Nibble: Fabulous CT Food Events For Week of December 2-9 Features Events Emma Jane-Doody Stetson December 02, 2018 The Stack, featuring Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ in New Haven, has kicked off its new Happy Hour specials. The deal are offered Monday-Friday from 3p-6pm and two rotating $7 draft cocktails, $4 Pork on a Stick, $5 Fried Pickles, deals on 1L steins, and more.On December 8, The Beer Collective and the Yale Peabody Museum are teaming up for “Bones & Cheer: Ice Age Edition.” The evening will feature food from Olmo and a selection of local brews and cider. There will also be Frozen Science Experiences, Glacier Games, After-hours Museum Access, Music, prizes, and more. Tickets start at $25. This is a 21+ event. On Tuesday December 4 at 9:30am and Saturday December 8 at 10am, Stew Leonard’s in Newington hosts a “Gingerbread Fun Culinary Class for Toddlers.” Kids ages 2-5 will make gingerbread cookies, gingerbread muffins, and a gingerbread cheesecake dip. Tickets are $20 and advanced registration is required. Wednesday nights are Lobster Nights at Kensington’s at the Spa at Norwich Inn. The Dinner Special includes a lobster Dinner for two with a bottle of their Vista Point wine. Read More
Where to Eat in Miami: MIABites' Art Basel Dining Guide Features Miami ellen bowen December 01, 2018 Art Basel and Miami Art Week starts next week with previews, opening night parties and of course, ART. But did you know that MIAbites has nicknamed Art Basel… EAT Basel? "Where should we eat in Miami?" Here are some of Our Contributors Best Bites for Art Basel dining in and around Miami, Miami Beach, Wynwood and the Design District. All of the Miami Beach hotels have top restaurants and prices to match. Jose Andres The Bazaar and Katsuya at the SLS South Beach, Scarpetta, StripSteak and Pizza Burger by Michael Mina and Hakkasan at The Fontainebleau, The Dutch and Mr. Chow at The W South Beach, Pao by Paul Qui and Los Fuegos at Faena and Jean-Georges’ The Matador Room at the EDITION, the relocated NOBU in the Nobu Hotel Eden Roc, are all popular and top picks where chances are you will have a delicious albeit expensive meal. Read More
Robin Selden's Holiday Food Art Tips c/o Marcia Selden Catering (sponsored post) Features Catering Entertaining Design Marcia Selden Catering November 30, 2018 The presence of food as edible décor is unexpected and exciting! People eat with their eyes, so before they even take a seat their mouths are watering just looking at your table! Beautiful tablescape design, incorporating food, is the key to these spectacular tables. Holiday theming and scheming can be a little overwhelming so eliminate the stress with these terrific ideas from a few of our recent events: Read More
Half Full Brewery Winter Beer Garden To Open in Stamford's Mill River Park December 7th Features Brewery Beer Garden Pop-Up Bar Stamford CT Beer Beer CTbites Team November 30, 2018
Bailey’s Backyard Offers NEW Market Table Tasting Menu (Wednesdays Only!) Restaurant Ridgefield Farm to Table American Lunch Homepage Jessica Ryan November 28, 2018 For those of you who are unfamiliar with this charming eatery in the heart of Ridgefield, Bailey’s Backyard first opened its doors nearly 20 years ago as a neighborhood coffee shop before transforming itself into a charming American restaurant with a simple concept; offer exceptional seasonal cuisine in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. It would soon become a neighborhood hot spot, offering locals a new dining experience. Several years ago Bailey’s evolved once again and the restaurant is now a farm-to-table establishment with a mission to create a menu based on the freshest local sources. Today meat and produce are still gathered from nearby farms, both in New York and Connecticut, and Seafood is garnered from Connecticut, Massachusetts and the Chesapeake Bay. I was recently invited to sample Bailey’s new Market Table Tasting Menu offered every Wednesday night. A new menu is introduced each week, giving diners the opportunity to try something new each time. The menu is Prix Fixe, $40 for four courses or $65 for the four courses and a wine pairing. Read More
It's A Woman's World: Jodi Bernard, Fortina Pizza's Director of Operations Features Interview Chef Talk Stephanie Webster November 27, 2018 Fairfield County is full of trailblazing women, particularly in the culinary world. Which is why, with 2018 being proclaimed the Year of the Woman, we felt compelled to honor the pioneers among us. Our series, “It’s A Woman’s World’ is devoted to Fairfield County female influencers who’ve forged their own paths, often in food-related fields long dominated by men.How'd they do it? Read on. This week, we feature Jodi Bernard, Director of Operations at Fortina Pizza. Stay tuned to see who’s next. And feel free to send suggestions for your candidates to steph@ctbites.com. Read More
