Fast New Eats in Fairfield

If you’ve driven down the Post Road in Fairfield Center lately, you may have noticed the bright yellow food truck parked outside the library.  Christophe’s Crepes began serving up crepes-on-the-go late this summer and has been going strong ever since.  Reminiscent of the street-side crepe carts I first experienced in Paris almost 20 years ago, Christophe, a Frenchman, whips up fresh crepes to order right in front of you.  Both savory and sweet crepes are available--- among the offerings are ham or turkey and mozzarella, jam filled crepes, Nutella crepes (with or without freshly sliced banana), chocolate and toasted almond, to name a few.  He also serves fresh Belgian waffles!   So whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a mid-afternoon sweet snack, be sure to say “bonjour” to Christophe in the crepe truck .

Christophe’s Crepe Truck

(646) 596-6879

Parked on the Post Road in Fairfield Center midday (not on rainy days).  Also available for catering/parties.

ChiliBomb Chili Factory is the newest addition to Fairfield’s Black Rock Turnpike.  Opened in September, ChiliBomb serves 6 types of chili daily.  Traditional chuck wagon chili, vegetarian chili, and the award winning Chipotle Turkey Chili are among the daily offerings.  The OMG Chili is for professional eaters only--- it is made with ‘ghost peppers’, one of the hottest peppers out there.  The menu is gigantic and a little confusing with all its bomb-themed names for everything.  However,  the staff is extremely enthusiastic and very willing to explain the dozens of combinations to be made with chili, toppings, and sides.  You may need an interpreter on your first visit, but once you figure out that it’s really simply a matter of choosing a type of chili, whether you want it served on top of something (like a potato, rice or in a burrito), and what toppings you’d like, you’ll be rewarded with a yummy hot meal (although my suggestion would be for them to check out the super-simple menu boards at Chipotle Mexican for inspiration!)  ChiliBomb also serves burgers, hot dogs, fries and mac & cheese.   It’s definitely a nice change of pace from the usual lunchtime sandwich, or a great alternative to take-out! 

ChiliBomb Chili Factory

2445 Black Rock Turnpike (next door to Swanson’s Fish Store), Fairfield
(203)372-BOMB  www.chilibomb.com
Monday-Saturday, 11am-8pm.  Sunday, 11am-4pm

What's New in Fairfield: Pancakes & Crepes!

Whenever my parents visit from out of state, they always make the same comment.  "It doesn't look like there is a recession in Fairfield!"  Based on the fact that it seems like more new restaurants/food spots have been opening lately than have been closing, I'd have to agree.  Maybe we Fairfielders are just in a state of denial, or we just love a good meal out!  Now, right in the same neighborhood there are two new choices for griddled goodness...Chip's and Bon Appetit Creperie.

Chip's, a family-friendly pancake house popular in Orange since 1966, has now opened a Fairfield outpost in the former Blockbuster Video space on the corner of Black Rock Turnpike and Tunxis Hill Cut Off.  They have over 40 varieties of pancakes which you can order as a full stack, a short stack, or as silver dollar pancakes.  They also have omelets, French toast, and Belgian waffles, in addition to a full lunch menu.  I loved one of the house specialities, German Apple pancakes, which had the apples cooked right into the batter, rather than only on top.  They also have several different flavored syrups, which is just sort of fun.  If you go on a weekend, arrive by 8:30 to avoid a line, but if you do get there later, rest-assured that the giant line does move very quickly.  The restaurant is huge and the tables do turn over fairly quickly.

Just a few blocks north you'll encounter Bon Appetit Cafe and Creperie, now open on the bottom level of the Billy's Bakery building at 1879 Black Rock Turnpike.  I'd heard raves about it, so recently checked it out myself.  The dessert crepes definitely lived up to the hype.  My favorite was the simple jam-filled wheat crepes...light, sweet and delicious.  My friends all loved the Nutella crepes, but there were so many delicious sounding varieties you could go back a dozen times and never have the same one twice. The entree crepes were made mostly from buckwheat and everyone in my party agreed we would have preferred the lighter regular wheat variety, but enjoyed the different fillings (I liked the prosciutto and goat cheese, and my girlfriends enjoyed the smoked salmon filled variety).  The many sandwiches on offer also sounded wonderful (the Croque Monsieur and Croque Madame are calling my name), so I will definitely go back soon to try those. The cafe is definitely a welcome addition to the ever-expanding diversity of Fairfield eateries!

Read about more new Fairfield food openings in the SportsPlex (Cinch and The Stand Juice Company) on my blog for the Connecticut News at :
http://blog.ctnews.com/holleran/

Farm-to-Table, Delivered Fresh to Your Doorstep!

GrazeDelivered began in our area about a year ago, and delievers artisinal foods, prepared meals, and farm fresh meat throughout Fairfield County.  The idea came about when Westport mom, Christy Colasurdo, teamed up with Vermont-based friend Julianna Doherty Konczal, to bring quality foods being produced by small, family run farms to a wider market.  By keeping prices on par with WholeFoods, they are hoping to gain a loyal client base who want the added convenience of free delivery to their door.   Think Peapod, but with high-quality, Vermont-sourced, artisinal foods.  It's the perfect solution for busy people who want to feed their family wholesome, pesticide-free, minimally processed, regionally produced foods without having to squeeze in several trips to the market each week.

