TIME TO SHINE
We all need a reason to celebrate! Here, with the winners of our annual readers’ poll revealed, we applaud the local businesses on making an impression and building a loyal following. A commitment to excellence is never easy (it’s not supposed to be), but this year was especially challenging. Congratulations to the those who give their best every day!
FOOD & DRINK
One of the great joys in life is A DELICIOUS MEAL AND A FEW REFRESHING DRINKS with friends, old and new. Leave it to these pros to create your favorite dishes and cocktails, served with a smile. Our readers reveal their favorite local restaurants, cafés, bars and grab-and-go places.
THE LILA ROSE // WINNER OF NEW RESTAURANT
Everything’s aglow and there’s a bit of magic—and a whole lot of fun—in the air at The Lila Rose. Put life’s worries aside at this new restaurant, which gets serious about fully enjoying food and drink. Co-owners John and Morgan Nealon and Chef Mo have created a wonderland, ready for you to dig into angry lobster risotto or other tapas, get serious about your dry-aged New York strip, and sip your cocktail. Impossible not to smile and feel good about life here.
THE WINNERS LIST
RESTAURANTS
Best Service
Match
98 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-852-1088;
matchsono.com
Business Lunch
Prime Restaurant
78 Southfield Ave., Stamford, 203-817-0700;
restaurantprime.com
Creative Menu(Tied Winners)
Taco Daddy
121 Towne St., Stamford, 203-541-5770;
tacodaddystamford.com
The Whelk
575 Riverside Ave., Westport, 203-557-0902;
thewhelkwestport.com
Hotel Restaurant + Outdoor Seating
Artisan Southport
275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-307-4222;
artisansouthport.com
New Restaurant
The Lila Rose
121 Towne St., Stamford, 203-569-9227;
@tacodaddyandthelilarose
Outdoor Dining
Table 104
299 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-388-8898;
table104stamford.com
Pickup/Delivery Option
Little Pub
531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147
26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122
2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567;
see all locations at littlepub.com
Private Dining/Intimate Venue
Oak and Almond
544 Main Ave., Norwalk, 203-846-4600;
oakandalmond.com
Seafood
The Restaurant at Rowayton Seafood
89 Rowayton Ave., Rowayton, 203-866-4488;
rowaytonseafood.com
Special Occasion/Date Night
Tavern at GrayBarns
194 Perry Ave., Norwalk, 203-580-1900;
tavernatgraybarns.com
Steak
Washington Prime
141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314;
washingtonprimect.com
Sushi
Nordic Fish
1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8400;
nordicfishfairfield.com
Tapas
Barcelona Wine Bar
222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800
515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600
4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800;
see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com
1 // BARCELONA RESTAURANT & WINE BAR // WINNER OF BEST TAPAS
We’ll take an order of Blistered Shishito, PEI Mussels, Grilled Quail, Bacon-Wrapped Dates and Spinach and Chickpea Cazuela for the table—because we plan to share. As for washing it down, choose from dozens and dozens of options. If this sounds good to you, head over with friends and enjoy yourself.
REGIONAL SPECIALTIES
American
BJ Ryan’s
57 Main St., Norwalk, 203-866-7926;
bjryans.com
Asian Fusion
Mecha Noodle Bar
151 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-801-7577
116 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-295-8718
1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8222;
see all locations at mechanoodlebar.com
Chinese
The Little Kitchen of Westport
423 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-5540;
littlekitchenwestport.com
French
Le Fat Poodle
20 Arcadia Rd., Old Greenwich, 203-717-1515;
lefatpoodle.com
Greek
Kouzina Taverna
223 Main St., Stamford, 203-588-0110;
kouzinataverna.com
Indian
Coromandel Cuisine of India
68 Broad St., Stamford, 203-964-1010
25 Old Kings Hwy. N., Darien, 203-662-1213;
see all locations at coromandelcuisine.com
Italian
Café Silvium
371 Shippan Ave., Stamford, 203-324-1651;
cafesilviumct.com
Japanese
OKO
6 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-557-8404;
okokitchen.com
Mediterranean
Layla’s Falafel
936 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-461-8004
1535 Post Rd. E., 203-955-1583
2088 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-384-0100;
laylasfalafel.com
Mexican
Bodega Taco Bar
980 Post Rd., Darien, 203-655-8500
1700 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9590;
bodegatakeout.com
Spanish
Barcelona Wine Bar
222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800
515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600
4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800;
see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com
Thai
Little Thai Kitchen
21 St. Roch Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-2972;
4 West Ave., Darien, 203-662-0038;
littlethaikitchen.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Flipside Burgers & Bar
If you can’t decide among the many burgers at Flipside, trust us, these two will win you over.