Rob VanKeuren’s Flour Water Salt Bread Opens in Darien Restaurant Openings Darien Breakfast Bakery Local Artisan Homepage Andrew Dominick November 22, 2018 When I first covered Rob VanKeuren more than a year ago, I found him in the early morning hours baking countless loaves of bread and hundreds of croissants at Lombardi’s Trattoria in the Georgetown section of Wilton. A lot has changed since then. customers—over to a larger space at GrayBarns, where he sold loaves and pastries out of a barn.Unfortunately for VanKeuren’s sourdough-obsessed following, his stint at GrayBarns was short-lived. As a result, his sought-after bread for public sale disappeared for a bit.Some months after, VanKeuren announced something more exciting, plans to open a bakery of his own, right next door to NEAT in Downtown Darien. And now, it’s finally come to fruition. Read More
Donut Crazy Opens in West Hartford Today! Restaurant West Hartford Hartford County Openings Doughnuts Breakfast Lunch CTbites Team November 21, 2018 Donut Crazy is happy to announce the opening of its newest location in West Hartford today. The store, located at 993 Farmington Avenue, offers all of Donut Crazy’s food and beverage items.For those uninitiated into Donut Crazy’s world of over-the-top sugary doughnut confections, this location feels like a giant step forward both in selection and ambiance. All of their baked goods are made in-house in a Donut Crazy Kitchen by an overnight team of bakers. In West Hartford, Donut Crazy will offer its typical selection of “Dailies” and “Crazies.” Read More
The Tasty Yolk Gourmet Breakfast Sandwich Truck Launches New Truck in Fairfield Restaurant Food Truck Fairfield Breakfast Brunch Kid Friendly Openings Stephanie Webster November 20, 2018 The Tasty Yolk, gourmet breakfast sandwich truck, is excited to announce the opening of their third location at 1916 Post Rd in Fairfield. You can find them cooking up decadently delicious breakfast fare 6 days a week Tuesday - Sunday. They will be open from 7am-12pm Tuesday-Friday and 8am- 1pm Sat & Sunday, (unless there is a private event to tend to). The truck will be parked right in front of the now closed Mrs. Greens Natural Market, on the southbound side of Post Road. Commuters can text in their orders to 203-726-6520.The menu is small, but mighty. Each sandwich includes two freshly cracked eggs with high quality fixings pressed inside- gourmet rifts on the bacon, egg, and cheese. There is also $5 burrito and a griddled smashed potato side for $1. We are somewhat addicted. Read CTbites’ full review for The Tasty Yolk here. Read More
Pumpkin Raisin Muffin Recipe from Sono Baking Company Recipe Recipe Bakery Dessert Breakfast CTbites Team November 19, 2018 Sono Baking Company shares a little Thanksgiving goodness with their recipe for Pumpkin Raisin Muffins. Cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon make these muffin the perfect autumn breakfast treat, although they can certainly be enjoyed year-round. These moist quick breads are even better the next day, when the spices have had a chance to mellow. Try adding ½ cup chopped walnuts or ½ cup chocolate chips for even more flavor and texture. Extra unused pumpkin puree can be transferred to a resealable freezer bag and stored in the freezer for up to one month. Read More
"Miracle" Christmas Themed Pop-up Cocktail Bar Opens Nov 24 in CT Features Cocktails Bar Pop-Up Bar Homepage Stephanie Webster November 18, 2018 Miracle, the beloved Christmas themed holiday pop-up cocktail bar launched in 2014 in New York City, will continue spreading holiday cheer this year with over 50 locations around the world. Think professionally-developed holiday cocktails in the kitschiest and most over the top festive setting you’ve ever seen. The Miracle pop-ups launch the day after Thanksgiving, Friday, November 24, and party through Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24. In our fair state of Connecticut you can find the pop up at two locations: Read More
Nibble: CT Food Events For Week of November 19-25: Thanksgiving Eve Parties + More Features Events Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 18, 2018 Some of CT’s best restaurants are open on Thanksgiving Day and serving special meals. Click here for a full guide!Ambler Farm’s Farm Stand is officially closed for the season, but they are reopening for two days leading up to Thanksgiving. Visit them on Monday 11/19 from 3-6pm and Tuesday 11/20 from 9am-Noon to pick up farm fresh goodies for your feast.On Sunday November 25, The Best Connecticut Food Show returns to New Haven. Local chefs will gather in the LoRicco Tower BallRoom while guests taste and sample. On Monday November 19, Bin 100 in Milford invites you to a Cakebread Cellars Wine Tasting Dinner. In addition to wine pairings, they’ll serve Passed Hors d ’Oeuvres, Halibut, Rack of Lamb, Short Rib Ravioli, Filet Mignon, and Cognac Pumpkin Cheesecake. It is $125 per person, plus tax and tip. Tim’s Kitchen and Wakeman Town Farm will have a Thanksgiving-Themed Class for Elementary-aged kids on Monday November 19. Participants will make fun Acorn Cookies, Pilgrim Hat Cookies, and Krispie Pumpkins. Read More