Speaking of convenience, my favorite thing about Graze is the "bistro", where you can order a wide variety of homemade prepared meals and/or recipe kits for busy families.  Everything is made with "the best seasonal Vermont produce, meat and cheeses." Dishes can be ordered a la carte and are packed in small portions for families with diverse tastes and/or eating schedules.  A special 'kid-friendly' menu includes options like free-range chicken tenders (which are also  gluten-free),  mini-meatballs, and taco kits, which include pre-marinated, cooked meat wrapped up with all the fixings.  The whole family will love the weekly pizza or burger kits, and those with grown-up palates won't want to miss the "globally inspired" or "traditional" dish of the week.  There are plenty of other prepared options, including vegetarian and gluten-free entrees, plus soups, salads, sides, grains, pestos, and salsas.

I barely got our first delivery unpacked before my kids tore open the bags of freshly baked raspberry mini-muffins.  Our fresh milk, probiotic yogurt, and farm fresh eggs made for a perfect start to our busy day.  Our order included a Pizza Kit, which was a pre-baked flatbread pizza crust, sauce, grated mozzarella, and lots of freshly cut veggies including colorful peppers, onions, and mushrooms.  The kids loved assembling our dinner and I loved the convenience of needing only to turn on the oven (or grill, had it not been pouring rain!).  We also tried the tender chicken fingers and mini-meatballs packed in a delicious tomato sauce.  It felt good knowing all the meat came from animals raised in a sustainable and humane environment.  My husband and I enjoyed the "globally inspired" butternut squash ravioli with maple cream sauce and chicken entree.  The portions (ours served two) were so simple to heat up on a busy evening and took the stress out of dinnertime.

Even if you love too cook and don't want prepared foods, Graze is also a great way to get Vermont farm-fresh milk, eggs, artisan cheeses, hormone/antibiotic/nitrate-free meats, and even baked goods as part of a weekly delivery.  Like with the bistro items, you can choose to have a standing order, or you can switch it up each delivery based on your needs that particular week.  They really have all your bases covered.  They didn't even forget Fido!  Organic, Vermont-made dog food and biscuits are all part of the fun!

I'm such a big fan of eating seasonally, eating locally, and supporting our regional sustainable-practices farms.  By combining Graze Delivered with a CSA share or trip to a local farmers market for fresh Connecticut-grown fruits and veggies, you may never need to go to the grocery store again!   Cheers to that!

GrazeDelivered
www.grazedelivered.com
1-888-WE GRAZE

Click here for more information about Tracy's Connecticut cooking classes at The Secret Ingredient Cooking School, or to read her other blog, Season to Taste.

"What's Cooking?" on Connecticut Channel 12

The Secret Ingredient is what's cooking!

You may have seen me on Channel 12 over the weekend demonstrating one of my very favorite side dishes, a Black Bean Salad with Cilantro.  As promised, here's the recipe!  Enjoy!

Black Bean Salad with Cilantro

Serves 6 as a side dish

 2 cans black beans, drained and rinsed

½ cup diced carrot

½ cup diced red pepper

2 scallions (green parts only), sliced thinly

3 tablespoons chopped cilantro

For the dressing:

1 clove garlic

¼ cup red wine vinegar

½ cup olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine beans, carrots, peppers, and scallions in a large bowl.  Prepare the dressing by combining  the garlic, and vinegar in a small bowl.  While whisking, add the olive oil in a steady stream to create an emulsion.  Season to taste with salt and pepper.  Pour over the salad and mix gently but thoroughly (gently to avoid mashing the beans).  Add the chopped cilantro and mix again.  Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.  

This can be made up to one day in advance.  Store in refrigerator in an airtight container.  Check seasonings before serving.

Click here for more information about Tracy's Connecticut cooking classes at The Secret Ingredient Cooking School, or to read her other blog, Season to Taste.

Restaurants: Artisan at The Delamar Southport

**My below review of Artisan originally appeared on SuzySaid.com on July 25, 2011.

The highly anticipated Artisan Restaurant opened in the Delamar Southport Hotel on July 13 and has been going strong ever since.  Described as “New England inspired cuisine influenced by the rhythm of the season and the farmstead offerings,” Artisan hits the mark

When we first arrived and glimpsed Artisan’s large, beautifully appointed garden patio in the hotel courtyard, we felt transported somewhere far from of Fairfield.  Outfitted with a full-service bar, it is a perfect spot for pre- or post-dinner cocktails.  Large, comfortable chairs dotted with brightly colored throw pillows surround candlelit cocktail tables.  Along the patio’s perimeter are cushioned banquets and tables for dining, and against the building is a large pergola complete with dining tables and ceiling fans (which were much appreciated the steamy evening we visited).  Inside, the beautifully lit space boasts a nice tavern area which gives way to the large yet intimate-feeling dining room.  There is even a funky glassed-in private room for groups up to ten.  The entire restaurant is bathed in creams and sages and oversized floral designs grace two of the walls.  The atmosphere outside felt very hip (my husband, fresh off a west-coast business trip, was getting a California vibe).  Inside was a bit more subdued, but had plenty of energy and was a great setting for a meal.

And then there was the food!  The menu was nicely balanced with inventive dishes, some of which would appeal to the more adventurous and others that would suit the meat-and-potatoes crowd.  To start, I chose the “tuna crudo, watermelon, tomato, avocado with citron essence”.  The gorgeous cubes of sashimi-grade raw tuna were beautifully presented in checkerboard-like circle with the cubed tomato, avocado and yellow watermelon, and was topped with shaved radishes and a citron drizzle.  It was absolutely fabulous.  My husband chose the Connecticut oysters and Cape Cod clams from the raw bar which were super-fresh and briny.  For an entrée, I chose the local striped bass with a tomato-squash gratin  (although they ended up substituting halibut—a change of which they informed me).  I was presented with a perfectly cooked, moist filet served over a tasty mélange of vegetables .  My husband ordered the sea scallops over mushrooms, English peas, and roasted tomatoes, which was equally delicious.  As for wine, we were presented with only a list of selections by the glass, with 5-6 wines in each category, plus two rosés.  Although not extensive, the list had enough of a selection to make everyone happy and was not overwhelming.