Burrata burger
When you’re starving, try the 6 oz. sirloin with burrata, arugula, roasted red peppers and pesto mayo on a toasted garlic parmesan bun.
Waldorf burger
Put a twist on a classic, by subbing grilled chicken or turkey for the burger and top with gorgonzola cheese, green apples, candied walnuts and cranberry aioli.
1 // GOFER // WINNER OF BEST ICE CREAM
Some prefer hard ice cream, scooped high on a sugar cone. Others pick the soft variety, swirled to a peak and covered in sprinkles. But everyone can agree on the Gofer Bites, bite-sized, hand-rolled ice cream that is dipped in rich chocolate.
2 // OKO // WINNER OF BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT
Is your dinner too pretty to eat? Almost, at OKO. This is fine dining, with equal parts pleasure in cooking prep, presentation and service. This is a treat for all of your senses.
3 // NORDIC FISH // WINNER OF BEST SUSHI
Some know this place as a fish and seafood market, but it’s also a serious fresh-made sushi spot (eat in or pick-up). Consider a build-your-own poke bowl or pick a roll, including vegetarian, cooked or raw fish and fancy options (like the Tiger Rainbow Roll with crab, cucumber, shrimp, seaweed and spicy mayo).
4 // TABLE 104 // WINNER OF OUTDOOR DINING
On a breezy afternoon or a starlight night, nothing beats dining outside. Table 104 has a cozy patio with padded bench seating, canopy coverings, plenty of privacy with wood panels and flowers and a sweet touch of string lighting. Relax and enjoy yourself here.
CASUAL FOOD
Bagels
Village Bagels
1874 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-319-0299
873 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-254-1750;
villagebagelsct.com
Breakfast
The Tasty Yolk
1505 Pequot Ave., Southport, 203-726-6520
999 Brookside Dr., Fairfield, 203-526-9745
4700 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-572-8884
storefront: 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311;
thetastyyolk.com
Frozen Yogurt
16 Handles
219 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-817-0707
1300 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9841;
see all locations at 16handles.com
Hamburgers
Flipside Burgers & Bar
1125 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-8233
1 Schooner Ln., Milford, 203-283-7282;
flipsiderestaurant.com
Hot Dogs
Super Duper Weenie
306 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-334-3647;
superduperweenie.com
Ice Cream
Gofer
522 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-9080
551 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-990-0094
551 E. Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0094
869 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-504-3105
103 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-1342
1020 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-2661
379 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-210-5546;
see all locations at gofericecream.com
Pizza
Colony Grill
172 Myrtle Ave., Stamford, 203-359-2184
515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-5252
1520 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-1989;
see all locations at colonygrill.com
Ribs/Barbecue
Hoodoo Brown BBQ
967 Ethan Alley Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-438-6033;
hoodoobrownbbq.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Tavern at GrayBarns
A special occasion doesn’t always mean lobster or steak. Rethink surf and turf.
SEA
For full seafood flavor, you can’t miss with the Black Sea Bass with ginger dashi, Chinese broccoli and cipollini onion.
LAND
Pick the king trumpet mushrooms with spring relish, pine nuts, spring broccoli, and barley or campanelle with morel mushrooms, sherry, pesto and parmesan.
1 // MARCIA SELDEN CATERING & EVENTS // WINNER OF CATERER + GOURMET TO GO
Whether you’re looking for either a royal-worthy wedding menu or a round-the-firepit gathering with your closest friends, Marcia Selden always hits the mark with food, presentation and vibe. There is a sense of abundance and joy in every bite.
2 // LITTLE PUB // WINNER OF BEER SELECTION + PUB
Understanding what makes a good beer and a good pub work is about that moment that eases the stress of the every day. Little Pub’s welcoming atmosphere comes with both comfort food and ice-cold beer.
3 // ORGANIKA KITCHEN // WINNER OF HEALTH/ORGANIC
Juices, smoothies, acai bowls, sandwiches, wraps and more— the wonderful thing about healthful eating is that it’s not only good for you, but also looks and tastes delicious. The proof is in any of Organika Kitchen’s options.
