Westport - July/August 2024

contents JULY/AUG 2024

features

64 APP-SOLUTELY RELAXING

Co-founders Alli Webb and Brittany Driscoll open the doors to their mobile booking massage concept Squeeze in Westport. by samantha yanks

70 A BUCOLIC RETREAT

The Weiss’s worked with Innate Studios on their historic Westport home. by jill johnson mann

78

BEST OF THE GOLD COAST

It’s been twenty years since we first introduced our annual Best of the Gold Coast issue. We are thrilled to celebrate your top picks of where to dine, shop, party-primp and play.

104 BEST OF WESTPORT, WESTON & WILTON

You voted! Here are the best of our local winners! 103

10

12

14 STATUS REPORT

BUZZ

Q+A with Jennifer Adell Efstathiou and Paul Efstathiou; Discover Emily Liebert’s summer reads; Q+A with Howard Saffan, the owner, developer and president of the Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater

GO

Book a glamorous staycation at the Mandarin Oriental New York

HOME

The Renovation Concierge by Julie Potack launches; Love to dream? Jonela can help; We chat with Kate and Jacob Zachs of Zadie’s Farm; William Raveis Realty celebrates 50 years

SHOP

Kate McLeod launches her self-care brand at Terrain; Amy Guzzi debuts her shirt line, Lewellyn; We look at the thriving consignment market in Fairfield County; Katie Sturino, founder of Megababe, releases Megaman

EAT

Co-Dough Bread and Leventhal Bakery are prime examples of the cottage industry boom; The best places to enjoy al fresco dining this summer

63 PEOPLE AND PLACES

110 INDEX OF ADVERTISERS

112 A LOVE LETTER TO WESTPORT

above: The sought-after esthetician Jennifer Adell Efstathiou and Hollis Taggart’s Director of Contemporary Art Paul Efstathiou. below: Delamar Southport won Best of Gold Coast Local Hotel.

on the cover: allie webb and brittany driscoll photography by taleah meshaé

Introducing Premier Builder Redcoat Homes latest creation on a desirable cul de sac on Charcoal Hill Common. This magnificent home blends beautifully with the pre-existing Peter Fraiser homes on a street with lots of natural stone and great design. Renowned architect Judith Larson designed this 6 bedroom masterpiece inside and out.

For over 100 years, Cummings & Lockwood has been building meaningful and lasting relationships with our private clients, their family offices, businesses and charitable entities, serving as trusted advisors throughout their lifetimes and providing sophisticated legal counsel at every important stage of their lives.

Our core services include:

■ Estate planning and administration

■ Estate, income and gift tax planning

■ Wealth protection planning

■ Trust formation and management

■ Philanthropic giving

■ Generational wealth transfer

■ Probate and estate settlement

■ International estate and tax planning

■ Executor and trustee services

■ Business succession planning

■ Residential and commercial real estate services

■ Corporate and finance services

■ Trusts and estates litigation and tax controversy

■ Business litigation, arbitration and dispute resolution

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

www.cl-law.com

editorial

editorial director

Cristin Marandino–cristin.marandino@moffly.com

editor-in-chief: westport

Samantha Yanks–samantha.yanks@moffly.com

books correspondent Emily Liebert

culinary + cocktails contributor

Jennifer Pupa Schwartz

fitness + wellness contributor

Eric Johnson

home décor contributor

Simona Levin

style contributor

Amy Guzzi

fashion and jewelry contributor

Nancy Berger

contributing editors

Megan Gagnon–editor, athome

Elizabeth Hole–editor, custom publishing

Eileen Murphy–editor, new canaan • darien

Melinda Anderson–editor, stamford

copy editors

Terry Christofferson, Lynne Piersall, David Podgurski, Scott Thomas, Isabella Critchell

contributing writers

Samantha Critchell, Carol Leonetti Dannhauser, Sophie Edwards, Suzanne Gannon, Elizabeth Keyser, Jill Johnson Mann, Erik Ofgang

editorial intern

Lily Caplan

editorial advisory board

FOR QUALITY CUSTOM REPRINTS/E-PRINTS, 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. ©2024 WESTPORT magazine is a registered trademark owned by Moffly Media. The opinions expressed by writers commissioned for articles published by WESTPORT are not necessarily those of the magazine. vol. 26 | no. 4 | july/august 2024

G. Kenneth Bernhard, Bridgett Csapo-DiBonaventura, Nancy Conroy, Nancy Gault, Caren Hart Nelson, Jennifer O’Reilly

art

senior art director

Garvin Burke–garvin.burke@moffly.com

contributing art director

Venera Alexandrova–venera.alexandrova@moffly.com

production director

Tim Carr–tim.carr@moffly.com

assistant art director

Lisa Marie Servidio–lisa.servidio@moffly.com

senior photographer Bob Capazzo

digital media

audience devolpment editor Kaitlin Madden–kaitlin.madden@moffly.com

digital marketing manager

Rachel MacDonald–rachel.macdonald@moffly.com

digital assistant

Lloyd Gabi–lloyd.gabi@moffly.com, Jeffery Garay–jeffery.garay@moffly.com Calendar@Moffly.com Editor@WestportMag.com Weddings@WestportMag.com

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publisher

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

sales & marketing

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business

president

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cofounders

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editor’s letter

A LA PLAGE

Our community during the summer season is undeniably spectacular. From Al fresco dining, we give you our top picks, to watching businesses flourish reliant on the great outdoors like Zadie’s Farm and their wood-fired syrup, Kate McLeod ritualistic body stones now available at Terrain and Meg Young’s Westport-based home décor business Cailini Coastal, our local enclave has inspired nationally recognized brands. And conversely we recognize the rise in global powerhouses like Alli Webb, co-founder of Drybar, finding Westport a key location in their expansion plans as she has, along with co-founder Brittany Driscoll and their app-based massage concept Squeeze now open on the Post Road. Our goal is always to bring you the best of the best and listen to what you

1: The WYWL Grants Luncheon 2024 featuring celebrity chef guest speaker, Lidia Bastianich, and celebrated the philanthropy of 9 non-profit WYWL grant award recipients in lower Fairfield County 2: At The Women’s Auxiliary of Mozaic Senior Life Spring Luncheon and Boutique where I was in conversation with author Emily Liebert 3: At the Unsubscribed event in support of Connecticut Children’s Hospital 4: Celebrating at the WestportMoms Mother’s Day event 5 It was an honor being the media partner for Homes with Hope Gather ‘Round The Table Luncheon to benefit Project Return.

think! In this issue we publish our yearly Best of the Gold Coast feature with winners across 170 categories and nearly 100,000 votes cast. Congratulations to all of the winners!

If you’re anything like us we’re feeling those oh-so-summery vibes. As is the case with most who move here, the Weiss family fell in love with how our community melds tradition with modernity, and their historic home in Westport does just that. We take a tour of their beloved property recently finished in collaboration with Innate Studios.

If you’re anything like us we’re feeling those oh-so-summery vibes. Enjoy these next few months a la plage

samantha.yanks@moffly.com

SCAN TO VISIT US

HOW TO SCAN: OPEN, AIM & TAP

founder’s page

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

JULY/AUGUST 2024 / DONNA MOFFLY

OF VICTORY AND VEGETABLES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anyway, I have to run. I’m on my way to the Farmer’s Market to check out the cucumbers. The celeriac, too—that ugly warty frog prince of vegetables that’s so great mashed up with potatoes. See how smart I’m getting? Finally! W

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DYNAMIC DUO

FROM

ART TO AESTHETICS AND SELF-CARE TO SKINCARE JENNIFER ADELL EFSTATHIOU AND PAUL EFSTATHIOU HAVE PERFECTED POWER COUPLE VIBES.

A CHAT WITH PAUL

SY: Tell us a bit about your background and how you became interested in contemporary art?

PE: Let’s take it back to the ’80s! I am a second generation art dealer from New York. My father was an art dealer and owned a gallery on the Upper East Side in Manhattan during the late 70s and 1980s. Having an art dealer as a father meant the artworks in our house were constantly being rotated. I was exposed to highcaliber artworks at a very young age.

My father would take my brother Eric and I to museums and auction houses in NYC and we would even attend and help out at openings. We also visited artists in their studios, or artists would come over to my fathers place for small parties in his apartment. I remember having the most interesting conversations with artists as a child. All of these experiences led me to develop a well-trained eye and passion for the arts from a young age.

I have been art dealing for roughly 25 years, and at one point my brother and I started collecting contemporary art for ourselves and that led me to meeting contemporary artists. I had such a deep connection with many of the artists, not just through their artwork but I deeply connected with their ambition, intelligence, passion and commitment to doing what they love.

I curated my first group exhibition in 2016, which felt like a deep calling and was a huge success. I started a curatorial project with a focus on high quality contemporary art called Highlight Curated, and curated shows throughout New York City and Connecticut.

by samantha yanks // photography by andrea carson

Then I was very honored to be hired by Hollis Taggart as Director of Contemporary five years ago.

SY: Who are some of the artists you are most excited about right now?

PE: There are so many artists that I am excited about now. Dana James, Osamu Kobayashi, Rachel MacFarlane, Devin Troy Strother and definitely all of the artists represented by Hollis Taggart as well as the other artists who we exhibit.

I am especially looking forward to seeing the new body of work Tim Kent is currently producing for his September solo show with the gallery. I am also excited about curating a selection of contemporary abstract female painters for our booth at the Armory Show this fall, where Hollis Taggart will be presenting contemporary work for the first time, alongside works from our historic division.

SY: How do you work with your clients day-to-day? Where are they mainly based or is it super diverse?

PE: The client base is definitely diverse. I meet clients through multiple ways. Physically at the gallery of course, at art openings, at art fairs, through friends and artists, art advisors, interior designers, events, digital platforms such as artsy and artnet, instagram and more. My goal is to build long-term relationships with as many of our clients as I can. I consider many of my collectors close friends, we share trust and love for the arts and culture.

SY: You are very involved in the arts here in Westport. What does that look like for you?

PE: Yes, I am involved in the Westport and in the Connecticut area but I would like and plan to do more! I am on the Board of Directors at MoCA Westport. During the deep COVID days, Hollis and I opened a gallery in Southport, CT and it had a great run for three years. I met so many amazing people and we sold works to clients mostly in the Westport, Southport, and Fairfield area. One of my goals is to do more pop exhibitions in the Fairfield County area including Westport.

SY: Are you seeing a shift in the art world here in FFC?

PE: Yes, I think people in FFC are becoming more and more seriously interested in the arts, and the quality and caliber of exhibitions in our local and regional museums is getting better and better. While NYC is of course the center of the art world, FFC has some world-class cultural programming with museums like the Aldrich, the Bruce and MOCA Westport organizing exhibitions that could just as well be in New York City.

A CHAT WITH JENNIFER

SY: You are one of the most sought-after aestheticians in Fairfield County, how did you get your start in the industry?

JE: Thank you. It’s an honor to have people’s trust. I got my start into the world of skincare by chance. Initially, I was pursuing a career in makeup and hair and working towards working in the film industry. While working as a makeup artist, I found myself bombarded with endless inquiries about skin care that I could not adequately address. This piqued my curiosity and led me to delve deeper into the subject. I made the decision to return to school to study esthetics and from that point on, I never turned back.

SY: What are you most passionate about in the skincare industry right now?

JE: Currently my greatest passion lies in finding the balance between self-care and skincare during hormonal changes that affect the skin. This includes addressing the unique challenges faced by girls/women in different stages of life, such as tweens and teens, post-pregnancy women, as well as women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. I am deeply interested in understanding their needs and helping them to maintain healthy and radiant skin while also reminding us all to be gentle with ourselves.

SY: In addition to your day-to-day role as an aesthetician you have become an influencer and content creator in your own right. What

do you focus on in that space?

JE: As a content creator on social media, my main focus is to educate and share my personal interests on a daily basis. I find great joy in the freedom and flexibility that these platforms provide, as well as the ability to connect with a diverse and expansive audience. It brings me such satisfaction to be able to assist and support woman across different locations, whether it’s helping a woman in Arizona with her skincare via zoom or guiding a mother in developing a regime for her daughter struggling with acne, working with a group of tweens on ingredient education or countless woman relating to the menopause information I provide. It fills my cup. This work not only nourishes my own sense of fulfillment but also allows me to express my creativity by sharing content I’m passionate about.

SY: You fuse together various components in your work, truly integrating wellness practices into your facials. Tell us a bit about that.

JE: I completed a comprehensive four-year energy medicine program years ago that completely transformed my perspective on life and my interactions with others. What truly ignites my passion is the aspect of building connections. Establishing trust and creating a safe and supportive environment enables me to delve deeper into

understanding individuals on a profound level. When I integrate wellness practices into facials, it may be energy work, gua sha, acupressure, massage. It involves being fully present with my clients and attuning myself to their unique needs. I firmly believe that this holistic approach merged with whatever else you are weaving in, is fundamental to skincare. You can absolutely provide a mediumdepth peel and still have your client feel cared for, understood and leave feeling better than when they entered.

SY: What is your primary focus today at New Beauty & Wellness?

JE: At New Beauty & Wellness, my utmost priority is to create a serene and nurturing environment where women (and men) can have their needs fully met. Our team of highly skilled estheticians posses a remarkable talent for establishing genuine connections with our clients, which has resulted in a loyal and long-standing clientele. We are dedicated to preserving the health and well-being of the skin and working collaboratively with the medical team to enhance and support any corrective treatments that may be necessary. This partnership between esthetics and medical expertise is a beautiful union. My focus is to ensure we continue to thrive in this space, where each client feels their unique needs are being met with the utmost care and attention.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

With summer upon us, it’s time to grab your beach bag, pack your sunscreen, and indulge in these FIVE SIZZLING READS from some of the top female authors in the biz. by emily liebert

THE NEXT MRS. PARRISH BY

LIV CONSTANTINE

Daphne and Amber Parrish are back— in this electrifying sequel to the bestselling novel The Last Mrs. Parrish. And the venomous game of cat and mouse resumes, with the revival of a long-forgotten threat. Amber, now a socialite, is still at the top of the Bishops Harbor pecking order, free from her incarcerated husband, Jackson. But her autonomy is about to end now that he’s set to be released. Not to mention that her money is dwindling. In the meantime, Jackson’s ex, Daphne, who left town after their divorce, is forced to return for the summer when one of their daughters runs away from home, in an attempt to see her father. Enter a ghost from Amber’s past and, suddenly, no one knows whom to trust.

WHITE

From New York Times bestselling author Kate White, comes this mesmerizing psychological thriller about Kiki Reed, who heads out to a party at a friend’s house in Connecticut, that her ex-fiancé, Jamie (a great guy who wasn’t “the one”) will be attending. With months since their breakup, she’s relieved that their first meeting is short and sweet. But just as the party is winding down, a gunshot sounds and guests find Jamie outside in his car, dead. Stunned and grief-stricken, Kiki learns that the police think he committed suicide (though she doesn’t believe it). Determined to uncover the truth, she searches for evidence to prove them wrong. But, as she investigates, she finds something far more terrifying—her life may be on the line next.

