From Pilates to saunas, mahjong getaways to retail therapy, restaurant openings to decadent desserts, free therapy to family fun—dig into our annual list of new or unusual must-know ways to squeeze every last drop out of the juicy good life in our area. Granted, our goodness cup runneth over around here, so this is most likely an impossible goal. But, hey, can’t hurt to try!
Kudos to our team of friends and editors for sharing all the scoop on their favorite ways to get fit, pursue wellness, shop for the coolest clothes and most unique gifts, eat and drink with abandon, keep their kids engaged and bring their families joy.
p.74 MOVE WELL
p.78 THE EDIT
p.82 ON THE MENU
p.88 ALL TOGETHER NOW
Find Your Fit
Recess Performance Club’s Eric and Melissa Johnson
ATHLETO PILATES
261 Danbury Road, Wilton
340 Grasmere Avenue, Fairfield
203-210-5161
athletostudios.com
Athleto Pilates offers a free intro class for Pilates newbies and $19 price for those who have reformer experience but have yet to experience the Balanced Body Studio equipment at Athleto’s two Fairfield County locations. If you love it, there are class packs, monthly memberships and private options, plus discounted fees for teens. Beginner/intermediate/advanced level classes are available as well as focuses on particular areas, like Core and Legs Reformer Sculpt. Pilates promises to strengthen the body and improve both posture and athletic performance.
CORE BURN PILATES
24 Elm Street, Greenwich
203-914-4433
coreburnpilates.com/greenwich
779 North Street, Greenwich
475-897-1096
coreburnpilates.com/northgreenwich
142 Elm Street, New Canaan
203-829-3834
coreburnpilates.com/new-canaan
165 Rowayton Avenue, Rowayton
203-344-1844
coreburnpilates.com/rowayton
12 Elm Street, Westport
203-919-1239
coreburnpilates.com/westport
“Core Burn Pilates Greenwich gets—and deserves—a lot of my fitness spend,” says one of our in-the-know friends. “Kristin, the owner, is fierce to train with. My body would not be the same without the 10-plus years I’ve spent training with Core on a bi-weekly basis.” Classes are available by level, from Foundations to Advanced, with a variety of choices like Tone & Sculpt, Tower and Cardio Jumpboard. Look for the fire icons by the class listings to anticipate just how much burn you’re gonna feel! Privates, duets and trios are also available for a more customized approach.
Core Burn Pilates, Rowayton
COUNTDOWN FITNESS
409 Greenwich Avenue (2nd floor),
Greenwich; 203-594-6684
25 Sylvan Road South (Suite R), Westport; 203-593-6684
countdownfit.com
Countdown Fitness founder Anel Dzafic has trained 400 clients, from kids to NBA/NFL players to 90-year-old tough cookies. He uses a slow lifting approach, which increases the muscles’ workload and reduces injury risk. Anel is a certified holistic health coach who offers nutrition and weight loss guidance, as well as expertise in lower back pain, osteoporosis, pre- and post-natal fitness and golf conditioning. One of our local fitness gurus offers this rave: “Countdown Fitness is amazing. It’s 30 minutes once a week with a private trainer—not a second is wasted, and I swear if it were 32 minutes I would die! It’s the hardest 30 minutes of my week and completely transformative.”
Countdown Fitness
JETSET MODERN PILATES
25 Old Kings Highway
North (Unit 6), Darien
jetsetpilates.com/ct/darien
520 Post Road East, Westport
jetsetpilates.com/ct/westport
Jetset Modern Pilates is touching down in Darien and Westport soon, bringing 50-minute dynamic Pilates sessions with Jetset’s signature choreography and curated DJ playlists. Sessions balance strength, flexibility and endurance. Classes are designed for all levels, with skilled instructors guiding the way. Class and private options include Reformer, Fundamentals, Upper + Core, Lower + Core and On the Mat. The founder, Tamara Galinksy, transformed her post-baby body in nine months with Pilates. You can, too.
RECESS PERFORMANCE CLUB
1276 Post Road East, Westport
recess.fit
Trainer to the stars Eric Johnson is right here and ready to give you the same insider fitness tips he shares with celebrities like Scarlett Johansson and Andrew Garfield.
The club offers private, semi-private and group classes to sculpt your optimal summer bod. Recess augments its fitness offerings and improves recovery with an infrared sauna with red light therapy in a private suite. Pair that with a cold-water plunge to reduce muscle inflammation, improve circulation, boost mood and build resilience.