DROP-IN SPOTS
Brunch + Café/Bistro + Lunch Spot
Terrain Garden Cafe
561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2732;
shopterrain.com
Coffee Shop
Lorca
125 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-504-2847;
lorcacoffeebar.com
Deli
A & S Italian Fine Foods
2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600;
asfinefoods.com
Diner
Orem’s Diner
167 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7370;
oremsdiner.com
Food Truck
The Tasty Yolk
1505 Pequot Ave., Southport, 203-726-6520
999 Brookside Dr., Fairfield, 203-526-9745
4700 Park Ave., Bridgeport, 203-572-8884
storefront: 2992 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, 203-545-9311;
thetastyyolk.com
Health/Organic
Organika Kitchen
3546 Post Rd., Southport, 203-955-1500
424 Main St., Ridgefield, 203-403-3346;
organikact.com
Juice Bar
Green & Tonic
7 Strickland Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-1376
1098 Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-1036
17 Jesup Rd., Westport, 203-557-6392;
665 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-345-0995;
see all locations at greenandtonic.com
Vegetarian
The Lime Restaurant
168 Main St., Norwalk, 203-846-9240;
limerestaurant.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
DiMare Pastry Shop
This landmark is for a pro-level sweet tooth.
CHOCOLATE, NOW
When we need chocolate, we order DiMare’s 7 Layers cake, with golden sponge cake that is frosted and filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with ganache.
A BITE OF THIS AND THAT
Not sure what you want? Follow our lead: A mix of pastries: cannolis, sfogiatelle, Napoleons, eclairs and lobster tails.
MARKETS + MORE
Bakery + Desserts
DiMare Pastry Shop
1245 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-637-4781
12 Largo Dr. S., Stamford, 203-967-2253;
dimarepastry.com
Butcher Shop
A & S Italian Fine Foods
2079 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-576-1600;
asfinefoods.com
Caterer + Gourmet to Go
Marcia Selden Catering & Events
65 Research Dr., Stamford, 203-353-8000;
marciaselden.com
Cup Cakes
22 Candles Custom Cakes
Wilton, @22candles
Gourmet Grocery
Balducci’s
1050 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-637-7600
1385 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-254-5200;
balduccis.com
Grocery Pickup/Delivery Option
Instacart
instacart.com
Liquor Store
Total Wine & More
380 Main St., Norwalk, 203-840-0007;
see all locations at totalwine.com
Seafood Market
Fjord Fish Market
158 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-661-5006
22 East Ave., New Canaan, 203-966-2200
1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-9473
1835 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-255-9331;
see all locations at fjordfishmarket.com
Wine Shop
Harry’s Wine & Liquor Market
2094 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-259-4692;
harryswine.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Green + Tonic
These housemade vegetarian picks always oomphs up our day.
IT’S A WRAP
We can vouch for the Curry Chickpea Wrap, with collard green, spinach, carrots, purple cabbage, curry chickpea spread and curry dressing.
WASH IT DOWN
We’re all for a Turmeric Boost wellness shot or deeply refreshing Aloe water, but we also rotate in some sip time with Arogya jasmine mint green tea.
1 // BARTACO // WINNER OF BEST MARGARITAS + RESTAURANT BAR
Put your lips to that salty rim and drink in some sweet-and-tangy margarita. Life is good. Enjoy a great seat outside (along the water at the Westport location) or order online for pick-up and serve your favorites—yes, even cocktail kits—at home. The restaurant has it’s own margarita take-home kit—and shaker—for one to six. It’s a good summer, cheers!
2 // HARRY’S WINE & LIQUOR MARKET // WINNER OF BEST WINE SHOP
Harry’s opened eighty years ago, in 1941, and is now enjoying its third generation of ownership. Whether you know wine or you’re just starting out, you’ll find lots of options (like eighty rosé selections) and lots of help making a final choice. And it still feels like a neighborhood shop.
3 // FJORD FISH MARKET // WINNER OF BEST SEAFOOD MARKET
Want a good seafood market that has your favorites? Of course, you do! Fjord has it all, from market options for home cooking, to catering (note amazing salmon below), to fully cooked food to go. We’re thinking lobster roll with fries and a fresh squeeze of lemon, because nothing tastes better in high summer. Order in one of their beautiful markets or online for pickup or delivery. Really, it’s good—no catch.
