From garden inspiration to waterfront dining, these standout local favorites—Terrain, bartaco, Rowayton Seafood and Fjord Fish Market—capture the best of the season in Fairfield County.
FOOD & DRINKS
“Where should we eat?” may be the most commonly repeated phrase in Fairfield County—and lately, the answers just keep getting better. The challenge isn’t finding somewhere good; it’s narrowing down the options. From new additions and old-school institutions to neighborhood gems locals almost hesitate to share, this year’s winners reflect how we really eat now: spritzes on sunny patios, impeccable Italian meals served with a side of trivia, Chinese takeout on regular rotation and lobster rolls worth going out of your way for. These are the spots people return to again and again—the standing reservations, the comfort orders and the places locals insist you absolutely have to try.
RESTAURANT
BEST SERVICE
TONY’S AT THE J HOUSE
1114 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-698-6999
tonysatthejhouse.com
BUSINESS LUNCH
MILESTONE
2 Main St., Redding,
203-587-1700
milestonect.com
CREATIVE MENU
THE COTTAGE
49 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,203-769-1220
256 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-3701
thecottage.kitchen
HOTEL RESTAURANT
ARTISAN
275 Old Post Rd., Southport,
203-307-4222;
artisansouthport.com
NEW RESTAURANT
ROOTS OCEAN PRIME
14 Grove St., Darien,
203- 202-8340;
rootssteakhouse.com
OUTDOOR DINING + SEAFOOD
THE RESTAURANT AT ROWAYTON SEAFOOD
89 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton,
203-866-4488;
rowaytonseafood.com
PRIVATE DINING/INTIMATE VENUE
GABRIELE’S OF WESTPORT
27 Powers Ct., Westport,
203-454-4922;
gabrielesofwestportct.com
SPECIAL OCCASION/DATE NIGHT
TAVERN AT GRAYBARNS
194 Perry Ave., Norwalk,
203-580-1900;
tavernatgraybarns.com
STEAKS
WASHINGTON PRIME
141 Washington St., Norwalk,
203-857-1314;
washingtonprimect.com
SUSHI
OKO
6 Wilton Rd., Westport,
203-557-8404;
okokitchen.com
TAPAS
BARCELONA WINE BAR
4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800
222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800
See all locations at barcelonawinebar.com
Tony Capasso, maître d’ and master of the room at Tony’s at the J House.
BEST SERVICE // TONY’S AT THE J HOUSE
Which Greenwich restaurateur is known for remembering your name, checking on every table and casually quizzing diners between bites of steak and pasta? The answer, of course, is longtime maître d’ Tony Capasso. After decades in the restaurant business—and since opening Tony’s at the J House in 2019—Capasso has brought his signature warmth and throwback hospitality to the dining room, making guests feel like regulars from the moment they sit down. The expertly cooked steaks, classic Italian favorites and strong martinis certainly help—but it’s Tony himself, working the room with his trademark charm and rapid-fire trivia questions, who keeps people coming back.
The steaks may be the headliners, but starters like fresh lobster and crab prove that Roots Ocean Prime is just as serious about seafood.
NEW RESTAURANT // ROOTS OCEAN PRIME
At Roots Ocean Prime, dinner comes with a little old-school swagger. Servers in white jackets glide through the dining room, martinis arrive ice-cold with backup frozen glasses waiting in the wings, and the steaks are exactly what you want them to be: perfectly cooked and worthy of the hype surrounding Darien’s buzzy newcomer. Then there’s the giant sundae: a towering, slightly over-the-top finale that practically guarantees at least one neighboring table will ask, “Wait…what is that?”
HOTEL RESTAURANT // ARTISAN
Once the weather warms up, a table on the patio at Artisan becomes highly coveted real estate. Tucked into the charming courtyard at the Delamar Southport, it’s the kind of place to slow down and stay a while—lingering over coastal-inspired dishes, indulging in crisp glasses of wine and cocktails that taste even better outdoors. On summer evenings, with string lights overhead and another round on the way, it’s easy to forget you’re only a few minutes from home.
EDITOR’S PICK // SPECIAL OCCASION + DATE NIGHT
“I love that every visit to GrayBarns can feel completely different—charcuterie and a glass of wine with a friend at The Mercantile, a quiet date night on the porch overlooking the Silvermine River or a fun group dinner in The Tavern.”