RHOSWYN WELLNESS
196 Danbury Road, Wilton
203-284-7151;
rhoswynwellness.com
With the opening of Rhoswyn Wellness, the first hot yoga studio in Wilton, the town is heating up! Founded by couple Anna Louise Williams and Jerry Griffin, the studio offers yoga (from gentle to power, warm to hot), Pilates, meditation, Qi Gong and more. Prenatal classes, Family Flow and kindergarten-through-teen programs bring out the yogi in every age. Sound healing, meditation, reiki and pranayama workshops and Full Moon Sacred Circles offer more options for finding serenity in this community-minded space.
THE BARN
Fairfield, CT
hello@welcometothebarn.com
welcometothebarn.com
Energy healer and guide Courtney Henggeler invites you to The Barn, “a sanctuary for deep realignment” through reiki, guided sessions to reconnect with your true self, and donation-based events like astrology workshops. This is a place for softening the nervous system, opening the heart and reconnecting to “clarity, confidence and a sense of inner wholeness.” Book a session on the website, and start shedding that Fairfield County armor.
The Barn’s Courtney Henggeler
SUMA LIFE HOUSE
146 Sound Beach Avenue, Old Greenwich
203-524-8000
sumalifehouse.com
SUMA Life House founder Kristin Updike discovered the transformative power of integrative treatments while undergoing a double mastectomy in 2020. Her journey inspired her to create a center that brings modern science, aesthetics and wellness together under one roof, catering to those looking for a longer and more beautiful life. It feels luxurious— but the prices aren’t. The staff is knowledgeable, flexible and thorough. A cozy and chic Hyperbaric Chamber, Red Light Bed, IV Therapy, Emsculpt NEO (which uses radio-frequency energy to target fat and electromagnetic energy to tone muscle), Exion Body (for skin tightening), facial treatments, microneedling—these are just a handful of the miracle treatments awaiting you at SUMA.
SUMA Life House
THE CURRENT WELLNESS
135 East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich
1063 Hope Street, Stamford
203-665-8985
thecurrentwellness.com
The Current debuted at Stamford Twin Rinks and is now bringing its “one-hour brain and body vitality ritual” to Greenwich. The unique approach to exercise incorporates three phases: standing on a vibration platform and bathing in red-light therapy to calm and prepare the body and mind; a 25-minute, coach-led contrast oxygen training session (think: hyperbaric oxygen session meets cardio workout); and then sitting around a BioCharger that emits light and energy in optimal frequency and voltage for maximizing recovery, circulation, cellular repair and clarity. The session is personalized so all levels feel comfortable—and everyone walks out revitalized.
THE BRAIN GAME
A SMART MENTAL WORKOUT
BLUE SPARROW MAHJ
From Fairfield County to Italy
415-298-9498
bluesparrowmahj@gmail.com
themahjongline.com
Mahjong is all the rage, and Stephanie Kruse, founder of Blue Sparrow Mahj, is drawing a following with her expert lessons. This game, which originated in 19th-century China, is just the antidote to brain-numbing, isolating screen time. Better yet, she is upping the game with a “Mahjong in Tuscany” getaway, October 18 to 23. Kruse offers this enticing invite: “I’m hosting a retreat for 14 lucky people in our own private villa in the hills of Val D’Orcia in Tuscany. We’ll travel to Siena and Pienza and enjoy a cooking class and historical tours of the region. Each evening, enjoy Mahjong happy hour with guided play or lessons before a chef-catered meal.” Kruse has partnered with Duende Retreats, a woman-owned travel company she swears by. Book your spot: duenderetreats.com/retreats/mahjong-tuscany
MOOD BOOST
A healthy mind starts with the right support
New Canaan YMCA–Private Counseling
564 South Avenue, New Canaan
203-966-4528
newcanaanymca.org/counseling-at-the-y
In partnership with the Jewish Family Services (JFS) of Greenwich Bennett Center for Behavioral Health, the New Canaan YMCA is offering private counseling—with no YMCA membership required. Therapy sessions for individuals, couples and families (ages six through adulthood) are held in a private, welcoming space in the Y’s facility. All major insurance plans are accepted. An intake form is accessible via the website.
SAUNAS ARE HOT
Saunas are on the hot list, with a wide range of health benefits hitting the public’s awareness, including the latest: a decreased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s with regular sauna use.
A reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke and high blood pressure; improved circulation, sleep and skin health; faster recovery after workouts; reduced stress and an immune system boost are other reasons sweating it out is all the rage.