BAR BOASTS
Beer Selection + Pub
Little Pub
531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147
26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122
2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567;
see all locations at littlepub.com
Margaritas + Restaurant Bar
bartaco
222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-323-8226
20 Wilton Rd., Westport, 203-222-8226;
see all locations at bartaco.com
Martinis
Washington Prime
141 Washington St., Norwalk, 203-857-1314;
washingtonprimect.com
Microbrewery
Half Full Brewery
43 Homestead Ave., Stamford, 203-658-3631
575 Pacific St., Stamford, 203-580-2030;
halffullbrewery.com
Outdoor Bar
Sunset Grille
52 Calf Pasture Beach Rd., Norwalk, 203-866-4177;
sunsetgrille.net
Wine Bar
Barcelona Wine Bar
222 Summer St., Stamford, 203-348-4800
515 West Ave., Norwalk, 203-854-5600
4180 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-255-0800;
see all locations at barcelonawinebar.com
Wine List
The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s
2748 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-325-9979;
watersedgeatgiovannis.com
STYLE & SHOP
Go ahead, EXPRESS YOURSELF. Our readers have found the shops and department stores that keep them in style. Some choose fashion to show the world who they are, others outfit their homes with furniture, rugs and accessories to make their part of the world beautiful. A lucky few are good at both. Here’s the list of where to start your journey to showing off your unique style.
– Photography: courtesy of brand
SOLEIL TOILE // WINNER OF LINGERIE + SWIMWEAR
Celebrate the human body and all of its precious curves at Soleil Toile, which carries designer lingerie and swimwear. Confident or modest, you’ll feel at ease at this mother-daughter owned store. Plus, no more t-shirts for bed—not when you can find comfy and feminine sleepwear.
MITCHELLS/RICHARDS // WINNER OF MEN’S FASHION + MEN’S SHOES
Clothes make the man, they say. So true! You’re in excellent hands at Michells and Richards, where the men’s department is stocked with designer options. One of the perks of shopping here, in person or online, is the expert style advice as well as professional tailoring.
– WEST Photography by Ulla Johnson Photo; Apricot Lane contributed
WEST // WINNER OF BEST DESIGNER BOUTIQUE
If you forgot that getting dressed can be fun, and even empowering, then head to this boutique. The clothing and accessories are unique, stylish and always tasteful, so you never have to wonder if you look as good as you feel.
APRICOT LANE // WINNER OF BEST ACCESSORIES + TEEN + LUXE LEISUREWEAR + ONLINE SHOPPING
Teen shoppers just have a way of knowing what’s in style and what looks good on them. The amount of votes in Best of the Gold Coast suggest they’re heading to this fashion-forward boutique—the rest of us would do well to follow their lead.
THE WINNERS LIST
FASHION
Accessories + Teen Fashion + + Luxe Leisurewear + Virtual/Online Shopping Services
Apricot Lane
1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888;
apricotlaneboutique.com
Consignment
Roundabout
48 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-552-0787
606 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4334;
roundaboutcouture.com
Department Store + Women’s Fashion
Nordstrom at the The SoNo Collection
100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-642-2634;
nordstrom.com and thesonocollection.com
Designer Boutique
WEST
117 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-4157;
west2westport.com
Eyewear
Warby Parker
344 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-433-7701
The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water St., South Norwalk, 203-648-9689;
warbyparker.com and thesonocollection.com
Jeans
B Chic
78 Old Ridgefield Rd., Wilton,
203-210-7037
Lingerie + Swimwear
Soleil Toile
44 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-2887
14 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-454-8688;
soleiltoile.com
Men’s Fashion + Men’s Shoes + Personal/Private Shopping Services
Mitchells/Richards
359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551
670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165;
shop.mitchellstores.com
New Shop
Classically Cate
21 River St., Wilton, 203-216-3795;
classicallycateboutique.com
Women’s Shoes
Shoes ‘N’ More
251 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-2323
1074-1076 Post Rd., Darien, 203-202-7702
121 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-972-8484
275 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-4224;
see all locations at shoesnmore.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Warby Parker
We think these two sunglass styles prove sun safety is cool.
TODDY, FOR MEN
This summer, keep your eye on this sunglass combo: azure crystal frame with scratch-resistent lenses, and oak barrel arms. Perfect for a day of sailing.
