CTbites Staff Picks For Top Eats of 2020 (Plus Special Guest Eaters)

Ok, let’s face it…2020 was no bueno for anyone, and the restaurant industry was one of the hardest hit. In an effort to normalize a year where nothing feels normal, we leaned heavily on America’s favorite past time…eating. Whether we comforted ourselves with homemade bagels or ordered takeout to support our local restaurants, food was critical to our collective covid endurance.

While we would all like 2020 to dissolve into the depths of history and never look back, it is that time of year when the CTbites staff temporarily puts down our forks and contemplates our most memorable annual eats. In the spirit of the CT food community that came together in 2020 to support the restaurant industry, we have added something special for you this year. We invited a few friends from the Connecticut blogging and social media scene to join in our Top Eats roundup. Take notes and start drooling.

Here are the very best things we ate in 2020.

Stephanie Webster, Editor in Chief, CTbites

At The Corner, Litchfield

Don Memo, Westport: I’m embarrassed to admit the number of times I’ve eaten at Bill Taibe’s latest Westport Mexican spot since it opened last Spring. I have a deeply emotional relationship with Anthony Kostelis’ Lamb Tacos, homemade corn tortillas, Tuna Tostada, Enchiladas, and pretty much any cocktail on the extensive Tequila based bar list. Umm…Nailed it. Shoutout to their incredibly reasonable family boxes that bring the Memo home for a family of 4 for $85.

Haven Hot Chicken, New Haven: There is much to be appreciated at this New Haven Nashville Hot Chicken spot, even if you don’t know about the full year’s worth of research this team did to perfect everything about this fried chicken sammy. Crunchy, Crispy, Juicy...it’s all happening, and the ability to control your own heat just makes it better. In the world of fast casual eats, this was a standout for me. Oh yeah, the double fried fries and Cauliflower based “NOT Chicken” sandwich are no slouches either.

Backyard Pizza Pop-Up @ Bailey’s Backyard, Ridgefield : 2020 brought a custom-made Forza Forni wood-fired pizza oven to the farm-to-table favorite, Bailey’s Backyard. Pizzaioli Bagliavio describes his pizza as a hybrid. “It’s like a cross between Neapolitan and New Haven.” It’s got a char, a thin crust, and a puffy edge. It’s light. The Mt. Etna (olive oil, mozzarella, ricotta, kale, pistachios, chili honey) legit rocked my world, as in, I think about it at night while contemplating my meal dance schedule for the next day.

MIKU, Greenwich: After sampling their outstanding sushi at Tony’s At The JHouse pop-up, I was fully committed. I tend to compare sushi to Sugarfish in LA (one of my favorite spots for raw fish), and this is the restaurant that has come the closest in CT. The sushi chef is truly inventive, has an artistic touch with his creative Special Rolls and appetizers, but I judge a sushi spot on that single piece of raw fish on a perfectly seasoned bed of rice. The fish here is excellent, and their range of cooked dishes, including Ramen, featuring deeply flavorful broth, Yellowtail/Salmon/Tuna Pizza and a beautiful Lobster Salad, are all really nicely executed.

At The Corner, Litchfield: As CTbites writer Jessica Ryan said, “Chef Carlos Perez is a force to be reckoned with.” Everything Perez creates combines his mastery of cooking technique, unique flavor profiles, and an intensely artistic presentation that delights all of the senses. He creates cuisine from around the globe and somehow manages to infuse every dish with deeply delicious flavors and textures. The dessert titled “Strawberry Fields” (above) was one of the most memorable dishes I ate in all of 2020.

Oar & Oak Birdhouse, Stratford: Since we are talking fried chicken, it would be a travesty to not give props to Chef Dan Kardos’ new takeout only spot, Oar & Oak Birdhouse. Leveraging the success of the epic fried chicken sandwich he developed for his “eat in” spot, Oar & Oak, Kardos took the bones (pun totally intended), and ran with a curated menu of Fried Chicken Sandwiches including the truly delicious Cobra Kai w/ teriyaki, yuzu-chili mayo, & kimchi pickles and The Lone Star w/ bbq, bacon, spicy ranch, & crispy onion rings. Sure, there are some mighty tasty NOT chicken dishes, plant-based bratwurst, and burgers, but I’m partial to the deep fried poultry.

Millwright’s, Simsbury: Two of my most special and breathtakingly tasty 2020 meals were enjoyed at Tyler Anderson’s Millwright’s. When indoor dining closed last March, chefs had to get creative. Millwright’s, situated in an old mill, next to a waterfall, had all the makings of the perfect outdoor dining location. But Tyler didn’t rest on his laurels once he nailed the spot. He and Chef Ashley Flagg created a fully functional second outdoor kitchen and bar, alongside a “pandemic” prix fixe that was excellent in all of its iterations. From the silky foie gras to the Asian short ribs, it was all so tasty, we drove the 3 hours back and forth to return the following weekend. Honestly, anything Anderson touches is pretty much gold.