KIIN SAUNA
Fairfield and mobile service
kiinsauna.com
How about having a beautiful, handcrafted wood-burning sauna and cold plunge tub brought to your door or event? KiiN Sauna’s mobile service makes contrast therapy easily accessible and personalized. KiiN offers two-hour in-home sessions for up to 28 people with towels and herbal tea service. KiiN also offers half-day and full-day retreats and holds events with partner venues and at local beaches. Owner Ginger Richardson says, “I founded KiiN Sauna out of a love for simple, intentional rituals and a belief that healing happens when we reconnect with what’s real—heat, cold, breath, nature and one another.”
TYDE HAUS
11 Pine Point Road, Norwalk
971-803-1361
tydehaus.com
Tyde Haus promises “a sanctuary of warmth by the sea” where guests can channel a Finnish sauna experience right on Bayley Beach in Rowayton. A shared space for eight overlooking the Sound is perfect for a bonding and wellness-boosting outing with family or friends. Guests dip in the Sound between sauna sessions. For unlimited sessions and VIP booking access, buy a membership for $220 a month. Private sessions are available with add-on perks to make your event extra special. Tyde Haus has been known to offer sound bath sauna sessions, so keep an ear out for that.
Tyde Haus
HIDEOUT
1 Blachley Road (Suite 102), Stamford
hideoutsocial.club
Connecticut’s first sauna and cold- plunge club gives a clean twist on the term “clubbing.” This community-based sauna club was inspired by founder Ryan Linner’s trip to Norway, where he discovered that plunging into a freezing fjord and then stepping into a sauna made him feel deliciously alive. Norway’s sauna culture got him thinking: “What if I could recreate the energy of a vibey outdoor brewery—the music, the people, the buzz—just built around health instead of hangovers?” In partnership with Chelsea Piers Stamford, Linner made it happen. Guests can enjoy a custom-made Finnish (dry) Sauna, fire pits and cold plunges, all in a social setting that makes them feel like the cool kids at the hottest club in town.
Hideout
HAUTE HAUL
GRAY CLOTHIER
16 Arcadia Road, Old Greenwich
203-990-0041
grayclothier.com
HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.
to 6 p.m., Sun. 12 to 5 p.m.
Sometimes the men get neglected when it comes to shopping, but not at Gray’s Clothier. One friend commented, “Gray’s men’s shop is pretty fantastic. I shop there for gifts—great prices and options.” Whether browsing for casual wear, golf attire, business casual with flair, blazers or button-ups, Gray’s has the stylish guy covered.
HILL HOUSE HOME
117 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich
203-962-1311
hillhousehome.com
HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m. to
6 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Hill House Home has opened in downtown Greenwich, adding to its list of stylish locales like Nantucket, New York City, Palm Beach and Charleston. Founder Nell Diamond dreamed of “making happy things for happy places,” and her delicate, high-quality designs are doing just that. Think: sundresses in cheery floral patterns, cute tops, stylish jackets, coveted short dresses and soft and sophisticated pajamas. The sweet baby and toddler outfits will tempt you to have another.
The Davina Dress from Hill House Home
HOPE & JOY
95 Reef Road, Fairfield
203-208-8317
findinghopeandjoy.com
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Hope & Joy brings a carefully curated, cheerful mix of gifts, home and decor, apparel, accessories and paper goods to brighten up every day. Plus there’s a party shop and monogrammed options for personalized presents for birthdays, teachers, graduates and brides-to-be. Everything here is fun, affordable and useful. Check out the array of travel totes and cases to make your next trip the most fun to pack for yet. The site allows you to search for “Gifts Under $25/$50/$100.” A cute selection of baby-shower gifts streamlines your decision-making process.
REFORMATION
272 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich
203-350-7396
thereformation.com/stores/greenwich
HOURS: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.
to 6 p.m., Sun. 12 to 5 p.m.
Eco-chic retail hits the Ave. with the opening of Reformation’s first Connecticut boutique. Priding itself on its mission to clothe you in sustainable fashion, Ref Greenwich is the environmentally friendly place to shop and look ultra cool, too. Reformation states: “Since 2009, we’ve been on a mission to bring sustainable fashion to everyone. And we aren’t stopping there. By 2025, we’ll be climate positive. By 2030, everything we make will be part of a circular fashion system.” This is a fashion parade you want to join.
THE SCENT BAR AT MONC XIII
5 Lewis Street, Greenwich
203-340-2275
monc13.com
HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
One of our “nosy” editors reports: “My latest, greatest discovery is the scent bar at MONC XIII in Greenwich. They have the best curation of personal fragrance options, grouped by scent notes, and Michelle is an expert in recommending based on your personal preferences (she will also make custom samples for you to take home!). The store itself is beautiful and has an exquisite edit of furniture, home décor and, of course, home fragrance.”