Eileen Murphy, Editor, New Canaan, Darien + Rowayton
SPECIALTIES
AMERICAN
THE AMERICANO
261 Main St., Stamford,
203-276-8918;
theamericanobar.com
ASIAN/ASIAN FUSION
DIPPIN’ CHICKEN
236 East Ave., Norwalk,
203-286-6355;
dippinchicken.com
CHINESE
CHING’S TABLE
64 Main St., New Canaan,
203-972-8550;
chingstable.com
FRENCH
RIVE BISTRO
299 Riverside Ave., Westport,
203-557-8049;
rivebistro.com
GREEK/MEDITERRANEAN
KOUZINA GREEK TAVERNA & BAR
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
JAPANESE
OKO
6 Wilton Rd., Westport,
203-557-8404;
okokitchen.com
MIDDLE EASTERN
LAYLA’S FALAFEL
2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-384-0100 |
High Ridge Rd., Stamford,
203-461-8004 |
1535 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-955-1583;
See all locations at laylasfalafel.com
MEXICAN
BARTACO
222 Summer St., Stamford,
203-323-8226 |
20 Wilton Rd., Westport,
203-222-8226;
bartaco.com
THAI
LITTLE THAI KITCHEN
4 West Ave., Darien,
203-662-0038 |
21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich,
203-622-2972;
littlethaikitchen.com
VEGETARIAN
GREEN & TONIC
54 West Park Pl., Stamford,
203-274-7454 |
7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob,
203-869-1376 |
1098 Post Rd., Darien,
203-656-1036 |
21 Forest St., New Canaan,
203-594-1851 |
17 Jesup Rd., Westport,
203-557-6392;
See all locations at
greenandtonic.com
CASUAL DINING
BAGELS
UPPER CRUST BAGEL CO.
980 Post Rd., Darien |
11 South Ave., New Canaan |
19 First St., Norwalk |
203-655-7566;
uppercrustbagelcompany.com
BBQ
BJ RYAN’S BANC HOUSE
16 River St, Norwalk,
203-853-7926;
bjryansbanchouse.com
BOWLS
CHOPT
1271 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich |
1081 High Ridge Rd., Stamford |
203-409-5811;
choptsalad.com
BREAKFAST
TASTY YOLK
2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport,
475-282-0015;
thetastyyolk.com
BRUNCH + CAFÉ/BISTRO
TERRAIN GARDEN CAFÉ
561 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-557-9195;
shopterrain.com
BURRITOS
LA TAQUERIA
10 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich |
1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien |
203-557-9195;
taqueriact.com
COFFEE SHOP (INDEPENDENT)
CFCF COFFEE
118 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-661-9494;
cfcfcoffee.com
DELI
A&S Italian Fine Foods
2290 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-333-1448;
asfinefoods.com
DINER
THE STAMFORD DINER
135 Harvard Ave., Stamford,
203-323-9988;
thestamforddiner.com
FAMILY FRIENDLY RESTAURANT + PIZZA
COLONY GRILL
1520 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-259-1989 |
515 West Ave., Norwalk,
203-866-5252 |
172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford,
203-359-2184;
See all locations at colonygrill.com
FOOD TRUCK
COPPS ISLAND OYSTER SHACK
Galley at Cove Marina,
50a Calf Pasture Beach Rd., Norwalk |
638 Selby’s Pond Rd., Stratford,
coppsislandoystershack.com
FROZEN YOGURT
16 HANDLES
1300 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-292-9841 |
219 Bedford St., Stamford,
203-817-0707;
See all locations at 16handles.com
HAMBURGERS
LITTLE PUB
531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob,
203-717-1147 |
2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-612-4567 |
41 Saugatuck Ave., Westport,
203-227-0511 |
26 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-762-1122;
See all locations at littlepub.com
HEALTH/ORGANIC FOOD
GRANOLA BAR
1020 Post Rd., Darien,
475-328-0994 |
1876 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-692-4311 |
41 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-883-5220 |
700 Canal St., Stamford,
203-883-0304 |
275 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-557-0945;
thegranolabar.com
ICE CREAM/GELATO
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 |
30 Riverside Ave., Westport,
203-557-4212;
See all locations at
sunnydaesicecream.com
JUICE BAR
GREEN & TONIC
7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob,
203-869-1376 |
665 Commerce Dr., Fairfield,
203-345-0995 |
21 Forest St., New Canaan,
203-594-1851 |
17 Jesup Rd., Westport,
203-557-6392;
see all locations at
greenandtonic.com
LUNCH SPOT
SPOTTED HORSE TAVERN
26 Church Ln., Westport,
203-226-0606;
spottedhorsetavern.com
NOODLE BAR/NOODLES
MECHA NOODLE BAR
1215 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-292-8222 |
116 Washington St., Norwalk,
203-295-8718 |
151 Bedford St., Stamford,
203-801-7577;
See all locations at
mechanoodlebar.com
SALADS
AUX DÉLICES
25 Old Kings Hwy., Darien,
203-662-1136 |
3 W. Elm St., Greenwich,
203-622-6644 |
1075 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside,
203-698-1066 |
1035 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-557-9600;
See all locations at
auxdelicesfoods.com
BRUNCH + CAFÉ BISTRO // TERRAIN
A trip to Terrain in Westport is always a good idea. You may come for the endless home and garden inspiration, but the café has become just as much of a destination—especially on a leisurely weekend when the only real agenda is brunch, browsing and possibly leaving with a new plant you definitely didn’t plan on buying. Located within the dreamy lifestyle store, the restaurant serves beautifully plated seasonal dishes in a setting that feels equal parts greenhouse, garden party and welcome escape from real life.
