of BEST Selection of Local Designers Engagement Ring: 1.70ct Oval Diamond flanked by 2( .50ct) Pear Shaped diamonds set into Handmade 18kt Rose Gold Three-Stone engagement ring. $22,500.00 Wedding Rings: Ladies 18kt Rose Gold Handmade wedding ring. $1,300.00 Gents: Satin finished Platinum over 18kt Rose Gold Handmade wedding ring. $2,500.00

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

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C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS Selection of Local Designers R. Hollander Master Goldsmith 154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200; ringart.com Special Occasion Jewelry Shreve, Crump & Low 125 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-6205; shrevecrumpandlow.com Watches Manfredi Jewels 121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 866-610-0705 | 72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705; manfredijewels.com Wedding/Engagement Rings Henry C. Reid Jewelers 1591 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0447; hcreidjewelers.com

above: The plush Mirama Chair with luxurious performance fabric, here in Claremont in French Blue below: Beach House Breakfast Table

SERENA & LILY // Winner of BEST Furniture

HOME Antiques/Vintage Store Mongers Market 1155 Railroad Ave., Bridgeport, 203-583-5899; mongers-market.com

pen the windows and let in fresh air and sunshine. That’s the feeling with Serena & Lily’s coastal chic chairs, sofas, sectionals, poufs, hanging rattan chairs as well as tables, benches and more. The mix of natural wood, sunwashed whites and calming grays and blues always works—harmoniously enough to escape the worries of the world and usher in a full breath of comfort. When you’re picking out the main pieces, you’ll also have plenty of accessories to complete the picture.

Appliances Aitoro 401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471; aitoro.com Closet/Organization California Closets 565 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 855-261-1573; californiaclosets.com Decor The Post 1799 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-292-5700; thepostct.com Furniture Serena & Lily 35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000; serenaandlily.com Garden Center Terrain 561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2750; shopterrain.com

Hardware + Paint + Windows/Doors Ring’s End 181 West Ave., Darien, 203-655-2525; see all locations at ringsend.com Home Tech Robert Allen Multimedia 21 Cross St., New Canaan, 203-856-0058; ramultimedia-ctny.com Kitchen + Bath BENDER 235 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-663-0272 | 28 Harbor St., Stamford, 203-324-6166; see all showroom locations at benderplumbing.com Lighting Chloe Winston Lighting Design 68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686; chloewinstonlighting.com Linens Fig 66 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-8669; figlinensandhome.com Outdoor Furniture Patio.com 428 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-3084 | 919 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-1620; see all locations at patio.com Pool Design Shoreline 393 West Ave., Stamford, 203-967-1203; shorelinepools.com Rugs Redi-Cut 1620 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-256-0414; redicarpets.com Stone Gault Stone Westport 203-227-5181; gaultstone.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY OF SERENA & LILY

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MONGERS MARKET // Winner of BEST Antiques/Vintage Store

etting here can be a bit of a drive, but then you have a 75,000-square-foot playground of vintage, industrial salvage and antique items to light your imagination on fire. It’s like time travel with multiple jump portals. What to do with this 1950s wooden ladder? What about that 1970s metal canister? You’ll enjoy the hunt and then find treasures you didn’t even know you needed. If you’re looking for something specific or just for a bit of inspiration, browsing through the aisles and rooms at Mongers Market will add adventure to the pursuit.

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WINNING ADVICE

Just a few easy changes from Gault Stone to create your summer oasis.

above: Invite friends over to share stories around your new firepit on the patio.

left: A must destination for lovers of vintage and industrial style right: You’ll never know what you’ll find, which is the fun part.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MONGERS MARKET BY GARVIN BURKE; CALIFORNIA CLOSETS, CONTRIBUTED; FIREPIT, COURTESY OF GAULT STONE

CALIFORNIA CLOSETS // Winner of BEST Closet/Organization

emember that day when you found the absolutely perfect shirt/ sweater/shoe and you swore you’d wear it every single day? Yeah, where is it? When you get organized and outfit your wardrobe in a real system, say by California Closets— who obsesses about the details—you know exactly where your things go. You’ll not only take better care of your investment pieces, but also see new outfits with what you already have. Yes, that top goes perfectly with those pants and those shoes. Take the stress out of putting together looks. right: An ultra-contemporary glass closet for attractive and easy organization

PORCELAIN Trend alert! We learned that homeowners are going with porcelain pavers as an alternative to natural stone. It looks amazing around the pool as a patio. Best of all, it’s easy to install and antislip.

FIREPIT If you haven’t installed a firepit, don’t wait. It’s absolutely delightful any time of year. Ask about the stacked firepit kit, with a variety of options. It’s customized for you and easy to assemble.

LIGHTING What good is all that landscaping if it’s not properly lit? Lighting up your pathways and garden features is an easy way to enhance your property design. Enjoy summer warm breezes at Prime Restaurant waterside location.

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SERVICES & TO-DO’S

Need some expert help around the house or have a long list of things to get done on Saturday morning? We get it. Life’s busy, and there’s ALWAYS SOMETHING TO GET DONE. Luckily, we live in Fairfield County, which means there’s a helpful pro nearby and plenty of great shops to help us tick things off that list. Speaking of lists, here’s our readers’ list of essential places for beauty, fitness, family stuff and all the other essentials of the good life. stamfordmag.com

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THE WINNERS LIST PAMPERING Blow Out/Updo H Salon 2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798; hsaloncolorcutdesign.com Color + Women’s Styling/Salon The Color Café 23 Benedict Pl., Greenwich | Color Cafe North, 456 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-769-1929; colorcafestudio.com Cosmetic Spa Elements Massage 2173 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-923-2303; elementsmassage.com Eyebrow/Eyelash Services Bare, A Skincare Experience 495 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-212-9846; bareskincarect.com Facial Esthetica Skin 21 Benedict Pl., Greenwich, 914-255-3020; estheticaskin.com

CONTRIBUTED

Makeup Application Lindsey Trop Weddings 42 Riverside Dr., Fairfield, 203-550-3769; lindseytropweddings.com

BLUEMERCURY // Winner of BEST Makeup Boutique

Makeup Boutique bluemercury 254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005 | 120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-9727100 | 1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660 | 57 Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222 | 62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900; see all locations at bluemercury.com

es, absolutely, we’re all naturally beautiful. Yet, it’s nice to have a little help to emphasize our best features, products to protect our skin, tools and spritzs, sprays, and lotions that smell heavenly. Find it all at bluemercury. You can pick up everything you need, from facial rollers to mineral sunscreen. Bring your beauty-obsessed friends, too—you’ll see that the best brands are here. Stock up on your favorites and let the experts in store introduce you to a few of the latest goodies, including its own line: M-61. It also offers classes and application! JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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WINNING ADVICE

An Artistex massage is more than pure relaxation for your body.

above: Odete Dasilva, owner of Artistex Salon & Spa, a newly renovated space

GLOW // Winner of BEST Spray Tan

fter you’ve found the perfect summer sandals, white jeans and a stack of gold rings, you have one more stop to set them off. Head to GLOW for a luxury organic airbrush tan. Not only does it feel great, but it also makes a surprisingly big difference in how you feel about your overall look. You notice your healthy color and feel more confident in your skin. And other people notice you, too. At GLOW you can do a full-body or just face tan, as well as noninvasive body treatments to make the most of your shape at the peak of swimsuit season. Also, no reason to be self-conscious in the spa, because the treatments feel like head-to-toe pampering.

A healthy airbrush tan is a noninvasive body treatment with big impact.

MIND Who is stressed? Yeah. We’re all a bit on edge lately, so take a few moments to try the sauna, steam shower and meditation space— maybe add a therapeutic massage and spa facial.

BODYQUEST // Winner of BEST Barre Classes

PLANET Artistex Salon & Spa is a sustainable business, taking multiple steps, despite the effort, to offer environmental-friendly products and practices, reduce waste and recycle.

SUPPORT LOCAL Artistex opened a huge new space—4,000 square feet—and teamed up with Born of Earth Spa, to offer lots of innovative options for spa products and services. Laurie Glazer, owner of BodyQuest

PHOTOGRAPHY: ARTISTEX BY DAVID WEBBER; TAN © MARIDAV-ADOBESTOCK.COM

eady to put in the work? Great, that’s when you’ll finally see real results. Our readers picked BodyQuest for best barre classes. These workouts are designed to strengthen and shape your body, using pushups, planks and point, stretch, hold and pulse moves that find precise muscles you didn’t know you had. You don’t have to be a dancer to want to walk around in a dancer’s body—confident, strong, graceful, lifted and lean. This boutique studio offers in-person and on-demand classes to keep up with your busy lifestyle, because we know you’re dedicated to doing what it takes (regular practice) for lasting and noticeable change.

