Cafe Transilvania Opens in Fairfield: Romanian Cuisine with a Side of Dracula History

It’s not easy to find Romanian cuisine in the Nutmeg state. Aline and Christian Caldarariu, owners of the recently opened Cafe Transilvania, say their new takeout spot is the only Romanian restaurant in Connecticut. The couple, both with backgrounds in hospitality and the culinary world, had intended to open a sit down restaurant pre-Covid, but the world changed, and so did their plans. Their new spot, located at 246 Post Road, in Fairfield CT, has opened to an enthusiastic response from both the large Romanian community in Fairfield County (who knew?), as well as local diners, who are excited to sample a cuisine that has previously eluded food lovers the Connecticut area.

Why Transilvania? The couple, who met while working in the hospitality industry in Bermuda, both grew up in Transylvania. Most Americans will recall the “Transylvania” name from Dracula legend, but “people don’t realize that Transylvania is an actual place. I want them to know that Transylvania exists…we grew up there…and we want to share our love for this beautiful town, so rich in history and cuisine, “ says Aline. In fact, Aline’s mother used to work as a pastry chef in 5 star restaurant near Dracula’s castle. She is also on hand in the kitchen in Fairfield.

So, what exactly is Romanian food and what can guests look forward to on the Cafe Transilvania menu? Christian says “the dishes are mostly Romanian but we also have quite a bit of Hungarian fare, alongside dishes from other parts of Eastern Europe.” When asked what the biggest sellers are, Christian says “the Stuffed Cabbage with pork and rice stuffing is a classic Eastern European dish everyone orders. Each country makes it slightly differently but it’s basically the same dish.” “People also come back again and again for the Mici, Romanian skinless sausages, as well as the Hungarian Paprikash and Bob Goulash Soup” (with beef beans and smoked pork). “We did try to incorporate some more American-style dishes on the menu such that guests can come try something familiar, and then say ‘hey I’ll try the Romanian fare as well,’ says Christian. “They always come back.”

Personally speaking I really enjoyed the Baked Cascaval Cheese, a lightly breaded seemingly fried cheese, with the flavor of an Asiago, and the texture of Farmer’s Cheese. Some of the owners’ favorites are the above with the addition of the Grilled Pork Shoulder steak and the Rustic Mushrooms made with fried Champignons. Also, don’t miss the donuts for dessert.

Cafe Transilvania’s menu is available for takeout only at this point, although Aline and Christian hope that this will change once restrictions have been lifted. The couple is very friendly, and love to interact with their customers, so don’t be surprised if you walk out of this storefront gaining some solid Transylvania and Dracula related knowledge. The couple is also willing to take the time to answer any questions about Romanian cuisine and the dishes they are serving.

In addition to the take out menu, there are tons of hard-to-find Romanian snacks including chocolate, gingerbread cookies, crackers and breads. If you’re like me, you’ll want to try ALL of them.

Check them out. They can’t wait to meet you.

Cafe Transilvania 246 Post Road, Fairfield 203) 292-8129