Scents from MONC XIII
THEO’S GENERAL STORE
126 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton
theosgeneral.com
HOURS: Wed.–Thurs. 7 a.m.
to 3 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m. to
5 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Couple Jacob Fisher and Casey Romaine welcomed a baby recently, and now they are bringing Wilton their other baby—a general store for all to gather around and ooh
and ah. Both are named Theo.
The store version will offer a curated selection of local artisanal products plus international pantry items, a coffee bar, scrumptious pastries and a cozy seating area. One of our editors with discerning taste raves, “It’s amazing!”
Owners Jacob Fisher and Casey Romaine at Theo’s General Store
THE MARINER & THE MUSE
57 Chestnut Street, South Norwalk
themarinerandthemuse.com
HOURS: Thurs.–Sat. 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The Mariner & the Muse offers “vintage furniture, homewares and interiors rooted in thoughtful storytelling. Each piece and project embodies our belief that design should feel personal, layered and full of soul—an ode to the well-loved and the well-lived.” The brands first brick and mortar location sits in South Norwalk’s design district, ready to drench anyone who walks in the door with a large dose of nostalgic creative inspiration. Founder Jill Arden Lukeman is a designer and owner of Arden’s coastal cafe in Rowayton.
The Mariner & The Muse
WEE MONDINE
35 Corbin Drive, Darien
203-202-2901
weemondine.com
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wee Mondine’s adorable online shop now has a brick-and-mortar locale in the Corbin District. Founder Elizabeth Crosby curates a selection of apparel for baby, kids and women (with a focus on natural fabrics and sustainable manufacturing), plus home and apothecary items. Soor Ploom, Misha & Puff and Apolina are a few of Wee Mondine’s go-to brands. Unique finds like Kidamento cameras, Kiki & GG wooden retro rotary telephone toys, Dragon Diffusion purses for mom, Minnow swimwear and Sleepy Doe pajamas are just a few special gift ideas for that next baby shower or b-day.
DIG IN
New dining options are popping up so fast that there aren’t enough meals in a day! Juicy smashburgers, Mediterranean specialties, Italian feasts, plant-based menus, the very best chicken nuggets, pizza galore, plus delish desserts and inventive beverages—be sure to eat before perusing this section, or you’re gonna get drool all over your magazine.
DANDELION
Delamar Hotel, 1595 Post Road East, Westport
203-266-3111;
dandelionwestport.com
HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 5 to 9 p.m.,
Fri. 5 to 10 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m. to
2:30 p.m. and 5 to 10 p.m., Sun.
11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m.
The health and mental health benefits of the Mediterranean diet keep making headlines, so indulging at this new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant at the stylish Delamar Westport hotel is doctor’s orders. From GHG Restaurant Collection (Artisan, La Plage, l’escale) and set amid designer Christian Siriano’s interiors, Dandelion marries flavor and atmosphere in a happy union. The evening bar scene is sexy, so skip the train ride to New York. Brunch includes a Kids Corner menu and an array of unique options that will have your taste buds battling it out between breakfast or lunch. A Greek yogurt parfait or spanakopita? A Mediterranean omelet or oysters? Fattoush salad or steak and eggs?
Turkish Cilbir from Dandelion
DOPPIO
62 Main Street, New Canaan
203-594-1360;
eatdoppio.com
HOURS: Mon.–Sun. 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Doppio has been wining and dining in Greenwich since 2011, and now New Canaan is joining in on the feast. The interior has a casual chic vibe, and white-tableclothed outdoor tables along the red-brick alley feel quaint and refreshing. The menu features Doppio favorites like tuna tartare and crispy artichokes to start, a range of pizza in the red (“Rosse”) and white (“Bianche”) categories and the bestselling rigatoni alla vodka with a spicy kick. Seasonal specials, like shaved artichoke salad, are determined based on the best available local ingredients. A thoughtful wine list, creative cocktails and cold beer give plenty of options for washing down a scrumptious meal.
Doppio’s octopus with watermelon, fennel, feta and herbs
FELICE
38 Main Street, Westport
55 Abendroth Ave, Port Chester
474-363-4750; 914-786-5500;
felicerestaurants.com
HOURS: Mon.–Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fri. 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (brunch) and 4 to 11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (brunch) and 4 to 10:30 p.m.