THE PARIS WIDOW BY KIMBERLY BELLE

Kimberly Belle returns with this exhilarating read set in Europe’s most exciting locales. When Stella met Adam, she thought she’d found a kind, stable guy—a welcome departure from her previous boyfriend. Until Adam goes missing after an explosion in Paris’ city square and she’s unable to reach him. That’s when her world as she knows it comes crashing down. As the French police dig into the case, we learn that Adam was on their radar as a dealer of stolen antiquities and had a long list of criminal clients. Shocked by this news, Stella refuses to leave Paris before she has the full story. Was Adam a random victim or the mark of the explosion? And why is someone following her?

ALL THE SUMMERS IN BETWEEN BY BROOKE LEA FOSTER

When affluent and spontaneous Margot meets Thea, a diligent Hamptons local in the summer of 1967, the unlikely duo become fast friends, as they work alongside each another in a record store. But, on the heels of a disturbing incident, the inseparable pair are estranged for a decade… until Margot suddenly reappears in Thea’s life, desperate for help and concealing dangerous secrets. While Thea can’t refuse Margot’s pleas—she’s also well aware that she can’t trust her. Thea, who’s a frustrated housewife definitely welcomes Margot’s infectious sense of adventure. That’s a given. Yet, is it enough? This resonant comingof-age story about the intricacies of female friendship will determine their uncertain futures. The question is: Will the truth ruin everything?

INSIDE THE MIRROR

BY PARUL KAPUR

S et in 1950s Bombay, Jaya Malhotra studies medicine because her father—an advocate of women’s education— believes he should select his daughters’ vocations. But Jaya is also a talented painter who’s captivated by the city’s new modern art movement and desires to become involved. Kamlesh, her twin sister, is passionate about dance, yet conforms to her father’s decision to become a schoolteacher. When Jaya leaves her family home to live with a female mentor and experiences what it’s like to be a rare woman in the men’s domain of art, it threatens her family dynamic, damages her reputation, and diminishes her connection with Kamlesh. This page turner covers art, history, political revolt, love, and women’s determination to keep control of their own power.

THE LAST TIME SHE SAW HIM BY KATE

emilyliebert

Emily Liebert is the USAToday bestselling author of seven novels and a NewYork Times bestselling celebrity ghostwriter. Her books are available worldwide.

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HOWARD SAFFAN ’S BEST CIRCUS TRICK YET: BRIDGEPORT’S HARTFORD HEALTHCARE AMPHITHEATER.

by jill johnson mann

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

Why did you settle in Weston?

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

Before the amphitheater, what were you doing?

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

How did you get involved with the amphitheater?

When did the amphitheater open?

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

What are some highlights of this summer’s lineup?

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

Saffan appreciates the history of Bridgeport, and the venue— visible from I-95—displays a penchant for showmanship and a circus motif. Bridgeport’s “Greatest Showman” and onetime mayor P.T. Barnum would approve. The goal was “a boutique amphitheater…designed to wow,” and wow it does. The design incorporates the ballpark vibe (the Bluefish used to play here); the dugouts are now bars.

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

My office at the Webster Bank Arena overlooked the baseball field. This is where the Bridgeport Bluefish played. One day I was at Michael’s restaurant with Jimmy Koplik, the president of Live Nation CT. He said, “We’re thinking of building a boutique amphitheater in Danbury.” I said, “Why there?” He said, “There’s nowhere else.” I called him the next day and said, “I have an idea.”

What inspired you?

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

What was your dream as you began the project?

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

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

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

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

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

What has been the most challenging aspect of this project?

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

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

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Showcasing Manhattan from atop Columbus Circle, the MANDARIN ORIENTAL, NEW YORK is an idyllic retreat with the dreamiest suites to slumber in, boasting stunning views and an award-winning spa that makes for the perfect weekend retreat. by samantha yanks

From a sunrise swim in the 75-foot indoor lap pool overlooking New York City followed by a sauna or steam to a sundown glass of champagne or mid-day tea service at Asiate, with floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall windows situated right atop Columbus Circle, the Five-Star Mandarin Oriental, New York redefines the luxury hotel experience in Manhattan.

Located more than 280 feet above ground level, the 244 stunning guest rooms and suites all feature breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, Central Park or the Hudson River. The 14,500 square-foot Five-Star Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York, featuring a stateof-the-art fitness center and 75-foot lap pool, is a prominent element of the hotel. But it’s the spa, with customized and signature facial and massage treatments, that’s a must experience.

The breathtaking VIP 650-square-foot Spa Suite for two, the only one of its kind in NYC, is beyond chic. And in recent news, the spa is now open seven days a week.

The stunning setting overlooking Central Park and the Manhattan skyline makes for the perfect setting at Asiate. The menu is focused on local, sustainable ingredients, where afternoon tea is an iconic experience. In collaboration with the House of Creed  the

above: MO Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, New York. below: Mandarin Oriental, New York’s pool.

multisensory experience celebrates the top notes of the master’s most celebrated fragrances and the pastries marry marry the art of perfume-making with the finesse of culinary craftsmanship.

The premier mixed-use real estate development, in which the hotel sits prominently, are also restaurants from worldrenowned chefs, Per Se from Thomas Keller and Masa from sushi chef Masa Takayama.  In addition, the hotel provides services to The Residences at Mandarin Oriental, New York, the 64 luxury apartments that are an integral part of the project.

The hotel is the cornerstone of Central Park, serving as the perfect location for shopping, dining and strolling, bridging East and West, North and South.

YOUR UES NYC MUSTS

From a café to a curated shopping experience, a few spots to swing by!

Situated to the East is the world’s best shopping from Manolo, Blahnik and Valentino to the new Hermès flagship, Loro Piana Bottega Veneta and Chanel. A new Van Cleef and Arpels, TOTEME and Jimmy Choo are set to open this Fall. In the morning a coffee at Sant Ambreous is a must and Avra Estiatorio or Amaranth nearby are perfect for dinner.

above left: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York’s VIP Spa Suite. above right: Prepare to get pampered. The essentials for a therapeutic rub, a powerful solution for soothing sore muscles and relieving tension.

left column top: The living room of an Oriental Suite. left column bottom: The master bathroom of Mandarin Oriental, New York’s Suite 5000. middle column top: A Premier Central Park View Room. middle column bottom: The living room of a Premier Central Park View Suite. right column top: The living room of the Presidential Suite. right column bottom: The master bathroom of the Presidential Suite.

THE SPA

above: Inside the 20,250-sqaure-foot new Hermès Maison Madison, which houses the full range of Hermès’ artisanal products and features a collection of commissioned artworks from established and emerging artists.

shop

right: Co-Founder and Formulator, Kate McLeod. below: Kate McLeod Daily Stone in the Bamboo Canister and refill packaging.

Samantha Yanks: Tell us a bit about developing the Body Stone body moisturizers. You began making them originally in your kitchen, correct?

Kate McLeod: Correct! Nine years ago, my sister in law took a bottle of lotion out of my hands and gave me a chunk of raw cocoa butter.  She told me the lotion had ingredients that were bad for my skin. She told me I shouldn’t be buying plastic. And — this went over my head at the time — she told me I needed to spend more time with myself and with my body. She was right about everything. I worked the cocoa butter into my skin and the changes I saw overnight were incredible.  A pastry chef at the time, I took the cocoa butter into the kitchen to see if I could work with it — like I knew how to work with chocolate. My hypothesis was that if I could blend in oils, it would make it easier to apply. Iterating on this recipe is how the Body Stone was eventually born.

SY: How does your now award-winning product work?

KM: The Body Stone is a cocoa butter lotion bar chock full of vitamin E and fatty acids to deeply moisturize the skin. It has a concentrated waterless formula: 100 % active, just pure plant based nourishment. No water dilution, alcohol or chemicals. It melts onto warm dry skin, gliding on as a luxurious body oil. A little goes a long way. Use 1 to 2x per week. That’s it.

How to use:

• Start with warm, dry skin (ideally after a shower or bath)

• Prep the Body Stone for use by warming it between your palms so it begins to soften with your body heat.

• Glide the Body Stone onto your skin (all you need is a few strokes!)

• Gently massage oils into your skin

• Luxuriate in moisturizing results you can see and feel

SY: A little goes a long way. How do your solid moisturizers work in a self-care practice?

KM: The Body Stone cultivates softness from skin to soul. What I learned 9 years ago and why I am here doing this today … is that the more I connected with myself, the more I wanted to connect with others, with the world … My skin glowed, and I felt better in every way. The reason I started sharing my “stones” with

family and friends is that I noticed the days I put it on were better days. This is more than a sustainable moisturizer. It’s a self care practice that can lead to a better day. That’s magic. And we need that more than ever.

The application process itself is lovely, like a self massage. The Body Stone fits in the palm of your hand, a grounding object to hold, and while it doesn’t take more time to apply, the experience is completely different than wiping on a lotion.

SY: Your products are vegan and sustainable. Tell us a bit more about why that is important to you?

KM: Sustainability has always been at the forefront of our brand. A traditional body lotion is diluted with up to 90% water. By removing water from our formulas, we are able to create sustainable, plastic-free packaging and avoid some of the biggest culprits of waste in the beauty industry. Transporting that water generates a lot of carbon emissions. Our waterless formulas save 65% of carbon emissions from transportation. By manufacturing at our production facility in the Hudson Valley and working with mostly US suppliers for our packaging, we cut down on carbon emissions from transportation by upwards of 50%.

We also run our own manufacturing operations from our headquarters in Red Hook, NY. We employ local chefs, bakers, and makers to create each product by hand at our workshop. 100% of our packaging is plastic-free and zero waste. Each Stone is available as a Starter Kit, which includes a reusable bamboo storage container, inspired by the bamboo spice container in my kitchen at the time when I was formulating the Body Stone.

SY: What are some of the key ingredients?

KM: Each Body Stone starts with a core formula of cocoa butter and four nourishing base oils: sweet almond, apricot kernel, avocado, and fractionated coconut. From there, we add pure essential oils that provide benefits for both body and mind.

SY: What scents do the Body Stone body moisturizers come in?

KM: We have continued to expand our product offering since we launched the Daily Stone in 2018. We now have over 10 different Body Stone formulas and continue to release limited edition seasonal stones. Our hero product, the Daily Stone, has key scents of rose, frankincense, and neroli. A personal favorite of mine is the Clearing Stone, the palo santo and clary sage cleanse the negative energy, while being deeply nourishing and moisturizing.

SY: Are there products outside of the Body Stone body moisturizer and do you have plans to expand?

KM: Yes! We are extremely proud of our bath and shower, skincare and sexual wellness products. I’m biased but my Bath and Shower Pebbles are an amazing sensory experience that will transform your bathroom into a spa, and they’ll lock in hydration while naturally exfoliating. I love my Face Stone: I’m a big fan of blue tansy so the Balance Face Stone is my favorite. Our Face Stone comes in three variations: Balance, Glow, and Soothe. It is the only product I have used on my face since I formulated it back in 2020. I love to use the Balance Face Stone with one of our Gua Shas to relax and depuff. Late last year we launched our Body Gua Sha, that really takes self-care to the next level.

Terrain shopterrain.com 561 Post Rd E, Westport, CT (203) 226-2750

left: The Daily Pebble, a one-of-a-kind bath and shower body treatment.

left: The Kate McLeod Body Stone, a transformative, nutrient-rich lotion bar that melts on contact to intensely nourish skin.

left: Kate’s original formulation, the Daily Stone.

FOREVER A CLASSIC

WESTON-BASED STYLIST AMY GUZZI’S NEW LINE OF HANDMADE ITALIAN SHIRTS, LEWELLYN, IS INSPIRED BY HER FAMILY’S LOVE OF TIMELESS LUXURY. by samantha yanks

Samantha Yanks: You’ve shared that your grandfather, with humble beginnings, always wore a crisp shirt. Was that part of the inspiration behind Lewellyn?

Amy Guzzi: I’ve been in many closets and I felt like there was a lack in the quality of well-made closet staples. I wanted to make forever pieces that would never go out of style, that were made with the best material, perfectly tailored so when you wore them, you always felt your best.

SY: How many pieces are in the line and what are the colorways?

AG: So far, we have two silk shirts. An ivory one and a black one. More colors will be coming in the fall and cotton buttondowns will be here very soon. They will come in white, blue and tan-striped.

SY: Tell us about the origins of the name of the brand.

AG: I’m a Leo and Lewellyn means “like a lion” in Latin. The lion symbolizes nobility, courage and strength — all things that I feel like wearing well-made clothes make you feel. If you wear something that makes you feel beautiful, it changes the whole outfit.

SY: As a stylist, you know which pieces your clients are craving. A classic shirt is clearly one of them! What else is in your essential lineup?

AG: A good basic white T-shirt, a good blazer; I love the structured gold button cardigans, black tailored pants and definitely buttondowns.

SY: Do you see expanding your own brand beyond shirts?

AG: I’m hoping we will eventually! I would love to do well made T-shirts and maybe some pants, sticking with closet staples.

Amy Guzzi

Weston-based Amy Guzzi from the Stylist Effect shares her must-have closet staples for the spring season.

Amy's picks.

The Resale Revolution: Embracing

IStyle & Sustainability

n a world where fast fashion and consumerism have dominated the retail landscape, a growing movement is reshaping the way we shop. The fashion consignment business has experienced significant growth in the last few years and, according to a report by Harvard Business Review, the U.S. resale market is now a $175 billion industry.

If you haven’t yet embraced this new way of shopping, here are some of the benefits to consider.

Designer For Less: Secondhand shopping is a more affordable way to purchase luxury and designer items.

Environmental Consciousness: By choosing to shop pre-owned, you actively participate in reducing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with new fashion production.

The Thrill of The Hunt: Discovering unique, one-ofa-kind pieces not only enhances your personal style, but provides a treasure hunt like experience like no other.

Shop Local: Shopping at local consignment shops contributes to the economic well-being of your community.

Giving Back: Most consignment stores and even some of the big online players donate excess clothing and accessories to local charities, so by selling your pieces, you are often indirectly helping those in need.

So, what does this mean for you?

I spoke to several industry experts who shared their tips and tricks of how to consign and how to shop pre-loved.

LUXE LUXURY LABELS

41 Maple Ave , Armonk, NY instagram.com/luxeluxurylabels

Forlovers of all thing’s luxury and designer, Luxe Luxury Labels in Armonk, NY, is the ultimate destination. Owned by Lisa Dorsett and Jessica Acre, Luxe has been serving their local community and beyond since 2016. Everything they do is about cultivating personal relationships with sellers and buyers. Lisa told me they see themselves as ‘consignment matchmakers’, as there are certain buyer-seller relationships they have helped foster. “We meet the best people. We develop friendships. We love making people happy”, said Lisa.