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READERS’ PICKS Mani/Pedi Posh Spa & Nails 195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099 | 1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454 | 401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-2228830; poshct.com Massage Artistex Salon & Spa 260 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-0344; artistexsalon.com Men’s Styling/Salon Westport Cut & Shave 235 Post Rd., Westport, 203-557-8500; westportcutshave.com Spray Tan GLOW 1081 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0209; glow-tone.com Waxing/Hair Removal The Waxing Spot 211 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-9590 | 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-228-5118; thewaxingspot.com

FITNESS + GEAR

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED BY CHELSEA PIERS - JEN POTTHEISER

Activewear Athleta 350 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-625-0129 | 103-107 Main St., Westport, 203-454-0001; see all locations at athleta.gap.com Barre BodyQuest 580 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-6677; bodyqueststudio.com Bicycle Shop Velofix 85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield, 203-448-9753; velofix.com

Dance Fitness Allegra Dance Greenwich 245 Mill St., Greenwich, 203-629-9162; allegradancegreenwich.com

FAMILY LIFE Art Classes Make-modern 1985 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-1985; make-modern.com

Fitness Studio Orangetheory Fitness 1101 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-9518 | 364 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-1669 | 205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-883-6070 | 645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262 | 525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-883-8220; orangetheoryfitness.com

Children’s/Baby Décor Groove 420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111 | 115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-920-1700; shopgroove.net Children’s Clothes Classic Prep 161 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-490-6511; classicprep.com

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

GOLD COAST C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

WINNING ADVICE

Let the kids burn off their excess energey at Chelsea Piers CT fitness destination.

COMPETITIVE TEAMS Ready to commit to a sport? You have your choice here, including aquatics (ages 7–18), gymnastics (5–13), soccer (U8– U18), swimming (7–18) and Vollyeball (11–18).

Children’s Fitness Training + Children’s Parties Chelsea Piers Connecticut 1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000; chelseapiersct.com

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

Children’s Haircuts Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids 1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8700; sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Indoor Cycling JoyRide Cycling + Fitness 1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454; joyridestudio.com

Children’s Music Lessons Fairfield |Trumbull School of Music 531 Tunxis Hill Rd., Fairfield, 203-690-1888 | 100 Corporate Dr., Trumbull, 203-445-6565; ftsmusic.org

Pilates Black Rock Pilates 2889 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-335-1987; blackrockpilates.com Private Fitness Training + Virtual/Live Stream Fitness Upper Deck Fitness 225 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-309-6231; upperdeckfitness.com

College Prep Courses Carnegie Prep 203-352-3500; carnegieprep.com Family-Friendly Restaurant Little Pub 531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 | 2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567; see all locations at littlepub.com

Yoga Sama Yoga Center 45 Grove St., New Canaan, 203-594-7077; samayogacenter.com

Crossfit Crossfit Norwalk 30 Muller Ave., Norwalk, 203-939-1040; crossfitnorwalk.com

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

above: Learn to swim or fully compete in the sport

CAMPS Summer camps and school-break camps are a lot more fun when you’re running around, learning what you love to do. Examples, gymnastics, sports and parkour. Check online for age groups.

SPORTS TRAINING Squash, tennis, volleyball, dance, basketball, swimming, lacrosse, gymnastics and more, your favorite sport has a coach to get you even better.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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M O F F LY M E D I A

C O N N E C T I C U T • 2022

READERS’ PICKS

WINNING ADVICE

Pick a handful of pretty flowers at McArdle’s Floral & Garden.

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

203-869-3361 | 600 Riverside Ave., 203-227-6153 | 190 Weston Rd., Weston, 203-349-5302; minutemencleaners.com Event Venue The Inn at Longshore 260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, 203-226-3316; innatlongshore.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS Auto Repair Shop JR Auto & Truck Repair 110 Lenox Ave., Stamford, 203-588-0290; FB jrautoandtruckrepair

“THE GREENWICH” This floral arrangement comes in six sizes and six styles, and the color palette is pure Greenwich: pink, white and green. It’s a lush and irresistible combo that works in any style, low to tall.

“SEAFOAM” If you prefer the cool end of the color spectrum, check out this arrangement with shades of blue, gray, white and green. It’s a coastal vibe that’s as calming as it is luxurious.

Fine Art Gallery C. Parker Gallery 409 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-0205; cparkergallery.com

Bookstore Barnes & Noble 76 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-7955; barnesandnoble.com

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

Car Wash Splash Car Wash see all locations at splashcarwashes.com

Gift Shop Navy Lobster 58 William St., Greenwich, 203-625-8243

CBD Store Franny’s Farmacy 33 Elm St., Westport, 203-557-4397; frannysfarmacy.com

Livery Service Rudy’s Limousine 203-609-8000 (reservations), 866-678-3700 (curbside pickup); rudylimo.com

Custom Built Automotive European Auto Center Repair 539 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-852-0500; europeanautocenterrepair.com

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

Dry Cleaners Minute Men Cleaners 223 East Putnam Ave.,

Pet Groomer/Pet Spa + Veterinarian

Pet Supplies/Clothing Earth Animal 925 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-7173; earthanimal.com Portrait Photographer + Wedding Photographer Melani Lust melanilustphotography.com Shoe Repair Westfair Shoe Repair 1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587 Stationery/Formal Invitations The Write Stuff thewritestuffct.com Storage Facility Westy Self Storage 80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000 | 50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234 | 65 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7600 | 2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777; see all locations at westy.com Tailor Mitchells/Richards 359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551 | 670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165; shop.mitchellstores.com

EARTH ANIMAL // Winner of BEST Pet Supplies/Clothing

above: The lovely coastal arrangement with blues and greens

appy, healthy pets don’t just happen. They take thoughtful care. Earth Animal is a well-known destination for all-natural pet products, including food and treats, as well as natural remedies and supplements (at the height of summer, check out tick remedies, for example). The Westport store is also beautiful and a pleasure to shop. So, hurry, go fetch!

“MELLOW” These sunshine-colored flowers, all arranged together, will be sure to brighten anyone’s day. They’re pure innocent happiness in pale to vibrant yellows paired with green and white.

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

The upscale market is stocked with pet health in mind.

CONTRIBUTED

GOLD COAST

PLA

stamfordmag.com

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A-List_

2022 JUDGES

awards

the premier home design competition

DOUGLAS WRIGHT Douglas C. Wright Architects

get your tickets now! for the

JOY MOYLER Joy Moyler Interiors

13th Annual

A-List Awards

KEITH WILLIAMS Nievera Williams

Tuesday, September 13, 2022

The Village, Stamford Visit athomealistawards.com for more information and to purchase tickets. Act fast-space is limited!

JASON & KATIE MAINE Maine Design

EDWARD SIEGEL Edward Siegel Architect

P L AT I N U M S P O N S O R

GOLD SPONSORS

S U P P O RT I N G S P O N S O R

VENUE SPONSOR

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YM FL

READERS’ PICKS 2 0 2 MAGAZINE 2

the

2022 w inners of

BEST OF TOWN

Sure, it’s helpful to know about winners up and down the Gold Coast of Fairfield County, but we think it’s also amazing to find out WHO WON BEST OF STAMFORD categories. This is about town pride, of course (and maybe a dash of really not wanting to get on I-95 or the Merritt). So read on to see if your fellow readers picked the same places in the city that you think are the best.