The kimchi salmon bowl is tossed in a creamy gochujang dressing.
BOWLS // CHOPT
CHOPT cracked the code on the workday lunch: customizable bowls that feel virtuous without being boring. Fresh ingredients, bold dressings and plenty of protein options keep regulars coming back.
Cheers to summer, best celebrated with freshly shucked oysters and water views.
FOOD TRUCK // COPPS ISLAND OYSTER SHACK
Parked at marinas in Stratford and Norwalk, Copps Island Oyster Shack has earned a devoted following for its lobster rolls, ultra-fresh oysters and raw bar classics. The family-run favorite lives by its “boat to table” philosophy—growing, shucking and serving its own oysters with the kind of dock-to-tray freshness that tastes unmistakably like summer on the Connecticut coast. In Norwalk, live music and sunset views add to the scene; in Stratford, the quieter marina setting feels like a hidden gem locals almost want to keep to themselves.
EDITOR’S PICK // FROZEN YOGURT
“My love of froyo existed long before the current buzz, and 16 Handles gets that. No trend-chasing, no fuss. For me, just the original tart with a swirl of mint chip, a handful of strawberries and carob chips, always. Conveniently located in downtown Fairfield. Easy parking, the vibe is good, and it’s the spot where everyone walks out the door looking genuinely happy. The 16 Handles froyo joy is real.”
Samantha Yanks, Editor, Westport, Weston & Wilton
MARKETS + MORE
BAKERY + DESSERT/PASTRIES
RAPHAËL’S BAKERY
146 Mason St., Greenwich,
203-485-0450 |
370 Heights Rd, Darien,
203-655-3478;
raphsbakery.com
BUTCHER
STEW LEONARD’S
100 Westport Ave., Norwalk,
203-750-8000;
stewleonards.com
CAKES/CUPCAKES
DIMARE PASTRY SHOP
12 Largo Dr., Stamford,
203-967-2253;
dimarepastry.com
CATERER
MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS
65 Research Dr., Stamford,
203-353-8000;
marciaselden.com
CHOCOLATE SHOP
BE CHOCOLAT
75 Hillside Rd., Fairfield,
203-292-5981;
bechocolat.com
FARMERS’ MARKETS / LOCAL GOODS
WESTPORT FARMERS’ MARKET
50 Imperial Ave., Westport,
203-293-9378;
westportfarmersmarket.com
GOURMET GROCERY
THE PANTRY
1580 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-259-0400;
thepantry.net
GOURMET TO-GO
AUX DÉLICES
25 Old Kings Hwy., Darien,
203-662-1136 |
3 W. Elm St., Greenwich,
203-622-6644 |
1075 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside,
203-698-1066 |
1035 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-557-9600;
auxdelicesfoods.com
LIQUOR STORE
TOTAL WINE & MORE
380 Main St., Norwalk,
203-840-0007;
See all locations at totalwine.com
SEAFOOD MARKET
FJORD FISH MARKET
1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien,
203-202-9473 |
158 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich,
203-661-5006 |
22 East Ave., New Canaan,
203-966-2200 |
1835 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-255-9331;
See all locations at fjordfishmarket.com
WINE SHOP
HARRY’S WINE & LIQUOR MARKET
2094 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-259-4692;
harryswine.com
Raphaël’s family-run bakery offers fresh sandwiches.
STAFF PICK // GOURMET TO-GO
“The French bistro ham and cheddar on a mini baguette is my go-to Aux Délices order. Paired with a side of kale salad and a lemonade–passion fruit iced tea, it’s a lunch that always hits the spot.”