If you want to consign, you simply book an appointment and come to the store. Or if you don’t live locally, you can also send your items to them. They get special pieces from all over the world. They inspect every single piece personally to ensure quality and authenticity. Their items are pristine. Lisa shared their top selling brands. They can’t keep Chanel or Hermes in stock. Other top sellers are Dior, Prada, Veronica Beard, Nili Lotan, Zimmermann and Toteme. Handbags are the most sought-after, though ready-to-wear and shoes aren’t far behind.

They have created a unique Instagram based shopping experience that really sets them apart. On @luxeluxurylables their Reels allow you to see the clothing on a body making the experience relatable and more personal. You simply DM them if you see a piece you want.

above: Lisa Dorsett and Jessica Acre have owned and operated Luxe Luxury Labels in Armonk since 2016.

TheRealReal is the world’s largest online marketplace for authenticated resale luxury goods, with more than 34 million consignors and sellers. They set themselves apart from other online players by offering a ‘concierge’ service, meaning one of their experts will come to your home, help you edit, authenticate, and photograph each piece. You get paid automatically, monthly for any items sold. Your commission

rate ranges from 20% to over 70% based on the selling price of the item. While they recommend you take advantage of their concierge service, you can also simply fill out their online consignment form, pack your items and ship to them for free…they do the rest.

Meet Kari Romeo, Elite Account Luxury Manager. One of the Connecticut’s experts, Kari knows how to find value in your closet. She will literally become your consignment guru. According to Kari, these are the hot brands you should sell now...Chanel, Hermès, Bottega Veneta, Brunello Cucinelli, Celine, Dior, Prada, YSL, The Row,

Valentino, Tom Ford, Gucci and Rolex. Not only do they sell fast, but they also often sell for close to the original retail price. While handbags are still the most sought-after category, jewelry & watches are a close second.

They also have physical stores, so visit their Greenwich location at 256 Greenwich Ave any time you prefer to touch and try on.

If you think The RealReal is just for women, you would be mistaken. Their menswear business has grown exponentially, and their designer offering is vast.

The leading social marketplace for new and secondhand style, Poshmark allows you to connect directly to individual sellers and buyers. With over 100,000 registered users, it is the ultimate destination for DIY consignment. You simply photograph an item that you want to sell on your smartphone and list the item in less than 60 seconds. While Poshmark does provide prepaid shipping labels, you must ship it yourself to each individual buyer. Once the item is delivered, you get paid, less Poshmark’s 20% commission.

Sounds easy enough, right? But here is the challenge, you need to gain followers just like any social platform for ultimate success. This is why we love Courtney Brockwell. Courtney, like Kari Romeo provides a white glove service. She doesn’t officially work for Poshmark, but she is a master seller and has a significant audience to tap into. She will come to your home and help you part with the items you can’t seem to let go

of. She will do everything for you…you never even have to go onto Poshmark. She takes 50% after Poshmark’s 20% for this service.

While you can even sell non-brand, one-of-akind pieces on Poshmark, Courtney said that big brand names like Chanel, Gucci, Chloe, YSL, Ulla Johnson and Veronica Beard are top sellers that garner the highest return. She also does well with Zara because they never make the same pieces twice. This makes older season styles highly sought-after, allowing you to get triple the retail price in some instances.

If you are wondering how much money you can make, Courtney’s closet hauls yield anywhere from $500 - $3,000 for the seller, depending on brands, styles, quality.

If you are a shopper and new to Poshmark, here is a quick insider’s tip: You can negotiate prices with the seller. Not just the ultimate treasure hunt, but if you like to haggle too this is the marketplace for you.

If online shopping isn’t your thing, here are three of our favorite consignment stores to frequent.

above: Luxe timepieces abound on The RealReal.

above: Luxury Sneakers from The RealReal.

top and bottom: Poshmark sellers are always posting new finds.

ROUNDABOUT RESALE COUTURE

606 Post Road East Westport // 48 West Putnam Ave. Greenwich // 1061 High Ridge Rd. // roundaboutcouture.com

Established in 1989 by Laurie Perren, Roundabout Resale Couture is not only a local favorite, but one of the original purveyors of luxury resale. Each location offers a different selection. Laurie described Greenwich as a “Bergdorf Goodman,” Westport as a “Barneys” and Stamford as a “Anthropologie,” each servicing the specific style needs of the women who live in these locations.

Laurie told me that her top sellers aren’t necessarily brand-specific. Of course, designer handbags are the most sought-after, but depending on the location and season, anything from leather and shearling outerwear to dresses can become top sellers. Laurie also fills her racks with closeout items from other boutiques which is why the stores never have a shortage of great finds.

You don’t need an appointment to consign, though it is recommended. Laurie only wants your most pristine pieces, though they will sew on a button for you if needed. They will price and send you an email list of all your items. Consigners get anywhere from 40% to over 65% of the original price depending on the item. Unlike many other consignment locations or the big online players, Laurie doesn’t adjust your commission when something goes on sale.

Bring your pieces in earlier in the season (spring in February/March and fall in August/ September) if you want to make sure your items move. If you have something great and it is off season, Laurie will still take it and hold it in their warehouse until she is sure it will sell. This applies to shoppers too. The early bird gets the Chanel bag.

“I love clothes. I never get sick of good clothes,” said Laurie. This is perhaps the secret to her ongoing success.

to toe.

CLOUD NINE CONSIGNMENT

339 main st, westport consigncloud9.com

The newest addition to the Westport resale world, Cloud Nine Consignment, which opened in 2022, is the quintessential secondhand boutique. Owner Cindy Cossuto has been in the consignment business for 14 years so Cloud Nine showcases her expertise and her knack for finding the unusual piece.

When I visited the store, she showed me special pieces like a reversible mink coat (think mob wives), a never-worn Ralph Lauren Collection gown and one of the best denim assortments I have seen. Top sellers are of course designer handbags, but she also does well with luxury knitwear from brands like Loro Piana and Brunello Cucinelli.

Her consignment process is simple. Just drop your items Monday through Friday…no appointment necessary. Consignors enjoy a 50/50 split and unsold styles are marked down after 90 days. At the end of the sale period, the consignor can decide to pick up their unsold pieces or to allow Cindy to donate them to charities like the Boys & Girls Clubs.

If you haven’t shopped resale because you are afraid of buying a fake, don’t be. All the mentioned consignment retailers have a strict authentication process. They either have experts on staff or they use 3rd party authenticators as needed. While it very rare, if a piece gets missed, all will offer you a full refund.

Treasure hunter, lover of a good deal, style maven who wants the unique or just interested in being kinder to the environment, no matter your “why”, consignment shopping and selling offers something for every fashion enthusiast.

above: Cloud Nine offers consignment to suit your needs, from head

above: Roundabout has tons of clothes to choose from. bottom left: Laurie Perren, founder and CEO of Roundabout Resale Couture. bottom right: Can’t forget about shoes! Roundabout has a large selection of luxury shoes.

left: Cindy Cossuto operates Westport’s Cloud Nine with an eye toward the unusual, unique pieces such as, right, these bright tops, perfect for summer.

EXPANDING HER EMPIRE!

FRESH OF THE HEELS OF HER APPEARANCE ON OPRAH, ENTREPRENEUR KATIE STURINO OF MEGABABE FAME LAUNCHES MEGAMAN!

by samantha yanks

Tell us about the original concept behind Megababe? I founded Megababe out of necessity! I had experienced chafing for as long as I could remember and couldn’t find an existing anti-chafe solution on the market that really worked, so I decided to create one: Thigh Rescue. I went to my sister and best friend and told them that I wanted to create a brand that addresses some of the “taboo” body discomfort issues many women face that had been ignored by the beauty industry. Eight years later, here we are! One Thigh Rescue actually sells every thirty seconds.

I vividly remember how pleasingly disruptive the products were in the market when you first launched, was that the goal?

Which are the core bestsellers?

Thigh Rescue, Smoothie Deo, and Space Bar are some of our core best-selling products. More than 1 Thigh Rescue stick is sold every 30 seconds! We have also worked really hard on expanding our deodorant offerings. Not only do we have 10 deodorant formulas to choose from, but also detoxifying products for your armpits to help make the switch to clean deodorant a bit easier. Our Space Bar is a charcoal underarm bar soap that helps detoxify pits in the shower.

Wow, that’s so great to hear! Our goal was to create cute, clean, and effective products to provide real solutions to these everyday issues we all have. We initially launched (in my parent’s’ garage!) with Thigh Rescue, our award-winning anti-friction stick, and Bust Dust, our anti-boob sweat powder. We weren’t sure if these products would resonate, but sure enough, we sold out within three weeks of launching. It felt amazing to know that there were people out there who I could help that were dealing with the same things I did. From then on, we hit the ground running and have expanded into numerous categories of body care.

How many products are in the Megababe lineup now?

Since launching in 2017, we now offer more than 30 SKUs in over 6 categories. This includes our growing line of 10 clean deodorants and we have a few exciting launches coming this summer, so keep an eye out!

Which are the newest?

We launched Bidet Bar in January 2024, this product was my personal passion project.

The Bidet Bar is a daily vaginal bacteria. Unlike other feminine cleansers on the market, this is plastic free and free of fragrance, parabens, sulfates and phthalates.

We recently launched in Walmart this year which has been huge for us. You can also find Megababe at Ulta, Target, and on Amazon. We’re getting one step closer to my goal of anyone being only five minutes away from Thigh Rescue!

above: The Bidet Bar, a pH balanced feminine cleansing bar

above: The Space Bar, a detoxifying charcoal underarm bar

this photo: Katie Sturino, Founder of Megababe, Author of Body Talk, and Body Acceptance Advocate

If you could only have one of your products which one would it be??

That’s a tough question! I think my answer would have to be Thigh Rescue. It’s what made me start this business, after all, and it’s truly a lifesaver. I cannot imagine having to spend even one summer without my Thigh Rescue in hand!

You were just on Oprah! How was that? I used to work for her so I know what a major moment that is for an entrepreneur!

Truly an unbelievable experience! Oprah is everything I could have imagined and more. It’s so important for us to be a part of this conversation and I am so honored to be given this platform. It was a huge career milestone for me, I still feel like it’s all a dream!

Tell us about the newer MegaMan lineup?

We are always listening to customer feedback. Some products, like our Megaman line, have been conceptualized from this feedback. We kept hearing from our customers that their husbands and boyfriends were stealing their Thigh Rescue and Body Dust, so we decided to create Friction Fighter and Dry Guy for all of our Megamen out there. We just recently expanded this category with a new men’s deodorant, The Pro Deo, and ball deodorant, The Ball Deo, and have been getting rave reviews!

What’s next for you product wise?

I can’t share too much, but we have a lot of exciting new launches to come this year. We’re launching two new in-shower bar products that will be a game changer this summer. This fall, we’ll be expanding to a brand new category that I am very passionate about, so stay tuned for newness to come!

this photo: The awardwinning, sweatstopping Dust Duo features the Body Dust and Dust Puff

top row: The Geo Deo made with a unique multi-mineral blend and Smoothie Deo powered by pH-balancing fruit enzymes bottom row: The

this photo: The Megaman Total Package Set

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AFTER YEARS AS A WESTPORT-BASED REAL ESTATE BROKER, JULIE POTACK FOUNDED THE RENOVATION PROJECT; YOUR DIRECT LINE TO AN ELITE CIRCLE OF DESIGN AND ARCHITECTURE PROFESSIONALS.

by samantha yanks

Having worked on diverse projects from new builds to historic revivals and Art Deco restorations, Julie Potack knows firsthand that the key to a successful renovation is finding the right professionals who can deliver on your expectations.

After 10 years working as a trusted real estate salesperson in Westport, Julie has shifted her focus to what happens after the closing papers are signed. Founded in 2023, The Renovation Concierge (the-renovation-concierge.com) goal is to streamline the home

renovation and new-build process by providing access to a vetted network of top-tier design professionals, ensuring a bespoke, enjoyable and harmonious experience.

Below, Julie outlines the four main creative players in any new build or renovation project and what role they each play. She also highlights some local professionals who bring their unique aesthetic, and strong collaboration skills, to each of their projects.

right: Julie Potack consulting with her clients on floorplan and decor options.

25 YEARS

for the evening...

The Westport Library to Honor Tennis Legend

Billie Jean King at Annual BOOKED for the evening

BOOKED for the evening, The Westport Library’s signature fundraising event, will celebrate its 25th anniversary in high style in 2024, welcoming one of the greatest figures in the history of sport and a revered trailblazer in the fight for equality.

Tennis legend Billie Jean King will be this year’s awardee, honored in the Library’s Trefz Forum on Thursday, September 12. King will be in conversation with Chris McKendry, a Westport resident and host for ESPN’s tennis coverage.

Tickets for the event go on sale to the general public on Monday, July 15, at 10 am, and will be available via the BOOKED for the evening landing page on The Westport Library website.

BOOKED for the evening annually honors an individual whose work reflects the purpose of the Library: to nurture a love of learning and to enhance our understanding of the world. There is perhaps no other figure in the history of sports who has done more to fulfill that mission than King, the International Tennis Hall of Famer and social justice pioneer whose career highlights include 39 Grand Slam titles, induction into the Women’s Sports Hall of Fame and National Women’s Hall of Fame, a Presidential Medal of Freedom, and perhaps most famously, her victory over Bobby Riggs in the 1973 Battle of the Sexes match.

Tickets to go on sale Monday, July 15, 10 am go.westportlibrary.org/Booked24-WM

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ARCHITECTURE

The Renovation Concierge starts most large renovation or new build projects by researching and working with their clients to select an architect. If there is something unique about your project, i.e., a historical renovation or a waterfront property, it's important to ask if they have ever worked on a similar project. An architect not only designs an aesthetically beautiful home, but also addresses less glamorous features like the mechanicals and engineering of your structure.

Austin Patterson Disston

With offices in Norwalk, CT, and Quogue, NY, APD has designed some of the most beautiful homes in the tri-state area. Their designs range from modern to traditional, but each project is respectful of the history of the site, with an eye on modern day living. Their attention to detail and high expectation of quality construction are consistent in all of their homes. Their designs will stand the test of time.

Spring Architecture + Design

The principal of Spring Architecture + Design is a Westport mom. She is known for her ability to design eco conscious and sustainable homes. She was also recently hired to design the new Rye Arts Center.