MORGAN, FOR WOMEN
Check out this Mesa Tortoise frame with rivets on the endpieces and deep-green polycarbonate lenses. The round shape is a head turner.
JEWELRY
TIME TO SHINE
Jewelry is always your outfit’s best attention-getter.
For special occasions, like a wedding; reaching celebratory milestones, like graduating college; or just because “a little something extra” will complete your look, jewelry is always in style. Local boutiques have a treasure trove of options. Just pick your favorites, like warm gold and diamonds or cool silver and colorful gems. It’s a rock-solid treat.
MITCHELLS/RICHARDS
WINNER OF BEST DESIGNER JEWELRY
Yellow gold, pearl and diamond station chain necklace by Mariani; $27,500
HENRY C. REID
WINNER OF BEST SPECIAL OCCASION JEWELRY
Yellow-gold hoop earrings with pear-shaped diamonds by Arzano; $5,725
MANFREDI JEWELS
WINNER OF BEST WATCHES
Khaki Navy Scuba automatic watch by Hamilton; $745. Cape Cod Quartz 23mm watch by Hermès; $7,625
LUX BOND & GREEN
WINNER OF BEST LOCAL JEWELRY BOUTIQUE
Diamond bracelet in 14K yellow gold; $4,850
All photography courtesy of brands
Designer Jewelry
Mitchells/Richards
359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551
670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165;
shop.mitchellstores.com
Estate Jewelry
Peter Suchy
1137 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-327-0024;
petersuchyjewelers.com
Everyday Jewelry
Apricot Lane
1499 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-292-9888;
apricotlaneboutique.com
Fine Jewelry
Betteridge
239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124;
betteridge.com
Local Jewelry Boutique
Lux Bond & Green
136 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1300;
lbgreen.com
Selection of Local Designers
R. Hollander Master Goldsmith
154 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-363-2200;
ringart.com
Special Occasion Jewelry
Henry C. Reid Jewelers
1591 Post Road, Fairfield, 203-255-0447;
hcreidjewelers.com
Watches
Manfredi Jewels
121 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 866-312-9653
72 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-966-8705;
manfredijewels.com
HOME
Antiques/Vintage Store
Bungalow
4 Sconset Sq., Westport, 203-227-4406;
bungalowdecor.com
Appliances
Aitoro
401 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-2471;
aitoro.com
Bookstore
Barnes & Noble
76 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-221-7955;
barnesandnoble.com
Cleaning Services (rugs, furniture, home)
Triple S
400 West Main St., Stamford, 203-327-7471
337 Westport Ave., Norwalk, 203-847-8000;
triplesclean.com
Contemporary Furnishings + Furniture
Crate & Barrel
1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-222-9500;
crateandbarrel.com
Garden Center + Hardscaping Services + Home Garden Design & Services + Landscaping Services
Designs by Lee
129 Interlaken Rd., Stamford, 203-322-2206;
designsbylee.com
Home Accessories
Habitat Greenwich
234 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-900-1233;
habitatgreenwich.com
Home Organization Design Services
Tidy Nest
Ridgefield;
tidynest.com
Home Security System Designs & Services
New Canaan Alarm
145 Cherry St., New Canaan, 203-966-8713;
newcanaanalarm.com
Home Tech Services
Untangled
196 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-665-8221;
theuntangledlife.com
Lighting
Chloe Winston Lighting Design
68 Water St., Norwalk, 203-957-8686;
chloewinstonlighting.com
Linens + Rugs
Serena & Lily
35 Elm St., Westport, 203-635-8000;
serenaandlily.com
Outdoor Furniture
Terrain
561 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-2750;
shopterrain.com
Pool Design & Services
Shoreline
393 West Ave., Stamford, 203-967-1203;
shorelinepools.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Serena & Lily
Bedroom as luxe spa? We want that for you. Here are two picks to start right.
PRIANO DUVET COVER
Refresh this summer. The botanical print in navy is crisp, yet sweet—and the scallop edging is like the waterline at high tide. The reverse is as solid white as those clouds you should be counting.
SEA STRIPE RUG
Come morning, swing your feet over and dip your toes into this soft, hand-knotted rug with all the coastal feels.
WEDDINGS
right: 18K yellow gold European comfort fit wedding band by Betteridge; $1,150.
