Isolation, stress, and a cure for the work-from-home blues. As we stay safe at home, many are rediscovering their kitchens, cooking and baking like never before and getting the whole family involved. Making our lists and picking up essentials at Stew Leonard’s, Stiles Market, Cranbury Market, Gold’s Deli, Fortuna’s Deli, The Pantry, Peter’s Market, Mystic Market, Trader Joe’s, Greens Farms Spirits, Fine Wine Company and Grapes Wine — on a weekly, no longer daily basis.
But still we yearn for our favorites, those local businesses that have made their mark in our communities and our lives. With most just a click away, offering pick-up (some curbside) or delivery, we can still get a taste of their food and their unfailing hospitality. Tip generously if you can, or buy a gift card for use later — these businesses and staff need our support!
Colony Grill and Archie Moore's are go-tos for Michael Mombello and family, especially when the kids are home from the city. “Somehow they both remind us of college-town bars and pubs where you always bump into someone you know and the food is great - consistent. It’s true Friday night, let the weekend begin, comfort food.”
We all agree, pizza is the ultimate comfort food. Beyond Colony, Susan Seath recommends Molto for their amazing pizza (and salads). Mary Ellen Gallagher likes Joe’s Pizza (nicest staff) and Laurie Morris loves Sammy’s Southport Pizza. “They deliver and leave at your door!”
We’ve been indulging in pasta too. Quatro Pazzi, Susan says, has the “BEST PASTA!!” Karen Scott loves Pane Bene and Mary Ellen enjoys the family-run Tarantino's (and their wine specials too!)
Onto Asian…”The sushi at Yamafuji is made to order and the combinations are wonderfully fresh, creative”, says Michael. Long-time Westport staple, Little Kitchen is loved by the Scotts and Gallaghers. Kim Harizman and her family enjoy Village Gourmet.
The Gallaghers love supporting The Boat House as their go-to for family style, farm to sea offerings. The Hagen’s enjoy Match Burger Lobster. Jennifer Collins has purchased gift cards from there as well. “By supporting Match we are also supporting the businesses they get their provisions from, like Copps Island Oysters, another local business who give so much back to our community.”
The best smoked ribs and pulled pork that David Weber has ever had can be found at The Wire Mill. The smoked chicken wings are also terrific. Oh for the days sitting outdoors by the fire on a cool summer evening….
The Mombellos have also been loyalists at Layla's Falafel since discovering the Fairfield location (in Westport too). “The food is always extremely fresh, bountiful, and once you have tasted the made to order hummus or garlic sauce you won't go anywhere else!”
While not a restaurant per se, Susan Seath and her daughters get easy and delicious meals from The Pantry in Fairfield. “It has an amazing bakery, excellent pre-prepared foods from dips, to soups, to meats and salads, and a well-stocked vegetable department and other needed items such as a dairy aisle, frozen section, etc. It’s a mini-grocery store with an authentic mom and pop feel.”
Similarly, Peter’s Market in Weston keeps many people happy. Susan and Karen Hagen love their fabulous butcher department, amazing sandwiches, and incredible variety of fresh fruits/vegetables and variety of take home meals. Family-owned and fabulous.
Whether you are starting from scratch, cooking prepared dishes or enjoying take-out meals, please remember to support those businesses that you can’t wait to visit —without a mask and gloves, surrounded by family and friends.