INTERIOR DESIGN

Nowadays, it is easy to see the work of hundrends of talented designers with a few swipes of Instagram. The Renovation Concierge helps you narrow down your style, scope of project and budget and matches you with designers that are the right fit for your project. Designers each have a unique way of sourcing products, building a design scheme and billing. It's important to understand how the process will flow before hiring someone. The Renovation Concierge works with an extensive list of Interior Designers who range across all aesthetics and budgets.

Robin Henry Studio

Robin Henry Studio was founded in NYC, but Robin has since made the move to Westport. Her style is very layered and she has fun with colors and patterns. Her work is a nice departure from most of the design we are currently seeing in Fairfield County.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Anyone who has driven by a new build in town, that has not yet been landscaped, knows that even the most beautiful architecture does not shine without a landscapers touch. When possible, it is ideal to bring a landscape designer on towards the beginning of a project, so that they can work hand in hand with the architects. They are also a huge asset in the planning process if you want to save some mature vegetation that is already on your property.

Verdant View

Kathy, the principal of Verdant View, is a true nature lover and a walking encyclopedia of plants and trees. Her landscapes, once installed, look like they have been there for years. Her designs strike the perfect balance between being manicured and natural, always with a touch of whimsy.

ART ADVISORY

The right art completes a room. While some Interior designers are happy to source decorative art, there has been a shift towards homeowners wanting more input and knowledge around the art in their homes. Over the last decade, more art advisors have emerged to serve clients who are new to the art world. These advisors work with their clients to help them uncover their personal taste, gain them access to the often intimidating gallery world, and counsel them on whether a purchase is a sound investment. The Renovation Concierge works with art advisors who can source and place art from emerging artists as well as Blue Chip artists, and everything in between.

Liz Legget Art Advisory

Westport resident, Liz Legget, is an artist herself. She has studied art, including a residency in Israel, worked at Sotheby's auction house, and was the director of MOCA for 7 years. She has a close relationship with local and international artists and galleries and an exquisite eye for talent.

Teamwork...makes the dream work

Once all of your players are on board, the next step is to get everyone on the same page in terms of style direction, goals, timeline and budget. The Renovation Concierge can facilitate these beginning conversations and is available to consult for their clients through the entire process. Julie believes that the process should be joyful, and that even the biggest construction obstacles can be worked through when you have the right team in place.

above: Renovation and expansion of a Gothic Stone Carriage House in Norwalk, CT. Designed by Austin Patterson Disston.

above: A Robin Henry Designed Living Room.

above: Liz Legget finds the perfect Art to complete this family room.

above: An OceanFront home in East Hampton, NY. Designed by Architect Jessica Talley, of Spring Architecture + Design. The exterior materials are natural and sustainable.

DOUGLAS WRIGHT Douglas C. Wright Architects HEIDE HENDRICKS Hendricks Churchill

JOSH GREENE Josh Greene Design

MELISSA REAVIS Hollander Design

SUSANA SIMONPIETRI Chango

PHILIP MITCHELL Philip Mitchell Design

LOVE TO DREAM

JONELA FOUNDER SALLY TOPCUOGLU WILL BRING YOU TO A LUXURIOUS PLACE OF DEEP RESTORATIVE SLEEP.

by samantha yanks

The new bedding line Jonela is all made in Turkey, known to the best in the world for their handcrafted cotton. After 32 years living there, Sally Topcuoglu has brought her passion for bed linens to Connecticut, with private consultations where she assesses your sleep conditions and challenges and prescribes the perfect, temperature-controlled white bedding, just for you.

Samantha Yanks: Sally, let’s start at the beginning. How did you become so passionate about the world of bed linens?

Sally Topcuoglu: I encountered the shop that produced the linens for the Four Seasons Hotels, and it sparked a newfound passion for all things bedding. The allure of beautifully embroidered, crisp white linens truly resonated with me. I was intrigued by the connection between luxurious bedding and the dreamy sleep experience often associated with highend hotels. I saw an opportunity to channel my love for linens into a fulfilling business venture.

Drawing on my intuition about the importance of a good night's sleep and the role of the bedroom as a sanctuary, I envisioned creating a brand that would provide others with the same sense of comfort and indulgence.

SY: You had chronic health issues and determined poor sleep was a contributing factor?

ST: From a very early age, I faced the challenges of organic chronic depression, a condition that undoubtedly influenced my perception of the world around me. Additionally, the rare visual problem I grappled with, resulting in a loss of three-dimensional vision, added another layer of complexity to my daily experiences.

Amid these challenges, I found solace in my bed, which became more than just a place to sleep. It became my haven, a sanctuary where I could retreat from the pressures of the outside world. The comfort and security offered by my bedding became a crucial source of support during moments of difficulty.

As I ventured into the world of luxury bedding, my personal connection to the

above: Custom-embroidered sheets with Lilly design are priced from $535 to $1,300. Additional custom styles are available. below: Founder of Jonela, Sally Topcuoglu.

COURTESY OF JONELA

Egrand ntrance

importance of a restful and comforting bedroom took on a deeper significance. I understood firsthand the impact of a person’s environment, particularly the bed, could have on mental well-being. This intimate understanding fueled my commitment to creating bedding that not only exuded elegance and style but also provided a sense of comfort and security for those facing their own struggles.

SY: After developing Jonela, how did you decide private consultations were the right approach to customize for your clients?

ST: My venture, Jonela, flourished as it expanded to the United States, particularly finding a fitting home in Greenwich, Connecticut. The move turned out to be serendipitous, aligning with a market that appreciated the luxury and comfort of my bedding products. As my family gradually moved to America, I took a leap of faith by establishing Jonela in the U.S., bringing my unique blend of style, and therapeutic innovation to a new audience.

One of the standout services that contributed to Jonela's success in the U.S. market was the introduction of in-home "pillow fittings." I recognized the importance of personalized recommendations, especially for those going through recovery processes or seeking enhanced comfort. By offering in-home consultations, I could tailor my advice to individual needs, ensuring that clients receive the most suitable pillows for their specific conditions. This personalized touch not only set Jonela apart but also became one of the most gratifying aspects of the business.

In addition to the therapeutic focus, my design sensibilities came into play as I crafted beautiful and practical in-home looks. The goal was not only to provide comfort, but also to create an aesthetic that promoted calm and restfulness. These designs were inspired by the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being, and resonated with customers looking to transform their bedrooms into havens of tranquility.

SY: Now you have everything you need for a precious night's sleep. What does the line include?

ST: A wide selection of pillows, bed linens, and duvets. Everything you need for the ideal  night’s sleep. With the help of Jonela’s special sleep consultant, Hakan, Jonela included a range of pillows designed in a variety of sizes, materials, densities, and firmness. These pillows, paired with a range of superb bed linens, ensures a sleeping experience for each person’s own unique physical needs and preferences.

SY: The pillows are key, am I correct? Just as important as the mattress?

ST: Yes, that's correct. For me, the pillows were just as important as the mattress. They played a key role in my recovery and comfort, as they were designed in varying densities to address different aspects of my discomfort and orthopedic problems.

SY: I love that you are a believer in all-white bedding; I connect with that. Tell me about your theory surrounding that.

ST: For an optimal calming effect, sheets should always be pure white. This is a must! I often hear, "But white shows dirt." If you can see dirt, that means there is dirt. It's time to change the sheets.

SY: But you can customize your white bedding with an array of chic details, right?

ST: Of course, we have unlimited customization options. If you can draw/dream it, we can do it.

SY: What are the challenges most people come to you with?

ST: Temperature of their sheets, and how to avoid overheating (there is always one partner who prefers cooler sheets). This is why are in-home services are so effective! We can customize sheets to your temperature preference. It is truly transformative and will improve your sleep - guaranteed. People are also perplexed by thread count. It is all about the long staple, single-ply cotton for the best sleep experience.

top: Take your Jonela bed on the road, and don't settle for less when you travel. bottom: Jonela's exclusive collection of sheets have jacquard, dobby and sateen fabrics with various thread count options for hot and cold sleepers. Sets are priced from $240 to $600.

SY: You have towels too?

ST: We certainly do. They can be fully customized and we can, of course, advise on embroidery, and a touch of flair.

SY: How can people consult with you?

ST: They can reach me by phone, email or by filling out the form on the website. We will get back to them within 24 hours. They might need to answer a short questionnaire to tell us about their needs and pain points. This streamlines the process so I can provide more personalized samples and suggestions on-site.  sally@jonela.com www.jonela.com

left: Best selling plain sheet sets are 100% white cotton and include pillowcases, a fitted sheet, a duvet cover or a flat sheet, priced from $240 to $520. Jonela's pique blankets have elegant weavings and are priced from $125 to $200.

home Building A Life They Love

EN ROUTE TO VERMONT, KATE AND JACOB ZACHS

DISCOVERED ZADIE’S FARM AND TOOK INSPIRATION FROM AROUND THE GLOBE, AND NOW CALL THEIR FARM IN WESTON HOME.

by samantha yanks

Tell us when you moved to Weston and how you found your property. This property was never listed publicly; it was only posted on the previous owner's Instagram account in May 2021. My sister, also a Weston resident, sent me the Instagram post of the farm to show us how beautiful her new town was. Jacob and I were on our way to Vermont on a Friday when we saw the post. We were actually looking to buy in Brooklyn, where we were residing, but he said why not look at it on the way home — it looked lovely.

Within a day, we got a broker and a viewing time on Sunday, late afternoon. When we drove down the dirt road in June, I couldn't believe I was in Connecticut. A few minutes into the tour of the property, I cried. I grew up on an orchard in Connecticut, and as hokey as it

sounds, we just knew this was where we wanted our future to be. Some people know the area they want to move to but look at a million houses before they commit. In our case, we had no idea where we wanted to live — but this house was one-and-done for us.

The property has changed hands several times, an icon in our area, who did you work with you make it yours?

As an avid fan of interiors, I had a vision for our design aesthetic. The previous owner had very little color, and if you know me and Jacob, we are a very colorful couple.  We moved away from beige and leaned into the youthful but modern British aesthetic of designers such as Beata Heuman while staying true to the New England farmhouse traditions. As new homeowners, we learned that it takes a few years to find

right: Kate and Jacob Zachs in front of the sugar shack where they make the maple syrup. Kate was 6 months pregnant with their daughter Leni in this photo! Their offer was accepted on the house a month before their wedding; Jacob's overalls were a wedding gift, embroidered with 'sugar daddy' on them.

above: The house is from the 1830's and the Zachs's have kept the exterior unchanged — although there are talks of a bright colored front door!

this photo: The original owners had this room painted in a preppy salmon color and they called it the red room. Kate and Jacob loved the concept of the red room, but updated it with a high gloss ox blood color to make it modern and a little bit sexy.

below: On the other side of the banquette is a V-shaped dark green bouclé couch. This massive '70s travertine coffee table weighs 300 pounds and was sourced from 1stDibs.

above: Kate wanted their kitchen to feel alive, since it’s the heart of the home. They drew inspiration from the trees and nature all around them. A bright, British-inspired green was naturally the color they were drawn to.

How did it all start?

TAP AWAY

From the trees in their backyard, the Kudish family makes their own highly coveted maple syrup.

The first time we tapped, the trees took our breath away. Sap just starts flowing out, and to be able to turn that into something that our community loves is a priceless gift.

How did you begin making syrup?

We had a handshake agreement with the previous owners that they would spend the first year teaching us the ropes. Elan Wischkin is our maple syrup farmer, and we learned alongside him. If you ask him, the main way you learn is through curiosity and research. The maple syrup farming community is also extremely generous in sharing knowledge. Everyone is willing to help you, and it's incredible to be a part of a group of kind people always willing to lend a hand to see someone else succeed.

above: The couch fabric is Christopher Farr, and it comes in so many colors, as well as a performance fabric option. Kate and Jacob purposely made this the "No TV" room — it’s an incredibly inviting spot for hanging out and good conversation. left: It was important to the Zachs that their living room was functional but also cozy. They built this massive banquette with drawers for storage and extra wide daybeds.

Tell us about the process and the future with this. When we bought the farm, the vision was to host community events to teach people how to make syrup — whether it be an after school program where kids have their own buckets or pancake parties to celebrate the end of the season. But we are just starting our family and those dreams have been put on hold — at least until next year!

Are you planning on selling it? How can we get our hands on it?

For now, we've been selling to friends and family and have gotten rave reviews. One friend makes us ship her five bottles at a time to Florida because all of her friends want it!

We just finished our branding and label design so that we can sell at local farmers markets and on a website. But if you just can't wait to get your hands on it, DM us on Instagram @zadiesfarm and you can come to the farm and purchase directly.

this photo: A book nook in the red room.

this photo: The laundry room opens up to the sugar shack, so they are often in and out of this space with mud on their boots. Continuing to think of function in addition to form, they chose a denim cushion — nothing too precious.

below: In the powder room, they kept all of the original fixtures, including this tiny tub. This wallpaper was one of the first things Kate picked when renovating — She has always loved an overly saturated blue color, a

this photo: The primary bedroom is balanced with pink, green, black and cream. They wanted it to be inviting, warm, happy but not too loud either.

below: They wanted the office to be sweet and playful. The wallpaper is always noticed on a

Kate and Jacob had a lot of fun mixing and matching for the guest room.They paired the iron bed, which is my Jacob's grandmothers, with new brass sconces and a distressed dresser and chair from Brimfield.

your people, but now we have an incredible crew helping us to make it ours. Damiyr of The Sun Kid is our landscaper and started helping with maple syrup in the winter. Mary Buri, the founder of Mars Kitchen Gardens, is training us in vegetables and herbs. Christina Koether of Nomadica is a master gardener; she happens to live up the street, and I met her by going to her flower stand. She recently did an overhaul of the gardens and we plan to do a flower-cutting section next year. Both Mary and Christina have an incredible source of knowledge and are wonderful to work with.

“We love that we live on a dirt road and that google maps doesn't direct anyone on it.”

KATE ZACHS

What do you love about the property?

Oh gosh. Everything? Except the gophers that ate our garden last year and the hawks that took the chickens!

We love that we live on a dirt road and that Google Maps doesn't direct anyone on it. And that we have neighbors, but that you can't see another house from our property!

Being only a short walk to the Stonebridge Waterfowl Preserve is a privilege. We go there for daily walks with our dog. It's one of the most beautiful places to walk and watch change each season.

Jacob is one of the most social people I have ever met, and his selling point was the party barn. When I asked him what he loves about the property he said, "That feeling of surprise every time I walk in the barn."

la Mattise.

left:

above: The top of the stairs is one of the few areas Kate wanted to keep calm and quiet. She chose this light from Pinch to add dimension to the blank space.

Zoom call!

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER23

EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION OPENS JULY 1ST VISIT

Fifty Years and Grow ing

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

by carol leonetti dannhauser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Scan here for more great places to EAT & DRINK!