Flour Water Salt Bread, Darien: I can’t NOT talk about this artisan sourdough bakehouse. My family has a standing weekly order that consists of Rob VanKueren’s Whole Wheat Sourdough, a few Bomboloni, and an occasional pizza. For me, it’s all about the bread, hands down the best I’ve had in this fair state, and once you’ve had it, it’s hard to go anywhere else.

Pop Up Bagels, Westport: 2020 was the year to go hard on carbs, and oh how I count the days till Sunday. In the wake of quarantine, Westport resident, Adam Goldberg, started making bagels. The baking began as a way to get through the monotony of those housebound months, but quickly became the way he “connected” with friends in his backyard as he handed out his handmade bagels every Sunday morning. As word spread, he found a popup home at Don Memo every other Sunday, and there are expansion plans for 2021. Keep an eye on their Instagram @popupbagels if you want to score these perfectly light, chewy, crispy, gotta eat ‘em hot in the car bagels.

Andrew Dominick, Contributor, CTbites

Grigg Street Pizza, Greenwich

This is a weird year to make list picks. There’s a range of feelings that came with the pandemic that include boredom, excitement, depression, joy, and every other emotional state one can experience. Navigating the restaurant scene, both for personal reasons and professional, led to a whole different set of emotions. Sadness, ingenuity, heartbreak, resilience, and frustration all come to mind. 

2020 was a year where I chose to focus even more on the little guy, on the limited stuff, the pop-ups, and the pivots. I probably got more of a firsthand look at the business than ever before. It started with phone calls and long text conversations at the start of shutdowns, then up-close access—with a mask on, of course—at a number of establishments where chefs and owners alike shared their worries or just needed a friendly face to shoot the shit with. 

It was difficult at the beginning of shutdowns to figure out how to help. I could get takeout. I did get takeout. When restrictions lifted, I dined inside and out, I still called, ordered, and picked up. I kept doing my job, too. 

Before I fire off a bunch of local haunts that stood out to me, I’d urge you, if you have the means, to continue supporting our restaurants in any way you can. Get takeout, suck it up and wear your winter coat on their outdoor patio, or shout ‘em out on social media. Anything helps. 

With that said…here are my shout-outs: 

Pizza! I covered pizza this year more than ever. And I’m not mad about it. 

The best pizza I ate all year was in Greenwich. The fellas at Grigg Street Pizza are making beautiful sourdough pies that should be in the conversation amongst the best in Connecticut. Each is crisp and light, with a bright tomato sauce, homemade mozzarella, and house-ground sausage if you so desire.  They just added sandwiches, so guys, let’s get a sequel going! 

My childhood pizza joint deserves props, too. Letizia’s Pizza continuously helps the community with creations that are strictly for charity purposes. Each year they raise thousands of dollars to feed hungry children and Making Strides of Fairfield County for breast cancer research and patient services. They didn’t let a pandemic get in the way of helping local organizations. 

Just outside of Connecticut, I found myself in Pleasantville a lot, slurping soulful bowls of ramen and housing hot oil chicken dumplings by the pound, at Mogan Anthony’s Fatt Root. Cross the border and GO! 

Back in my home state, I finally got to dine at Arethusa al tavolo, and I won’t elaborate except to say, make this a priority if you only go once. 

In the same area, April Bloomfield’s residence at the Mayflower Inn was so worth it. The lauded chef created a menu of what reminded me of her time at The Spotted Pig, just a little more of a refined version 2.0.

If we’re talking tacos, Bill Taibe’s switch-up from Jesup Hall to Don Memo’s Mexican authenticity meets fine dining was a resounding success. The tequila-based cocktail list will get you started and the do-it-yourself slow-cooked lamb barbacoa tacos with all the fixins’ will make you fall in love. 

Staying with tacos, the best single thing I ate all year was a taco at a pop-up at Hoodoo Brown BBQ. Their Houston friend Joseph Quellar of JQ’s Tex Mex BBQ stopped by to make his signature birria tacos with smoked brisket and oxtail, melty mozzarella, and griddled on a flat top while receiving a ladling of rich, beefy consommé. 

In my ‘hood of Norwalk, there’s a Filipino restaurant that needs your attention. Zul Cafe and Grill isn’t only exciting because there’s barely any Filipino food around, it’s damn good. Sisig and lumpia will be in my rotation come 2021. I’m selfishly glad they’re only six minutes away from me. 