Amazingly, we found room for dessert.  I didn’t get past the first listing.  “Fresh strawberries with  balsamic essence, rosemary biscuit and basil ice cream”...done!  The amazing basil ice cream was presented alongside a strawberry sorbet, over the biscuits with small, sugary sweet strawberries rimming the plate.  My mouth is watering all over again just describing it.  Everything at Artisan was really excellent and I cannot wait to return.  It might just be my new favorite spot!

Artisan

275 Old Post Road, Southport, CT 06890 

(203)307-4222 for reservations

Serving dinner 7 days a week, starting at 5:30pm.  Breakfast and lunch service to begin Monday, August  1, 2011.

Appetizers $8-14, Entrees $24-38, Wines by the glass $8-18

Summer at Pinkberry

I've blogged about Pinkberry before, but I needed to add a new post because I'm pretty certain the new summer flavors were created especially for me.  I don't know how they managed to get into my head, but they succeeded in choosing two of my very favorite flavors of all time: watermelon and salted caramel. 

In addition to the standard flavors available (original vanilla, chocolate, pomegranate,and  coconut), seasonal flavors are added to the mix every few months.  Watermelon temporarily replaced the mango flavor for the summer, but fear not, mango will be back. Much like the mango, the watermelon is fresh tasting and a little on the tangy side.  If you like yogurt, you'll LOVE this, but even if you don't, you'll still love it. 

On the complete other side of the spectrum is the salted caramel.  Sweet and salty all at the same time, it's absolutely delicious.  If you prefer the chocolate to the vanilla at Pinkberry, you'll love this summer flavor.  I tried it with crushed sugar cone and a sprinkling of salt on top.  Yum doesn't really begin to describe how much I loved this.

As I mentioned in my last post, I love all the fresh fruit toppings available at Pinkberry, but for those of you wanting to indulge there are plenty of sweets to satisfy you.  After swirling and topping your treat, the staff always passes your dish to you with two hands, as if they are presenting you with a gift.  Speaking of staff, they work very hard at Pinkberry, preparing the toppings fresh every day, plus making brand new batches of every flavor every single morning.  No left over fro-yo here.  The machines are completely emptied, cleaned and disinfected every single night.  I'm not sure I ever gave too much thought to this before, but I like the idea of everything being completely fresh. 

Owner Jamie Karsen, a Fairfield-based former corporate CEO turned dessert purveyor, says a second Connecticut Pinkberry is on tap to open in Greenwich soon.  I'm just glad Fairfield got in on the action when it did.  For me (and my kids), dinner at Colony Grill and a hop next door to Pinkberry for dessert sounds like just about the most delicious Fairfield family outing!

Open daily 11:30am-11:00pm
1512 Post Road
Fairfield, CT 06824-5911
(203) 292-9366
Website

Restaurants: What's Shakin' in Fairfield

Lots of exciting food news in Fairfield this summer!

Perhaps the most highly anticipated opening is that of Shake Shack on the Fairfield/Westport border (across the street from Home Goods).  For those of you not familiar with Danny Meyer's "roadside burger stand", it's a whole lot more than just great shakes (my friend Anne over at SuzySaid promises the caramel shakes are the best on earth!).  I can also tell you the burgers are fab-u-lous.  My husband works across the street from the original location in Madison Square Park, which opened in 2004 and became an instant hit with the New York lunch crowd and especially my family.  The lines start forming around 11am and continue throughout the afternoon.  I like to order the namesake "ShackBurger" which is a burger (single or double) made from a high-quality, vegetarian-fed, hormone-and-antibiotic-free blend of meats, American cheese, lettuce, tomato and "Shack Sauce" on a soft, yummy bun.  I usually get fries and a black-and-white shake to go with it, which all together runs around $12.  Shake Shack will hopefully be opening early this summer---but the sooner, the better!  Can you tell I'm VERY excited????

A few other exciting Fairfield soon-to-be-openings:

Bon Appetit Creperie is under construction on the lower level of the Billy's Bakery building on Black Rock Turnpike. If their crepes are anything like the ones I had on the streets of Paris or even the ones I used to get from a little hole-in-the-wall near Washington Square Park in NYC, Fairfielders are in for a TREAT. Details to follow!
Bodega is opening later this week at 1700 Post Road in the former What's Cooking location (the grey plaza across the street from St. Thomas RC Church). Tacos, margaritas, and more, which will be a great addition to Fairfield's food scene.  Early pre-opening buzz is that everything is excellent!  Rumor has it we're also getting a Chipotle soon as well!  Keep your ears and eyes open!

By now you've probably all heard that Whole Foods  finally opened June 3rd on Grasmere Avenue in Fairfield (right next to Home Depot).  Amazingly, I'm the only one in my family who has yet to venture over there, but I'm very excited for what is always a great selection of organics, prepared foods, great produce, and bulk-foods!

If you have any buzz-worthy food items in and around Fairfield, leave a comment or drop me a line at tracy@thesecretingredientonline.com!

For more information on my cooking classes go to www.TheSecretIngredientOnline.com , or to read my recipe blog, go to www.seasontotasteblog.wordpress.com.

Happy summer!!