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READERS’ PICKS

THE WINNERS LIST FOOD & DRINK RESTAURANTS Best Service La Vista Bistro lavistabistro.com

Chinese Pearl East pearleastct.com French Chez Vous Bistro chezvousbistro.com Greek + Mediterranean Kouzina Taverna kouzinataverna.com Indian Taj tajstamford.com

Business Lunch + Hotel Restaurant Divina divinastamford.com

Italian Café Silvium cafesilviumct.com

Creative Menu + Tapas Taco Daddy tacodaddystamford.com

Japanese Kotobuki kotobukijapaneserestaurant .com

New Restaurant + Outdoor Dining + Private Dining/Intimate Venue The Wheel thevillagewheel.com Outdoor Seating + Special Occasion/Date Night Table 104 table104stamford.com Pickup Option Colony Grill colonygrill.com Seafood Waters Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com Steaks The Capital Grille thecapitalgrille.com Sushi Kashi Stamford kashijapanese.com

PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTRIBUTED

Asian Fusion Mecha Noodle Bar mechanoodlebar.com

REGIONAL SPECIALTIES American Waters Edge at Giovanni’s watersedgeatgiovannis.com

above: The beautiful interior of this downtown restaurant

DIVINA // Winner of BEST Business Lunch + Hotel Resaurant

Mexican Taco Daddy tacodaddystamford.com Spanish Barcelona Wine Bar barcelonawinebar.com Thai Little Buddha littlebuddhact.com

CASUAL FOOD Bagels Liz Sue Bagels IG @lizsuebagels Bowls Mecha Noodle Bar mechanoodlebar.com Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles 16handles.com Hamburgers Bareburger bareburger.com

above: Why would you settle for a boring burger when you could have this? zxcbzxczxcbvz xcbvzxcbvzxc bzvxc zbxvc zbxvc zbxv

TACO DADDY // Winner of BEST Creative Menu + Tapas + Mexican + Brunch

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READERS’ PICKS

Ice Cream Gofer Ice Cream gofericecream.com Pizza Colony Grill colonygrill.com Ribs/Barbecue Avellino avellinofamilybbq.com Salads The Wheel thevillagewheel.com

DROP-IN SPOTS Breakfast Lakeside Diner 203-322-2252 Brunch Taco Daddy tacodaddystamford.com Café/Bistro Winfield Street Coffee winfieldcoffee.com Coffee Shop Lorca lorcacoffeebar.com Deli Rye Ridge Deli ryeridgedeli.com Diner Elm Street Diner elmstreetdiner.com Health/Organic Food + Vegetarian Mike’s Organic mikesorganicdelivery.com Juice Bar Juice Kings juice-kings.com Lunch Spot Table 104 table104stamford.com

MARKETS & MORE Bakery + Cakes/Cup Cakes + Desserts DiMare Pastry Shop dimarepastry.com Butcher LaRocca’s Country Market lcountrymarket.com Catering + Gourmet to Go Marcia Selden Catering & Events marciaselden.com Gourmet Grocery + Grocery Pickup/Delivery Option + Organic Food Market Mike’s Organic mikesorganicdelivery.com Liquor Store + Wine Shop Harbor Point Wines & Spirits harborpointwinesandspirits.com

above: Enjoy creative waffles with your favorite toppings

Seafood Market New Wave Seafood newwaveseafood.com

ELM STREET DINER // Winner of BEST Diner

BAR BOASTS Beer Selection Coalhouse Pizza coalhousepizza.com Margaritas + Restaurant Bar Taco Daddy tacodaddystamford.com Martinis Divina divinastamford.com Microbrewery Half Full Brewery halffullbrewery.com Mobile Bar The Vintage Horse thevintagehorses.com Outdoor Bar Cisco Brewers ciscobrewers.com Pub Tigin tiginirishpub.com

above: Mike’s Organic has fresh produce, dairy, meats and packaged goods. zxcbzxczxcbvz MIKE’Sxcbvzxcbvzxc ORGANIC // bzvxc zbxvc zbxvc zbxv Gourmet Grocery + Grocery Pickup/ Delivery Option + Organic Food Market

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELM STREET DINER BY TOM MCGOVERN; MIKE’S ORGANIC: VENERA ALEXANDROVA; DWR COURTESY OF MILLERKNOLL

Hot Dogs Lunch Lady Gerri’s homeofthesloppy.com

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READERS’ PICKS Sports Bar Bobby V’s bobbyvsrestaurant.com/ stamford Wine Bar Barcelona Wine Bar barcelonawinebar.com Wine List Table 104 table104stamford.com

STYLE & SHOP FASHION Accessories + Luxe Leisurewear + Teen Fashion Whim whimlove.com Consignment + Jeans + Women’s Fashion Roundabout roundaboutcouture.com Designer Boutique Fox’s of Stamford foxs.com Event Dresses/Bridal Gowns/Bridesmaid Dresses A Step Ahead astepaheadfashion.com Eyewear Pearle Vision pearlevision.com Women’s Shoes DSW stores.dsw.com

JEWELRY Designer Jewelry + Everyday Jewelry + Fine Jewelry + Local Jewelry Boutique + Selection of Local Designers + Special Occasion Jewelry + Wedding/Engagement Rings R. Hollander Master Goldsmith ringart.com

HOME Antiques/Vintage Store ReMix Market Stamford remixmarket.com Appliances County TV countytv.com

SERVICES + TO-DO’S PAMPERING Blow Out/Updo + Color + Women’s Styling Noble Salon noblesalon.com

Closet/Organization Matt Baier mattbaier.com

Cosmetic Spa AMI amisurgery.com

Decor Safavieh safavieh.com

Eyebrow/Eyelash Services + Waxing European Wax waxcenter.com

Furniture + Outdoor Furniture Design Within Reach dwr.com

Facial La Jolie lajoliesalonandspa.com

Garden Center Designs by Lee designsbylee.com

Massage Chrysalis Massage Therapy by Simone Rigolin chrysalismassagetherapy.org Men’s Hairstyling Reveal Hair Salon revealhairsalon.com Spray Tan Palm Beach Tan palmbeachtan.com

FITNESS & GEAR Activewear Rhone rhone.com Barre + Dance Fitness + Gym + Indoor Cycling + Yoga Chelsea Piers Connecticut chelseapiersct.com

Mani/Pedi HBAR Salon & Spa hbarsalon.com

Kitchen + Bath Deane deaneinc.com Lighting The Accessory Store stamfordshades.com Linens Bed Bath & Beyond bedbathandbeyond.com Paint Sherwin-Williams sherwin-williams.com Pool Design & Services Shoreline shorelinepools.com Stone Connecticut Stone connecticutstone.com Windows/Doors Ring’s End ringsend.com

Estate Jewelry + Watches Peter Suchy Jewelers petersuchyjewelers.com

above: Comfort and fresh design make a statement with this outdoor set

DWR // Winner of BEST Furniture + Outdoor Furniture JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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READERS’ PICKS Bicycle Shop Danny’s Cycles dannyscycles.com

Bookstore Barnes & Noble barnesandnoble.com

Crossfit Crossfit Stamford crossfitstamford.com

Car Wash Splash Car Wash splashcarwashes.com

Fitness Studio Orangetheory Fitness orangetheory.com

CBD Store Your CBD Store yourcbdstoregreenwich.com

Golf Equipment Sterling Farms Golf Course sterlingfarmsgc.com

Dry Cleaners Go Green gogreendrycleaners.net

Pilates Precisely Pilates preciselypilates.com

Event Space The Village thevillagestamford.com

Private Fitness Training Inspire Fitness inspirefitnessct.com

Florist Stamford Florist stamfordflorist.com

Virtual/Live Stream Fitness Upper Deck Fitness upperdeckfitness.com

Gift Shop House of Humbled houseofhumbled.com

FAMILY LIFE

Livery Rudy’s Limousine rudylimo.com

Art Classes Best Time Ever thebesttimeever.com

Local Hotel The Lloyd thelloydstamford.com

Children’s Clothes Whim whimlove.com

Pet Groomer + Veterinarian Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel spotonvet.com

above: Perfect your game with practice—and the right gear.