Venera Alexandrova, Senior Art Director,
Greenwich and New Canaan, Darien + Rowayton
Pass the pita: This lush green tablescape pairs perfectly with a Greek mezze menu designed for sharing.
CATERER // MARCIA SELDEN CATERING
For decades, family-run Marcia Selden Catering has been behind some of the area’s most memorable weddings, galas and backyard celebrations, pulling off events that somehow feel both polished and deeply personal. Guests may remember the beautiful tables or impeccable service, but what really sets the Selden team apart is their ability to make events feel warm, lively and genuinely fun.
New Canaan, Darien & Rowayton editor Eileen Murphy builds her own bouquet with blooms from Muddy Feet Flower Farm.
FARMERS’ MARKETS + LOCAL GOODS // WESTPORT FARMERS’ MARKET
A quick stop at the Westport Farmers’ Market rarely stays quick. One minute, you’re picking up tomatoes, the next you’re leaving with just-baked bread, fresh flowers, local honey and ambitious plans to cook something seasonal. Beloved for its mix of regional farms, artisanal vendors and strong sense of community, the market has become as much a weekend ritual as a place to shop. On any given Thursday, you’ll find chefs, families and devoted regulars weaving through the stalls with coffee in hand, catching up with vendors they’ve known for years.
BAR BOASTS
BEER SELECTION + OUTDOOR BAR
314 Beer Garden
314 Wilton Ave., Norwalk,
203-857-1516;
314beergarden.com
MARGARITAS
BARTACO
222 Summer St., Stamford,
203-323-8226 |
20 Wilton Rd., Westport,
203-222-8226;
bartaco.com
MARTINIS
WASHINGTON PRIME
141 Washington St., Norwalk,
washingtonprimect.com
MICROBREWERY
TWO ROADS BREWING
1700 Stratford Ave., Stratford;
tworoadsbrewing.com
MOBILE BAR + PUB + RESTAURANT BAR
LITTLE PUB
531 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob,
203-717-1147 |
2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-612-4567 |
41 Saugatuck Ave., Westport,
203-227-0511 |
26 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-762-1122;
See all locations at littlepub.com
NON-ALCOHOLIC / MOCKTAILS
MECHA NOODLE BAR
1215 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-292-8222 |
116 Washington St., Norwalk,
203-295-8718 |
151 Bedford St., Stamford,
203-801-7577;
See all locations at mechanoodlebar.com
SPORTS BAR
THE BLIND RHINO
3425 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport,
203-362-5001 |
15 N. Main St., South Norwalk,
203-956-7243;
theblindrhino.com
WINE BAR
BARCELONA WINE BAR
4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield,
203-255-0800 |
222 Summer St., Stamford,
203-348-4800;
See all locations at barcelonawinebar.com
WINE LIST
CASA ME
7 Sconset Sq., Westport,
203-571-3230;
casamecafe.com
Bright flavors, eye-catching presentations and a little sense of fun have made Mecha’s beverage program a local favorite.
NON-ALCOHOLIC+ MOCKTAILS // MECHA NOODLE BAR
Mecha Noodle Bar’s playful, flavor-packed mocktails are every bit as thoughtful as the cocktails—bright, layered drinks that arrive looking just as good as everything else on the table. Whether paired with steaming bowls of ramen, bao buns or late-night snacks with friends, they’ve become a go-to order for anyone wanting something festive without the hangover.
SHOP & STYLE
Sure, you can click “Add to Cart.” But there’s still something satisfying about wandering into a shop and finding exactly what you didn’t know you were looking for. Whether it’s a special-occasion dress, a statement necklace, a custom sofa or the perfect finishing touch for a room, this year’s winners remind us that shopping is as much about discovery as it is about the purchase. These are the boutiques, jewelers and home stores readers swear by—and return to often.