The first Felice location in Connecticut fills the former Mexicue space in Westport. This Italian favorite debuted on the Upper East Side and is so popular that 13 locations have opened since, one just over the border in Port Chester. On the menu are dishes rooted in Tuscan tradition and prepared with seasonal ingredients, complemented by Italian imports that honor the restaurant’s culinary heritage. The copious options promise to satiate like Sunday dinner at your Italian gramma’s house. The wine list is curated with care, featuring selections from small-production organic and biodynamic labels. Or choose a crafted cocktail like a Bloody Maria, Mezcalita or Amalfi Spritz.
Felice Port Chester
JOYLARK PLANT KITCHEN & BAR
260 Post Road, Fairfield
475-999-8491;
joylarkkitchen.com
HOURS: Sun.–Thurs. 10 a.m. to
8:30 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
One of our Good Life spies makes a weekly visit to sample the plant-based recipes of Joylark’s talented chef: Oysters and Grits, Cauliflower Parm, Cornflake Potatoes, Mushroom Magic Avocado Toast and brunch faves like Marzipan Apple French Toast, Lemon Cream Pancakes, Smothered Breakfast Burrito and Blueberry Chai Oatmeal. There’s a kids’ menu for the Little Larks and a wide array of inventive cocktails, hard (and soft) smoothies, kombucha, beer, wine, juices and specialty teas and lattes. A beautiful and elevated setting sets Joylark apart from the more casual take-out or cafeteria-like vegetarian spots in the area.
Joylark’s Charred Carrot and Tofu Curry
LOMBARDI’S RISTORANTE & BAR
32 Elm Street, New Canaan
203-594-1209;
lombardinc.com
HOURS: Sun.–Wed. 5 to 9 p.m., Thurs.–Sat. 5 to 10 p.m.
From the owners of Dolci Cafe, Lombardi opened last summer on Elm Street, bringing a whiff of Ischia, Italy, to town. That’s where brothers Andrea and Daniel Lombardi grew up, so they know a thing or two about Italian cuisine. The menu features classic, simple Italian dishes, plus specialties with a modern twist. Antipasti, insalate, fresh homemade pasta and seafood and meat entrees are served in a welcoming setting, for an authentic Italian experience. Refreshing cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), fine wines and beer will please all patrons. Several private rooms, one with its own bar, cater to parties of 14 to 48.
Lombardi’s Fettuccine al Tartufo and Polpette Classiche (beef meatballs)
PIE PATROL
THE NEWEST PIZZA DESTINATIONS WORTH SCOUTING FOR YOUR NEXT SLICE
FRANK PEPE PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA
361 Post Road West, Westport
pepespizzeria.com
No one has pizza like New Haven. Except now we do. In addition to the locations in Stamford and Fairfield, Fairfield County is gaining another Pepe’s in Westport this summer. Expect charred, chewy, crispy, coal-fired “Apizza,” just like Frank Pepe invented in 1925, cooked in a coal-fired oven.
SOHO PIZZA
22 Riverside Avenue, Westport
If rumors are right, you just might be able to bite into a SoHo Pizza slice in Westport by the time this mag hits newsstands. Owner Pablo Bolanous is bringing NY-style pizza, pasta and paninis to an 1,100 square-foot space next to Sunny Daes ice cream—so you can fulfill all your cravings in one stop.
EMMY SQUARED PIZZA
48 Greenwich Avenue, Greenwich
emmysquaredpizza.com
What do you get when you take a New-York-style grandma pie and cross it with a Detroit-style slice, plus throw in fluffy focaccia-like dough and caramelized crispy cheese edges? You get Emmy Squared Pizza, which was born in Williamsburg in 2011 and is so good that it has spread to 26 locations with the newest coming to Grenwich. Emmy Squared kills it in the double-stack burger department, too. Le Big Matt has been named a top burger in NYC and Nashville.
Emmy’s The Founders Pizza with pickled jalapeños, pepperoni and honey
POP-IN PICKS
Perfect spots for lunch runs, takeout nights and spur-of-the-moment cravings
7TH STREET BURGER
2000 West Main Street, Stamford
7thstreetburger.com
New York’s beloved 7th Street Burger hits Stamford’s ShopRite Plaza with “delicious ingredients, smashed to perfection.” The menu is streamlined to bring you only the best cheeseburgers, spicy jalapeño cheeseburgers, loaded beef fries and a spicy jalapeño version of them, too. Vegetarians aren’t left out, with Impossible cheeseburger options and fries with a kick or not. This news is so hot off the grill that an official opening date hasn’t been announced yet, but expect to be biting into a juicy burger some time in 2026.