Children’s/Youth Fitness Training + Children’s Parties Chelsea Piers Connecticut chelseapiersct.com College Prep Courses Tutor Me SOS tutormesos.com

Shoe Repair Mr. Izet izetsleather.com

Family-Friendly Restaurant Honey Joe’s honeyjoescoffee.com

Storage Facility Westy Self Storage westy.com

Toy Store Awesome Toys and Gifts awesometoys.com

Tailor Mario the Tailor 203-324-5177

DAILY ESSENTIALS above: Level up your fitness with plenty of workout options

Auto Repair Shop Pray Body Shop praybodyshop.com

CHELSEA PIERS CONNECTICUT // Winner of BEST Gym + Barre + Dance Fitness + Indoor Cycling + Yoga

Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing Choice Pet choicepet.com

PHOTOGRAPHS: CHELSEA PIERS, CONTRIBUTED; STERLING BY DIANE SEMBROT

STERLING FARMS GOLF COURSE // Winner of BEST Golf Equipment

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Service with a Smile TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY 2022

PHOTOGRAPH: ADOBESTOCK.COM

et ready to flash those pearly whites, because the 2022 Top Dentists guide is here. Fairfield County is home to a wealth of leading practitioners, so we’ve put together a list to help you select the right one. To find these elite Top Dentists, we relied on experts from DataJoe, a leading software and research company specializing in data collection and verification. The firm conducted a voting process, where dental professionals could vote for their peers and provide detailed evaluations. Final selections were made after careful examination of credentials and past records with state academies and dental boards. If you’re looking for a family practice, want a cosmetic procedure or just need to fix an overbite, this list has the right expert to suit your needs. »

Scan here to view our digital

TOP DENTISTS LISTING! JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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Service with a Smile TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

COSMETIC DENTISTRY EFREN CORTES

Distinctive Dental Service 29 Imperial Avenue, Westport 203-222-1444 distinctivedentalservice.net

EDWARD PAUL

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

DENNIS L. PIPHER

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

VEENA RAMESH

35 West Broad Street, Unit 326, Stamford

ALAN B. ROSENTHAL

2600 Post Road, Southport 203-256-8900

Dental Specialists of Connecticut 120 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-0880 dentalspecialistsct.com

LUPO VILLEGA

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

MICHAEL J. REYNOLDS

Main Street Advanced Dental & Cosmetics 209 Main Street, Danbury 203-730-2917 mainstreetadvanced dental.com

ENDODONTICS BRIAN AMOROSO

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

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

IVAN WEINSTEIN

57 North Street, Suite 122a, Danbury 203-791-0043

IRENE WONG

1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-720-6732

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

ALEXANDRA BYRNE

JOSEPH A. ZERELLA

ALBERT BONANNO

5 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-803-1849

TRISHA CHARLAND

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

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

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

ANJANETTE W. GJERTSEN

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

GENERAL DENTISTRY DANIEL ABRAMOV

DeJesus Dental Group 4131 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-372-1220

ERVIN V. AGABABAEV

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

Quality Dental 550 Connecticut Avenue, Norwalk 203-855-7556 qualitydentalct.com

AGNES HERCEG

ASHFAQ AHMAD

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

CAROLYN KILBRIDE

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

IVAN NEDELTCHEV

Ridgefield Endodontics 22 Prospect Street, Ridgefield 203-244-5308 ridgefieldendo.com

New Smile Dental 890 Ethan Allen Highway, Ridgefield 203-403-3110 newsmiledentalct.com

STEVEN ALTMAN

ROBERT ARBUCKLE

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

JAMES T. ARIS

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

KENNETH N. BRODER

MEHRAN AZAR

JEFFREY CAHN

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

Connecticut Dental Group 4699 Main Street, Suite 203, Bridgeport 203-372-4200 connecticutdentalgroup. com

1290 Summer Street, Suite 3400, Stamford 203-666-2819 stamfordsleepdentistry.com

LEILA CHAHINE

Dental Wellness and Health 16 Hospital Avenue, Suite 403, Danbury 203-744-1814 dentalwellnessandhealth. com

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

555 Newfield Avenue, Stamford 203-324-9800 stamfordsmile.com

MARK CONLON

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

CYNTHIA BARTOLONE

2150 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-333-2060

ALEJANDRA COSTANTINO-FINIASZ

TATIANA BARTON

144 Morgan Street, Suite 6, Stamford 203-327-7390 tatianabartondds stamfordct.com

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

DAVID COWIN

JOHN BENUSIS

CT Braces 53 North Street, Danbury 203-778-4153 ctbraces.com

68 West Avenue, Danbury 203-744-1712

JANETTE BLACK

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

SANDRA BOGDON

THOMAS ANZALONE

62 Briar Woods Trail, Stamford 203-322-5153

PETER DANTINI

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

35 East Main Street, Westport 203-227-4821

VINCENT B. DEFINA

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

MILES BONOM

PHILLIP DEJESUS

DeJesus Dental Group 4131 Main Street, Bridgeport 203-372-1220 dejesusdental.com

JENNIFER BOYCE

60 Lafayette Street, Bridgeport 203-576-4712

4699 Main Street, Suite 101, Bridgeport 203-368-9016

BARBARA J. DEVINE

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

MARK S. DEWAELE

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

ROBERT EMILIO

RICHARD A. EPSTEIN

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

ALAN BARR

CARL DELUCIA

CRAIG CLABAUGH

DEIDRE M. CONDON

39 Hoyt Street, Stamford 203-353-9504 hayleybarocasdmd.com

122 West Norwalk Road, Norwalk 203-855-8877

Elke Cheung Dentistry 43 North Avenue, Norwalk 203-846-0400 drcheungsmiles.com 1177 Summer Street, 2nd floor, Stamford 203-327-2540

HAYLEY L. BAROCAS

SANTO DELALLO

Robert Emilio & Associates Cosmetic & Family Dentistry 111 East Avenue, Suite 214, Norwalk 203-866-7164 robertemiliodds.com

ELKE CHEUNG

TARA BABUSHKIN

Greenwich Dental Group 18 Field Point Road, Greenwich 203-869-3984 greenwichdentalgroup.com Integrity Dental of Greenwich 235 Glenville Road, 2nd Floor, Greenwich 203-531-5595 integritydentalgreenwich. com

GERALD S. BRAUN

Wilton Dental Care 134 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-762-8586 wiltondentalcare.com

The Family Dentist 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport 203-227-3709 thefamilydentist.com

ELIOT ESSENFELD

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

WILLIAM FESSLER

William Fessler Family Dentistry 116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939 wfesslerdds.com

ANTHONY T. FESTA

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

KATHERINE FINKEL

Fairfield Dental Associates 1979 Post Road, Fairfield 203-255-2841 fairfielddentalassociates.com

SCOTT FISHER

4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 206, Greenwich 203-869-2929

CAMILLO L. FONTANA

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

ADAM J. FREEMAN

Westport Dental Associates 329 Riverside Avenue, Westport

203-227-3709 westportdental.com

BRIAN FUSILLO

Dental Associates of Connecticut 2397 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-372-8961 dentalassociates.us

ROBERT GALELLA

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

PETER GARDELL

999 Summer Street, Stamford 203-975-0633

MARILYN GENI

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

MICHAEL GENTILE

49 Lake Avenue, Suite 203, Greenwich 203-869-2090 michaelgentiledds.com

TAHA GHOMI

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

PAMELA GIBSON

Southport Family Dental 10 John Street, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

CAROLINA GIRALDO

All Smiles 761 Main Avenue, Suite 111, Norwalk 203-275-0373 allsmilesct.com

RISHI GOGATE

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

ELIKA GOLARA

888 White Plains Road, Trumbull 203-261-5000

LLOYD GOLDBERG

160 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3161

DANIELLE GOODWIN

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

ANGELO GUERRERA 2979 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport

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Service with a Smile

TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

203-372-7700 guerreradentistry.com

CLIVE HAMILTON

Kamlic Dental Center 45 Vincellette Street, Bridgeport 203-372-3800 kamlicdental.com

PAUL HARBOTTLE

SUZANNE KNOX

12 Chapel Place, Danbury 203-794-0464

MASHA KOGAN

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

NED L. MCEWAN

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

EDWARD KOZINN

961 Huntington Turnpike, Bridgeport 203-372-6640 drkozinn.com

WILLIAM MCPADDEN

MATTHEW HERBSTMAN

LEONARD KUNDEL

WAYNE A. MICHALKA

ANN HOGAN

Esthetique Dentistry 26 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 2F, Stamford 203-348-9338 esthetiquedentistry.com

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI

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

AARTI JAWA

88 Maple Tree Avenue, Unit E, Stamford 203-323-5439

DANA C. JONES

Ridgefield Perfect Smile Center 162 Danbury Road, Ridgefield 203-438-8919 danajonesdds.com

THOMAS J. KAHL

Danbury Hospital Dental Services 70 Main Street, Danbury 203-739-8100 findcare.nuvancehealth.org

RICHARD L. KALMANS 90 Morgan Street, Suite 305, Stamford 203-423-8197 kalmansdental.com

MICHAEL KAPNER

153 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-2886 michaelkapnerdds.com

PAUL J. KEATING

196 Danbury Road, Wilton 203-762-5048 pauljkeatingdmd.com

MATTHEW KIM

High Ridge Family Dental 838 High Ridge Rd, Suite 202, Stamford 203-322-5153 highridgedental.com