Restaurants: Recent Discoveries in Fairfield County

It seems I've been doing a lot of eating out lately, and have tried to check out some new/newer places instead of frequenting my old favorites.  Here are some places I've been recently....it's a huge mix of places that span the spectrum.  All good, depending on what kind of mood you're in...

Nice night out:
The Pine Social, New Canaan, CT
I am usually suspect of restaurants in shopping plazas.  However, although a Walgreen's anchors one end of this new and quite-attractive plaza, the second you step in the door, everything that was left behind you is immediately forgotten.  The ambiance is fantastic.  The lighting is great and the vibe is energetic, but not too loud that you can't hear your friends.  The space has a nice bar (although not lots of extra room for standing--we were lucky two people were getting up from the bar as we walked in), lots of wood accents and comfy, tonal colors.  I felt as though we were in a uber-cool club lodge of some sort.  And then there was the food.  I have to say that every single thing we ate was excellent.  With the one exception of my husband's Filet Mignon not being cooked as he requested (it was too rare for him, but perfect for me), our meal was fabulous (we shared the tri-color salad and the calamari, I had the duck for my entree, and we shared Pots du Creme with pistachio biscotti for dessert).  Our server was friendly, attentive, and helpful.  What was best is somehow we managed to snag the front booth that overlooks the lounge area where they had a musician playing guitar and singing a great array of songs new and old.   I would highly recommend Pine Social both for groups or a romantic date night. 

Perfect weeknight outing:
Kiraku, Fairfield, CT
As a devotee of Wild Rice in Fairfield, I was hard-pressed to try another Asian-fusion restaurant, but I'm sure glad I did.  Kiraku is relatively new to town and is in a completely renovated space that once housed Al's Place (on the Post Road near the intersection with Mill Plain Road).  The space is narrow and not as open as Wild Rice, but the lighting and ambiance were good.  I went with my two kids, and we all shared an assortment of dishes.  My girls are dumpling-divas, and both gave the thumbs-up on these huge, plump and very juicy pork dumplings.  We also had a noodle and chicken dish which I thought was excellent, plus a selection of sushi rolls.  The food was great, service was extremely attentive.  Definitely a place I'll return.

Venturing out:
Taberna, Bridgeport, CT
Years ago I ripped out an ad from the newspaper for Taberna.  It has been pinned to my bulletin board ever since, and for some reason, I never made it there.  We often eat out with friends and I'm usually hesitant to suggest a restaurant to which I've never been, or for which I do not have a personal recommendation.  This was one of those places.  When a friend said she'd been and enjoyed it, my husband and I ventured up Bridgeport's Madison Avenue (past Tuscany, another great eatery to which you should venture) to check it out.  More of a mix of Italian and Spanish than strictly Spanish ("Mediterranean fusion" they call it) and not so much a tapas place as a regular restaurant (not sure where I got the idea it WAS tapas), the food was very good.  Granted there were only two of us and we didn't try a wide selection from the menu, but I have to say everything we ate was excellent.  I particularly enjoyed the fresh anchovy salad (it's delicious, despite what you might think about anchovies) and the homemade light-as-air ricotta gnocchi.  The service was excellent too. 

When you're hungry, day or night:
Mike's Pizza, Fairfield, CT
Why it took me 10 years to try a place that I've come to find out is a Fairfield institution is beyond me.  The newly-renovated space is a perfect place to take kids for a great casual meal.  My kids LOVE it and have proclaimed the hamburgers 'the best EVER'.  I think part of it is that they love that the owner waits on us and is so friendly and accommodating.  It's a real family owned, family focused restaurant that makes you extra happy not to be in some awful chain eating frozen chicken fingers.  The food is good but not fancy.  It is a great spot for basic Italian food, Greek-style pizza, simple salads, sandwiches, etc.  Their signature dish is the chicken turnover, which is a little like a calzone, but instead of ricotta cheese inside, it is a breaded chicken cutlet, tomato sauce and mozzarella wrapped up in pizza dough and baked.  Okay, a little carb-heavy, but really tasty!  And yes, they have beer and wine too.  Perfect for lunch or dinner with the kids.

Click to learn more about my Connecticut cooking classes or read my Season To Taste food blog.


Above photo from Flickr.com

Restaurants: Avellino's, Fairfield, CT

I cannot explain why I hadn't been to Avellino's in years.  I remember being there with my extended family for some sort of special dinner.  I remember the food being good.  I remember not having any complaints.  What I do not remember is why it took me something like five years to go back.  I can only chalk it up to the fact that I love trying new restaurants, and lately it seems like something new is opening every five minutes.

When a group of our friends all decided to go out to dinner recently, we had a few requirements.  We wanted to eat in Fairfield Center, we wanted a place that takes reservations (so many places will not take them it seems), and we wanted a cuisine that everyone would enjoy.  I'd just had a conversation with someone about Avellino's, so I suggested it and it was settled. 

The menu and food were excellent.  Our group tried a few different salads (the Formaggio di Capra --above--was the hands-down favorite---a salad of baby greens, warm goat cheese, dried cherries, candied walnuts and pears) and antipasti.  We ordered a wide vareity of delicious entrees, including Veal Brasiola, Seafood Risotto, swordfish, and pastas.  One pasta dish, a classic orechette with broccoli rabe and sausage was ordered by two of my friends.  The waiter happily substituted regular broccoli for the broccoli rabe, and even asked if they prefered their sausage sliced or crumbled (they did one of each).  Judging by the "mmmms" and clean plates around the table, everyone was very happy with what they ordered.