Word of Mouth eat

WITH THE COTTAGE LICENSE BOOMING IN FAIRFIELD COUNTY, THESE TWO WESTPORT-BASED BAKERS ARE TAKING HOME GROWN IDEAS AND TRENDING NATIONALLY.

by samantha yanks

left: Founder of Co-Dough Bread, Courtney Brockwell right: Founder of Leventhal Bakery, Jess Leventhal

SIMPLY IRRESISTIBLE

Co-Dough Bread

Meet Courtney Brockwell Founder of JUSTLAUNCHED Co-Dough Bread. Her organic sourdough breads and homemade butters made locally are stunning, wrapped oh-so-charmingly in brown paper and twine and she o ers local pickup. Courtney is also, simply, a ray of sunshine who loves her cra , e uses bene ts of sourdough bread and is bound to MAKE IT BIG.

1 // How and when did you start Co-Dough Bread?

I started making sourdough over a year ago just for family and friends. Since the feedback was so positive, I decided to start a business.

2 // What are your most requested products?

The plain sourdough is still a favorite, along with the homemade butter, which is made with Celtic salt. The sourdough is popular because of the health benefits compared to any other breads, even the sourdough you buy from the grocery store doesn’t use natural wild yeast. We also created a gluten-free organic sourdough loaf after many requests which has

been a huge success. Customers have said it's the best they have ever tasted.

3 // You are very engaged on social media. What have you discovered your customers want?

I’ve noticed them wanting fresh, healthy and delicious bread. We pride ourselves in providing highquality and organic products for our customers. Life’s too short to be buying store-bought bread.

4 // Where can people buy your products?

We are in the process of developing a website that will be launching this summer. For now, we can be found on our Instagram: @codoughbread and orders can be placed there for pickup through the link in the bio.

5 // Do you have plans for expansion?

YES! We are scaling up and will be moving into a commercial kitchen and if you’re eating at local restaurants you may have it on your table! We are in the process now and will keep everyone in the loop on our Instagram.

Courtney Brockwell

Email: codoughbread@gmail.com

Phone: 203-644-8793

Instagram: @codoughbread

Leventhal Bakery

Meet the uber-talented founder of Leventhal Bakery Jess Leventhal who has quickly amassed a cult following in just over a year. Here’s why. She has a doctorate from Columbia, holds a prestigious research position at Yale, has three kids, is a self-taught baker who also learned marketing and social media on her own and is a one-woman operation from her cookie-scented kitchen in Westport. All that is impressive and true, AND her cookies and cakes are other-worldly.

1 // How and when did you start Leventhal Bakery?

I started in March 2023 on a whim! I was a few months postpartum with my third child, craving a NYC style chocolate chip cookie that I couldn’t find in our area, while also looking for an activity to do with my then two and three-year-olds. I shared with friends, and social media did the rest! The bakery has grown and evolved in ways I never imagined.

2 // What are are your most requested products? The chocolate chip cookie is an

obvious choice! Crisp on the outside, thick and gooey on the inside. It’s a classic. Mini cookie cakes are a big hit among kids and adults alike. They are perfect for small celebrations and gifts, with an infinite amount of ways to customize and get festive.

3 // You are very engaged on social media. What have you discovered your customers want?

My customers love being part of this bakery’s growth, including my own personal journey to get here. Everything from the products I offer, to the packaging, to many of the creative ideas you’ve seen have been customer-driven.

4 // The Chiplette is your newest item. We see her as the new hero product. You?  I love her too. It’s a cookie sandwich with nonpareils as delicious as it is playful. I see these as cake pop or mini cupcake alternatives. The packaging is sleek and perfect for grab-and-go or party favors.

5 // Do you have plans for expansion?

Yes! I’m in the process of taking this from a licensed cottage bakery to commercial. My customers will dictate the rest..

Jess Leventhal

Instagram @leventhalbakery leventhal.bakery@gmail.com 845.527.4979

above: Never a dull moment at Co-Dough Bread.

above: Chiplettes: cookie sandwiches with a twist

above: Homemade organic butter and sourdough.

above top: Mini Cookie Cakes above bottom: Chiplettes: perfect for party favors & gifting

CONTEST BEST BARTENDER

Sponsored by Participating Restaurants

Al Fresco Fun

WE’VE WAITED ALL YEAR FOR THIS: SUMMER DINING EN PLEIN AIR . IT’S THE DREAMIEST TIME TO RELAX, SNAG A COVETED TABLE OUTSIDE AND CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS. by jennifer

Allium Eatery

Vegetable-forward dishes sourced from local favorites like Sport Hill Farm in Easton are the star on the menu, along with their classic proteins like their rotisserie chicken. Albeit hard to secure their patio is perfect in summer.

Arezzo

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Arezzo and its backyard space are perfect for a large group. Enjoy a round of Aperol Spritzes and

the stunning view of downtown Westport and nosh on Italian bites. Open daily for lunch and dinner. arezzowestport.com 5 Riverside Ave, Westport CT 203-557-9375

Baldanza at the Schoolhouse

Wilton’s hidden gem, located on the Norwalk River, has a charming patio where you can order off the full menu. Enjoy a glass of champagne or a Monkey 47 martini and marvel

in the understated elegance of Connecticut’s countryside. Open for brunch and dinner, Wednesday through Sunday. baldanzarestaurants.com 34 Cannon Rd, Wilton CT 203-309-5777

Boathouse at Saugatuck

Open to the public, the Boathouse is more than just an event space. Serving lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, it has several outdoor

options to enjoy your Eggs Benedict and Lobster Roll. Closed Mondays and Tuesday. Sundays, brunch only. boathouseatsaugatuck.com 521 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 203-227-339

pupa schwartz // photography by garvin burke

above: Look out across the Sound while dining at La Plage below: Enjoy dinner with a view at The Boathouse at Saugatuck

Casa Me

The patio is ideal for experiencing Casa Me’s spritz menu. Pair your favorite one with their delicious fritto misto and you can almost pretend you’re on the Italian Riviera. (Tip: The Sbagliato is a must-try if you enjoy an Aperol Spritz!) Open daily for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. casamecafe.com

7 Sconset Square, Westport CT 203-571-3230

Don Memo

Don Memo has the perfect large outdoor area to experience its Happy Hour on Tuesday - Friday, from 4:30-6 pm. Meet up with friends and neighbors for Palomas, Margaritas and their awesome tacos. Closed Sunday and Monday. donmemowestport.com 90 Post Rd E, Westport CT 203-557-6198

Hudson Malone

Westport’s outpost of this NYCbased “culinary saloon” has outdoor seating to best partake in its bold cocktail menu, complete with new classics like the Paper Plane and New York Sour. Enjoy your Pat Lafreida burger knowing you don’t have to clean the grill tonight. Open daily for lunch and dinner. hudsonmalone.com 323 Main Street, Westport CT 203-635-7400

Kawa Ni

The ultimate “if you know, you know” location, Kawa Ni’s not-so-secret rooftop has become a private event space as of Summer 2024 and is currently the only rooftop in Westport. Work with them to customize your menu. Then you and your guests can enjoy your own view of the Saugatuck River. Closed Mondays.

kawaniwestport.com

19A Bridge Square, Westport CT 203-557-8775

La Plage

The Delamar Hotels are known for their restaurants that always prioritize the vibe and an experience along with menus that match their settings. Set overlooking the Suagatuck the open air balcony dining at La Plage is the reservation you want to score this summer while eating lobster rolls on a seaweed bun and their abundant selection of oysters.

laplagewestport.com 260 Compo Road South, Westport CT 203-684-6232

Nômade

If people watching on Main Street is your thing, order one of Nômade’s new mocktails or a glass of super cool orange wine and hang out here for the ultimate table downtown. Open daily for lunch/

brunch and dinner. nomadewestport.com

150 Main St, Westport CT 203-557-9577

Rive Bistro

Dining al fresco in Westport doesn’t get better than this classic spot on the Saugatuck River. Order a Lillet Spritz or glass of Sancerre, and enjoy a meal of oysters and steak frites before you head home to book your next trip to France. Open daily for lunch and dinner (brunch weekends only). rivebistro.com

299 Riverside Ave, Westport CT 203-557-8049

Studio Café

As Westport’s unofficial “drinkery,” brunch is even better outside on Studio Cafe’s terrace. If you have yet to explore their beverage menu, now is the time to try their extensive selection of elixirs and tonics. Closed Mondays. thetailoredhomect.com/studiocafe

Sconset Square 15 Myrtle Avenue, Westport CT 203-349-5174

Terrain Cafe

Friends from afar love coming to Westport for many reasons, one of which is Terrain Cafe. A notable destination for homewares and plants, Terrain’s cafe really shines when its outdoor dining opens. Mushroom soup, chicken pot pie and a robust wine list help balance all those Harvest bowls. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Happy Hour Monday through Friday, 4 - 6 p.m. shopterrain.com/westportrestaurant

561 Post Road East, Westport CT 203-226-2732

The Whelk

The Whelk’s menu is updated daily to have the freshest seafood, which can be enjoyed al fresco overlooking the Saugatuck River. Great cocktails and even better people watching. (Tip: Walk across the courtyard to try ice cream from the new Momu, which opened in May!) Closed Mondays. Open for lunch Fri-Sun. thewhelkwestport.com 575 Riverside Ave, Westport CT 203-557-0902

above: Summer cocktails from Don Memo

above: Outdoor seating area of Terrain Cafe

Smile With Confidence

TOP DENTISTS OF FAIRFIELD COUNTY 2024

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

Scan here to view our digital TOP DENTISTS LISTING!

DENTAL

ANESTHESIOLOGY

ABRA DILISIO

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

ENDODONTICS

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

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

TRISHA CHARLAND

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

JOEL B. CHASEN

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

EVAN D. CHRISTENSEN

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

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

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

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

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

AGNES HERCEG

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

RUCHIKA JOON

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

CAROLYN KILBRIDE

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

PHILIP R. MASCIA

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

JASMINE OGHAZ

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

DENNIS L. PIPHER

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

ALLEN J. ROSENTHAL

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

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

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

GENERAL DENTISTRY

STEVEN ALTMAN

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

THOMAS ANZALONE

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

JAMES T. ARIS

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

JEFFREY A. BABUSHKIN

Cosmetic & Preventive Dentistry

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

JANETTE A. BLACK

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

JAMES T. BOWMAN

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

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

DIANA L. CARDONA

116 East Avenue, Norwalk 203-838-3939

BRIJESH CHANDWANI

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

CHRISTOPHER C. COGGUILLO

Coastal Dental Care of Milford

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

ALEJANDRA G. COSTANTINO-FINIASZ

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

CHARLES A. CRAPE

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

PETER DANTINI

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

ANDREA DEAN

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

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

SANTO A. DELALLO 122 West Norwalk Road, Norwalk 203-855-8877

BARBARA J. DEVINE

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

MARK S. DEWAELE

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

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

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

YOLANI P. EDIRISINGHE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MARILYN GENI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MATTHEW J. IWINSKI

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DAVID A. PEREIRA

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JOHN J. SCHINTO III

Schinto Dental

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

JASON M. SCULLY

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

CAROLINE A. SHENKER

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

FRANCIS SHIN

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

JERRY M. SIMON

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

DAVID R. STEBBINS

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

MICHAEL B. STEIN

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

JOSEPH P. SUAREZ

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

MARK R. SUTTON

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

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

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

KENNETH B. TEMPLE

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

DAVID J. THIBAULT

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

ROBERT N. TRAMPOSCH

Greenwich Smiles 25 Valley Drive, Suite 2A,

Greenwich 203-862-9000 greenwichsmiles.com

DOUGLAS M. TREPP

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

GEORGE TSANGAROULIS

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

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

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

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

ROBERT S. WARREN

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

STEVE WECHSLER

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

DAVID J. WOHL

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

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

DAVID A. ZADIK

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

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

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY

GARRICK ALEX

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

ABED ALKHATIB

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

YAAKOV ALLAEB

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

MICHELE S. BERGEN

Infinity Oral Surgery

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

TODD E. BLOOM

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

ANTHONY J. CAMILLO

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

PAUL M. CIUCI

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

JON COHEN

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

CHRISTOPHER J. CUOMO

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

NAUSHAD R. EDIBAM

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

SALVATORE J. FLORIO

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

ROBERT HORNE

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

VASILIKI KARLIS

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

MARSHALL D. KURTZ

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

KEVIN S. MCLAUGHLIN

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

PHILIP F. PACELLI III

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

ALAN R. RISSOLO

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

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

MICHAEL F. TROFA

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

JOSEPH F. WALLACE III

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

THOMAS B. WILSON

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

ROBERT M. YUDELL

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

BRETT ZUCKMAN

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

ORTHODONTICS

FIGEN A. BAYDUR

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

JOHN S. BIBKO

JB Orthodontics

346 Main Avenue, Suite D, Norwalk 203-866-7806 jborthodontics.com

IAN BOLIN

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

CASS D. BURRELL

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

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

TIFFANY CHRISTENSEN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

M. BINA PARK

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

MARK E. PREVITT

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

MARY E. RITTER

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

GARY J. ROMEO

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

ROSEMARY RYAN

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

UTTAMPAL SINGH

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

MONICA A. TEREDESAI

Smile Art Orthodontics

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

REBECCA VOLDMAN

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

GARRICK F. WONG

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

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

HANNAH AHN

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

DANIEL BREIN

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

JESSICA CORRIEL

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

ALEXI M. DAMASCUS

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

JENNIFER D. EPSTEIN

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

EMILY GABELER

MANHEIMER

Greenwich Pediatric

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

ARIEL GINSBERG

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

LAURA HULING

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

SILVESTRO IOMMAZZO

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

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

DURGESH A. KUDCHADKAR

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

GORDON K. LEE

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

MEENAKSHI MADHU

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

GREGORY S. MOKOTOFF

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

ASHLEIGH SEBRO

Wilton Pediatric Dentistry

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

STEPHANIE JOSS SERPA

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

ANNA SIMONIS

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

ANDREW SPADINGER

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

GABRIELLE SYKOFF

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

HIROSHI TSUYUKI

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

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

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

PERIODONTICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RANDALL H. NEICHIN

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

RYAN J. PRICE

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

E. J. TRAYNOR

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

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

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

PROSTHODONTICS

JOHN CORINO

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

JACK DEGRADO

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

MARIE E. FALCONE

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

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

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

MIN SUNG YOON

Evergreen Family Dental & Southbury Smiles 1300 Post Road, Suite 101, Fairfi eld 203-259-7870

evergreenfamilydental group.com

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

Top Dentists

The Process Behind the List

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

INTRODUCTION

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

SELECTION PROCESS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disclaimer

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

Photo: Brigitte Lacombe

Photo: Jacob Blinkenstaff

Art by Steve Pacek

Photo: Tracie Morris Schaefer, 2021

PROFILES 2024 Dental

Spotlight on Health

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

Dr. Bina Park

DR. BINA PARK ORTHODONTICS

42 Sherwood Place Greenwich, CT

203.900.1111 drbinapark.com

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

MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY OF GREENWICH, LLC

SPECIALTY: Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

4 Dearfield Drive, #205, Greenwich, CT 203.717.1222 | msgoms.com

DR. KARLIS’ SPECIALTY FOCUS AREAS ARE: pediatric and young adult oral and maxillofacial surgery, which include extraction of primary and adult teeth, wisdom teeth removal, exposure of impacted canines, mesiodens removal, correction of tongue-tied patients and orthognathic surgery.