JONATHAN KNAPP 1 Diamond Avenue, Bethel 203-748-6935

1867 Summer Street, Stamford 203-487-6020 stamforddentist.com

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

MICHAEL LEVIN

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

SUSAN LEVINE

52 Beach Road, Suite 203, Fairfield 203-259-7073

JAN LINHART

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

ZACHARY LINHART

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

MICHAEL MACK

40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-661-2279

JOSE MADERA

Dental Care of Norwalk 160 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-866-9254 drmadera.com

IVAN MAKAR

MAMTA PATEL

Stamford Dental Spa 124 Broad Street, Stamford 203-324-7777 stamforddentalspa.com

COLIN PECH

Darien Center for Dentistry 36 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-655-0667 dariendds.com

DANIEL N. MINCHIK

HAMED MOGHADDAM MGM Family Dental 2690 East Main Street, Bridgeport 203-612-6079 mgmfamilydental.com

85 North Street, Suite 2, Danbury 203-748-2433 josephvmooneydmd.com

Comprehensive Dental Group 999 Summer St, Suite 400, Stamford 203-359-3296 compdentalgroup.com

EHUD OPPENHEIMER

SCOTT SOLOMONS

251 Long Ridge Road, Stamford 203-348-1632

DAVID A. ROSH

1450 Washington Boulevard, Stamford 203-359-2244 davidaroshdmd.com

ZACHARY ROTH

Sweet Smiles 432 Main Street, Danbury 203-748-2606 sweetdentistdanbury.com

VANDANA SONI

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

MICHAEL STEIN

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

THOMAS SANTANIELLO

JOSEPH P. SUAREZ

DONALD POGODA

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

COLLEEN RANDALL

Southport Family Dental 10 John Street, Southport 203-255-5142 southportfamilydental.com

Advanced Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry 1275 Post Road, Suite 217, Fairfield 203-576-1918 pallaydental.com

Mondovi Dental 115 Technology Drive, Suite C203, Trumbull 203-261-8674

KEITH RUDOLPH

Comprehensive Dental Group 999 Summer St, Suite 400, Stamford 203-359-3296 compdentalgroup.com

DANIEL J. PALLAY

SAUL SLOAN

DAVID R. STEBBINS

IRINA K. POGOSIAN

40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-869-3340

1411 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-384-6389

Simi Family Dentistry 105A Newtown Road, Danbury 203-744-7377 drsimidentist.com

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

8 West End Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-637-0554

WERUCHE OKONKWO

JOSEPH ROMANELLI

BOGDAN VLAD SIMIONESCU

NAMI SONG

JEFFREY M. PIVOR

THOMAS M. OHLSON

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

8 School Street, Bethel 203-792-7370 bethelgeneraldentist.com

JON ROSENBLITT

Perimenis Dental Group 105 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-8990 perimenisdentalgroup. com

6500 Main Street, Trumbull 203-261-8749 jasonoberhanddds.com

MARK S. ROISMAN

ANTON J. SILICH

PETER M. PERIMENIS

TYLER J. PERIMENIS

JASON R. OBERHAND

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

1290 Summer Street, Suite 3400, Stamford 203-614-9781 smilesct.com

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

Perimenis Dental Group 105 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-8990 perimenisdentalgroup. com

Michael Nocerino & Associates 1809 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield 203-335-4413 michaelnocerinodds.com

STEVEN REGENSTEIN

EDWARD SHUKOVSKY

Romano Dental 2240 Madison Avenue, Bridgeport 203-372-0881 romanodental.com

RORY PERIMENIS

MICHAEL NOCERINO

Merritt Family Dental 999 Summer Street, Suite 306, Stamford 203-356-9990 stamfordfamilydentist.com

FRANK J. ROMANO

Perimenis Family Dental Practice 77 Glenbrook Road, Stamford 203-348-1555 perimenisdental.com

JOSEPH V. MOONEY

PRASANNA RAVURI

DAVID A. PEREIRA

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

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

MICHAEL M. MAKSYMIUK

93 West Street, Suite 6, Danbury 203-424-2100 jaymarksdmd.com

Danbury Dental Services 17 Thorpe Street Ext., Danbury 203-263-9199 danburydentalservices.com

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

Amazing Smiles General & Family Dentistry 148 East Ave, Suite 1B, Norwalk 203-939-1616 amazingsmilesnorwalk.com

JAY M. MARKS

JAGAT PATEL

135 Anton Street, Bridgeport 203-371-6586

Makar Dental 99 Prospect Street, Stamford 203-274-5643 makardental.com MaxDental 151 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton 203-762-9480 maxdental.org

555 Newfield Ave, Suite D, Stamford 203-666-2777 drkalindipandya.com

JACKQUELINE MCLEAN

New Canaan Dentistry 162 East Avenue, New Canaan 203-972-0588 paulharbottle.com Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-5717 dentalassociates.us

KALINDI PANDYA

36 Hoyt St, Stamford 203-323-5820 mcewandds.com

PETER RATHMAN

125 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite 204, Stamford 203-327-1470

140 Sherman Street West, Suite 3A, Fairfield 203-254-9533 drkeithrudolph.com 16 River Street, Norwalk 203-866-8779

JOHN J. SCHINTO III

JASON SCULLY

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

CAROLINE SHENKER

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

FRANCIS SHIN

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

148 East Avenue, Suite 3J, Norwalk 203-866-0415 davidstebbinsdmd.com The Stein Dental Group 1081 Hope Street, Stamford 203-329-8444 thesteindentalgroup.com 153 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-9997 josephsuarezdds.com

MARK SUTTON

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

JAMES S. TAGLIARINI

Quality Dental of Danbury 53 North Street, Danbury 203-792-4291 danburycosmeticdentist.net

JEFFREY A. TAMUCCI 5 Eversley Avenue, 2nd Floor, Norwalk 203-853-0669 tamuccidds.com

DENNIS TEEKING

Pleasant Dental 184 Mt. Pleasant Road, Newtown

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203-426-0500 pleasantdental.net

203-399-0707 smilesensations.com

KENNETH TEMPLE

DAVID C. WRIGHT

Valleywood Medical Building, 40 East Putnam Avenue, Cos Cob 203-622-4243

DAVID J. THIBAULT

15 Commerce Road, Suite 2, Stamford 203-965-7795 davidthibaultdmd.com

ROSABEL TOBAR

Cordial Family Dental 37 Wall Street, Norwalk 203-354-3771 cordialdental.com

ADRIANA TORENA

Allure Dental Group 4699 Main Street, Suite 101, Bridgeport 203-368-9016 dentistryfairfield.com

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

DOUGLAS M. TREPP

The Town Practice 500 West Putnam Avenue, 4th Floor, Greenwich 203-869-9252 thetownpractice.com

GEORGE TSANGAROULIS

4 Dearfield Drive, Suite G2, Greenwich 203-869-4755 greenwichfamilydental.com

QUYNHCHI VAN LANG

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

MARK WALDMAN

Darien Dental Associates 106 Noroton Avenue, Darien 475-253-5919 dentist-darien.com

STEVE WECHSLER

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

ERNEST WHITTLE

284 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich 203-637-4660 doctorwhittle.com

DAVID WOHL

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

STEPHEN H. WOLPO

Smile Sensations 60 Strawberry Hill Avenue, Suite L2, Stamford

33 Seminary Street, New Canaan 203-966-2323 davidwrightdmd.com

YINGJIE LISA WU

Dental Permanente of Stamford 868 East Main Street, Stamford 203-324-3245 dentalpermanente.com

MASIS YETERIAN JR.