Prime Stamford Launches New Fall Menu: Waterfront Dining For Any Season (sponsored post) Restaurant stam Seafood American Cocktails Waterfront Lunch Brunch Jessica Ryan November 16, 2018 This past spring, members of the CTBites team were invited to Prime to check out one of Stamford’s newest restaurants. We were immediately taken with the scenic water views, the casual yet sophisticated décor and, most importantly, the food. (Click HERE to read about that experience.) We were invited back a few weeks ago for a sneak peek at the fall menu, now available, created to reflect the flavors of the season. Regulars need not fret, your favorite dishes are likely still available, summer flavors and ingredients have simply been replaced with those readily available this time of year. Read More
80+ CT Restaurants & Venues for The Perfect Holiday Party: 2018 Edition Features Holiday Catering Entertaining Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 16, 2018 They say you don’t need an excuse to throw a party, but if you’re still looking for one the holidays are a good reason! Connecticut restaurants have beautiful event spaces for your festivities and there are also unique venues that offer creative backdrops for your events. Click here for a guide to 70+ restaurants and venues for your next holiday party. Read More
WIN 20 Person Chipotle Catering Event FREE! (sponsored post) Features Giveaway CTbites Team November 14, 2018 Wanna throw a holiday party, but short on cash? Enter to WIN a 20 Person Chipotle Catering Event… FREE! To Enter: 1. Comment below w/ your email 2. You must be a CTbites newsletter subscriber. Subscribe here.Take all the guesswork out of your next holiday party. Chipotle provides everything you need for a full catering spread for six to 200 people. Why is this so incredibly great? Read on… Read More
55+ Restaurants & Caterers for Thanksgiving in CT: 2018 Edition Features Thanksgiving Holiday Catering Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 13, 2018 How does a turkey drink its wine? From a gobble-let! OK, but seriously… Thanksgiving is right around the corner and it’s time to consider your holiday plans! If you want to enjoy the meal with less prep and clean-up, an assortment of Connecticut caterers and restaurants are offering savory take-out options. Restaurants are also serving prix-fixe menus, brunches, and other specials for those who want the experience of eating out. Here are over 50 Thanksgiving dining options, whether you’re dining out or catering your event from your favorite local restaurant. Read More
Bear's Smokehouse Opens The Stack In New Haven: BBQ, Brewpub & Music Restaurant BBQ New Haven Openings Bar Outdoor Dining Kid Friendly Beer Garden CT Beer Lunch Comfort Food American Homepage James Gribbon November 09, 2018
Nibble: CT Food Events For Nov 11-18: Champagne, Bourbon & Wine Dinners, Cooking Classes, Beer Events & Food Trucks Features News Wine Dinners Events Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 09, 2018 On Tuesday November 13, Washington Prime SoNo will have a Macallan Scotch Dinner featuring the 12 Year Sherry, the 12 Year Double Cask, the 15 Year Triple Cask, and Edition #4. Upgrade to the 1824 ticket for a rare chance to have a glass of the 1824 Series Single Malt Reflexion. Price is $250 per person for this option. $140 pp.Olea’s annual champagne dinner will take place on November 12. Laval wines will be accompanied by Champagnes produced by another premier grower/producer, Benoit Marguet of Champagne Marguet Pere & Fils in Ambonnay, France. This 4-course dinner is $200 pp, all inclusive. RSVP by calling Olea at 203.780.8925, or sending an email to info@oleanewhaven.com On Monday November 12, Tim’s Kitchen at Wakeman Town Farm will teach you how to make “Holiday Hors D’oeuvres.” Chef Gene Habansky will guide you through making delicious appetizers from 7-9pm. It costs $65 per person. Join them again on November 15 to learn how to make vegetarian and gluten free Thanksgiving sides. Read More
SoNo Baking Company & Café Opens in Southport Restaurant Bakery Local Artisan Dessert Breakfast Lunch Brunch Coffee Tea And Coffee Southport Openings Jessica Ryan November 08, 2018 Welcome to the neighborhood SoNo Baking Company. We’re awfully glad you’re here! (Though my waistline may beg to differ.) SoNo Baking Company & Café officially opened its doors on Pequot Avenue in Southport today. Behind the glass display cases a beautiful array of cookies, tarts, pastries, cakes, and croissants all neatly arranged all ready to be purchased. Trays filled with delectable treats, fresh out of oven, were stacked and cooling. Brand new coffee and espresso machines glistened along the back wall. Read More
Recap: Newport Wine + Food Festival 2018 Features Events Emma Jane-Doody Stetson November 08, 2018 I know what you're thinking. If the website is called CTBites, why am I writing about Rhode Island? The answer is that the Newport Wine + Food Festival is definitely worth the road trip. New England restaurants, vendors, and distributors unite for a showcase of impressive wine and food. The towering Marble House and its scenic, oceanside grounds serve as a beautiful backdrop for the event. It’s a highlight of my year and a perfect way to spend an early autumn afternoon. Read More
