Litchfield July August Issue

James O’Shea owner of West Street Grill celebrates 35 years!

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In the HILLS

The Food Issue

SUMMER IN LITCHFIELD COUNTY always tastes a little sweeter—and in this issue, we’ve set the table for an unforgettable season. From celebrating West Street Grill’s 35th year in business, to the new Mexican restaurant La Catrina, from John’s Cafe to Arethusa’s legendary cheeses, we celebrate the restaurants and chefs who define our vibrant culinary scene. Don’t miss our interns’ list of fave ice cream spots, the new food news in Morris, and our curated list of restaurants serving up weekday specials.

We speak with the Lake Waramaug Conservancy, Flanders Nature Center, and the Great Mountain Forest in Norfolk. We learn more about Boondocks Film Society, the history of the Goshen Players, and the enduring charm of the Litchfield Jazz Festival. Plus: poetry, blueberries, and a nostalgic stop at the Glebe House.

Getaway with us to Newport, RI, at the beautiful Gardiner House hotel, or stay close to home with house tours from Sharon to Litchfield—including Anne MacDonald’s boathouse, a beautiful modern Sharon renovation, and the garden sanctuary of Debbie and Barton Jones. And of course, we’re counting down to Savor Litchfield—the culinary event of the year. Get your tickets before we sell out. I’ll see you there!

Mary Beth Lawlor

LITCHFIELD

Contents / Jul/Aug / 2025

Serenity in Salisbury

After decades of admiring a stone boathouse on Washinee Lake, Anne MacDonald restored the historic structure into a seasonal retreat. With trusted designers and artisans, she preserved its character while creating space for elegant lakeside entertaining—resulting in one of the most admired buildings on the lake, now with new life and purpose.

GRILL LEGACY

Launching West Street Grill in Litchfield was a gamble that paid off. For 35 years, James O’Shea’s acclaimed restaurant has served fresh, inventive cuisine and treated every guest like a VIP.

By Elizabeth Maker

56

A CORNWALL GARDEN

After a tornado devastated their Cornwall property, Debby and Barton Jones transformed the grounds into a lush, romantic garden— blending cottage charm and years of restoration into an enchanting retreat.

By Jane Garmey

96

BUENA CATRINA

La Catrina of Bantam blends Mexican and Asian flavors with vibrant décor, offering innovative dishes like mole bao buns and cochinita pibil in a unique setting.

By Charles Dubow

STEVE PENER + VANESSA HENDERSON

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Street Grill, Great Mountain Forest, Lake Waramaug Conservancy, Litchfield Jazz Festival, Flanders Nature Center, Cedric Gairard

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WENDY CARLSON / writer

Writer Wendy Carlson profiled two summer favorites: hiking and fairs. “Great Mountain Forest in Norfolk offers peaceful trails and rich history,” she says. In contrast, the bustling Bethlehem Fair, celebrating its 100th year and expecting 25,000 visitors, showcases the vibrant spirit of Litchfield County.

RANA FAURE / photographer

Rana Faure, former Seventeen Magazine photo editor and Getty Images director of photography, captures stunning landscapes, homes, and moments year-round. For Litchfield Magazine, she recently turned her lens on Connecticut’s lush gardens, showcasing the unique charm and vibrant beauty of summer.

JANE GARMEY / writer

Jane Garmey is the author of five garden books, has written about gardens, interior design, and food for many publications and was, for several years, the garden correspondent for Town & Country. She divides her time between New York City and Cornwall, where she is an avid gardener.

CYNTHIA HOCHSWENDER / writer

Cynthia Hochswender writes about a cozy family home in Sharon with ultra-chic interiors, and a classic New England farm in Goshen, known for its pick-your-own blueberries. She brings a keen eye to design and lifestyle— and also works as a Realtor with Christie’s International Real Estate.

CHARLES DUBOW / writer

Charles Dubow reveals the special enticements local restaurants use to lure diners on slower nights, reviews La Catrina of Bantam, and celebrates John’s Cafe 25 years in business. He lives in Washington with his wife Melinda, and is working on his third novel.

· CRAVEN CONTEMPORARY

· FOTODIARY

· RENTRAYAGE & A SHIRT STORY

· HOUSE OF BOOKS

· KENISE BARNES FINE ART

· MOOD PSYCHOTHERAPY

· NORTHWEST CONNECTICUT LAND CONSERVANCY

· CAROL COREY FINE ART

· ORE HILL & SWYFT

· PEGGY MERCURY

· PLANET EARTH PROJECTS

· RT FACTS DESIGN & ANTIQUES

· ROCK COBBLE FARM COMMUNITY FARMERS MARKET

· WILSON’S BY HIGH WATCH BAKERY & CAFÉ

· SIENNA ROAD

· WOODFORD’S GENERAL STORE

· WILLIAM PITT SOTHEBY’S REALTY

· WYRICK & ASSOCIATES

· EMMA PATON CONSULTING

· PETER HANBY ARCHITECTS

· LAFRANCE MEDICAL AESTHETICS

· NET @ WORK

· T&S BUILDERS

ORE HILL offers farm-focused tasting menus using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings in an intimate setting.

Swyft is a modern tavern in a historical setting serving wood fire pizza and seasonal entrees that comfort and inspire.

literary landmark for over 40 years.