CHERRY STREET PROVISIONS
149 Cherry Street, New Canaan
203-594-7447
cherrystreetcheese.com
HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 10 a.m. to
5:30 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Jo and Stephen Bloom are committed to bringing the best farmstead cheeses from around the world, hand-sliced meats and artisan gourmet products to your table. Whether
you’re looking for a decadent charcuterie platter or the nostalgic flavor of a delectable grilled cheese sandwich paired with homemade tomato soup, this neighborhood cheesemonger aims to please. Serious about your cheese? Join the shop’s Cheese Club and receive three artisan cheeses from around the globe, along with educational information about your cheeses and how they were made. You will also receive special pantry items, early access to events and 10 percent off all purchases.
GARDEN CATERING
320 Height Road, Darien
203-679-7111;
gardencatering.com
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 6:30 a.m. to
9 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sun.
8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Garden Catering, established in 1978, has a cult-like following. The newest location in Darien joins the Stamford and Old Greenwich outposts, bringing instant gratification to those looking to satisfy a comfort-food craving. The menu includes the famous hand-cut chicken nuggets made with antibiotic-free, all-white-meat chicken breast, golden potato cones, fries, mac bites and corn fritters. Need gluten-free? No problem. And vegans can enjoy awesome cauliflower nugs.
NATURAL KITCHEN
5 River Road (Studio 9), Wilton
203-210-5115
naturalkitchenwilton.com
HOURS: Mon–Sat. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sun. 12 to 9 p.m.
Poké fans will be psyched for Natural Kitchen’s arrival in Wilton. Enjoy made-to-order meals: bold signature poké bowls (with Natural Kitchen’s own secret seasoning), sushi rolls, bubble tea, smoothies, milkshakes, six different non-alcoholic mojito drinks, plus ice cream and cake to top it all off. Stop in for a quick lunch, weeknight takeout or a snack on the run, and get a taste of Hawaii and Hawaiian hospitality right here in Fairfield County.
Spicy surf roll sushi push pop, rice bowl and strawberry sparkling mojito from Natural Kitchen
WONDER
1131 High Ridge Road (Suite 3A), Stamford
wonder.com
HOURS: Sun.–Sat. 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Wonder has spread across the East Coast, and Stamford is the next lucky spot. It’s a wondrous concept—all of your favorite restaurant foods under one roof. No one can agree on where to order from? Wonder is the answer. Yasas, Alanza Pizza, SriPraPhai, Burger Baby, Bellies, Happy Tuna, Tejas Barbecue, The Mainstay, Streetbird, LimeSalt, Bobby Flay Steak, Pop Salad … the list goes on. Multiple restaurant cuisines, one location.
Sugar Rush
A few sweet newcomers—and a couple under-the-radar
CRUMBL
1131 High Ridge Road, Stamford
475-477-9499;
crumblcookies.com
HOURS: Mon–Thurs. 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat. and Sun. 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Enjoy cookies, pies and cakes in a weekly rotating menu of over 300 flavors! In-store pickup, delivery and catering options.
FLOUR WATER SALT BREAD
1215 Post Road, Fairfield
flourwatersaltbread.com
HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (or until sold out)
Flour Water Salt Bread has added a location in Fairfield (in addition to New Canaan, Darien and Greenwich). Sure, the sourdough is the staple, but there are plenty of sweets for your delight: croissants, pain au chocolate, cinnamon rolls, cardamom buns, coffee cake, cookies and more.
MAGNOLIA BAKERY
Stamford
magnoliabakery.com
Magnolia Bakery hit the mainstream via Carrie and Miranda in Sex and the City back in 2000, so it has taken a mere 26 years for its scrumptious pastel cupcakes and famous banana pudding to find a home in Connecticut. Run by Stamford’s own Kelly Fitzpatrick, Magnolia is expected to open this summer or fall in an undisclosed but soon-to-be-swarming spot!
Magnolia Bakery cupcakes
MILKSHAKE FACTORY
1109 High Ridge Center (Unit #10),
Stamford
203-514-0889;
milkshakefactory.com
HOURS: Mon.–Sun. 12 to 10 p.m.
Handspun milkshakes are made with homemade ice cream in flavors like Campfire S’mores, Chocolate Cake Shake, Cookie Jar, Raspberries & Cream, Salted Caramel Pretzel and Mint Chip—yum! Dairy-free varieties are available. Pair your shake with some gourmet chocolate for double the indulgence.