Donuts were (more) popular this year, it seemed. Rise Donuts, operating Friday – Sunday out of The Schoolhouse, is worth standing in line for. My favorites from BBQ pitmaster Hugh Mangum and Family, were the brown butter glazed, and the spicy Aztec cinnamon, and should you get a filled donut, you can’t go wrong with pastry creams as tasty as really good soft serve. But their apple fritter is a wonder and the best you’ll have around here. The Mangum Family are super nice people, to boot, and have really created something special in the community.

Flour Water Salt Bread’s light, airy, sugared sourdough bomboloni are not to be missed. I stopped by during recipe testing and have been back on the low a bunch of times for more. Thanks for getting me addicted, Rob! 

And lastly…BEER. Twelve Percent Beer Project kept my craft beer habit alive and well with patio visits and a few deliveries. If you haven’t been, this brewery produces an array of deliciousness from brewers that don’t yet have a physical brewery, plus cool collaborations, and limited run beers. If you said the best beer in the state is coming out of Twelve Percent, you won’t get much of an argument. 

Kristin L Wolfe, Contributor, CTBites

Barn at Bedford Post - Westchester

Can we even put BEST and 2020 in the same breath? Despite the HELL we’ve trudged through this year, and know we are not out of the woods, I have been able to get out in support of our industry and enjoy some delicious food nevertheless. Here are some of the most memorable bites I’ve had this year:

The Oyster Club -Mystic: (Story Coming Soon, fyi) What can I say? Likely one of the most thoughtful menus, and creative assembly of flavors I’ve had this year. You are getting an experience, beyond just a gorgeous plate by the sea. From texture and flavor to ambience and service, this is one truly special place.

Grano Arso - Chester: Chef Gargano has found a way to make the lightest, most delectable bites of pasta I’ve likely ever had. Light as a feather, and paired with flavors that add so much depth without heaviness. Silky pillows of pasta and recently, for a benefit, he created bites to go alongside a specialty cocktail served with caviar. To the moon and back with flavor.

Greca - New Milford: Opa! I used to live in Astoria, Queens, where great Greek food was on every block. I just had to try this new place with a Greek girlfriend; I was so overjoyed, I was ready to return before I even finished my first meal. The zucchini keftedhes and saganaki had me singing, and I was weak in the knees by the polpetti. And then there were the drinks….

Le Banh Patisserie- Simsbury: Although my savory palate usually reigns supreme, let’s talk sweets for just a minute. I was so blown away by Chef Kim Hoang Wood’s clever, beautiful, meticulously prepared French treats, I was ready to grab an apron as an apprentice. From Vietnam, trained in French pastry, and glowing all her own, Le Banh demonstrates magic when serious technique, the best ingredients, and real creativity come together.

Mariposa’s - Danbury: You knew this team once as Mezon Tapas, but as they hit a decade milestone, the flavors of their Dominican youth came knocking on their door. So, just before everything hit the fan, they opened anew. With Caribbean flavors, a selection of street tacos, and some of the best cocktails around, this is a fun lively new spot (safely, of course). Not to mention, they are way too close to my doorstep, so they’ve kind of become my second home. There’s a spicy Mezcal Margarita waiting for me right now, I think.

Camacho Garage - New Haven: So, CT knows, when Chef Arturo Franco Camacho enters a kitchen, there’s no doubt you will fall in love. (I still say his gorgeous silver mane deserves its own Instagram page, but I guess we’re talking about bites not beauty). I still dream of the buttery smell wafting alongside the table when the queso fundido landed, or how my eyes grew wide at the most beautifully served, and brightest, full-bodied ceviche I ever had was placed before me.

On the Fly - Bethel: If you haven’t already been swept away by Chef Jeff Taibe’s Taproot in Bethel, then get ready for his team’s newest venture, On the Fly food truck. Creating such delicious combos of flavors, especially dipping into his roots and training in Singapore with Southeast Asian inspired Rice Bowls and Tacos. I was a goner after a Lobster Khoa Soi with Curry and Noodles. I could tell my body was saying Thank You. Bright, spicy, hot, sweet, sour. On a chilly night, it was everything,

Pacifico - New Haven: Chef Palomino knows Latin flavors. Add mojitos and I’m usually there. Enjoying time with great girl talk made everything better too. My favorite bites were the shrimp and garlic, the Gambas Al Ajillo and Boquerones, anchovy fillets on grilled sourdough. Hmmm, crunch, tang, smoke.

Brick House - Ridgefield: We know CT has some of THE BEST PIZZA around, and, well, Brick House is one of the newest places on the list, but not new to pizza. To top it off, they are just six minutes from my doorstep. So, they’ve recently won me over with Bianca with ricotta, bacon, and lemon. Couple with their escarole and beans or the arugula, fennel salad, it’s like Nonna moved in for the weekend, and I’m I’m not mad about it.