FASHION
ACCESSORIES
APRICOT LANE
1499 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-292-9888;
apricotlaneboutique.com
CONSIGNMENT
OLIVE MY STUFF
39 Sanford St., Fairfield,
475-231-5829;
olivemystuff.com
DEPARTMENT STORE + MEN’S FASHION + MEN’S SHOES
MITCHELLS/RICHARDS
359 Greenwich Ave.,
Greenwich, 203-622-0551 |
670 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-227-5165;
richards.mitchellstores.com
and shop.mitchellstores.com
DESIGNER BOUTIQUE + WOMEN’S FASHION
DARIEN SPORT SHOP
1127 Post Rd., Darien,
203-655-2575;
dariensportshop.com
EVENT DRESSES/BRIDAL GOWNS + BRIDESMAID DRESSES
A LITTLE SOMETHING WHITE
987 Post Rd., Darien
203-309-5110
alittlesomethingwhite.com
EYEWEAR
WARBY PARKER
122 Heights Rd., Ste. 218,
Darien; 646-846-2168 |
344 Greenwich Ave.,
Greenwich, 475-275-9684 |
The SoNo Collection,
100 N. Water St.,
South Norwalk,
203-648-9689;
warbyparker.com
JEANS
B CHIC
78 Old Ridgefield Rd.,
Wilton, 203-210-7037;
bchicct.com
LINGERIE
LA SOURCE
132 Heights Rd., Darien,
203-276-8886 |
44 Elm St., New Canaan,
475-558-9101;
lovelasource.com
LUXEYEBROW/EYELASH SERVICES
ORI
340 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
475-335-9098 |
166 Main St., Westport,
203-293-4613;
vuoriclothing.com
NEW SHOP
REFORMATION
272 Greenwich Ave.,
Greenwich,
475-224-2895;
thereformation.com
SWIMWEAR
EVERYTHING BUT WATER
84 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-622-1878 |
136 Main St., Westport;
everythingbutwater.com
TEEN FASHION
GROOVE
420 Post Rd. W., Westport,
203-557-8111 |
115 Elm St., New Canaan,
203-920-1700;
shopgroove.net
WOMEN’S SHOES
SHOES ’N’ MORE
251 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-629-2323 |
1074-1076 Post Rd., Darien,
203-202-7702 |
121 Elm St., New Canaan,
203-972-8484 |
275 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-227-4224;
See all locations at shoesnmore.com
A masterclass in Italian tailoring, Brioni’s latest collection brings together heritage craftsmanship and modern sophistication.
DEPARTMENT STORE + MEN’S FASHION + MEN’S SHOES // MITCHELLS/RICHARDS
A Gold Coast institution, Mitchells and Richards continues to earn its reputation as a go-to destination for fashion. Whether shopping for expertly tailored menswear, standout footwear or a wardrobe refresh, customers return for the thoughtfully curated selection and personalized service that make the experience feel refreshingly effortless.
Karolina Tanasiv is wearing Saloni, bracelets from Julie Vos and diamond necklace from KVO. Diane Wooters is wearing a TWP white linen shirt and ASHA earrings.
DESIGNER BOUTIQUE+ WOMEN’S FASHION // DARIEN SPORT SHOP
A longtime favorite on the Post Road, Darien Sport Shop continues to set the standard for the modern one-stop-shop experience. With a thoughtfully curated mix of fashion, accessories and lifestyle essentials, it remains a go-to destination for customers who appreciate both style and service under one roof.
The Lisa linen dress is a summer social staple (left), while the Olina drawstring pants arrive in the moment’s color: chartreuse
NEW SHOP // REFORMATION
Now open in Greenwich, Reformation brings its signature blend of modern design and sustainability to The Avenue. The new store offers an edit of effortless, feminine pieces that have made the brand a favorite far beyond its California roots.
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
NAGI JEWELERS
828 High Ridge Rd., Stamford,
203-964-0551;
nagijewelers.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;
ringart.com
SPECIAL OCCASION JEWELRY
MANFREDI JEWELS
121 Greenwich Ave.,
Greenwich,
866-610-0705 |
72 Elm St., New Canaan,
203-966-8705;
manfredijewels.com
WATCHES
BETTERIDGE
239 Greenwich Ave.,
Greenwich,
203-869-0124;
betteridge.com
WEDDING/ENGAGEMENT RINGS
HENRY C. REID JEWELERS
1591 Post Rd., Fairfield,
203-255-0447;
hcreidjewelers.com
FAMILLE
Winner Of Best Estate Jewelry
Earrings with 15.58 cts emerald cut aquamarines, 4.47 cts emerald cut sapphires, .03 cts diamonds, set in platinum; price upon request
LUX BOND & GREEN
Winner Of Best Designer Jewelry
Cable Collectibles® petite cable-linked necklace in sterling silver with 14K yellow gold, by David Yurman; $450
NAGI JEWELERS
Winner Of Best Everyday Jewelry