The service was also excellent.  As I mentioned, not only was the waiter friendly, but more than happy to meet our various requests for substitutions and changes to the menu.  He also committed our entire order to memory---seven people with seven drinks, seven first courses, and seven entrees (with all our changes!), and got every single thing correct.  A seasonsed professional for sure.  When I asked for additional grated cheese he suggested I try the dish first fearing the cheese may make it taste oversalted, and sure enough, he was spot on--no extra cheese was needed. It was perfect as is.  This is a man who knew his way around the menu.  After we were all too full for dessert, he even brought us a little sample of a special dessert they were serving that evening just so we could taste it...on the house. 

The entire evening was a great experience.  I wish the lighting was a little more subdued (we all commented on how it seemed too bright in the dining room), but everything else was fantastic.  Again, I have no idea what took me so long to go back to Avellino's, but you can be sure I'll be going there again very soon! 

Avellino's
1813 Post Road (near the Mill Plain Road intersection)
Fairfield, CT  06824
(203) 254-2339

Lunch:  Monday through Friday 11:00 - 2:30PM
Dinner: Sunday through Thursday 4:30 - 9:30, Friday & Saturday 4:30 -10:30

Photos from Avellinosfairfield.com. 

Click to learn more about my Connecticut cooking classes or read my Season To Taste food blog.

Restaurants: BONDA, Fairfield, CT

BONDA

Bonda is back…and this time it’s right in Fairfield! Bonda was previously located in Westport near the train station, and was better known as a take-out/catering establishment called Abbondanza. In fact, for ages I thought it was only for take-out, and did not realize that to the left of the catering store-front was a fabulous, sit-down restaurant. Luckily for me, we have Westport friends who were ‘in the know’ and shared this gem with us. However, apparently I wasn’t the only one who was misinformed about Bonda’s identity, and so prompted the relocation and switch to become a full-service restaurant, and only a full-service restaurant.

Owner and executive chef Jamie Cooper is thrilled about relocating to Fairfield, on Hillside Road in the former La Colline Verte space (more recently this spot housed Fraiche). As a native Fairfielder, Cooper seems happy to be working close to home, focusing on what he does best, which is turning out great food in a fun, funky, beautifully designed space. For those of you who previously dined at this location, you will barely recognize the new Bonda dining room. Decked out in the signature Bonda-bright orange, Cooper’s wife Kim was the creative eye behind the renovation. The first thing you’ll notice upon entry is a full bar, perfect for before or after-dinner cocktails. According to Cooper, it is the first bar in Greenfield Hill in over one hundred years. The bar then gives way to the first of two dining rooms, both decked out with oversized vintage prints. The back room is more intimate with its aubergine-colored walls, for a quieter dining experience. However, the vibe in both rooms manages to be classic and hip all at the same time.
The food at Bonda is as reliably delicious as it was at the Westport location. Each of the several times I’ve dined, my meal has been excellent. The cuisine is best described as “new American” as it borrows from many cultures but does not focus on just one (menu will be online soon). Cooper said when developing his menu he chose to include a variety of options so meals at Bonda could range from a casual burger (the Bonda Burger has caramelized onions and cheddar and is served on a toasted English muffin), to a fancier ‘special occasion’ meal (you’ll love the Grilled Romaine with Parsley-Caper Vinaigrette as a starter and Pan Roasted Wild Pacific Salmon over Cauliflower-White Bean Puree as an entree). Some of the other dishes I particularly enjoyed are the classic Iceberg Wedge with Organic Berkshire Bacon, the Fresh Papparadelle with Braised Rabbit Ragu, and the Maple Brined Pork Chop with Butternut-Sage Mash.

Lately it seems as though Fairfield has become quite the dining destination, and Bonda just made it even better.

BONDA
75 Hillside Road
Fairfield, CT
203-292-9555
http://www.bondarestaurant.com/
Open for dinner Tuesday-Saturday beginning at 5:00pm

For more information on my Connecticut cooking classes, check out The Secret Ingredient Cooking School website, or my Season to Taste blog for everyday recipe ideas!

Now Open in Fairfield: Tasti D Lite AND Pinkberry

Fairfield is now the home of not one, but two new 'ice cream' shops.  They amazingly opened practically the same week, and from the buzz I hear around town, have already developed cult-like followings.  Both are chains better known in other parts of the country, but particularly in New York City.  Tasti D Lite actually opened it's doors in NYC in 1987 and has been popular ever since.  Pinkberry, a relative newcomer to the scene,  began in California in 2005, but has also become extremely popular in NYC.

The similarities between the two are many---both tout a healthier alternative to ice cream.  Both are relatively low-calories; a small serving of Tasti D Lite will run you between 70-100 calories, where the same small serving at Pinkberry is 100-140 calories (depending on flavor).  They each have a dizzying number of variations and fresh toppings. However, that's where it ends---the flavors are really entirely different.

Tasti D Lite, located in the Staples Plaza (which seems like a poorly selected location, in my opinion), is ice cream made from non-fat milk, so it actually tastes like ice cream, and is surprisingly creamy considering there is less than 3% butterfat (most ice creams have up to 10%).  Pinkberry, in a comparably fantastic location right on the Post Road in Fairfield, is actual frozen yogurt with live cultures, and it tastes tangy like yogurt.  So, it is really a matter of personal choice---you are either more of an ice cream person or a yogurt person (I won't tell you which I am). 