Barn at Bedford Post - Westchester: Just over our border, I kinda fangirled out when trying the Barn. Chef Roxanne Sruance, let’s face it, is downright BADASS. She brought a giant dollop of Love to the Barn, and I did a jig. The meals here are just magical. From veggies and meats to drinks and desserts, everything is prepared so thoughtfully. I might have shed a tear after having the kanpachi crudo, an earthly fresh plate of yellowtail fish with white soy ponzu, ginger, radish, lime olive oil and spruce. Then, when the new love of my life arrived at the table, the charred octopus with beets, radish, candied kumquats and a cool labne on the side zapped with togarashi, it simply took my breath away.

James Gribbon, Beer Editor & General Eater, CTbites

Oar & Oak Birdhouse, Stratford

The Cobra Kai, Oar & Oak Birdhouse, Stratford: Chef Dan Kardos's chicken sandwich has been locally famous since he opened Liberty Rock Tavern in Milford, and his newest venture by the Stratford train station has two sides of the menu: "Chicken Sandwiches" and "Not Chicken Sandwiches." Available for pickup or takeaway, my favorite chicken sammy of 2020 was served fresh off the Oar&Oak food truck at Tribus Brewery in Milford. The Cobra Kai is perfectly fried chicken served on Texas toast, with teriaki, yuzu-chili mayo, and kimchi pickles delivering the sweetest roundhouse you've ever taken to the mouth.

Egg nog, Arethusa Farm, Bantam: Arethusa Dairy makes some of the best ice cream in the state, and some of the best cheese in the world, so of course their Christmas specialty egg nog - made for the dairy's tenth anniversary - is delicious enough I'd present it to first contact space aliens as a gesture of good will from the people of Earth. Keep the old school glass milk jug it's sold in so you can stare wistfully at it the other 11 months of the year.

Honeypot Pizza, Da Legna/NOLO, New Haven: I like my pizza toppings to mostly not exist, and when they do, I like them more de stijl than rococo, but 2020 has broken everything, so here I am saying my favorite individual pie from this year arrived under San Marzano tomatoes, sliced hot pepper, mozzarella, diced onion, soppressata, and bear's worth of truffle honey. This pizza sized me up, took me down, and all I want is for it to happen again.

House Of Pho, Stratford: There is absolutely nothing to visibly suggest or recommend a tiny shopping center that's invisible from the road, across the street from the Sikorsky plant. Head up that driveway, though, and the factory disappears, the tree strewn ridgelines of the Housatonic appear, and you can enjoy them both through the steam of a very good bowl of pho. It's not fancy, and the price is accordingly right, but it's rich, flavorful, and deserves credit for curing at least three people's hangovers, mine included. Medicinal pho, served daily.

April Guilbault, Contributor, CTbites

Patti Popp, Sport Hill Farm

In years past, I have listed, along with my fellow CTbitesians, my favorite restaurants and/or dishes from the prior 12 months of eating as fun round-up to the year. However, this year was, well, we all know what it was. And while my family did get takeout a fair amount of times from various restaurants in the area, I will be honest and say that my favorite eats this year were not from an area restaurant, but were the local, fresh foods and produce from Sport Hill Farm in Easton (and yes, ultimately from my own kitchen). From the early days of makeshift curbside pickups when it was still snowing, to the last few days of their season this very week, going to the farm on a weekly basis provided a myriad of goodness beyond just the giant cauliflowers and bunches of verdant kale. Driving to Sport Hill Farm, through the hills and dales of Easton, passing through the woods and fields and along the reservoirs was nothing short of peace for my mind. It brought me calm and it brought me joy, watching what nature was up to as the weeks crept by. Then to arrive at the farm, seeing (albeit masked and distanced) friendly faces! Someone outside of my own family pod! Woohoo! Even the charming market space itself, with its quirky antique chandeliers hanging over the carrots and potatoes and its shabby-chic atmosphere was, in and of itself, a step away from the stresses of the everyday. Finally and most importantly, the fresh local produce that SPH worked so hard to procure during such an incredibly difficult year. To turn their ingredients into beautiful meals at home-yes, so so SO many meals-brought with it its own simple joys; colorful veggies for salads and soups that we ate around our table together, meats for grilling in the backyard (again), loaves of sourdough breads (ah, that mayo/sourdough bread/tomato sandwich was the very definition of a simple summer joy), and popcorn for our many, many movie nights. It brought a bit of pleasure to a horrible, terrible, no good, awful year. And for that, I count Sport Hill Farm as my fave of 2020.

Jessica Ryan, Contributor, CTbites

Townhouse, Grenwich

Oh what a year it’s been, and pandemic notwithstanding, I’ve been privy to some of the best dining experiences in a long time, many from restaurants that opened in the midst of the great pandemic. My Top Picks (it’s supposed to be 10 but I can’t) for 2020 are as follows, and in no particular order.