18K yellow gold bead stretch bracelet with diamonds by Hulchi Belluni; $4,899
BETTERIDGE
Winner Of Best Watches
CHANEL J12 Cosmic White ceramic 33mm white dial; $8,250
MANFREDI JEWELS
Winner Of Best Special Occasion Jewelry
Pasquale Bruni Heart-to-Earth 18K white gold diamond earrings; $73,000
SHREVE, CRUMP & LOW
Winner Of Best Fine Jewelry
18K emerald cut pale beryl, multi sapphire and diamond bracelet (white gold); $22,000
R. HOLLANDER MASTER GOLDSMITH
Winner Of Best Selection Of Local Designers
4.50ct oval natural diamond set into a handmade platinum engagement ring with 1.00ct total weight, brilliant-cut diamonds; $78,400. Companion insert ring is 1.50ct total weight, brilliant-cut diamonds pave set into platinum; $10,200
HENRY C. REID JEWELERS
Winner Of Best Wedding/Engagement Rings
Desire 14K yellow gold Toi et Moi round diamond engagement ring by Gabriel & Co.; $3,050
HOME
ANTIQUES/VINTAGE
CASA ROSETTI
2 Main St. Unit B, Redding,
203-286-3364;
casarosetti.com
APPLIANCES
AITORO
401 Westport Ave., Norwalk,
203-847-2471;
aitoro.com
CLOSET/ORGANIZATION
CALIFORNIA CLOSETS
48 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich,
203-924-8444;
californiaclosets.com
CUSTOM KITCHEN SHOWROOM
ORNARE
34 E. Putnam Ave., #34A,
Greenwich,
475-897-1089;
ornare.com
DÉCOR +FURNITURE
THE POST
1799 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-292-5700 |
8 Sconset Sq., Westport;
203-349-5190
thepostct.com
FINE ART GALLERY
THE FLINN GALLERY
101 West Putnam Ave.,
Second Floor,
Greenwich, 203-622-7947;
flinngallery.com
GARDEN CENTER
MCARDLE’S FLORIST AND GARDEN CENTER
48 Arch St., Greenwich,
203-661-5600;
mcardles.com
HARDWARE
FEINSOD ACE HARDWARE
268 Sound Beach Ave.,
Old Greenwich,
203-637-3641;
acehardware.com
HOME TECH
UNTANGLED
230 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-665-8221;
theuntangledlife.com
KITCHEN + BATH
BENDER
235 Westport Ave., Norwalk,
203-663-0272;
benderplumbing.com
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
HOFFMAN LANDSCAPES
647 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-834-9656;
hoffmanlandscapes.com
LIGHTING
VISUAL COMFORT & CO.
21 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich,
203-622-1417 24 |
Washington St., Norwalk,
203.803.1518;
visualcomfort.com
LINENS
BOLL & BRANCH
169 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
475-500-7033;
bollandbranch.com
OUTDOOR FURNITURE
TERRAIN
561 Post Rd. E.,
Westport,
203-226-2750;
shopterrain.com
PAINT + WINDOWS/DOORS
RING’S END
181 West Ave., Darien,
203-655-2525;
See all locations at ringsend.com
POOL DESIGN
SHORELINE
393 West Ave., Stamford,
203-967-1203;
www.shorelinepools.com
RUGS
REDI-CUT CARPETS & RUGS
1620 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-349-6686;
redicarpets.com
STONE
GAULT
11 Ferry Ln. W., Westport,
203-227-5181;
gaultstone.com
Aimee Floor Lamp by Suzanne Kasler for Visual Comfort & Co.
LIGHTING // VISUAL COMFORT & CO.
If lighting is what makes a room, Visual Comfort & Co. is the reason so many rooms feel finished. With a roster of design collaborations and fixtures that range from minimal to unapologetically bold, this lighting company has become a not-so-secret weapon for better interiors.
Everything in its perfectly-planned pantry space
CLOSET/ORGANIZATION //CALIFORNIA CLOSETS
There are closets, and then there are California Closets. The brand’s custom-designed systems have become the go-to for turning everything from overstuffed wardrobes to chaotic pantries and built-in spaces into something that feels intentional, streamlined—and almost too good to hide behind closed doors.
EDITOR’S PICK
PAINT
Choosing a paint color sounds simple until you’re staring at 47 shades of white. Fortunately, Ring’s End staffs people who can explain the difference between warm and cool tones without making you feel like you should already know the difference.
Megan Gagnon, Editor, athome in Fairfield County
SERVICES +TO-DO’S
Call it the support system of daily life. The places you book without thinking, the pros you recommend without hesitation, the services that quietly keep everything together. From fitness and beauty to family logistics and everyday care, these are this year’s reader favorites.