Both have a fairly limited number of actual flavors being swirled (no "31 Flavors" here), but have a lot of topping choices. Tasti D Lite had Chocolate,Vanilla, Red Velvet, and Oreo-Peanut Butter "on tap" as they said, but also has at least a million flavor combinations they will make for you right there (which blends in various toppings and flavored syrups).  Pinkberry also had the traditional chocolate and vanilla, plus mango, pomegranate, coconut and pumkin (seasonal).  The toppings ranged from freshly cut fruit, toasted nuts, granola, and then more sinful options like chocolate chips and even rainbow sugar cereal.  I have to admit that in both shops I was a little overwhelmed with too many choices. 

I think because of Pinkberry's great location (right next to Colony Grill) and the media blitz it received, business has been gangbusters.  There has been a line out the door every single time I've passed by.  The times I've been to Tasti D Lite have been a little off-hours, but it wasn't enjoying the luck as it's downtown competition (but is at least three times the physical size).  But, as people get out to try both, I have a feeling people will start showing their allegiances...you either like yogurt or you don't.  But if you don't, then you have to be willing to drive a little out of the way if you want that lower-cal alternative to Dairy Queen.

You never can have enough ice cream....so I wish them both the very best of luck!

Learn more about Tracy's Connecticut cooking classes or find her recipes on her Season To Taste blog.

Post Road Food Finds in Fairfield

Today marks the opening of the much anticipated Colony Grill on the Post Road in Fairfield (in the former Fairfield Stationers space). I, for one, cannot WAIT to go, as I'm still thinking about that delicious 'hot oil pie' I had in the original Stamford location a couple months ago. If you've never experienced the hot oil pie, do not let the name turn you away. The thin crust pizzas drizzled with a spicy 'hot oil' are to die for! NY Rangers captain and Olympian Chris Drury is one of the owners...so keep your eyes peeled!

I also tried Gofer Ice Cream last night, also on the Post Road (next to Fin Sushi). They have lots of hard ice cream flavors (including Cookie Monster--a neon blue ice cream with cookie dough, sure to tempt your kids and stain their insides), plus soft serve, including a fat-free, no sugar-added option called Gofer Lite, which is surprisingly creamy and tasty. The Post Road was in dire need of a kid-friendly ice cream shop ever since Baskin Robbins closed several years ago. Gofer to the rescue!

A little further down the Post Road, The Beach Cafe re-opened as The Shack Hometown Grill, which has a more streamlined, barbeque-inspired menu. Despite the great space, the Beach Cafe's menu was all over the place and never found it's niche. The Shack is a great family-friendly re-incarnation, and the bar scene is definitely hopping after-hours. I've gone a few times with my kids and everyone was happy (and they ALSO happen to have Cookie Monster ice cream on the kiddie menu---go figure).

Also soon to open are the Old Post Tavern (on the corner next to the Community Theatre), and The Greenhouse Grill (in the former Sarabande location on Unquowa Place). Unlike "Main Streets" in other towns, Fairfield is doing an excellent job of keeping lots of restaurants coming in, which makes for a much livelier downtown scene after the stores and banks have closed for the evening. Keep up the good work, Fairfield!

For more information on my Connecticut cooking classes, check out The Secret Ingredient Cooking School website, or my Season to Taste blog for everyday recipe ideas!

Restaurants: Crumbs Bake Shop, Westport, CT

Over the summer while I was window shopping at the Westport Tiffany's something off the beaten path caught my eye. Nestled behind Tiffany's and across the street from the Westport Public Library lies a (relatively) new confectionery mecca, Crumbs Bake Shop. Crumbs is a chain featuring gourmet cupcakes and has several locations in the Tri-State area, including the new spot in Westport, plus New Canaan and Stamford (and MANY in New York City). They also have shops in California, but the rest of the country will have to wait for such luxury.

The store sells coffee and other drinks, plus cookies, brownies and other baked goods, but the cupcakes are clearly the centerpiece of the shop. They are huge and beautiful! They are sold individually ($3.75 for the large, gourmet cupcakes, $2.50 for the smaller plain ones), or in "Taste Packs" which include a dozen mini cupcakes. They are not cheap, but they really do make quite a splash.

Chocolate lovers will be in heaven with favorites such as "Brownie", "Oreo", "Blackout" and "Fudge Chocolate Chip"---as I was with "Squiggle" which is a homemade version of my favorite old-school Hostess creme-filled cupcakes. Those looking for something a little different will enjoy the "Cosmopolitan", "Key Lime Pie", "Fluffernutter", or "Red Velvet". However, I found the chocolaty-flavored cupcakes to have much richer flavor and better moisture.

Crumbs cupcakes are huge and really very pretty. I think anyone would be thrilled beyond belief to receive these as a hostess gift, or they'd be a gorgeous alternative to cake for any occasion. Pricey, yes, but very impressive!

Crumbs Bake Shop

40-44 Post Rd

Westport, CT 06880

203-226-1000
Hours:

Mon - Tues: 8:00am - 9:00pm, Wed - Thurs: 8:00am - 10:00pm, Fri - Sat: 8:00am - 11:00pm, Sun: 8:00am - 9:00pm

Top photo from Crumbs.com

Ommegang: Belgian-Style Beer Brewed in NY

On a recent trip to visit my family in upstate New York, we decided to finally take a tour of the Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown. Mind you, the brewery has been there for years, but I'm not sure what on earth took me so long to get there!

Ommegang began brewing in Belgium in 1549. In 1997, it opened a US microbrewery on a former hops farm right outside of Cooperstown. Recently, Ommegang was "upgraded" to a regional brewery, and distributes its beer all over the United States.

