New Tapas Restaurant ZARAGOZA Coming to New Milford

Zaragoza, a new tapas and craft cocktail bar, is scheduled to open at 31 Bank Street in New Milford in the spring of 2016. Zaragoza represents the next adventure by Newtown resident Artie Praino, who previously owned the Newtown Deli, Sandy Hook Deli, Sideline Café, Woodbury Deli, and Bayside (NY) Salumeria.

Praino is following his passion for Spanish cuisine combined with small bites to be shared with friends and family. “Tapas are simple, but hearty and unpretentious food. Our ingredients and recipes will be fresh and robust, beautiful to look at, and mouthwatering to eat. Tapas to me means friends and family enjoying food and flavors on shared small plates -- a warm and familial dining experience.”

According to Praino, “I love the eclectic charm of New Milford and the variety of restaurants and shops in this quaint village. I have wanted to open a restaurant here for a while and the timing was right. I am looking forward to serving clientele from Fairfield and Litchfield counties who will appreciate a warm and inviting dining experience.”

The restaurant is named after a small, picturesque city in northeastern Spain, and will offer a variety of both modern and traditional tapas, including meat, fish, and vegetarian options.

Craft cocktails and craft beers will be a main focus of Praino’s beverage menu. “I will be hiring a veteran bartender who is an artist of beverages to create custom-prepared liquors and unusual, delicious flavor combinations, with artistry and care that you might not get from a typical mixed drink. The attention is on flavor, high-quality ingredients, and the genius of a top bartender.”

Praino plans to tap into local spirits and local craft beer businesses for his bar, and will be supporting area farms, when possible, for the freshest ingredients in his kitchen.

Additional plans for the restaurant include an outdoor dining patio, live music, and availability for private parties. Praino and his business partner, Billy Hart, are currently renovating the space and aiming for an early spring opening. 

Stay tuned to CTbites for further updates.