MIYUKI (PINE STREET CONCESSIONS)
75 Pine Street, New Canaan
203-920-1552;
miyukisnoodleshop.com
HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Miyuki’s ’s Noodle Shop got a shout-out for their “incredible cookies.” Tables are available on a walk-in basis to enjoy Miyuki’s rice and noodle bowls as a starter to your cookie course.
Miyuki white chocolate raspberry cookie
MOMU
575 Riverside Avenue, Westport
momuicecream.com
HOURS: Wed.–Thurs. 2 to 9 p.m., Fri. 2 to 10 p.m., Sat. 1 to 10 p.m., Sun. 1 to 9 p.m.
The Muñoz and Moreno team behind Laurel opened MOMU this past spring in Westport. The ice cream is churned daily with local ingredients. The owners’ favorite flavors are Mud, Quince, French Toast and Butter Pecan. Want to share the love? Enlist MOMU’s ice cream cart for your next party or event.
ROSIE
27 Elm Street, New Canaan
203-966-8998;
rosienewcanaan.com
HOURS: Tues.–Sat. 8:30 a.m. to
4 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Rosie’s got an editor shout-out specifically for their giant muffins. If you don’t have a sweet tooth and are along for the ride, Rosie’s menu will seduce you, one way or another. Perhaps you’ll choose to sip a Señorita I Feel for You libation of fresh muddled mint, cucumber, lime, agave and Rosie’s famous mix.
Rosie’s blueberry and apple muffins
POUR DECISIONS
New spots and clever sips that are stirring up the local drink scene
SUNNY
sipasunny.com
This new brand out of New Canaan brings you seltzer with no sugar, no calories and an “added ray of sunshine”—a microdose of THC to be exact. You won’t taste the cannabis, and you won’t feel a hangover either, but you will feel a refreshing calm. Sunny drinkers describe a “light buzz” with a rapid onset in around 15 minutes that slowly builds then tapers off after 90 minutes or so.
ELM
73 Elm Street, New Canaan
203-920-4994;
elmrestaurant.com
HOURS: Mon.–Fri. 11:30 a.m. to close, Sat.–Sun. 11 a.m. to close (Afternoon Tea: Fri.–Sat. 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.)
One of our editors suggested afternoon tea at Elm, which of course is much more than just a sipping situation. Enjoy scones with preserves and clotted cream, cucumber tartines, mini lobster rolls and decadent desserts whose names will make you salivate: Citrus Almondine, Coffee-Soaked Opera Cake, Raspberry Cheesecake…
QAHWAH HOUSE
65 Broad Street, Stamford
qahwahhouse.com
Eight generations of Yemeni coffee farming are behind Qahwah House. The coffeehouse’s first Connecticut location is coming to Stamford this summer. The Sana’ani is a medium roast with cardamom and the Jubana delights with spiced cardamom, ginger and cinnamon. Other options abound: Iced Pistachio Latte? Yes, please! Traditionalists will find plenty of Americano, espresso, cappuccino and mocha options. The café will also sell coffee beans and exotic Arabic dellah pots to bring Yemeni flavor home.
THE THIRSTY COW
203-952-8626
Instagram: @thethirstycow203
How about a mobile dirty soda bar for your next party? “I create custom dirty sodas using layered flavors, syrups, creams and fun twists that turn a simple drink into a true taste adventure,” says founder Nadia Cossuto. How about a Cheesecake Swirl, withDr. Pepper, cheesecake, strawberry and vanilla foam? Feeling sleepy? The Buzzed Heifer combines Redbull, strawberries and white chocolate foam. To get in beach mode, The Islander is a mix of Sprite, coconut, pineapple and Half & Half. The mobile bar is family-friendly, interactive and sure to be a gathering spot and conversation starter wherever it pops up.
THE KID ZONE
Family time doesn’t have to mean another movie night on the couch. There are plenty of ways to get everyone out of the house—whether that means meeting animals up close, racing go-karts, sailing the Sound or gazing at the stars in a planetarium.
EARTHPLACE
Live Animal Storytime
10 Woodside Lane, Westport
203-557-4400
earthplace.org
Every morning, Monday through Saturday, at 10:30 a.m., Earthplace in Westport shares an animal-themed story with a special guest: one of its many Animal Hall cute critters. For children age five and under.
GOLDILOCKS FARM SANCTUARY
Southport
914-216-8057
goldilocksfarmsanctuary.com
This adorable farm in Southport, complete with a chandelier in the barn, will wow even the most entitled wee-one with bunny or pony parties and animal cuddles galore. Goldilocks can bring the party to you. (Dads are sure to be all over the Beer Burro option, a miniature donkey to deliver their drinks.) Oh, and the place isn’t just cute, it has heart, too—the sanctuary rescues animals. Want to help or teach your kids how they can? Visit the site to sponsor an animal.