My Creative Dentist 211 East Putnam Avenue, Suites 2-6, Cos Cob 203-869-2884 dentist-greenwich.com

EDWARD J. ZACK 144 Morgan Street, Suite 4, Stamford 203-967-3571 ezdental.us

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

SIMON Y. BANGIYEV

Premier Oral Surgery 346 Main Avenue, Suite H, Norwalk 203-939-9390 premieroralsurgeryct.com

MICHELE S. BERGEN

Infinity Oral Surgery 49 Lake Ave, Suite LL4, Greenwich 203-661-4231 infinityoralsurgery.com

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

MARK J. FLETCHER

BRETT ZUCKMAN

VASILIKI KARLI

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

MARSHALL KURTZ

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

ALAN R. RISSOLO

PATRICIA A. BENDICK Fairfield Orthodontic Associates 111 Beach Road, Fairfield 203-256-9500 fairfieldorthodontic associates.com

THOMAS BRAUN

Braun Orthodontics 427 Stillson Road, Fairfield 203-374-0512 braunorthodontics.com

Oral Surgeons Associates

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

Orthodontic Boutique of Connecticut 24 Old Kings Highway South, Suite 101, Darien 203-590-6776 orthodonticboutique.com Fairfield County Orthodontics 1275 Post Road, Suite 211, Fairfield 203-292-6644 bracesfairfield.com

MICHAEL MONTANARO Montanaro Orthodontics 5294 Park Avenue, Bridgeport 203-371-0119 montanaroorthodontics. com

VICTOR PARDI

AUSTIN W. FEENEY

45 Pine Street, New Canaan 203-966-3042 feeneysmiles.com

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

PETER FEIBISH

M. BINA PARK

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

ROBERT GALLOIS

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

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Suite 201, Newtown 203-270-4586 dentalassociates.us

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

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

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

ORTHODONTICS

FIGEN BAYDUR

Norwalk Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 148 East Ave, Suite 2J, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

ALIKA L. CREW

STEVE GIANNOUTSOS

Baum Braces 23 Church Hill Road, Newtown 203-426-5900 baumbraces.com

KEVIN S. MCLAUGHLIN

FERNANDA MARCHI

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

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

JOSHUA E. BAUM

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

TIFFANY MADISON CHRISTENSEN

THOMAS B. WILSON

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

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

LUBNA KHAN

Westwalk Orthodontic Group 1460 Post Road East, Suite 9, Westport 203-349-6775 westwalkortho.com

EMILY DRIESMAN

ROBERT M. YUDELL

ROBERT HORNE

STEVE CAGLIOSTRO

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

The Facial Surgery Center 115 Technology Drive, Suite B101, Trumbull 203-261-7800 drflorio.com

Fairfield Oral Surgery 760 Kings Highway West, Building B, Southport 203-259-2227 fairfieldoralsurgery.com Associated Oral &

JOSEPH F. WALLACE

NAUSHAD EDIBAM

New Canaan Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 166 Cherry Street, Suite A, New Canaan 203-226-8000 newcanaanoralsurgery.com

TODD E. BLOOM

Norwalk Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery 148 East Avenue, Suite 2J, Norwalk 203-866-0061 norwalkoms.com

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

ROGER S. BADWAL

MICHAEL F. TROFA

ROOLS DESSIEUX

GARRICK ALEX

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

Ridgefield Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 10 South Street, Suite 202, Ridgefield 203-403-3686 ridgefieldoralsurgery.com

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

OrthoConnecticut 761 Main Avenue, Norwalk 203-845-2200 myorthoct.com

ABED ALKHATIB

STEVEN SMULLIN

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY Greenwich Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates 23 Maple Avenue, Greenwich 203-661-5858 greenwichoralsurgery. com

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

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

Georgetown Orthodontics 73 Redding Road, Georgetown 203-902-8671 georgetownorthodontics.com

AARON GILMAN

ROBERT B. GOLDMAN

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

EROL GUND

Dental Associates of Connecticut 36 Padanaram Road, Danbury 203-748-8055 dentalassociates.us

SCOTT KESSELMAN

Riverside Orthodontics 1171 E Putnam Avenue, Building 2, Riverside 203-450-4969 riversideortho.net

Dr. Bina Park Orthodontics 42 Sherwood Place, Greenwich 203-900-1111 drbinapark.com

MARY RITTER

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

ROSEMARY RYAN

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

CRISTIAN STANESCU

12 Belden Avenue, Norwalk 203-286-7972

MONICA TEREDESAI

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

GARRICK F. WONG

453 East Putnam Avenue, 2nd Floor, Cos Cob 203-625-9888 drgarrickfwong.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY HANNAH AHN

Around the World Pediatric Dentistry 2001 West Main Street, Suite 235, Stamford 203-489-2112 aroundtheworldsmiles. com

stamfordmag.com

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TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY

DANIEL BREIN

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

JESSICA CORRIEL

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

MICHAEL CURTIS 11 Lafayette Drive, Trumbull 203-372-3726

JENNIFER EPSTEIN 87 Sasco Hill Road, Fairfield 203-255-6851

EMILY GABELERMANHEIMER

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

ARIEL GINSBERG

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

LAURA HULING

Dental Associates of Connecticut 32 Church Hill Road, Suite 201, Newtown 203-270-4586 dentalassociates.us

SILVESTRO IOMMAZZO

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

DURGESH KUDCHADKAR

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

GORDON K. LEE

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

LAWRENCE I. LIPTON

Children’s Dental Associates 3715 Main Street, Suite 301, Bridgeport 203-374-9429 childrensdentalassociates ct.com

MEENAKSHI MADHU

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

GREGORY MOKOTOFF Kids First Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics 493 Westport Avenue, Norwalk 203-255-6851 kidsfirstdentistry.com

ANNA SIMONIS

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

ANDREW SPADINGER

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

GABRIELLE SYKOFF

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

Dentistry for Children 149 East Avenue, Suite 21, Norwalk 203-838-4191 dentistryforchildrenct. com

LILIAN VIERA

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

STACY ZARAKIOTIS

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

PERIODONTICS ROBERT CHUNG

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

JACK DEGRADO

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

TERENCE JACKSON

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

MARIE E. FALCONE

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

SELMA KAPLAN

Periodontics & Dental Implants 10 Mott Avenue, Suite 4A, Norwalk 203-442-9554 norwalkperio.com Fairfield County Implants & Periodontics 1047 Old Post Road, Fairfield 203-254-2006 sonickdmd.com

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

BENJAMIN FRANK

Simi Family Dentistry 105 Newtown Road Suite G, Danbury 203-744-7377

GARY HORBLITT

2226 Black Rock Turnpike, Suite 201, Fairfield 203-335-1011 garyhorblittdds.com

STEPHEN J. KOWALCZYK SJK Dental Group 57 North Street, Suite 121, Danbury 203-744-7310 sjkdental.com

CHRISTINE LEE

Aesthetic Dentistry of Fairfield 2600 Post Road, Southport 203-259-7073 drchristinelee.com

BENEDICT RICH

6 Eversley Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-2588 benrich.com

STEVEN J. ROTHENBERG Dental Specialists of Darien 24 Old Kings Highway South, Darien 203-836-2744 dentalspecialistsof darien.com

The Methodology Behind the List To create our Top Dentists list, we relied on the experts from DataJoe, a leading software and research firm. Dental practitioners were chosen based on an online peer-voting process, which was facilitated by DataJoe. The final list is based on thousands of detailed evaluations of dental professionals.

JENNY MATHEWS

Jenny Mathews Periodontics 15 Roseville Road, Westport 203-227-8990 jennymathews-perio.com

SELECTION PROCESS Summary To create the list, the magazine contracted DataJoe Research to facilitate an online peer-voting process. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had, at time of review, a current, active license status with the appropriate state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a dentist’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that dentist was excluded from the list. In addition, any dentist who has been disciplined for an infraction by the state regulatory board was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments.

RANDALL NEICHIN

Dental Care of Stamford 1500 Summer Street, Stamford 203-883-4433 dentalcarestamford.com

RYAN PRICE

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

MICHAEL SONICK

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

Final Note We recognize that there are many good dentists who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding dentists in the region. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good and effective dentists may not appear on the list.

E.J. TRAYNOR

ALEXANDER VOLCHONOK

KIMBERLY A. FARRELL

Top Dentists

RUI MA

BRUCE K. DAVIDSON

Fairfield County Periodontics & Dental Implants 115 Technology Drive, Trumbull 203-459-1210 drdelibero.com

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

Periodontology Associates 10 Mott Avenue, Norwalk 203-853-1120

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

LAWRENCE DELIBERO

JOHN CORINO

DAVID GOTTLIEB

Periodontal Associates 4 Dearfield Drive, Greenwich 203-661-3733 ctperio.com 273 Post Rd West, Westport 203-226-7788 davidsonperio.com

PROSTHODONTICS

BIANCA FLORA

Disclaimers DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe 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. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

AVPeriodontics 4 Dearfield Drive, Suite 104, Greenwich 203-803-1247 avperio.com

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

Questions? For research/methodology questions, contact Chris Tumbaga, Researcher, at surveys@ datajoe.com.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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MEET FLOWCODE, THE NEXT GENERATION OF QR CODES

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

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2022 Dental

PROFILES Reasons to Smile

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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PHOTO CREDIT: ADOBESTOCK.COM

Did you know that having healthy teeth, mouth and gums plays a vital role in your overall health? Regular dental care will not only decrease your risk of gum disease, tooth decay and halitosis, but also major medical issues such as strokes and heart attacks. But finding the right dental professional can be a challenge, so we’ve made it easier for you. The following pages introduce some of Fairfield County’s most prominent experts who make your oral health a priority. Choose a trusted individual to provide you and your family with the utmost care you deserve. A happy smile is a healthy one.