Newcomer: Townhouse, Greenwich: Chef Stephen Lewandowski (formerly of the Harlan restaurants, Tribeca Grill and Gotham Bar & Grill) is BAAACK and better than ever.

Newcomer: The Lila Rose, Stamford is an experience like no other. It doesn’t hurt that their food, beverage and desserts are beyond.

Favorite Indian: Vedas. Best damn hole in the wall. Chef Prasad is magical. Located in Westport and Norwalk. Take out.

Pizza. Brick & Wood in Fairfield is my gold standard. It never disappoints. EVER.

A close second for me, as a New Yorker, Testo’s Pizza (Greenfield Hill Market & Brooklawn Avenue, Fairfield) is like coming home. You won’t get any closer to the New York City crust than these guys. And totally off the charts, is Lily’s favorite – which happens to be my favorite too – garlic mashed potatoes, bacon, caramelized onion and cheddar cheese. No calories here!

Tapas/Spanish. Barcelona. Here’s another tried and true that never disappoints. And best Chicken Scarpariello around. 

Favorite Scenic Spot: (Fairfield County) The Boathouse at Saugatuck Rowing Club. This restaurant, a longtime sleeper, is finally on the radar. The menu and food greatly improved and the views unrivaled. Next spring and summer, do yourselves a favor and book a seat outside on the Saugatuck River. Meantime, if you’re up for inside dining, the restaurant is elegant yet casual. The Lobster Roll and Truffle Fries are a must.

Favorite Seafood: The Whelk, Rowayton Seafood

Favorite Sushi: Yamafuji and Pink Sumo in Westport, The Omakase Pop-up at Haruki in Norwalk, and Miku in Greenwich

Margaritas: Bartaco: What can I say. Their Spicy Margaritas are also hard to beat!

Deli: Gaetano’s (Westport) Italian Kitchen (Fairfield)

French: Le Penguin (Still mourning the loss of the Westport location) Bistro Versailles and Meli Melo all in Greenwich.

French Vietnamese. Orienta in Greenwich. Opened in the midst of the pandemic. Go and get their Lobster Shooters!

Tiffany Tu, Contributor @ _foodiewithabooty

2020. What a weird year. I started out the year with high hopes and thought, “This will be the year.” March rolled along and proved me wrong. Even though I wasn’t able to eat out or explore nearly as much, there are still a handful of new discoveries I’ve made. Here are the most notable ones:

Arethusa al tavolo, Bantam. While this isn’t a new restaurant, I’ve always dreamed of coming here. I was able to get a reservation for one of my birthday meals and I’m so happy I was able to get in. The staff is super friendly and the food is very unique. By unique, I mean that they are familiar flavors, but are paired with things we would not have thought to pair. For example, my main dish was an Asian-inspired duck dish paired with spaetzle. Odd duo, but it worked.

B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill, Mystic. This spot has been around since 1881 and this is the first year I’ve been here. It is the perfect fall outing and I am absolutely in love with their cider. The best time to visit is on the weekend. While there are more people roaming around, you get to see the steam cider mill in action and can get freshly popped kettle corn.

Good Morning Cupcake, Milford. This cute little cupcake shop opened its doors during the summer. Good Morning Cupcake is known for their mini cupcakes, which are bite sized with a pop of flavor. The menu rotates each month, so you’ll most likely get to try something new during each visit. 

Haruki Ramen & Izakaya, Norwalk: I mean, are you surprised this is on the list? Since my last write-up, they’ve introduced a few new dishes due to the season change. Their beef curry and oyster mushroom baos are constantly on my mind. They’ve also added a pop-up omakase to their events, which I have yet to try. Maybe soon though!

Zul Cafe and Grill, Norwalk. If you know, you know. A Filipino restaurant was much needed in this area as this fare is hard to come by. Their first floor is a to-go spot and their upstairs has been recently renovated to sell some essential Filipino groceries. Want to try it but don’t know what to get? I tell everyone to stick to the 3 Ls to start off - lumpia (spring rolls), lechon (crispy pork belly), and longganisa (sausage).

Raenah Farina @stamfordfoodie

2020. The year of the pandemic. For most people this year went one of two ways. Either you got into the best shape of your life, or you stress ate every day for the past 10 months. I was certainly the latter. And no, I don’t regret a single freakin’ bite of it. The food industry has blown me away with how they’ve pivoted through every curveball thrown at them throughout this entire pandemic. With that, it would be impossible for me to list the countless amazing food experiences I’ve had this year. But here are just a few...

Hoodoo Brown x JQ’s Tex Mex BBQ Collab: If you’re reading this I’m sure you know about Hoodoo Brown Barbeque. If you don’t, stop reading this, put it in your waze app and start driving. 