Get up close and personal with some furry and feathered friends at Goldilocks Farm Sanctuary.
ISLAND MIKE SAILBOAT CHARTERS
50 Water Street, Norwalk
203-856-4409
island-mike.com
There’s no better way to seize a summer day than with the wind in your hair on Island Mike’s 52-foot custom-built sailboat, Eagle. The kids will be off their screens and in awe of nature. Set sail from Norwalk for a daytime, sunset or all-day cruise, with prices starting at $600 for four people for four hours ($800 for six people).
Captain Mike Hart can take you for a sail on the sound on his stunning sailboat, Eagle.
RPM STAMFORD—KART KLASH
600 West Avenue, Stamford
203-323-7223
rpmraceway.com
This new immersive go-kart racing experience brings video-game action onto the actual track! Drivers use not just speed but strategy to outsmart their opponents with missiles, shields, EMP’s and turbos. Don’t know what that means? The kids will, and they’ll think you’re the coolest parent ever for giving them this opportunity. Must be eight years old and a minimum of 48 inches tall. (Kids and adults race in separate categories.)
STAMFORD DINER
Guest characters on Tuesday nights
135 Harvard Avenue, Stamford
203-348-7000
stamforddiner.com
Stamford Diner knows how to turn family dinner into the event of the week. Every Tuesday night from 6 to 7 p.m., a guest character is on hand to entertain the kiddos: Peppa Pig, Bluey, Elmo, Pikachu … “It’s super fun!” says our family-fun sleuth, but she warns, “You must make a reservation. The place is packed!”
STAMFORD MUSEUM AND NATURE CENTER PLANETARIUM
39 Scofieldtown Road, Stamford
203-977-6521
stamfordmuseum.org
The Stamford Museum and Nature Center has opened its breathtaking Planetarium and Astronomy Center, with shows for all ages. A cinematic Sesame Street adventure called “One World, One Sky” will appeal to the youngest star gazers with a 45-minute show multiple times per week. The Friday-evening showing of “Stamford Skies” at 7 p.m. includes access to the observatory after the show. There are also 2 p.m. shows Wednesday through Sunday. For the older teens and Gen X’ers, there’s “Dark Side of the Moon” on Fridays at 9 p.m. (with Observatory access before the show at 8 p.m.). Experience the Pink Floyd album like never before with a choreographed laser show.
TOTSY TURVY
101 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton
203-763-1763
totsyturvycafeandplay.fun
Playspace for the kids, café for the parents? Win, win. Young ones up to age seven enjoy open-ended play while caregivers can look on and connect over a cup of coffee, cappuccino, latte, mocha, chai tea, matcha or green tea—iced or hot, but always chill. Paninis, baked goods and smoothies round out the menu. And look, the kids are still having a ball! The Totsy Turvy Snackcuterie features a bunch of healthy options when tots need to refuel.
CURTAIN CALL
Private coaches helping young dancers, actors and musicians find their rhythm
BALLET STUDIO 229
Private Ballet Instruction
229 Valley Road, New Canaan
studio229@optonline.net
balletstudio229.com
Mikhail Baryshnikov himself invited Christina Fagundes into the American Ballet Theatre company during her illustrious career as a prima ballerina. Now she shares her skills with students in her private ballet studio in New Canaan. Christina’s approach is precise but gentle. Her passion for her art is infectious, and her laser focus is, too.
The Ballet Studio 229 students who will be dancing at “Carnival of the Animals” with the Ridgefield Conservatory of Dance and Ridgefield Symphony at the Ridgefield Playhouse on June 6 and 7. The Sunday 11 a.m. show is a sensory-friendly performance, which has been a long standing goal of Christina Fagundes.
JAMIE MANN
Private Acting, Dance and Vocal Coaching
jamiemartinmann@gmail.com
jamiemartinmann.com
Fresh off his Broadway debut in Stranger Things: The First Shadow (and his Westport mag cover), Jamie Mann is available to train your budding Broadway hopefuls, in person in the Westport area (or New York City) or on Zoom. (Wait, didn’t his mom write this article? Yes, but she swears he’s the real deal.)
JIM JACOBY PIANO & MUSIC
Private Piano Lessons
203-526-5261
jimjacoby.com
Jim Jacoby has more than 20 years of experience teaching piano to students of all ages and instilling the love of music. He teaches both in person and on Zoom and makes lessons a joyful experience. He will travel to your home, from Fairfield to Darien.