Dr. Vasiliki Karlis is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Advanced Education Program in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at New York University Langone Medical Center. She received her D.M.D. from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine and her certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery from NYU Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital Center.

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

Dr. Karlis completed her M.D. at L.S.U. School of Medicine in Shreveport, Louisiana and her general surgery internship at NYU Langone Medical Center. A Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Karlis was appointed to their Examination Committee in 2003 and served as Co-Chair of the Section in Medicine and Anesthesia for 2007-2009. This past year she has been asked back to examine and mentor new examiners. Dr. Karlis was awarded Fellowship in the American College of Surgeons in 2008. Dr. Karlis enjoys living In Greenwich and spending family time with her 15 year old son, John, and husband, Dr. Athanassios Petrotos.

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

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

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

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

We are excited to meet you.

Board Certi ed in Endodontics

700 White Plains Road, Suite 281, Scarsdale, NY 914.713.1122 | 914.722.4RCT

staff@westchesterrootcanals.com westchesterrootcanals.com

Gentle, compassionate care and cutting-edge technology in a stress-free environment are what patients can expect with Dr Anjani Gandhi & her dedicated team. A Pioneer in Microsurgical Endodontics, Dr Gandhi has performed Microscope-Assisted Endodontics since the late ‘90s with all levels of Endodontic Therapy, including Root Canal Therapy, Retreatment of Root Canals, Apicoectomy, Regenerative Endodontics, Internal Bleaching, & Treatment of Traumatic Injuries using the most advanced technologies & techniques with a minimally invasive approach to preserve maximum tooth structure. The practice’s Advanced

Innovative Technology includes Zeiss Microscopes, Electronic Medical Records, Digital Radiography, Documented Video Imaging, Ultrasonics, Negative Pressure Irrigation, Advanced Ultrasonic Irrigation, & other Activated Irrigation Techniques. In-of ce Cone Beam CAT Scan and 3D imaging also aid in Advanced Diagnosis & Treatment. Dr Gandhi & her compassionate, expertly trained staff provide Inof ce sedation for apprehensive patients. Having taught Clinical Endodontics at Tufts and at Harvard, Dr Gandhi lectures locally and nationally & has consistently been selected by her peers as one of Westchester’s Top Endodontists from 2007 to 2023.

Vasiliki Karlis, DMD, MD, FACS

Anjani Gandhi, D.M.D., P.C.

people&PLACES

Formula for Aid

The 2024 Near & Far Aid Spring Gala at Mitchells of Westport on April 26 was the perfect “Formula for Aid,”revving up excitement with its thrilling Formula 1 theme. The evening was charged with incredible energy and vibe, thanks to our philanthropic attendees who generously participated in the live auction, paddle raise and silent auction. This evening along with the support of many sponsors, helped raise critical funds for 2024-2025 grants, projected to be over $1.1 million. »

1 Kelly Schram and Danielle Perdue 2 Rick Higgins, Jaclyn Picarillo, Sarah and Chris Menninger and Adele Higgins 3 Meri-Leigh and Francesco Daniele 4 Alex and Gaelle Dudley, Mackenzie and Tom Pretty, John and Lisa Sabino 5 Caroline Kopp, Amber Demacsek, Rina DeFronze, Danielle DeBuck, Ariel Dunne, Imke Lohs, Ilka Gregory, Tally Wiegand and Jessica Zecher 6 DeVer and Sofia Warner 7 Katerina Powers, Kelly Scinto and Ryann Giannone 8 Model, Best of Spring Fashion

NEAR & FAR AID SPRING GALA AT MITCHELLS / Mitchells, Westport

appSOlu T e LY

ReL aXing

Powerhouse entrepreneur and Drybar founder Alli Webb, opens her latest massage venture Squeeze, in partnership with Brittany Driscoll, right here in Westport.

opposite page: Squeeze founders Alli Webb and Brittany Driscoll.

Samantha Yanks: Alli, it’s so great to reconnect! Watching the evolution of your career is nothing short of extraordinary. From entrepreneur to investor, creator to CEO. Alli, after the massive success of Drybar, how did the concept of Squeeze arise?

Alli Webb: Similar to how Drybar was born out of personal necessity and a white space in the market, the same was true of the massage space. My brother and business partner Michael was so frustrated with the massage landscape and wanted to create a better concept with a best-in-class app for seamless booking, tipping and customization. It’s such a game changer in this space.

SY: Brittany, why do you call Squeeze the feel good revolution?

Brittany Driscoll: The FeelGood Revolution is one of our core values at Squeeze, and is our brand mantra. It stands for making people feel their best through the power of massage, while also going the extra mile to treat everyone who walks through our doors with kindness, respect and genuine care. I believe every opportunity we have is a chance to impact each other for the better. At Squeeze, we try to live this idea out every single day, in every single interaction.

SY: Alli, when I think of Drybar in the early days when we first met you had such a distinct vision. The poppy yellow, the essential lineup of haircare products and tools and the blow-dry experience were so thoughtful. Same thought process here at Squeeze?

AW: Absolutely! We wanted to bring a fresh and way better massage experience to everyone, but knew it needed to have all the special and unique touchpoints, branding and extreme attention to detail like Drybar.

SY: Are both of you passionate about getting massages?

BD: Yes! We are avid massagegoers and have been for decades. There is truly no other time where I am able to unplug than when getting a massage. It's a holistic mind-body-soul healing experience and also why we were so excited to create Squeeze, which as our tagline denotes is "A Way Better Massage Experience."

SY: What are some of the experiences you had, both positive and negative, that led you to launch Squeeze?

BD: Like any good business, the idea for Squeeze was born out of personal frustration and necessity. We didn't like having to call individual locations to book an appointment, or stand in a clunky checkout line in that blissful, postmassage state of mind. There just

wasn't an experience out there that catered to our desires for convenience, personalization, and a brand that resonated with us — so we created one!

SY: So part of the innovation and ease for the consumer is that Squeeze is app-solutely app based. Why was this so important?

AW: It’s incredibly easy and convenient to book a massage at Squeeze. Our proprietary app is highly customizable so you have the ability to thoughtfully choose your preferences before you even walk in the door. You can also read reviews on all our therapist to help you choose the very best options for you. And because you book, pay and tip all on our app, when you massage is complete you simply float out, no checkout.

SY: What does each massage include? You give the consumer extras that you don’t charge extra for, right?

BD: That's right, at Squeeze we capture all of your personal preferences through our app before you even walk in the door. Everything from areas of the body you want focused on, what you want avoided, if you want more or less pressure, if you prefer oil or lotion, and so much more. It's all saved to your profile so your therapist knows exactly your expectations and is prepared to give you a five-star experience. Other aspects that differentiate us from competitors are in-shop personalization features like an interactive aromatherapy bar, six different music playlists for you to choose from, a ready button on the table so you can let the therapist know when you're ready for them to begin your massage. And extras don't cost extra so there are no upcharges whatsoever — deep tissue, aromatherapy, heat therapy, percussion therapy, prenatal massage — it's all included. It's our commitment to creating a feel-good experience at every turn.

SY: With the app-based program your preferences are saved so from location to location, visit to visit, your therapist knows what you like. That’s so smart.

Shockingly no one has thought of this yet! Is that an important element for you?

BD: 100%. People expect customization today and our therapists appreciate it too. They are healers and helpers, and want to leave our guests feeling better. No one wants to be going through a checklist of do's and don'ts right before a massage. And oftentimes, it's hard to say to someone's face, "please don't talk to me, I really need this hour to myself," but on the app, you can note that without it being awkward. It's the little things that make the biggest difference for everyone in our experience.

SY: How does the pricing work?

Do you offer membership?

BD: Our pricing is simple. We offer a Mid and Main Squeeze, a 50- and 80-minute table massage respectively. Our membership rates are of course the best deal and hassle-free. Our members pay month to month and can pause or cancel at any time. Members can gift a massage to a friend, unused massages rollover month to month and never expire. And additional massages within a month can be booked at our exclusive member rates. Of course, we also offer Pay-Per-Squeeze pricing for those who want to come in less frequently, but we don't recommend that! A monthly massage is so critical wto our well-being. Pricing ranges from $95 from $159.

SY: How many locations do you have and where?

BD: We have 15 locations open today and over 85 in development across the country. Our vision is to build the brand to 500 locations in the next five to seven years.

SY: When looking at expansion, why Westport?

BD: Westport is such an incredible town with a strong demo and its proximity to NYC. We know Squeeze will be warmly received and appreciated here. And our Operating Partners, Nicole and Jason Ruscio are fantastic. They embody our values and exude a true entrepreneurial spirit. We couldn't be more excited for them and our first CT location!

The Feel-Good Revolution is one of our core values at Squeeze, and is our brand mantra.

brittany driscoll

Similar to how Drybar was born out of personal necessity and a white space in the market the same was true of the massage space.

5 Questions With...

Nicole Ruscio SQUEEZE

Westport Franchise Partner

1

How did you become passionate about opening a Squeeze location in Westport?

We’ve always been interested in franchises, but the right one just hadn’t come along and the time was never right. In 2020, when the pandemic hit and we had our second daughter, we put things on hold and moved from New York to Connecticut. Not only did we completely fall in love with this community, but we also fell in love with Squeeze as we began to learn more and more about the brand. We were so enlightened to see a new concept that also fell in line with our passion for health and wellness, along with our values.

When we first visited the Squeeze in Brentwood, TN., we noticed the morale of the employees as a telling sign that Squeeze really does walk the walk when it comes to caring for their people.  We are firm believers that if you value your employees first, it will lead to a better product/ service thus resulting in happy customers.

We love all of Squeeze’s core values but one of them really hit home for us: “Do What You Love and Let it Love You Back." Our goal is to create a place where our employees wake up excited to come to work while also providing the community with a place to improve their health and wellness.  At our core, Squeeze is a people centric company and we put our team and guests first.

2

Tell us a bit about the therapists herein Westport.

The therapists at Squeeze are all talented and passionate about their craft with each one specializing in various modalities, from deep tissue, Swedish massage, prenatal, Lymphatic Drainage, and Trigger Point therapy — just to name a few. One of the great things about our app and website is that while guests are booking their appointment, they can read each of our therapists’ bios to see who would fit their needs the best.  We truly have a team that spans a vast amount of specialists so everyone is sure to find the right fit.

3

What have you learned about the Westport community in terms of what they are looking for from Squeeze?

We believe Squeeze fills a gap between the high-end luxury spa experiences, which are amazing but may be hard to maintain as a regular part of your wellness routine, and discount chains which are at a practical price point but maybe miss the mark on the overall experience.

Squeeze provides a seamless, customizable, and relaxing experience at a reasonable price allowing the members of our community to really incorporate massage into a regular part of their routine.

In addition to learning what the community is looking for, we’ve also discovered how amazingly supportive other local businesses are.  It’s really been heartwarming to see how big our support system has grown and we are forever grateful!

4

What are you most excited about?

It’s hard to pinpoint one aspect that we are most excited about.  Every chapter of this journey has been exciting and interesting in its own right and I am loving learning something new during each phase.  We are probably most excited about opening the doors and being able to see our guests’ reactions once they are able to experience Squeeze firsthand.  We are also proud to show our daughters that through hardwork and dedication, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to.

5

Are you planning special events for the location?

We will be continuing to partner with local businesses to bring fun and exciting collaborations to our guests throughout the summer from ice plunge popups to complimentary mini massages at local salons, fitness studios, and events throughout the community.

this photo: Squeeze offers complimentary enhancements including deep

this photo: The 1,838-square-foot shop boasts a modern yet sophisticated design, which features six treatment rooms.

right: Squeeze is appsolutely stress-free. Book, pay and tip on the app. So after your massage, you can just float on out. below: Set your own music and lighting, and let your therapist know when to re-enter using the “ready button.”

House Romantic

A New York family carves out a corner of paradise in a former sculptors’ studio.

by jill johnson mann

portrait photography by andrea carson interiors and exteriors photograpy by read m c kendree

this page: A hand-painted fresco and inlaid brick pattern from the home’s breezeway. opposite page: Zach and Melissa Weiss stand in front of their homes' grand arched doors that are original to the home.

When Zach and Melissa Weiss began browsing for a second home to supplement their New York apartment, they knew what they did not want: an imposing new construction dwarfing a compact lot like an NBA player packed into a middle seat in coach. “It was important to us to find a place that didn’t feel overly suburban,” says Melissa, who, like her husband, works in real estate. “We wanted an environment that felt like our own little private oasis. Fortunately, my husband and I appreciate the same aesthetic, the same architecture and design.” Introduce them to a home with history and they are likely to tumble head over heels like Cinderella in her first dance with the prince. “We love pre-loved homes,” continues Melissa. “We consider ourselves stewards.”

Cinderella isn’t waltzing into the story completely out of context. The oasis the Weisses found, tucked into a private nook of Coleytown, feels like the stuff of fairytales. First, there is the historic stone house itself, shrouded in English ivy, built around 1912— but Westport lore says the owners actually discovered the house in Italy, moved it across the Atlantic and reassembled it here to serve as their artist studio. (The Weisses didn’t venture as far a Europe on their home search, but they did explore Northern Westchester and Litchfield.)

Those original owners, the ones who pick up structures like frocks from a Milan shop, were a prominent Westport family, Melissa learned. “James Earle Fraser and Laura Gardin Fraser had installed a lot of artist friends in the area and built this creative environment, surrounded by beautiful, lush greenery,” describes Melissa. “We educated ourselves on the Frasers and the history of Coleytown itself. The Frasers were both sculptors. There is architecture to support that: the double-high doors, the glass details.” A painted mural on the ceiling of the veranda hearkens back to the

above left: An antique rug perfectly pulls in the existing colors and the clients’ favorite blue. A linear chandelier with a brass finish brings just the right amount of sparkle into the space.

above right: The original homeowners were founding members of the Fairfield Hunt Club and hosted polo matches on the land surrounding the property. Innate Studio incorporated vintage equestrian art and decorative pieces throughout the home as an homage to the property’s history.

left: In the fireplace lounge, Innate Studio sourced a set of four French deco club chairs arranged in a quartet — perfect for entertaining and facilitating easy circulation through the space. opposite page: This painting and the incredible stained-glass window started the menagerie theme and set the tone for this room. The host chairs are vintage and have been custom upholstered. The dining chairs are custom from Bernhardt.

above left and right: The existing bar was reworked with custom marble, unlacquered brass foot rail and custom cabinetry. Above the window is a stone relief done by Laura Gardin Fraser.

bottom left: In the kitchen, detail of a beautiful Cle Tile back-splash, Perrin & Rowe sink with existing cabinets, and Carrera marble countertops.

bottom right: The main living space has double-height ceilings, original wood beams and skylights lighting the living room below and library mezzanine above. The highlights of this space are the arched doors, original to the home. Innate Studio tucked a sectional in a Perennial fabric and installed a bronze Darlana chandelier from Visual Comfort, which perfectly highlights the original door hardware and iron windows.