All photography courtesy of brands
BETTERIDGE
WINNER OF WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS
A diamond, as stunning as it is, is more than just a diamond. It’s a love story. And Betteridge helps express the commitment you’ve made to each other. Personalize yours through yellow or pink diamonds, round or emerald cut, elaborate setting or simple bands. The jewelers at this boutique will help you find the right rings, just for the two of you.
1 // MARIETTA C. DESIGNS
WINNER OF BEST BRIDAL GOWNS + BRIDESMAID DRESSES
Just like there is only one true love, so too is there one unique dress for you—and lovely options for your bridesmaids. Have them custom-made to help your dream come true.
2 // THE WATERS EDGE AT GIOVANNI’S
WINNER OF WEDDING RECEPTION VENUE
Your closest friends and loving family have gathered for your big day. Celebrate with endless water views and plenty of space to dance the night away (choose from 600+ to 4,500+ square feet).
3 // FRESH FLOWER BAR
WINNER OF WEDDING FLOWERS
Soft, fragrant, lush floral arrangements add so much romance to the big day. Whether you choose pale pink roses, parrot tulips and hydrangea or dreamy cala lilies, purple sweet pea and pink roses, they just magically fit together.
Bridal Gowns + Bridesmaid Dresses
Marietta C. Designs
436 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich;
mariettac.com
Menswear
Mitchells/Richards
359 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-0551
670 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-227-5165;
shop.mitchellstores.com
Wedding Cakes
Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes
3 Field Rd., Cos Cob, 203-869-9545;
sweetlisas.com
Wedding Flowers
Fresh Flower Bar
1301 Bronson Rd., Fairfield, 203-800-3830;
freshflowerbar.com
Wedding Gifts (Tied Winners)
Hoagland’s of Greenwich
175 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 888-640-9577;
hoaglands.com
Simon Pearce
170 Main St., Westport, 203-226-2353;
simonpearce.com
Wedding Invitations/Stationery
MK&T Design and Print
203-807-2209;
mkatdesign.com
Wedding Music
James Daniel
125 Bedford St., Stamford, 203-969-2400;
jamesdaniel.com
Wedding Photographer
Melani Lust Photography
203-454-5878;
melanilustphotography.com
Wedding Planner
Ashley Douglass Events
Greenwich, 917-748-6281;
ashleydouglassevents.com
Wedding Reception Venue
The Waters Edge at Giovanni’s
2748 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-325-9979;
watersedgeatgiovannis.com
Wedding/Engagement Rings
Betteridge
239 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-0124;
betteridge.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Melani Lust
One day has many ways to tell a love story, and we always tear up for these two looks.
FORMAL PORTRAIT
We love when Melani captures the moment when a bride is alone in her thoughts just prior to exchanging vows: serene and beautiful.
JOYFUL CANDIDS
Lost in the joy of the first dance, a stolen look during the speeches, holding hands while waving farewell, Melani finds the image that is personal.
SERVICES & TO-DO’S
We know you have a lot to get done every day—LIFE IS BUSY! Here are your insiders’ picks for the best pros in beauty and fitness as well as all things family and home. The pros at these places help make life better, including yoga, golf, music and a clean car.
Photography by Fadil Berisha Photography
1 // BELEN’S BEAUTY BOUTIQUE // WINNER OF EYELASH SERVICES
Want some good advice? Make eye contact. Another tip? Boost your lashes. Belén transforms so-so lashes into wow ones, making them fuller and longer. You can get a tint, add a choice of extensions and more to give you the look you never thought you’d see.
THE WINNERS LIST
PAMPERING
Blow Out/Updo + Men’s Styling/Salon
H Salon
2060 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0798;
hsaloncolorcutdesign.com
Color
Gavali Salon
1215 Post Rd., Fairfield, 888-444-7071;
gavalisalon.com
Day Spa + Eyebrow Services + Facial
Lanphier
20 West Ave., Darien, 203-656-4444;
lanphier.us
Eyelash Services
Belén’s Beauty Boutique
67 Church St., Greenwich, 203-517-7155;
belensbeautyboutique.com
Makeup Application
Amber Papstavros
amberpapastavros.com
Makeup Boutique
bluemercury
254 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-863-0005
120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-972-7100
1015 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-656-9660
57 Main St., Westport, 203-222-9222
62 Main St., Westport, 203-227-6900;
see all locations at bluemercury.com
Mani/Pedi
Posh Spa & Nails
195 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-900-1099
1077 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5454
401 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-222-8830;
poshct.com
Massage
Massage Mavens
203-340-2518;
massagemavens.com
Spray Tan
GLOW
1081 East Putnam Ave., Riverside, 203-990-0209;
glow-tone.com
Waxing/Hair Removal
The Waxing Spot
211 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-340-9590;
420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-228-5118;
thewaxingspot.com
Women’s Hairstyling
Reveal Hair Salon
332A Hope St., Stamford, 203-359-3050;
revealhairsalon.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Reveal Hair Salon
Our top bets at this salon for winning at summer hair.