Driving up to the beautiful, huge, cream colored Belgian barn-style buildings, you feel like you're in Napa. Luckily for us, a tour was just beginning as we arrived, so we jumped right in and began learning about the Belgian brewing process. We started in the "kitchen" room where all the ingredients are mixed at the beginning of the process, and followed it all the way through to the bottling room, then to the fermentation room where the bottled beer sits at 85 degrees for two additional weeks before getting shipped out to distributors. Unlike other beers which have a limited shelf life, Ommegang beers actually improve with age, like fine wine. In fact, the brewery has been leasing "cave space" in the nearby Howe Caverns, but will soon be digging "a great big hole" (as described by our adorable tour guide) on the brewery property to simulate their own cave-aging conditions. The guide assured us that their beer is great to drink right away, but true beer connoisseurs may prefer the taste of the aged brews.

Then it was tasting time!! In all, we tried six beers. We started "light" and tried the Belgian white Witte (my favorite), with flavors of orange peel and coriander. We then moved on to golden Hennepin, the "rich ruby brew", Three Philosophers (cherry undertones), the ambers Biere du Mars (my friend's favorite) and Rare Vos, and finally, Chocolate Indulgence (nicknamed "Obamagang" because it was rolled out at inauguration time earlier this year). We also tasted a few cheese spreads made with beer...the blue cheese variety was the best of the bunch.

The beer is bottled both in traditional 12 oz bottles, or 750ml corked bottles (the same size as a bottle of wine). We opted for a case of the 12 oz Witte bottles, but they also have variety packs available in both sizes.

If you ever find yourself in upstate New York near Cooperstown, definitely check out Ommegang. Not only do they brew some fantastic beers, but the brewery is in a beautiful setting, which they invite you to enjoy with a picnic.

Ommegang beers are available in Fairfield at:

SUPER DISCOUNT WINES & SPIRITS, 525 Tunxis Hill Cutoff.

Photos from http://www.ommegang.com/

Restaurants: Eating Out In South Norwalk, CT

South Norwalk is one of my favorite places in Fairfield County. It has the vibe of a fun New York neighborhood...but is much closer to home and you can actually park your car! All summer I've been sticking closer to Fairfield, but over the weekend we celebrated our anniversary with a great night out in SoNo.

It had been a while since we ventured down the Turnpike, and I was surprised to see lots of changes. For those of you who are looking for a fun outing, definitely check out what's happening in South Norwalk!

There are lots of good places to grab pre- or post-dinner drinks. We enjoyed martinis at The Loft, but the Rouge Wine Bar (both on Washington Street) also looked promising. Lots of the bars and restaurants have either sidewalk seating or open-air tables, where you can watch the world pass by on a warm night. When it was time for dinner, we headed across the street for a wonderful meal at Match (also on Washington Street), which is always packed, so be sure you make a reservation! Same goes for Pasta Nostra (Washington St.), Barcelona, and Kazu (both on North Main Street), which are all fantastic and were equally as packed that evening. Reservations are definitely recommended at each of these places.

For a more casual meal, try Burger Bar (fab burgers right next to the movie theatre), Brewhouse, SoNo Seaport Seafood, or The Ginger Man. Other places I noticed that looked worth a return trip were Coromandel Indian Bistro, Osetra Oyster Bar, Strada 18 Apizza e Vino, and Pane e Panini (lunch).

I also made a note to mention the new Tribeca Coffee House (in the former space of Stone Cold Creamery on North Main Street), Caffeine (Washington Street), and Chocopologie (South Main Street) where you can grab coffee, desserts, or even a light meal.

South Norwalk has a lot to offer for an afternoon stroll, an evening out with friends, or date night with your other half. I've barely scratched the surface, because there are many, many more eateries to discover! Next time you're looking for a great eating destination, hop on the Turnpike to exit 15 and discover South Norwalk for yourself!

To learn more about Tracy's Fairfield-based cooking classes, go to:

http://www.thesecretingredientonline.com/

For Tracy's recipes, check out:

www.twolia.com/blogs/season-to-taste

Food Openings in Fairfield, CT

I just took a walk down to the newly expanded Brick Walk Promenade, and am very excited about the food happenings in Fairfield! Lots of yummy openings on the horizon....



Amore Bakery is set to open later this week and will feature cakes, cupcakes, biscotti, and a selection of baked goods from SoNo Bakery in South Norwalk. This well-located bakery will be a welcome addition to Fairfield Center!



Pizzeria Molto Mozzarella and Wine Bar plans to open the first week of September. The space is fabulous---with high, red upholstered booths, old-fashioned tiled floors, a long bar, and high ceilings. It's very urban-chic! The owners tell me they have a full liquor license on the way and can't wait to open in a few weeks.



Flipside Burgers is scheduled to open September 1st, in the former Flying Dish space (which has been redesigned and redecorated). This new burger joint looks to be a great place to grab a burger alone or with the kids, but without feeling like you're eating at a chain. The chef/owner also owns Mediterranean Grill in Wilton.


All of the above restaurants are located in the Brick Walk, Post Road, Fairfield, CT.


AND.....
I've just added new classes to my fall line-up of cooking classes at The Secret Ingredient Cooking School---be sure to check them out at:
www.TheSecretIngredientOnline.com !!!

Restaurants: Harborview Market, Bridgeport, CT

Harborview Market, located in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport (adjacent to Saint Mary's by the Sea), has been around for years, but outside of its immediate neighborhood, is perhaps one of Fairfield County's best kept secrets.

The bustling market selling all types of grocery provisions, and also does a brisk restaurant business at both breakfast and lunchtime. Mornings they offer house made croissants (and on weekends, chocolate filled ones too!), muffins, and other baked goods, as well as bagels, pancakes, french toast, eggs, and the like. They also serve a wide variety of lunches, for eat in or take out.