Old World; a countess might stroll by, or just a new Westport couple and their gleeful little girl and baby boy, relishing a fairytale ending to their home search.

Finding the Home and Architect/ Interior Designer

With inventory low, finding a home in Westport—let alone a gem of a home—is no easy task, but the Weisses wisely took their time. “We had some friends who had moved here. We spent some time here and really fell in love with it: the proximity to New York, Compo Beach, the community itself, the great school system.” So they had their target, knew what they wanted—an older home with character and a pool—and sat back and waited.

In January of 2022, a five-bedroom, 5,650-square foot historic home on two acres of land, with a gorgeous pool and pond, popped up online. It was January, not the most verdant time of year. “We drove up to see it on a cold, snowy day. Coming up that long driveway, even in the dead of winter, we were gobsmacked,” says Melissa. “It has a stately beauty but is not intimidating. It’s warm and welcoming, and to think of the events and parties that have been hosted there, the people that have been there…. Zach and I both looked at each other and said, ‘Let’s do it.’”

They just needed one more person on board, architect/interior designer Lisa Schwert Pohlschroeder. “Lisa is a dear friend of mine and former colleague in New York residential real estate,” explains Melissa. “She had pivoted during the pandemic and was just starting her firm, Innate Studio.” Lisa eagerly accepted the project. “She was a bonafide architect,” adds Melissa, “so she can look at the interiors through that lens. That’s why we were so successful with some of the challenging areas.”

Raising the Bar

“This home is on the Westport Historic Register, so I wanted to maintain and highlight the home’s beautiful original details while showcasing the client’s style and creating a comfortable second residence for the family,” comments Lisa. “The home is so special and unique, which is both an asset and a challenge when renovating. For example, the original timber structure is beautiful but created some unusual spaces on the main floor.” In one corner of the living area, structural beams intersected, leaving little room for furniture.

“Right below the ceiling in this space is an incredible limestone relief done by Fraser that is integral to the home,” says Lisa. “We custom-designed a bar clad in Calacatta marble to occupy the corner and play with these existing elements. The bar added so much drama and utility to a challenging space.” Melissa adds, “It’s a special moment in the house, a nice surprise when you come around that corner.”

Another issue: The house had three bathrooms, with just one on the main floor, in the master bedroom. A small AV closet under

the staircase presented the only option for a powder room. “It was a total game of inches,” says Melissa. Lisa suggested a Nero Marquina marble for the custom sink, with warm tones that complement stunning black-and-gold peacock wallpaper. “Most of the public space is light and airy,” says Lisa. “I loved the idea of this room being moodier. It’s counterintuitive but dark colors give the illusion of more volume.”

Sconces set too high in the master for the preferred bed configuration posed a problem, as removing them would irreparably damage

this page:

Moody powder room added to the main floor.

Custom stone sink, Waterworks fixtures, Kelly Wearstler sconces, antique mirror, Cole & Sons Pavo Parade wallpaper.

didn’t work with the preferred bed configuration. To allow the team to install new sconces in an ideal location, Innate Studio designed a custom upholstered headboard and bed that covered the entire wall. They used fabric from Schumacher that tied in beautifully with the existing wallcovering

bottom:

the grasscloth wall covering the family hoped to preserve. “We designed a custom upholstered headboard that covered the entire wall to allow us to install new sconces and cover up the patching in the grasscloth,” explains Lisa. “We chose an incredible fabric, Cranley Garden from Schumacher, which tied in beautifully with the existing wall-covering and made the room.” Lisa turned a problem into a “wow moment,” says Melissa.

A banquette with storage solved the issue of a lack of cupboard and seating space in the kitchen, with a bonus of offering a view of the pool and grounds.

For-the-Birds Décor

This house has its big moments—the picturesque view upon pulling into the drive, the two-story original Palladian door in the living room (through which large sculptures could be moved)—but also its endearing small moments, like the charming bird motif in the original stained glass windows in the living spaces. “Since the clients and I are both animal lovers, we embraced a menagerie theme that found its way into many fabrics and decorative items we selected and told a story that extends to the exterior facade, like the painted ceiling on the veranda,” says Lisa.

A giant ostrich painting that came with the house graces the living room wall. The bird has a bit of an attitude, signaling to guests that “formal” is not the attitude here; fun is.

A regal, dark painting on the dining room wall matches the more traditional, serious décor but for its subjects: an animated flock of parrots. “We went with a very layered, eclectic design,” says Melissa. “Nothing is too precious but you can see our appreciation of the history and the bones—we really tried to embrace that and tie it through all the projects we did throughout the house.”

Melissa even found a drawing done of the first polo game in Westport—pre-Hunt Club (the Frasers were founders)—a match she learned was orchestrated by the Frasers and held on the land surrounding the property.

On the second level, Melissa loves her daughter Gemma’s room. The soft pink is juxtaposed with exposed stone for a warm environment. “It’s a very sweet, classic little girl room, but we tried to be relatively restrained in our use of pink,” notes Lisa. “With the existing ceiling trusses, the structural hardware has

started to get a little patina to it and that jibes well with the pink tones.”

Teamwork

Working with Innate Studio was “very collaborative,” says Melissa. “It was a collective effort. I trust Lisa implicitly.” Innate Studio oversaw all aspects of renovations and interior design. With Lisa expecting a baby that August, it was a tight timeline, but the team met their goal of furnishing the home in six months. Credit also goes to contractor Tomasz Malecki of McPol Construction.

“As an architect and interior designer, I enjoy solving every aspect of the puzzle that the renovation and reimagination of a home presents,” says Lisa. “My personal style is

“we want our home to be that place where everybody comes together and spends time with one another— an easy, laidback, not overproduced respite .”

— melissa weiss

timeless, organic and a bit whimsical, but I get so much inspiration from the collaboration with clients and a project’s context. I feel most fulfilled when a home truly reflects its history, our client's style, and how they want to live.”

For the Weiss family that is now: “A long weekend, the sun shining, friends and family are out back by the pool, we’re grilling fish from Fjord Fish Market, the kids are running around and enjoying sweet treats from the Cake Box and Sunny Daez ice cream, and everyone is relaxed. We want our home to be that place where everybody comes together and spends time with one another—an easy, laidback, not overproduced respite.”

top: The Primary Bedroom had a lovely blue grasscloth wall covering the client wanted to keep. However, there were sconces on the bed wall that

and really made the room.

The little girl’s room is bright and airy with accents of dusty pink and lavender. A bleached jute rug is soft underfoot and a bone inlaid dresser from RH Baby adds a timeless, feminine touch.

left and bottom left: A tiered flagstone patio surrounds a saline pool and jacuzzi. below left: English ivy and wisteria add to the home’s European charm.

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

Best Service // TONY’S AT THE J HOUSE

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

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

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

food drink W INNERS

RESTAURANTS

Best Service

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

Business Lunch

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

Creative Menu

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

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

Event Space

314 Beer Garden

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

Event Space/Weddings

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

Family Friendly + Pickup/ Delivery Option

Colony Grill

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

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

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

New Restaurant

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

Outdoor Dining + Seafood

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

SPECIALTIES

American Little Pub

531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147 | 26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122 |

2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567 littlepub.com

Asian Fusion

Mecha Noodle Bar

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

Chinese

Little Kitchen

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

French

Le Penguin

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

Greek

Kouzina

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

Indian

Coromandel Cuisine of India 25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 631-837-2419 coromandeldarienct.com

Italian Café Silvium

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

Best New Restaurant // THE BENJAMIN

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

Japanese Sakura

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

sakurarestaurant.com

Mediterranean

Layla’s Falafel

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

Mexican bartaco

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

Spanish + Tapas

Barcelona Wine Bar

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

Steaks

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

Sushi

Nordic Fish

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

Thai

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

CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

PopUp Bagels

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

Japanese // SAKURA

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

More than 40 years later, we still agree.

Best Bagels // POPUP BAGELS

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

Asian/Asian Fusion + Bowls + Noodle Bar/Noodles

// MECHA NOODLE BAR

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

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

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

Best Hot Dogs // SUPER DUPER WEENIE

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

Best Ice Cream // SUNNY DAES

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

Bowls + Noodle Bar/Noodles

Mecha Noodle Bar

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

Burritos

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

Frozen Yogurt 16 Handles

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

Hamburgers

Little Pub

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

Hot Dogs

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

Ice Cream

Sunny Daes

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

Pizza Colony Grill

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

PICK

Darien + Rowayton editor Eileen Murphy shares her ode to Aux Délices

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

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

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

Brunch + Cafe/Bistro // TERRAIN CAFE

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

Best Coffee Shop // COFFEE FOR GOOD

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

Ribs/Barbecue

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

hoodoobrownbbq.com

Salads Aux Délices

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

DROP-IN SPOTS

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

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

Coffee Shop

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

Deli

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

Diner

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

Food Truck

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

Health/Organic Food + Juice

Bar

Green & Tonic

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

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

Lunch Spot

Little Pub

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

Vegetarian

The Lime

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

MARKETS + MORE

Bakery

Wave Hill Breads

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

wavehillbreads.com

Butcher

Saugatuck Provisions

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

saugatuckprovisions.com

Cakes/Cup Cakes

Forever Sweet

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

Caterer

Marcia Selden Catering & Events

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

Desserts

BE Chocolat

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

Best Vegetarian // THE LIME

Best Bakery // WAVE HILL BREADS

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

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

Best Caterer // MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS

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

magazine editor

Cristin Marandino pops into cozy Best Of staple Little Pub

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

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

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

PICK

magazine’s editor

Melinda Anderson takes us to Barcelona

JAMON Y QUESO

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

for dinner, we book

wine list features is Adios Vinos, a farewell tour to some vintage gems that for one reason or another can’t be replaced with new cases. The rotating, limited list is offered at half price. me back to Catalonia quite like clocking out early and savoring al fresco snacks during Barcelona’s 4 p.m – 6 p.m. happy hour. I’m a sucker for the Marcona almonds and steak tartare paired with an Estrella Galicia.

Nothing transports

Best Seafood Market // FJORD

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

Gourmet Grocery Village Market

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

Gourmet To Go Aux Délices

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

Grocery Pickup/ Delivery Option

Stew Leonard’s 100 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-7214 stewleonards.com

Liquor Store + Wine Shop

Total Wine & More

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

Organic Food Market

Trader Joe’s

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

Seafood Market

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

BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection + Outdoor Bar

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

Best Martinis + Steaks

// WASHINGTON PRIME

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

Best Mobile Bar // BAKED AND SAUCED

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

Margaritas + Restaurant Bar bartaco

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

Martinis

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

washingtonprimect.com

Microbrewery

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

Mobile Bar

Baked and Sauced bakedandsauced.com

Pub

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

Sports Bar

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

Wine Bar + Wine List

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

Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Women's Fashion

// DARIEN SPORT SHOP

Perhaps chief among the many reasons we love Darien Sport Shop is for the place it holds in our hearts as top sartorial problem solver. How many Gold Coast residents have found themselves just hours from an event despairing at the choices staring back from a well-worn closet?

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

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

shopstyle W INNERS

FASHION

Accessories

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

Bridal

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

Consignment

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

Department Store + Luxe Leisurewear + Women's Fashion

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

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

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

PICK

Wilton magazine editor Samantha Yanks speaks luxe by way of Mitchells and Richards

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

like special seasonal looks,

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

Best Eyewear // WARBY PARKER

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

OCCASIONS

of pushing the envelope

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

Best New Shop // PENFIELD COLLECTIVE

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

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

Jeans B Chic

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

Lingerie + Swimwear

Soleil Toile

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

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

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

Women’s Shoes

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

JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry

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

Estate Jewelry

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

Everyday Jewelry

JL Rocks

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

Fine Jewelry

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

Selection of Local Designers

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

Special Occasion Jewelry

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

Watches

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

Wedding/Engagement Rings

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

candy eye

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

BETTERIDGE

winner of best special occasion jewelry

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

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

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

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

FAMILLE

winner of best estate jewelry

Platinum and diamond station chain Edwardian necklace with 3.63-carat pear-shaped pendant, $157,000 $157,000

MANFREDI JEWELS

winner of best watches

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

LUX BOND & GREEN

winner of best designer jewelry

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

SHREVE, CRUMP &LOW

winner of best fine jewelry

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

HENRY C. REID JEWELERS

winner of best wedding/ engagement rings

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

HOME

Antiques/Vintage Store

Fairfield County

Antique & Design

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

fairfieldantiqueanddesign.com

Appliances

Aitoro

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

Closet/Organization

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

californiaclosets.com

Decor

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

Furniture

Serena & Lily

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

serenaandlily.com

Garden Center

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

Hardware + Paint + Windows/ Doors

Ring’s End

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

Home Tech

Untangled

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

Kitchen + Bath

Kohler Signature Store

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

kohler.com

Lighting

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

chloewinstonlighting.com

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

Best Garden Center // DESIGNS BY LEE

Linens Lynnens

278 Greenwich Ave., Greewnwich

203-629-3659

lynnens.com

Outdoor Furniture

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

Best Linens // LYNNENS

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

Rugs

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

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

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

services

INNERS' LIST

Best Cosmetic Spa // SKIN SOLUTIONS COLLECTIVE

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

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

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

services to-do's W INNERS

PAMPERING

Blow Out

Bloom Salon

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

Color J&Co

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

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

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

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

Facial

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

Makeup Application

Lindsey Trop lindseytropweddings.com

Makeup Boutique

bluemercury

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

Mani/Pedi

Posh Spa & Nail

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

Men’s Styling/Salon

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

Spray Tan

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

Waxing/Hair Removal

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

FITNESS + GEAR

Activewear

Lululemon

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

Barre

The Bar Method

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

Bicycle Shop

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

Crossfit

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

Dance Fitness

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

Fitness Studio + Gym + Private Training + Virtual Fitness

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

Golf Equipment

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

Indoor Cycling

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

Pilates

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

Yoga

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

FAMILY LIFE

Art Classes + Children’s Parties

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

Childcare

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

Best Art Classes + Children's Parties

// MAKE MODERN

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

Children’s/Baby Décor

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

Children’s Clothes

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

Children’s Haircuts

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

Children’s Music Lessons

Fairfield School of Music

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

Children’s Sports/Youth Fitness Training

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

The

TOWN W INNER’S LIST

B E S T

food drink W INNER’S LIST

DINING

Best Service

Allium Eatery alliumeatery.com

Business Lunch Nômade nomadewestport.com

Creative Menu The Cottage thecottage.kitchen

Event Space MoCA Westport mocawestport.org

Event Space/Wedding Venue

The Inn at Longshore innatlongshore.com

Family Friendly Restaurant Little Pub littlepub.com

Hotel Restaurant La Plage laplagewestport.com

New Restaurant Casa Me casamecafe.com

Outdoor Dining bartaco bartaco.com

Pickup/Delivery Option Little Pub littlepub.com

Private Dining/Intimate Venue

Gabriele’s gabrielesofwestportct.com

Special Occasion/Date Night

Gabriele’s gabrielesofwestportct.com

SPECIALTIES

American Little Pub littlepub.com

Asian/Asian Fusion Kawa Ni kawaniwestport.com

Chinese Little Kitchen littlekitchenwestport.com

French Rive Bistro rivebistro.com

Greek Lantern Point Taverna lanternpointtaverna.com

Indian The Naan thenaanct.com

Italian Casa Me casamecafe.com

Japanese Sakura sakurarestaurant.com

Mediterranean Layla’s laylasfalafel.com

Mexican bartaco bartaco.com

Seafood The Whelk thewhelkwestport.com

Spanish Basso bassobistrocafe.com

Steaks

Gabriele’s gabrielesofwestportct.com

Sushi OKO okokitchen.com

Tapas Basso bassobistrocafe.com

Thai Rainbow Thai rainbowthaict.com

above: Pollo Paillard and an Aperol Spritz — the perfect pair for Italian al fresco.

above: Specializing in seafood on the Saugatuck, this dish of warm cabbage, white anchovy, Meyer lemon and pepper preserve has quickly become a summer favorite.