6/14/22 2:01 PM

2022 | Dental PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dr. Gary Wong is an orthodontic and

Garrick F. Wong, DMD GARRICK F. WONG, DMD, LTD. SPECIALTY: Orthodontics 453 East Putnam Avenue Cos Cob, CT 203.625.9888 drgarrickfwong.com

dentofacial orthopedic specialist who has practiced in Greenwich, Connecticut for the past twenty-seven 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

Where did you go to school?

Tiffany Christensen, DDS, MS Rosemary Ryan, DDS GREENWICH BRACES, LLC SPECIALTY: Orthodontics 4 Dearfield Drive Greenwich, CT 203.869.2044 greenwichbraces.com

Education. This way he has been able to keep up with the latest trends in orthodontic methods and technologies. Dr. Wong is one of the original graduates of the Invisalign Master’s Program. Over the Covid-19 Pandemic, Dr. Wong completed his Align Intensive Fellowship. 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

Dr. Christensen: DDS: Columbia University-College of Dental Medicine; MS, Orthodontic Residency: Columbia University-College of Dental Medicine 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.

Years of practice?

Dr. Christensen has been practicing for fourteen years. She graduated dental school in 2007 and completed her orthodontic training in 2010. Dr. Ryan has been practicing for twenty-nine years. She graduated dental school in 1992 and completed her

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 comes 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.

orthodontic training in 1995.

How do you change people’s lives?

What sets you apart from your competition?

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 treat each patient as if they are our family member. We truly enjoy our patients and look forward to their visits. We strive to make our office the most safe and comfortable environment possible. Additionally, we feel blessed to live and work in such a great community. Dr. Christensen and Dr. Ryan 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.

At Greenwich Braces, two orthodontic minds, with years of extensive training and experience, go into formulating each orthodontic treatment plan. Dr. Christensen and Dr. Ryan combine the greatest aspects of their skills and experience to provide the best care possible to our patients. Over the past 23 years, we have treated more than 4,200 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.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

2022 | Dental PROFILES

JACK DEGRADO, D.D.S. STAMFORD DENTAL GROUP, LLC SPECIALTY: Prosthodontics: Specializes in Complex, Restorative and Implant Dentistry 47 Oak Street, Suite 220, Stamford, CT 203.325.4700 stamforddentalgroup.com stamforddental@gmail.com

DR. JACK DEGRADO graduated from Columbia College of Dental Medicine. He completed his residency at Manhattan VA hospital, and a two-year fellowship in implantology at Brookdale University Hospital He also did a specialty residency in prosthodontics at Montefiore Medical Center. His growing practice, Stamford Dental Group, founded over 20 years ago, now has three dentists specializing in prosthodontics. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. DeGrado is recognized as a specialist in complex implant cases and cosmetic dentistry. Other dentists and specialists refer to him complicated cases that require additional expertise. His focus is providing alternatives to people suffering with dentures or loss of teeth. People with dentures only have 10 percent of their chewing capacity because the “dentures are sitting on soft tissue,” he notes. “With implants, it’s 90 percent,” and implant supported teeth don’t slip out while eating, as dentures do. He also offers Teeth in One Day, which includes removal of bad teeth and placement of implants and fixed teeth, for immediate improvement. Dr. DeGrado understands that many people may resist coming to a dentist due to fear of Covid-19. That is why the safety of his patients and staff are a top priority. His office complies with strict CSDA and CDC guidelines. In addition, his office has special hospital grade air filtration systems. They do everything to keep patients and staff safe. Stamford Dental Group is a state of the art practice that uses the latest technologies. The 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

provides more accurate images of bone, teeth and anatomy. BIOLASE laser is used to do fillings without anesthesia and gum surgery with minimal discomfort. They use a Trios digital scanner to avoid messy impressions and increase accuracy. To enhance people’s smiles, Dr. DeGrado offers digital smile design and porcelain veneers. His specialty is to mend teeth to make them healthy and functional and put the finishing touches with cosmetic dentistry. He believes that “great patient care goes hand-in-hand with customer service, which includes the staff at the front desk. From the minute

people walk in, they see a difference.” He spends a lot of time during initial consultations to understand patients’ needs, wants and expectations, and treatment plans are “designed to meet and exceed expectations.” Dr. DeGrado also believes in giving back to the community. For 5 years, he has held an annual Dentistry from the Hear event at this office and together with his dentists and hygienists, donated free dental services to over 350 patients. He also supports the Food Bank of Fairfield County and Operation Smile, which provides surgeries to children with facial abnormalities.

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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2022 | Dental PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Peter Dantini, DDS

Years in practice? Twenty-five years

DANTINI DENTAL

What sets you apart from your competition?

12 Camp Ave Stamford, CT 203.322.5397 dentistdds.com @dantinidentalofstamford dantinidentalofstamford

Proudly, we are the choice for many pediatricians’ and dentists’ children.

RIVERSIDE ORTHODONTICS

What is your greatest achievement?

SPECIALTY: Invisalign® and Braces For All Ages

When past patients come back with their children for me to treat, it is the greatest compliment I can ever receive!!

1171 East Putnam Avenue Riverside, CT 203.698.0045 riversideortho.net

Advances In Technology

About Dr. Dantini: Peter Dantini, DDS, is the expertise behind Dantini Dental of Stamford. Dr. Dantini received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loyola University School of Dentistry. Dr. Dantini has been a life long resident of Stamford and New Canaan and has been an active member in both communities. Experience in the field: Since 1990, our relaxed professional style has created a warm family-friendly atmosphere for our patients and office staff! Dr. Dantini is currently an active medical staff member at Norwalk Hospital in the department of Dentistry. He is committed to keeping up with the latest technology and best techniques available to meet your dental needs. We were the first in Stamford to invest in Cerec equipment. This amazing technology enables us to create and fit a crown in as little as two hours. We were among the first to adopt digital x-rays and use of dental lasers. Our Air abrasion unit allows us to place small fillings without the use of anesthetics. Many of our patients have never had an injection or experienced a drill.

Scott Kesselman D.D.S

The use of digital imaging over the past decade has changed orthodontics. Digital x-rays reduce the amount of radiation to the patient dramatically, and the images are available immediately. The use of digital models has now become the norm. No more messy molds that gag the patient. The accuracy is much better than traditional molds. The ability to share digital x-rays and models with colleagues and laboratories is much easier and faster. This all adds up to a better patient experience.

Mission: Dr. Dantini makes

it his priority that here you’ll find truly personalized service for your entire family’s cosmetic, preventive, periodontal and restorative dental needs. During treatment, your comfort is of paramount importance. Dr. Dantini’s highly capable and gentle way has won over many nervous patients. To win your smile we do everything we can to make your visit as convenient and pleasant as possible. Our appointment schedule has early evening and Saturday hours. To insure your comfort and careful care we allot at least one hour for each of our appointments in our spotlessly clean facility.

The Domestic Violence Crisis Center is committed to promoting the fundamental right of all individuals to be safe in their personal relationships. Our professional staff offers confidential services at no charge, including court and legal services, group and individual counseling, temporary shelter, housing services, children’s services, medical advocacy, multilingual services, PeaceWorks prevention education and a 24-hour hotline (1-888-774-2900). DVCC is the only domestic violence agency serving the communities of Stamford, Norwalk, Westport, Darien, New Canaan, Wilton and Weston.

Services offered: Cerec 2 hour crowns, Dental Laser Treatment, Air Abrasion/microdentistry, Zoom whitening, Lumineers/Veneers, Digital x-rays, Cosmetic Dentistry, Prosthetic Dentistry, Implant Restoration, Partial Dentures, Full Dentures, Endodontics (root canals), Extractions, Minor gum surgery, Treatment of gum disease, Bite guards/ NTI, Nitrous Oxide/oral sedation, Childrens Dentistry.