FITNESS + GEAR
ACTIVEWEAR/RUNNING SHOES
ATHLETA
350 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-625-0129 |
103-107 Main St., Westport,
203-454-0001;
See all locations at athleta.gap.com
BARRE
THE BAR METHOD
800 Post Rd., Darien,
203-2020-7975 |
85 Mill Plain Rd., Fairfield,
203-259-8825;
barmethod.com
BICYCLE SHOP
TREK BICYCLE FAIRFIELD
2266 Black Rock Tpk.,
Fairfield,
203-859-9509;
trekbikes.com
COURT SPORTS
CHELSEA PIERS THE CAMPUS
1 Blachley Rd., Stamford,
203-989-1000;
chelseapiers.com/athleticclub-stamford
CROSSFIT + GYM
CROSSFIT WESTPORT
19 Willard Rd., Norwalk,
203-526-3021;
crossfitwestport.com
DANCE STUDIO
Empowered Aerial Fitness
316 Courtland Ave.,
Stamford,
203-324-0832;
empoweredaerialfitness.com
GOLF EQUIPMENT
GOLF GALAXY
595 Connecticut Ave.,
Norwalk, 203-855-0500;
golfgalaxy.com
INDOOR CYCLING
CYCLE X STRENGTH
1010 High Ridge Rd.,
Stamford, 203-617-1264;
cycleandstrength.com
PILATES
CLUB PILATES
427 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-990-1011;
clubpilates.com
PRIVATE FITNESS TRAINING
RECESS PERFORMANCE CLUB
1276 Post Rd. E., #2, Westport;
recess.fit
SPECIALTY FITNESS STUDIO
ATHLETO PILATES
340 Grasmere Ave., Fairfield,
203-210-5161 |
261 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-210-5161;
athletostudios.com
YOGA
CONNECTICUT POWER YOGA
1372 Summer St., Stamford,
203-539-1852;
ctpoweryoga.com
PAMPERING
BLOWOUT + COLOR + WOMEN’S STYLING SALON
H SALON
75 Hillside Rd., Fairfield,
203-255-0798;
hsalonfairfield.com
DAY SPA + MASSAGE
EGIA DAY SPA
121 Cherry St., New Canaan,
203-594-7252;
egiadayspa.com
EYEBROW/EYELASH SERVICES
FEATHER AND FRINGE
252 Post Rd E., Westport,
203-212-9846;
featherandfringect.com
FACIAL+ MED SPA
ELEMENT MEDICAL/AESTHETICS
80 Main St., New Canaan,
203-594-1907;
elementct.com
HAIR REMOVAL
THE WAXING SPOT
420 Post Rd. W., Westport,
203-228-5118;
thewaxingspot.com
MAKEUP APPLICATION
HOPSCOTCH SALON
Hyatt Regency Greenwich
1800 E Putnam Ave.,
Old Greenwich,
203-661-0107;
hopscotchsalon.com
MAKEUP SHOP
BLUEMERCURY
1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien,
203-656-9660 |
254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-863-0005 |
120 Main St., New Canaan,
203-972-7100 |
57 Main St., Westport,
203-222-9222 |
62 Main St., Westport,
203-227-6900;
See all locations at bluemercury.com
MANI/PEDI
POSH SPA & NAILS
1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien,
203-309-5454 |
195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-900-1099 |
401 Post Rd. W., Westport,
203-222-8830;
poshct.com
MEN’S GROOMING
HAMMER & NAILS
88 Heights Rd. Darien,
203-779-0988 |
48 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich,
203-489-2220 |
606 Post Rd. E., Unit #205
Westport, 203-800-4120:
hammerandnailsgrooming.com
SPRAY TAN
BRONZED BY COY
231 Post Rd. W., 2nd Floor,
Westport, 203-908-0184;
bronzedbycoy.com
EDITOR’S PICK
MEN’S GROOMING
Hammer & Nails is a rugged, yet high-end grooming spa for men. Customers can grab a beer and watch TV during a shave, pedicure or haircut.