Ok, so you know about hoodoo. Which means you know that every single thing they do is top notch. Obviously when they did a weekend collab with houston-based JQ’s - we knew we had to be there. brisket empanadas, pork belly chimichangas, carne asada tacos, arroz con pollo boudin, and birria tacos. I’ve had dreams of these tacos every night since.  

Amis Trattoria, Westport: When a restaurant has a master in the kitchen like Jes, of Amis Trattoria, I often find myself wanting every single thing on the menu. Luckily, Amis made the perfect menu for me and others who find themselves in the same indecisive dilemma when out to eat. Their menu of small and medium, flavor packed plates will leave you extremely excited that you got to try everything that caught your eye on the menu. This paired with the warm, inviting atmosphere will be sure you won’t leave without a full stomach and a full heart. P.s Don’t leave without getting the cacio e pepe. You can thank me later.

Flour Water Salt Bread x Darien Butcher Shop, Darien

It goes without being said that Flour Water Salt Bread makes some of the best sourdough on the east coast. Yea, I said it. And I mean it. A stone’s throw away from this gem is another at the Darien Butcher Shop. The Darien Butcher Shop curates, what I would call, deluxe sandwiches using their high quality meats paired with cheeses and breads from local spots like Flour Water Salt Bread. One of these deluxe sandwiches I speak of was the “Cali grilled cheese” made with house roasted turkey, cheddar, bacon avocado, and chipotle mayo in Flour Water Salt Bread sourdough. Keep an eye on Instagram because you don’t wanna miss this special the next time it hits the menu.

Dew Drop Inn, Derby: Parm butter bacon garlic. Peanut butter s'mores. With a flavor for every taste bud, you cannot go wrong with Dew Drop Inn. If you’re looking for a laid back dining experience with notoriously tasty wings, look no further. Here you can always count on outstanding drink specials, down to earth staff, and at least one guy who thinks he can handle the “suicide” wings. (The one thing I do not recommend here) 

The Lila Rose, Stamford: In this year of little to no travel, I found myself seeking getaways through food experiences. Hence why we (literally) jumped for joy when our favorite new spot of 2020, The Lila Rose, announced that they’d be serving cheese wheel pasta. Yup, this homemade pasta is stirred around inside a freakin’ wheel of pecorino romano. And then topped with truffle pate. Enough said.

Cafe Silvium, Stamford: If you know, you know. If you don’t know, it’s where you go for the freshest, most authentic Italian food and the largest wine pours. Now you know.

PJ Kennedy @heystamford

www.heystamford.com

It’s been a long, strange year.  But throughout it all, I’ve tried to mask up and support as many restaurants as possible … As a matter of fact, I’m starting to think that the nineteen in Covid-19 represents how many pounds I’ve gained since the lockdown! We ate so many great things this year, but here’s a few that are still on my mind! 

Chichos Cocina (351 Shippan Avenue): Tacos 

This new Shippan Avenue joint has a menu loaded with a variety of tacos, burritos, burrito bowls, sides, and more.  We just love everything we’ve had so far from the new spot, but it’s their tacos that won me over! You never forget your first and ours included a Chorizo, a Carnitas and the chicken tinga, heaping portions and full of amazing flavor. Oh, and make sure you grab some of their sauces, you won’t be disappointed! 

Chicky’s Grill & Pizza (19 Cedar Heights Road): The Cheech Sangweech

Chicky’s has been serving up pizza, pasta, wedges and other Italian dishes since they opened their doors in mid-August. Their Penne Vodka, Pasta Faggioli, Chicken Scarpiello, are all top notch. But our favorite from the team has to be their Cheech Sangweech! Beautiful thin chicken cutlets, sauteed broccoli rabe, fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers and homemade balsamic vinaigrette. It’s a Sangweech you won’t want to miss! 

Fed Truck (1051 Long Ridge Rd): Louisiana Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich

This new food truck serves up a range of gourmet comfort food favorites like burgers, tacos and even a warm Lobster Roll. But a favorite of ours is their Louisiana Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich, served with pickles, purple shredded cabbage and finished with chipotle aioli on a brioche bun. The sandwich is super crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside and loaded with spices.  The Fed Truck is primarily located in the parking lot of Wagon Wheel Wine and Spirits (1051 Long Ridge Road). 

Soul Tasty (29 Main Street): Nashville Hot Chicken & Waffle 

The Stamford Downtown restaurant has been serving up classic southern comfort food for a few years now and in early 2020 also launched a new breakfast menu. But that wasn't the only new item for Soul Tasty, earlier this year they also introduced a Nashville Hot Chicken which I Immediately fell in love with! The buttermilk fried chicken is full of hot and smokey flavor and can be served as a sandwich or on a waffle (of course, our choice). Top the fiery fowl with a maple syrup for a touch of sweetness and you can thank me later! 