SERVICE
Try the 3 Minute Repair by Eleven Australia—a $25 in-salon deep conditioning and reparative treatment and a 200mL take-home product.
PRODUCT
Ask about Trybe Hair Care—an all-inclusive line for textured hair. Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products meant to suit every hair texture.
FITNESS + GEAR
1 // JOYRIDE CYCLING + FITNESS // WINNER OF INDOOR CYCLING
Choose your closest studio, your favorite bike and your goal—it’s go time on your bike. JoyRide helps you get there, with motivation, experienced instructors and top-notch equipment. Good music helps! Plus, try JoyRideGo, for virtual rides.
2 // SAMA YOGA CENTER // WINNER OF YOGA
With group and private classes, and special sessions for teens and beginners, and even prenatal practices, academy sessions and retreats, it’s clear that if you breathe in, breathe out, you can find a yoga practice here. The studio even has a lovely outdoor garden for doing your sun salutation in the sun.
3 // UPPER DECK FITNESS // WINNER OF VIRTUAL/LIVE STREAM
On the website or through the app, you can do your workouts with live coaching support. You are not given a list of moves to complete; you’re guided, corrected and encouraged by a pro.
Activewear
lululemon
151 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-622-5046;
69 Main St., Westport, 203-227-1378;
see all locations at shop.lululemon.com
Barre
pure barre
280 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich, 203-489-3500
1958 Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-5690
291 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8663;
see all locations at purebarre.com
Bicycle Shop
Danny’s Cycles
1492 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-8488
1950 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-355-0002;
see all locations at dannyscycles.com
Crossfit
Crossfit Stamford
75 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-569-2906;
crossfitstamford.com
Dance Fitness
Allegra Dance Greenwich
37 West Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-629-9162;
allegradancegreenwich.com
Fitness Studio
Orangetheory Fitness
1101 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-883-9518
364 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-309-2669
205 Main St., Norwalk, 203-883-6070
645 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-883-9262
525 Tunxis Hill Cut Off, Fairfield, 203-883-8220;
orangetheoryfitness.com
Golf Equipment
The Golf Performance Center
824 Ethan Allen Hwy., Ridgefield, 203-790-4653;
thegolfperformancecenter.com
Gym
Chelsea Piers Connecticut
1 Blachley Rd., Stamford, 203-989-1000;
chelseapiersct.com
Indoor Cycling
JoyRide Cycling + Fitness
25 Old Kings Hwy. N. (Goodwives Shopping Center), Darien, 203-202-9712
1200 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-349-5454
62 Danbury Rd., Ridgefield, 203-403-6874;
joyridestudio.com
Pilates
Club Pilates
70 Main St., New Canaan, 203-405-8050
1063 Boston Post Rd., Darien, 203-439-4670
427 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-990-1011
85 Mill Plain Rd., Sportsplex, Fairfield, 203-659-0090;
clubpilates.com
Private Fitness Training
Inspire Fitness
1051 Long Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-658-8000;
inspirefitnessct.com
Virtual/Live Stream Fitness
Upper Deck Fitness
225 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-309-6231;
upperdeckfitness.com
Yoga
Sama Yoga Center
45 Grove St., New Canaan, 203-594-7077;
samayogacenter.com
FAMILY LIFE
Art Classes + Art Gallery
Silvermine Arts Center
1037 Silvermine Rd., New Canaan, 203-966-9700;
silvermineart.org
Children’s/Baby Décor
She La La
120 Main St., New Canaan, 203-594-9798
281 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8365;
shopshelala.com
Children’s Clothes
Groove
420 Post Rd. W., Westport, 203-557-8111
115 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-920-1700;
shopgroove.net
Children’s Fitness Training
Master Na’s Traditional Martial Arts
2109 Summer St., Stamford, 203-724-9592;
stamfordtma.com
Children’s Haircuts
Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids
1568 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-557-8700;
sharkeyscutsforkids.com
Children’s Music Lessons
Fairfield | Trumbull School of Music
338 Commerce Dr., Fairfield, 203-690-1888;
ftsmusic.org
Children’s Parties
Rosebud Slumber Parties
rosebudslumberparties.com
College Prep Courses
Carnegie Prep
203-352-3500;
carnegieprep.com
Family-Friendly Restaurant
Little Pub
531 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-717-1147
26 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-1122
2133 Black Rock Tpk., Fairfield, 203-612-4567;
see all locations at littlepub.com
Nanny/Babysitting Services
Nannies As Needed
see all locations at nanniesasneeded.com
Toy Store
Awesome Toys & Gifts
970 High Ridge Rd., Stamford
429 Post Rd. E., Westport, 424-293-7663;
awesometoys.com
TRY IT, LOVE IT!