Elizabeth Hole, Editor, Custom Publishing
DAILY ESSENTIALS
AUTO SHOP
PRAY BODY SHOP
352 Elm St., Stamford,
203-359-3025;
praybodyshop.com
BOOKSTORE
WESTPORT BOOK SHOP
23 Jesup Rd., Westport,
203-349-5141;
westportbooksaleventures.org
CAR WASH
SPLASH
See all locations at splashcarwashes.com
CBD STORE
FINE FETTLE
12 Research Dr., Stamford,
203-989-9133 |
191 Main St., Norwalk,
203-295-7861;
finefettle.com
DRY CLEANING
BESTEVER
69 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich,
203-869-3997
ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
WESTPORT COUNTY PLAYHOUSE
25 Powers Ct., Westport,
203-227-4177;
westportplayhouse.org
EVENT SPACE/WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE
THE SPREAD
127 Washington St., Norwalk,
203-939-1111;
thespreadsono.com
FLORIST
McArdle’s Florist and Garden Center
48 Arch St., Greenwich,
203-661-5600;
mcardles.com
GIFT SHOP
SPLURGE
39 Lewis St., Greenwich,
203-869-7600;
splurgegifts.com
LIVERY SERVICE
RUDY’S LIMOUSINE
800-243-7839;
rudylimo.com
LOCAL HOTEL
DELAMAR GREENWICH
500 Steamboat Rd.,
Greenwich,
203-661-9800;
delamar.com/hotels/delamar-greenwich-harbor
PET GROOMER/PET SPA
ALL FUR PAWS OLD GREENWICH
237 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich,
203-344-1270;
allfurpawsct.com
PET SUPPLIES/CLOTHING
EARTH ANIMAL
925 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-222-7173;
earthanimal.com
PHOTOGRAPHER PORTRAIT
CALDERWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
Darien;
calderwoodphotography.com
PHOTOGRAPHER WEDDING
CALLALILY STUDIOS
110 Prospect St., Suite 1, Stamford,
203-550-0867;
callalilystudios.com
SHOE REPAIR
TONY’S GREENWICH
5 West Putnam Ave.,
Greenwich, 203-769-1916
STATIONERY/FORMAL INVITATIONS
THE WRITE STUFF
Weston;
thewritestuffct.com
STATIONERY/FORMAL INVITATIONS
STORAGE
2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield,
203-256-2777 |
50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk,
203-899-1234 |
80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford,
203-961-8000 |
65 Danbury Rd., Wilton,
203-762-7600;
See all locations at westy.com
TAILOR
TED THE TAILOR
2 Church St., Greenwich,
203-869-5699;
@tedthetailorgreenwich
VETERINARIAN
NORWALK ANIMAL HOSPITAL
330 Main Ave., Norwalk,
203-847-7757;
norwalkanimalhospital.com
Calderwood captured Gray Connors in her native Rowayton
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER // CALDERWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY
A great portrait doesn’t just capture how someone looks—it captures how they feel. Katharine Calderwood has built a reputation for doing exactly that, creating images that are intimate, honest and cinematic, whether she’s photographing families, creatives or public figures.
Good dog, good Earth Animal treats
EDITOR’S PICK
MEN’S GROOMING
Hammer & Nails is a rugged, yet high-end grooming spa for men. Customers can grab a beer and watch TV during a shave, pedicure or haircut.
Elizabeth Hole, Editor, Custom Publishing
FAMILY LIFE
ART CLASSES
SILVERMINE ARTS CENTER
1037 Silvermine Rd., New Canaan,
203-966-9700;
silvermineart.org
CHILD CARE
WEE CARE NANNY
203-359-8410;
weecarenanny.com
CHILDREN’S/BABY DÉCOR
SPLURGE
39 Lewis St., Greenwich,
203-869-7600;
splurgegifts.com
CHILDREN’S CLOTHES
SPLURGE
39 Lewis St., Greenwich,
203-869-7600;
splurgegifts.com
CHILDREN’S HAIRCUTS
SHARKEY’S
1568 Post Rd. E., Westport,
203-557-8700 |
350 Heights Rd., Darien
917-797-9525
sharkeyscutsforkids.com
CHILDREN’S MUSIC LESSONS
FAIRFIELD SCHOOL OF MUSIC
2465 Black Rock Tpk., 2nd floor, Fairfield, 203-690-1888;
fsmusic.org
CHILDREN’S PARTIES
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM
10 N Water St., Norwalk,
203-852-0700;
maritimeaquarium.org
CHILDREN’S PARTIES
WESTPORT-WESTON FAMILY YMCA
14 Allen Raymond Ln., Westport,
203-226-8981;
westporty.org
COLLEGE PREP COURSES
CARNEGIE PREP
136 N. Old Stone Bridge Rd., Cos Cob,
203-352-3500;
carnegieprep.com
TOY STORE
AWESOME
Toys and Gifts
970 High Ridge Rd., Stamford |
429 Post Rd. E., Westport,
424-293-7663;
awesometoys.com