TacoDaddy Stamford (121 Towne Street): BBQ Brisket Crunchwrap

It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Taco Daddy Stamford (and the other Towne Street Restaurants, The Lila Rose & Es OK Cafe). Their creative take on well, everything, but specifically their tacos in this case, may deserve a best of list themselves (with the Fruity Pebbles dessert taco topping that list).  But right now, I’m thinking about my first Taco Daddy crunchwrap! A flour tortilla layered with tender BBQ Brisket, gooey melted cheese, a crispy tostada shell, all wrapped in a crunch wrap fold and grilled to perfection! As they say … “It’s delicious!”

Trips Restaurant (348 Hope Street): Prime Rib 

Trips isn’t a new restaurant. As a matter of fact, the restaurant has been open for 15 years in the Glenbrook neighborhood of Stamford. The menu at this family friendly spot is loaded with seafood, pasta & steak options with some Greek specialties tied in (the Greek Bruschetta is a must!). A signature item that we love on the Trips menu is their Prime Rib. A generous cut, served with a choice of baked potato or fries. In a year like 2020, it’s good to have the basics covered and Trips does it right! 

Westover Pizza (234 Stillwater Ave): Chicken Scarpiello

Westover Pizza has been serving the greater-West Side of Stamford for more than 11-years, and in early 2020 they opened a 2nd location in the Glenbrook neighborhood (306 Hope Street). The extensive Italian menu features pizza, calzones, wings, soups, salads, wraps, and pasta entrees. But our absolute favorite is their Chicken Scarpiello!  Their version offers everything you can ask for, It’s tangy and rich, spicy and sweet, tender and crunchy.  We love ours on a wedge topped with Mozzarella, but honestly we’d eat it right out of the pan if we could.

Jen O’Sullivan @the.brunching.blonde

www.BrunchingBlonde.com

Cafe Aura, Manchester: No wonder they won Best New Restaurant for Hartford Magazine. I’m sure UConn Coach Geno Auriemma is a big pull but their fine authentic Italian dishes by Chef Erminio are the best I’ve ever had. If I could choose one dish for the rest of my life, it would likely be their Rigatoni Vodka with oversized Rigatoni, crispy pancetta, green peas and vodka sauce. Their lobster ravioli and truffle gnocchi are also new addictions of mine. They offer both take out family options or dine in.  Definitely my favorite take out place thus far during 2020, COVID style. The place is absolutely stunning inside. ⁣

The Charles, Wethersfield: The Charles opened during the pandemic and just won Best New Restaurant by CT Magazine. MUCH deserved. Their highlights include holiday decor, 3 gorgeous fireplaces and it’s impossible to find a seat without a great view. Their cocktails are delish and I could eat their Sunday Sauce Pappardelle & seriously deviled eggs all day.⁣

Agave, Hartford: Agave is the underdog keeping it going in downtown Hartford. They are absolutely crushing it with Taco and Fajita Kits, and Marg kits. They have amazing adult Capri Suns (flavored margaritas) which are no joke. Impacted by downtown offices empty and no major events, they’re now available for delivery. I highly recommend using @chownow for delivery. This service allows you to order directly through the restaurants website, rather than routing you to a third party website that takes commission on every order. Hands down, the best tacos kits and steak fajitas I’ve ever had. I really can’t rave enough about the steak fajitas. The steak is truly out of this world. ⁣

The Place 2 Be, Hartford: Owner Gina  Lauri is truly kicking ass. They recently opened their second location in downtown Hartford. Each spot has its own unique vibe with its own little outdoor booze garden downtown. This is the perfect spot for a brunch date or a girls day out. Their menu is huge with bottomless cocktails, insane Benedict’s and omelettes, delicious brunch boxes to go, oh and did I mention, BOTTOMLESS COCKTAILS! I CAN’T WAIT until their newest location opens in Blue Back Square in West Hartford. So soon! ⁣

Grange Fresh, Wethersfield: Grange Fresh offers oven ready entrees, sides & dessert. Sandwiches and coffee are now available. They have some crazy delicious holiday boxes.⁣ 

Sardilli Produce & Dairy, Hartford: Sardilli Dinner Boxes have kept local restaurants busy with a rotating list of weekly featured restaurants. Sardilli Grocery Boxes feature the best produce direct from farms to customer. No sitting on the shelves at the grocery stores picking up germs! I mean, how many apples do you touch at the store before you find one you like? Weekly produce, meat, seafood and dairy boxes offer new items each week, and convenient curbside pick up. All your have to do is preorder your box(es) from sardilliproduce.com, then pick up is every Wednesday. Just drive right up to the delivery truck and they’ll place your order in your trunk!