777 Summer Street, Suite 400 • Stamford, CT 06901-1022 Phone: (203) 588-9100 5 Eversley Avenue • Norwalk, CT 06851-5821 Phone: (203) 853-0418 www.dvccct.org TOLL-FREE 24 HOUR HOTLINE: 1-888-774-2900 stamfordmag.com

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2022 | Dental PROFILES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dr. Emily Driesman and the incredible staff of Embrace Orthodontics have been providing families in Fairfield County superior orthodontic care for a decade. Growing from her original office in Westport, Dr. Emily Driesman (“Dr. Emily”), has now expanded her locations to include a second state of the art office in Stamford. With a passion for creating a comfortable atmosphere and a “concierge type practice,” Dr. Emily prides herself on not only creating beautiful, healthy and functional smiles, but also cultivating relationships with each patient she treats. Having grown up in Fairfield County, Dr. Emily can relate to her patients and truly loves practicing in the area she grew up, is

Emily Driesman, DDS EMBRACE ORTHODONTICS SPECIALTY: Orthodontics Westport Location: 24 Imperial Ave, Westport, CT 06880 Stamford Location: 61 Fourth Street, Stamford, CT 06905 203.227.6061 westportortho.com

raising her two children, and is so fond of! At Embrace Orthodontics, Dr. Emily and her staff are committed to obtaining exceptional results using the latest technolgies including 3D diagnosis and treatment planning, iTero scanning, Damon Braces, Invisalign clear aligners and inBraces lingual braces. Dr. Emily is a boardcertified orthodontist, an accolade that only one third of her profession has been awarded. Dr. Emily Driesman is humbled to be voted by her peers five years in a row as one of Moffly Media’s Top Dentists. Embrace Orthodontics looks forward to welcoming new patients to the practice and giving them a reason to ‘Smile Big.’ Be sure to sure to check out our Instagram handle: @embrace.your.smile

advertisers index BUILDING & HOME IMPROVEMENT California Closets �� 13 JP McHale Pest Management................................................................................. 45 Westy Self Storage................................................................................................... 55

Peter Dantini, DDS, Dantini Dental ........................................................................102 Emily Driesman, DDS, Embrace Orthodontics.....................................................103 Tiffany Christensen, DDS, MS; Rosemary Ryan, DDS, Greenwich Braces LLC...............100 Scott Kesselman, DDS, Riverside Orthodontics...................................................102 Nuvance Health......................................................................................................... 15 Stamford Health..........................................................................................................7 Jack Degrado, DDS, Stamford Dental Group........................................................ 101 Upper Deck Fitness................................................................................................. 35 Garrick F. Wong, DMD............................................................................................ 100

BUSINESS, FINANCE & LEGAL Cummings & Lockwood-Stamford ��10 Davidson, Dawson & Clark, LLP ��12 Law Offices of Gary I. Cohen................................................................................... 45 EVENTS American Cancer Society’s Comedy Against Cancer........................................... 55 Caramoor Center for Music ....................................................................................36 Curtain Call Theatre................................................................................................. 33 Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater.......................................................................39 Hey Stamford Food Festival.....................................................................................49 NYC Wine & Food Festival........................................................................................ 53 Stamford’s Best Bartender Contest....................................................................... 56 TMK Sports & Enterainment .................................................................................. 26 Weston Fine Arts Festival.........................................................................................46

JEWELRY Betteridge........................................................................................................ Cover 4 Lux Bond & Green �� Cover 2, 1 Russ Hollander Master Goldsmith...................................................................................29 NONPROFIT Breast Cancer Alliance............................................................................................ 55 Domestic Violence Crisis Center.......................................................................... 102 Silvermine Arts Center............................................................................................46 Smilow Cancer Hospital.......................................................................................... 10

FOOD, CATERING & LODGING Cugina........................................................................................................................ 11 Divina Restaurant......................................................................................................19 Gofer Ice Cream........................................................................................................41 Table 104 Osteria Bar............................................................................................. 4, 5 Taco Daddy �� 9 Marcia Selden Catering........................................................................................... 23 Winvian Farm �� 39

MISCELLANEOUS A-List Awards........................................................................................................... 87 Flowcode �� 98 Light a Fire.................................................................................................................16 Splash Care Wash ....................................................................................................41 REAL ESTATE & SENIOR LIVING BLT Harbor Point.....................................................................................................2, 3 EPOCH Senior Living ��Cover 3

HEALTH, HOSPITALS & BEAUTY Chelsea Piers Connecticut.......................................................................................31

JULY/AUGUST 2022 STAMFORD

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postscript

JULY/AUGUST 2022 / DONNA MOFFLY

“When smoldering worms of red-hot ash rained down onto the deck, we were out of there fast.”

oom, it’s July! Time for fireworks in celebration of our nation’s independence. Fireworks have lit up my life for a long, long time—since age six when Charlie Ten, owner of the restaurant where my parents had courted in Cleveland, started inviting our family to Chinatown for their New Year’s festivities. My brothers and I were always thrilled to go home with little red and gold envelopes stuffed with dollar bills. In my teens, some friends and I got permission to take Tom Bernhardy in his rolling bed up to the roof of Huron Road Hospital to watch the fireworks display going on at the Cleveland Stadium. The Georgetown football player had been paralyzed in a diving accident but never lost his spirit. He sure enjoyed the show and especially the beer we snuck him that night. As newlyweds, Jack and I were invited to a Fourth of July party by sailing buddy Newbold Smith and his wife, Peggy. Recruited to help set off fireworks, Jack learned the hard way not to put a three-inch rocket in a five-inch launching tube. Peggy’s father, Henry B. duPont (H.B.), who was deaf as a post, wandered the field with rockets exploding head high; and a rack toppled over, sending them streaking down the hill into the crowd. Miraculously, no one was hurt. On a visit to Canada, my scofflaw husband drove illegal pyrotechnics back across the border tucked inside the blankie little Audrey was holding while she sucked her thumb. Later, when she and Jen Garb were in grade school, we went on a mother-daughter trip to Chinatown in New York, armed with a detailed shopping list from Audrey’s big brother Jonathan. Phyllis Garb was an old hand at buying fireworks, so we were ready when a man saddled up to us on a street corner, asking

if we wanted any. We slipped him the list, some cash and waited nervously for twenty minutes until he showed up with a brown bag bulging with Roman candles, bottle rockets, ladyfingers and bricks of firecrackers. On a trip West, with me behind the wheel of a Pace Arrow RV, our teenagers could hardly wait for their father to fall asleep with his ulcer so we could stop for fireworks in Utah— sold out of giant silos painted red to look like firecrackers. (Those Mormons don’t smoke or drink but, boy, they love pyrotechnics.) The kids hid them in the shower until we arrived at the R Lazy S Ranch in Wyoming, where clever wranglers talked their young guests into putting on a big show for their parents. Beat trying to smuggle the stuff home on the plane. In our Riverside neighborhood, we used to have the Willowmere picnic just before the Fourth of July fireworks in Binney Park. The trick was to get back to the keg of leftover beer before the high-school types took off with it. With the arrival of our sailboat, Purple Tiger, Jack and I started enjoying our town fireworks from the water. Once we dropped the hook beside Calf Island, not realizing that they were being set off right there. When smoldering worms of red-hot ash rained down onto the deck, we were out of there fast. Sometimes we spent the night rafted with other boats over in Oyster Bay, where a wellheeled gentleman traditionally put on a not-so-private display of fireworks launched out of two barges anchored off his front yard. No question, Long Island Sound is a great place to marvel at the bursts of color along its coastlines on Independence Day. It’s also peaceful out there in the dark—a good time to reflect on our amazing nation, where it’s been and where it’s going. That, of course, is what the Fourth of July is all about. Have a happy one!

VENTURE PHOTOGRAPHY, GREENWICH, CT

OF FIREWORKS AND FUN B

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WELCOME TO WHAT’S NEXT IN SENIOR LIVING

NOW OPEN

SCHEDULE A PERSONALIZED TOUR AND SEE WHAT SETS US APART 215 High Ridge Road | Stamford

Waterstone on High Ridge has officially opened its doors! Discover the best in senior living – offering an unmatched level of elegance, engagement and care. Plan your visit to get a firsthand look at our rental community, from the beautifully appointed apartments to luxurious amenities and anytime dining locations. Meet members of our friendly team and explore the wide variety of engaging programs you could soon be enjoying with your new neighbors.

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Stamford July/August 2022

Articles inside

POSTSCRIPT

EDITOR’S LETTER