Best Seafood // THE WHELK Best New Restaurant // CASA ME

CASUAL FOOD

Bagels

PopUp Bagels popupbagels.com

Bowls Layla’s laylasfalafel.com

Burritos Mexica mexicawestport.com

Frozen Yogurt Sunny Daes sunnydaesicecream.com

Hamburgers Little Pub littlepub.com

Hot Dogs

Gold’s Delicatessen goldsdelicatessen.com

Ice Cream/Gelato Sunny Daes sunnydaesicecream.com

Noodle Bar/Noodles Kawa Ni kawaniwestport.com

Pizza Pizza Lyfe pizzalyfe.com

Ribs/Barbeque

Walrus Alley walrusalley.com

Salads

Aux Delices auxdelicesfoods.com

DROP-IN SPOTS

Breakfast Studio Café thetailoredhomect.com

Brunch & Café/Bistro Terrain Cafe shopterrain.com

Café/Bistro

Terrain Cafe shopterrain.com

Coffee Shop (independent)

GG & Joe clover.com/online-ordering/ ggandjoe

Deli A & S Fine Foods asfinefoodswestport.com

Diner

Orem’s Diner oremsdiner.com

Health/Organic Food Green & Tonic greenandtonic.com

Juice Bar Green & Tonic greenandtonic.com

Lunch Spot Little Pub littlepub.com

Vegetarian/Health Green & Tonic greenandtonic.com

MARKETS

& CATERING

Bakery The Cake Box ctcakebox.com

Butcher Shop Saugatuck Provisions saugatuckprovisions.com

Cakes/Cup Cakes The Cake Box ctcakebox.com

Desserts/Chocolates

The Painted Cookie paintedcookie.com

Gourmet Grocery

Village Market villagemarketwilton.com

Gourmet To Go Aux Delices auxdelicesfoods.com

Grocery Pickup/Delivery Option

Whole Foods wholefoodsmarket.com

Liquor Store

The Fine Wine Co. thefinewinecompanyofwestport.com

Organic Food Market

Trader Joe’s traderjoes.com

above: A classic pepperoni pizza from Pizza Lyfe is a must-order. Stay tuned for their nearby café opening this summer.

above: The Lyrebird BEC sans bacon from Studio Café.

Best Pizza // PIZZA LYFE

Best Breakfast Drop-In Spot // STUDIO CAFÉ

Seafood Market Fjord fjordfishmarket.com

Wine Shop The Fine Wine Co. thefinewinecompanyofwestport. com

BAR BOASTS

Beer Selection Little Pub littlepub.com

Margaritas bartaco bartaco.com

Martinis Gabriele’s gabrielesofwestportct.com

Outdoor Bar La Plage laplagewestport.com

Pub Little Pub littlepub.com

Restaurant Bar bartaco bartaco.com

Sports Bar Little Pub littlepub.com

Wine Bar Harvest harvestwinebar.com

Wine List

Gabriele’s gabrielesofwestportct.com

Consignment Roundabout roundaboutcouture.com

Department Store Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Designer Boutique Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Eyewear Specs of Westport specsforyou.com

Formal Wear Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Jeans B Chic instagram.com/bchicct

Lingerie Soleil Toile soleiltoile.com

Luxe Leisurewear Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Men’s Fashion Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Men’s Shoes Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

New Shop Penfield Collective penfieldcollective.com

Swimwear

Soleil Toile soleiltoile.com

Teen Fashion B Chic instagram.com/bchicct

Women’s Fashion Mitchells mitchells.mitchellstores.com

Women’s Shoes

FASHION

Accessories

Millie Rae’s millieraes.com

Bridal

Bella Bridesmaids bellabridesmaids.com

Shoes ‘N’ More shoesnmore.com

JEWELRY

Designer Jewelry Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Estate Jewelry

Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Everyday Jewelry JL Rocks jlrocks.com

Fine Jewelry Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Selection of Local Designers JL Rocks jlrocks.com

Special Occasion Jewelry Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Watches Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

Wedding/Engagement

Rings

Lux Bond & Green lbgreen.com

HOME

Antiques/Vintage Bungalow bungalowdecor.com

Appliances Aitoro aitoro.com

Décor The Post thepostct.com

Furniture Serena & Lily serenaandlily.com

Garden Center Terrain Cafe shopterrain.com

Hardware Ring’s End ringsend.com

Home Tech

Untangled theuntangledlife.com

above: The Post’s chic home décor curation ranges from takeaway accessories and gifts to full furnishings. Best Décor // THE POST

Kitchen + Bath

Kohler kohler.com

Lighting Astele astele.com

Linens Fig Linens figlinensandhome.com

Outdoor Furniture Patio.com patio.com

Paint Ring’s End ringsend.com

Pool Design

Glengate glengatecompany.com

Rugs

Redi-Cut redicarpets.com

Stone Gault gaultstone.com

Windows/Doors

Ring’s End ringsend.com

PAMPERING

Blow Out/Updo Bloom bloombeautyct.com

Color Bloom bloombeautyct.com

Cosmetic Spa Dolce Vida dolcevidamedspa.com

Day Spa

Dream Spa & Salon dreamdayspa.com

Eyebrow/Eyelash Services

Feather & Fringe featherandfringect.com

Facial

That Glow to Go thatglowtogo.com

Makeup Application Ultimathule ultimathulesalon.com

Makeup Shop bluemercury bluemercury.com

Mani/Pedi Posh poshct.com

Massage New Beauty & Wellness newbeautywellness.com

Men’s Styling/Salon Westport Cut & Shave westportcutshave.com

Spray Tan

Bronzed by Coy bronzedbycoy.com

Waxing/Hair Removal European Wax Center waxcenter.com

Women’s Styling/Salon Bloom bloombeautyct.com

FITNESS

Activewear Lululemon shop.lululemon.com

Barre Pure Barre purebarre.com

Bicycle Shop Cycle Dynamics cycledynamics.com

Crossfit CrossFit Westport crossfitwestport.com

Dance Fitness Conservatory of Dance conservatory-of-dance.com

Fitness Studio Kaia Yoga kaiayoga.com

Best Massage // NEW BEAUTY & WELLNES

Activewear // LULULEMON

above: New Beauty & Wellness approaches self-care from the inside out with offerings from massages to facials, and weight loss to injectables.

above: Lululemon’s classic matching skirt and sports bra set is one of the stories seasonal bestsellers.

Golf Equipment

Golf Galaxy golfgalaxy.com

Gym Equinox equinox.com

Indoor Cycling SoulCycle soul-cycle.com

Pilates Club Pilates clubpilates.com

Private Fitness Training Eric Johnson linktr.ee/ericmjohnson

Virtual Fitness

Kaia Yoga kaiayoga.com

Yoga

Kaia Yoga kaiayoga.com

FAMILY LIFE

Art Classes

MoCA Westport mocawestport.org

Childcare Goddard School goddardschool.com

Children’s/Baby Décor

She La La shelala.com

Children’s Clothes Around the Rosy aroundtherosy.com

Children’s Haircuts Sharkey’s sharkeyscutsforkids.com

Children’s Music Lessons Wilton Music Studios wiltonmusicstudios.com

Children’s Parties

SSDS Martial Arts of Wilton sdsskungfu.com/wilton

Children’s Sports/Youth Fitness Training

SSDS Martial Arts of Wilton sdsskungfu.com/wilton

Reader's Picks

Best Private Fitness Training // ERIC JOHNSON

College Prep Courses New England Education Consultants needucationconsultants.com

Toy Store Awesome Toys & Gifts awesometoys.com

DAILY ESSENTIALS

Bookstore

Westport Book Shop westportbooksaleventures.org

Car Wash Splash locations.splashcarwashes. com/westport

CBD Store

Your CBD Store yourcbdstoregreenwich.com

Dry Cleaning

Dean Cleaners of Westport deancleanersofwestport.com

Fine Art Gallery

Sorelle Gallery sorellegallery.com

Florist Compo Farm compofarmflowers.com

Gift Shop

Classically Cate classicallycateboutique.com

Local Hotel

The Inn at Longshore innatlongshore.com

Pet Groomer/Pet Spa

Cannondale Animal Clinic cannondaleanimalclinic.com

Pet Supplies/Clothing Earth Animal earthanimal.com

Shoe Repair Westfair

Stationery/Formal Invitations

The Write Stuff thewritestuffct.com

Storage Westy westy.com

Tailor

Greenfield Cleaners greenfieldcleanerct.com

Veterinarian

Cannondale Animal Clinic cannondaleanimalclinic.com

above: Celebrity trainer and wellness guru Eric Johnson is in expansion mode; get ready for his playground for performance recess.fit opening this summer on Turkey Hill.

2024 SEASON

MAY 18 NEIL YOUNG + CRAZY HORSE

MAY 24 THE BEACH BOYS W/ DAVE MASON

YOUR SUMMER CONCERT HOME!

MAY 31 COLE SWINDELL W/ DYLAN SCOTT & MACKENZIE CARPENTER

JUNE 1 THE BRYSON TILLER TOUR

JUNE 13 TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVE W/ BIG BOI

JUNE 14 BONNIE RAITT

JUNE 18 NIALL HORAN

JUNE 20 JAY WHEELER

JUNE 21 BILLY CURRINGTON W/ LARRY FLEET & REDFERRIN

JUNE 23 SARAH MCLACHLAN W/ FEIST

JUNE 28 LAINEY WILSON W/ IAN MUNSICK & ZACH TOP

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

JULY 24 SAMMY HAGAR W/ LOVERBOY

JULY 26 / 27 BILLY STRINGS

JULY 30 CHICAGO AND EARTH, WIND & FIRE

AUG 2 QUEENS OF R&B: XSCAPE & SWV

AUG 3 311 W/ AWOLNATION & NEON TREES

AUG 6 CREED W/ TONIC & FINGER ELEVEN

AUG 9 THE DOOBIE BROTHERS W/ STEVE WINWOOD

AUG 17 STRAY CATS

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

JULY 5 JASON MRAZ W/ RIPE

JULY 14 RAIN – A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES

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

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

JULY 19 JORDAN DAVIS W/ MITCHELL TENPENNY

JULY 20 BRIT FLOYD

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

AUG 18 WHISKEY MYERS W/ BLACKBERRY SMOKE & EDDIE FLINT

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

AUG 22 IMPRACTICAL JOKERS

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

AUG 30 YOUNG MIKO

AUG 31 WALKER HAYES W/ KYLIE MORGAN & TENILLE ARTS

SEPT 3 DEEP PURPLE W/ YES

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

SEPT 14 KILLER QUEEN W/ VOYAGE

SEPT 15 JANE’S ADDICTION AND LOVE & ROCKETS

SEPT 22 THE PRICE IS RIGHT LIVE

SEPT 25 THE MARLEY BROTHERS

SEPT 26 MT. JOY

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

A Love Letter to Westport

by meg young

Dear Westport,

When I moved here a er growing up in Maine, I le New York and ventured westward to chase my California dream. ere I met my husband Brian, and together we welcomed two little rays of sunshine, our daughters, into our home.

Brian was hesitant to brave another New England winter, though, so we decided to explore a new home in California. We looked all the over the SoCal coast, from Santa Barbara to San Diego, but for one reason or another, nothing felt right. Yet, fate had its way, and a er just two eeting visits to Connecticut, we dove head rst and chose Westport as our home.

We made a somewhat risky and impulsive move having spent only a small amount of time here. But as we approach our second anniversary in Westport, I couldn’t imagine a more idyllic place to live or raise a family.

As an entrepreneur in the home and design industry, I have a strong a nity for beauty in architecture and landscape. In every season, I revel in the beauty of my surroundings. From the ery hues of autumn that ignite the town, to the pink and white blossoms that grace the trees in spring and the lush hydrangeas of summer, the scenery never ceases to enchant. e streets, lined with centuries-old homes and perfectly manicured lawns all framed by a breathtaking coastline, feel like something out of a storybook.

e coastline lls me with such joy, and I make it a point to get to the beach several times a week. Whether it’s taking a weekday run to the water or a quick drive, the beach is my sanctuary. Even on the chilliest of winter days, it’s a place where I nd solace and peace.

e downtown, bustling yet intimate, is the heartbeat of the community. It’s big enough to feel exciting but small enough to not feel overwhelming or impersonal. Also, what a gi to live somewhere with such an amazing public education system for my children!

And let’s not forget the arts. While Broadway may be a train ride away, there’s nothing quite like the magic and intimacy of the Country Playhouse. is year alone, I had the privilege of attending performances by legendary actors Audra MacDonald and Bernadette Peters.

But perhaps Westport’s greatest gi is its people. If I could create a place of my dreams, it would be Westport. With its coastal charm, artistic air and, most of all, incredible community, I am endlessly grateful to call this amazing town home.

50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON * TICKETS ON SALE:

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