Brian Danishevsky @CTRevelry

Pasta Eataliana (New Haven): Tagliatelle alla Bolognese- Easily the best bolognese dish I have had. Fresh in-house made pasta and a meaty ragú sauce, with a dollop of ricotta. Also tried the fried burrata covered in a balsamic drizzle. The chef grew up in Naples, Italy and really knows how to create quality Italian dishes. The service and cocktails also stood out.

Adriatic Restaurant (Hartford): Hadzijski Cevap. Cevapi sausages sautéed with vegetables and a roasted eggplant, pepper cream sauce. My first time eating Balkan food and now I am addicted. All of their dishes and meats melted in my mouth. This brand new restaurant serves plenty of Italian food as well and it is BYOB!

Fuoco Apizza (Cheshire): New Haven style Apizza is very difficult to replicate, but George of Fuoco has mastered it. A custom made coal fired oven makes that perfectly charred pie. Thin crust and chewy, this new Apizza joint uses the best ingredients and it shows. If you love pizza, especially New Haven style, this place will blow you away. It won’t be long before Barstool and others are traveling to try it.

Olmo Bagelry/Kitchen (New Haven): The Olmo Reuben includes warm pastrami, alpine cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, inside house-made sourdough rye bread. One of many mouth watering sandwiches, don’t forget about their fresh bagels, which can be used for any sandwich. Take home any of their schmears or a daily selection of desserts.

Bravo Bravo (Mystic): We tried the Cacio e Pepe and lobster ravioli for our entrees, and both were done perfectly. Appetizers were just as good, as were the cocktails and service. You don’t need water views when the food and cocktails are this delectable. Try it out and you will be impressed.

Ria Rueda @thebuzzct

Tavern on State, New Haven: A perfect pairing, partners Chef Emily Mingrone and cocktail wizard, Shane McGowan, manages to serve up an upscale menu of new American cuisine and modern classic cocktails done right. Everything on the menu is amazing. My favorites:  all of the burgers, grilled octopus, and anything she makes foie gras. 

OKO, Westport: My favorite Japanese in CT is OKO. I’m a big sushi lover and whenever I order the “Chef’s Selection” sushi entree, I’m never disappointed. The other thing I love about OKO is chef de cuisine, Christian Wilki’s, amazing desserts particularly his OKO balls, Matcha Sticks, and Compost Cookie. 

Don Memo, Westport: I describe Don Memo as fresh Mexican food on an elevated level. As a Californian, I appreciate clean and fresh Mexican cuisine. My favorite dishes are all of the tostadas, the vegetarian quesadillas, and the Cuatro Leches Cake. It has been 25+ years since I’ve had a margarita, yet alone tequila and I rekindled my tequila relationship because of the delicious Don Memo signature margarita. My favorite way to experience Don Memo is by ordering their AH-amazing family meal that serves four people. Pick your protein for your tacos and the meal is complete with the addition of salads, sides, rice and beans. 

Milestone, Georgetown: This little gem in the Georgetown section of Redding consistently serves up really good comfort food. My favorites are their wood fire pizzas and their Spatchcock Chicken serves with garlic mashed potatoes. Milestone’s large patio and covered deck are great dining areas...especially when they have their Thursday musicians play live music. 

Lindsay’s Handmade: I’m an ice cream junkie. I don’t love complicated or super sweet flavors. A business born during COVID, this Norwalk-based ice cream master churns ice cream I literally dream about. My favorite flavored are Griswold’s Meltdown (made with local Litchefield Distillery bourbon), The G.O.A.T. and her straight up Vanilla. 

Sea Salt Baking Co.: Another business born during COVID, these cookies are finger licking good! I prefer chewy cookies and that’s what these cookies are...chewy and delicious. One can select cookies from six flavors to create a box of six or 12. My personal favorites are chocolate chip and half & half. 

Pop Up Bagels, Westport: What started as COVID baking eve loved into a weekly pop-up. An assortment of bagels made by Adam Goldberg and his team always bring a smile to my face on Sunday mornings.  Couple it with shmear from The Whelk and I’m good to go! 

Gingko, Fairfield: One of the things I love about NYC is Chinatown. Gingko is the closest thing to a Chinatown Szechuan restaurant. My favorite dishes are the Chengdu dumplings, Peking Duck, and steamed whole fish. 

Knot Norm’s Catering Co., Norwalk: It’s no secret that Knot Norm’s serves up an awesome lobster roll but they are SO much more than lobster rolls! He’s got sandwiches, soup, tacos and as of late...rice bowls! My favorite dishes are the fish taco and pork belly rice bowl.

Oar & Oak Birdhouse, Stratford: Hands down...the best mother cluckin’ fried chicken sandwiches comes from Chef Dan Kardos’ Oar & Oak Birdhouse. My favorite is the ‘63 Sting Ray