The atmosphere is extremely casual, and there are an eclectic collection of antique-style tables scattered throughout the front of the market where you can eat, or, better yet, in warmer weather you can bring your food outside to one of the many sidewalk tables. Orders are placed and paid for at the counter inside, however staff members will happily bring orders to your table if they are anything requiring more than a minute or so to prepare (like pancakes, etc).

Harborview Market is decidedly "old school", which is exactly what I love about it. There is no pretension, no fussiness, and nothing formal about the entire experience. You feel almost transported back to a simpler time; there is nothing ultra-modern about this place and I think it is perfect just as it is. In this "throw-away" society where we discard and knock down anything that no longer gleams, it is absolutely refreshing to sit and enjoy a bagel at a true neighborhood place where coffee is actually called coffee, it's not odd to share a table with a stranger reading his newspaper, and your view is a residential neighborhood, rather than a shopping plaza or gas station.

Harborview Market

218 Harborview Avenue

Bridgeport, CT

203-367-7336

Photos by kHyal, 2008 (via Facebook)

Movies: Food, Inc.

Coming (hopefully) soon to a theatre near you....watch this YouTube trailer for a new documentary on the food we eat and why it is making us sick....

Food, Inc. trailer

Restaurants: Garden Catering, Fairfield, CT

Garden Catering, the well known establishment revered for its fried chicken and famous chicken nuggets, has opened an outpost on Black Rock Turnpike in Fairfield. It began in the late 70s in Greenwich, and later expanded to Old Greenwich, Stamford, and Westchester County. Now Fairfielders can see what all the buzz is about! One friend, who is originally from Old Greenwich, said "I grew up on Garden Catering chicken bits at their original location and couldn't be more psyched about them opening in Fairfield!"

Breakfast sandwiches are served all day, along with burgers, hot dogs, chili, salads, sandwiches, wraps, and of course, chicken (take out or eat in). Since Garden Catering is known for their chicken, I decided to try their famous nuggets, which are all white meat and hand-cut. These are definitely not your usual chicken nuggets! On the side I got a big order of "cones", which are like fried mashed potato balls (think "tater-tots" that actually taste good), plus some fried zucchini. Everything was a hit with the kids and grown-ups alike. I enjoyed my nuggets sprinkled with their special seasoning (which is similar to a Lawry's-type seasoning), and dipped into the sweet and sour sauce (they also have barbeque and honey mustard).

I'll admit I was a bit skeptical, since I'm not a huge fan of fried food, and generally speaking, avoid any food with the word "nugget" attached to it. However, everything really was delicious--and no trans fats! It took every fiber of my being not to eat the entire container of cones on the car ride home! This is a great idea for a quick meal or a picnic. My friend said it best: "You absolutely cannot beat the huge chunks of white meat nuggets with their special seasoning, especially when you need to grab something for the beach!"

Just be sure NOT to close up those bags and containers in which the food is served...everything will lose its fantastic crispiness! The staff is well versed in all of this, so they will remind you if you forget and begin sealing everything up!

I'm definitely going to go back to try the salads and wraps.....and am glad to have another take-out meal idea up my sleeve! It is also a great idea for a casual party. Check it out!

Garden Catering

2074 Black Rock Turnpike

Fairfield, CT

203-870-8444

http://www.gardencatering.net/

Restaurants: Amici Miei Cafe, Bridgeport, CT

I've blogged about my favorite Bridgeport eateries before, and with so many new spots opening in downtown Bridgeport, I'm adding more to my list all the time! Downtown Bridgeport has really become a nighttime dinner destination, and now you'll want to head there for lunch as well!

Today I went to check out Fraiche Burger (997 Main Street), only to find its chef/owner, Marc Lippman, outside with take-out in his hands! Due to circumstances out of his control, he had to push the opening of the very casual burger shop to Monday, June 15th. He did give me a sneak-peak inside and at the menu while my daughter kept herself busy drawing on the giant chalk board that runs the entire length of the restaurant. I'll definitely be stopping by next week, but in the meantime, I asked him where we should eat! He pointed to his take-out boxes and recommended his friend's new place, Amici Miei Cafe, which opened this week on the very next block (957 Main Street). We headed right over.

At first glance, I thought Amici Miei (that's "A-mee-chee Mee-A-ee") which is Italian for "my friends" was a serve-yourself-and-go-sit kind of place, similar to Senor Salsa (formerly La Salsa). The counter at the front was crowded with people, whom I realized later, were just taking food to go. As it turns out, the large booths and smattering of tables are for table service, and we were seated in the back atrium area (a glass covered courtyard, of sorts, which could greatly benefit from some large potted trees or dividers to define the space a bit). The inside decor is very modern, with bright orange walls and black accents. The open kitchen and very high ceilings give the space an urban feel, which lent itself to the overall good vibe of the place.

The menu is casual Italian----pressed panini and tramezzini* sandwiches with a variety of fillings, salads, and thin crust pizzas. The delicious sandwiches came with a nice little pasta and bean salad, and the individual pizzas were generously sized and tasty. Better yet, the entire menu was priced from $4.99 to $7.99! Amici Miei is open for lunch and dinner Mondays-Saturdays. I hear a liquor license is on its way as well!

Amici Miei Cafe

957 Main Street (near the Courthouse)

Bridgeport, CT

203-540-5360

http://www.amicimieicafe.com/

*Tramezzini are smaller sandwiches made from sliced bread, rather than rolls.