Awesome Toys & Gifts
Surprise the kids with a new game or gift from this shop.
UBONGO!
This is a game of puzzles for lots of ages. You work through nine levels to arrange the puzzle pieces before the timer runs out or your competitor beats you.
WRAPPLES
These cute animal wrist wraps love to be petted and have more than fifty reactions—even their eyes light up in colors to share moods.
ERRANDS
SPLASH WINNER OF CAR WASH
Just like muddy puddles seem to be everywhere, so too are Splash locations—or close to it: There are twenty choices. So when your vehicle needs cleaning, choose hand wash or the automated full-service tunnel, then get back on the go.
Auto Repair Shop
Pray Body Shop
336 Elm St., Stamford, 203-359-3025;
praybodyshop.com
Car Wash
Splash Car Wash
see all locations at splashcarwashes.com
CBD Store
Your CBD Store
48 Elm St., New Canaan, 203-594-7656;
cbdrx4u.com
Dry Cleaners (Tied Winners)
Fabricare
264 Heights Rd., Noroton Heights, 203-655-3381;
5 Holmes St., Norwalk, 203-229-0001;
2130 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-256-2725;
fabricarecleaners.net
Minute Men Cleaners
223 East Putnam Ave., 203-869-3361;
600 Riverside Ave., 203-227-6153;
190 Weston Rd., Weston, 203-349-5302;
minutemencleaners.com
Sanda’s Cleaners
59 E. Putnam Ave., Cos Cob, 203-992-1515
78 Pine St., New Canaan, 203-966-3962
178 Heights Rd., Darien, 203-656-3539
160 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk, 203-866-1500;
sandascleaners.com
Florist
Hansen’s Flower Shop
1040 Post Rd., Fairfield, 203-255-0461;
hansensflowershop.com
Gift Shop
Splurge
39 Lewis St., Greenwich, 203-869-7600;
splurgegifts.com
Livery Service
Rudy’s Limousine
203-609-8000 (reservations), 866-678-3700 (curbside pickup);
rudylimo.com
Local Hotel
Delamar Southport
275 Old Post Rd., Southport, 203-259-2800;
delamar.com/southport
Online Banking
Chase
chase.com
Pet Groomer/Pet Spa
All Fur Paws
209 Bruce Park Ave., Greenwich, 203-542-5181;
allfurpawsct.com
Pet Supplies/Pet Clothing
Choice Pets
80 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, 203-869-4999
949 High Ridge Rd., Stamford, 203-968-2600
360 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, 203-853-2777
374 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-226-1111
1947 Black Rock Tpk., 203-334-4242;
see all locations at choicepet.com
Portrait Photographer
Jerri Graham Photography
203-803-5485;
jerrigrahamphotography.com
Shoe Repair
Westfair Shoe Repair
1783 Post Rd. E., Westport, 203-259-5587
Storage Facility
Westy Self Storage
80 Brownhouse Rd., Stamford, 203-961-8000
50 Keeler Ave., Norwalk, 203-899-1234
65 Danbury Rd., Wilton, 203-762-7600
2070 Kings Hwy., Fairfield, 203-256-2777;
see all locations at westy.com
Tailor
Ted the Tailor
2 Church St., Greenwich,
203-869-5699
Veterinarian
Spot On Veterinary Hospital & Hotel
184 Selleck St., Stamford, 203-973-7768;
spotonvet.com