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LITCHFIELD

July / August 2025

MARY BETH LAWLOR

Publisher / Editor

DEBORAH HAYN

Creative Director

VANESSA HAMMOND

Operations Manager

SHARON PECK

Production Manager

STEVEN LOMBARDI

Website Manager

CYNTHIA HOCHSWENDER

Copy Editor

ZANDRIA OLIVER

Production Assistant

GEORGIA LOPRESTI

Events Director

Contributing Writers

Wendy Carlson, Charles Dubow, Jane Garmey, Cynthia Hochswender, Michelle Madden, Elizabeth Maker, Erik Ofgang, Jack Sheedy, Clementina Verge

Contributing Photographers

Colin Bazzano, John Ellis, Rana Faure, Cedric Gairard, Visko Hatfield, Ryan Lavine

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feedback

“Another gorgeous issue! So thrilled to be a part of this spring publication.” [May/June2025] —@studioshannonblanton

TRADE SECRETS

“Horticulture meets heart. Love that!” [“Trade Secrets Celebrates 25 Years of Rare Plants and Garden Tours” May/ June 2025]—@kristenvanginhoven

THE OWL

“We have loved everything about The Owl from the very beginning!!” [“The Owl Wine & Food Bar” May/June 2025]—@bouquetsbeyondct

“We’ve loved The Owl since John first opened it. Ryan really does create such a welcoming space, and the meatballs …! Well-deserved recognition!!” [“The Owl Wine & Food Bar” May/June 2025]—@soliver3178

RENTRAYAGE

“Amazing!! Congrats, Erin!!” [“Rentrayage Brings Sustainable Fashion to Kent” May/June 2025] —@miltonmarketct

“So damn chic!!!!!” [“Rentrayage Brings Sustainable Fashion to Kent” May/June 2025] —@paulmarcarelli

CORRECTION:

In our May/June issue, we mistakenly failed to credit Krista Adams for the beautiful cover image of Hollister House Garden. We sincerely apologize for this oversight and are grateful to Krista for capturing the essence of such a cherished local treasure.

Q&A

By Jack Sheedy

How old is the Goshen Players?

A NEWS BRIEF in the Torrington Register on May 17, 1949, announced, “A dramatic cantata, ‘Trial by Jury,’ by Gilbert and Sullivan, will be presented at the Goshen Town Hall Friday, May 27 and 28.”

That was the birth of the Goshen Players. More than 75 years later, it is the oldest continuously operating community theater in Litchfield County and second oldest in Connecticut, says Michael Accuosti, treasurer. The Simsbury Light Opera Company, founded in Hartford County in 1946, is Connecticut’s oldest, he says.

The all-volunteer company now owns Goshen’s Old Town Hall, and has produced more than 100 shows there, says Joseph Guttadauro, president. A recent production, A Goodnight Kiss by Cinzi Lavin, is a dramatization of a Civil War love story involving a Goshen couple.

Members of the Babbitt family, today represented by Lydia Babbitt, house manager, have served for seven decades.

In 1957, future A Wrinkle in Time author Madeleine L’Engle debuted her play Come to the Ball there, Guttadauro says. A Goshen resident, L’Engle, who died in 2007, also trod the boards with the Goshen Players. Her daughter, Josephine Jones, was box office manager.

“We definitely honor our past, but our goal is to stay current,” Guttadauro says, adding that the Goshen Players attracts talent and audiences from the Tristate area. “My key to the future is involving younger people.” —goshenplayers.org

Religious Freedom?

THE SEEMINGLY TYPICAL

New England town of Woodbury holds a rich history, evident in its preserved Colonial architecture. Among its most notable buildings is the Glebe House, one of the nation’s earliest historic house museums. Built in 1740, it was home to Woodbury’s first Anglican minister, the Reverend John Rutgers Marshall, his wife, Sarah, their nine children, and three enslaved individuals.

After moving from New York City, they faced hostility during the Revolutionary War due to their Anglican faith, closely tied to the British Crown. Following American independence, a secret meeting took place at the house on March 25, 1783, with ten clergy members gathering to chart the Anglican Church’s future in the new republic. They elected the Reverend Dr. Samuel Seabury to seek consecration abroad. Barred from ordination in England, Seabury traveled to Scotland, becoming the first bishop in the New World—laying the foundation for the Episcopal Church and advancing religious freedom in America.

The home is now preserved by the Seabury Society. Restoration efforts include reviving its historic gardens, with completion expected in 2027. glebehousemuseum.org

—Lydia Kennedy

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On Our RADAR

West Street Grill Celebrates 35 Years

›It was a wild toss, opening a high-end restaurant in the hinterlands of Litchfield 35 years ago. There were maybe more farm trucks than Ferraris passing through town, and it didn’t seem most folks were drawn to fancy food.

But the Irish-born restaurateur James O’Shea, who then weekended in Warren with his husband, Charlie Kafferman, had a hunch that many with second homes hidden in the hills of the 26-town Litchfield County wanted something more.

“It was a culinary backwater,” he says, sharing memories on West Street Grill’s anniversary this year in May. “Something of a gamble, but it felt right.”

O’Shea, who had run acclaimed eateries in Ireland and New York, quickly attracted a loyal patronage including local luminaries like William Styron, Arthur Miller, Joan Rivers and Richard Widmark. The tables where those late, great legends sat

now attract neighboring stars such as Kevin Bacon, Daniel Day-Lewis, and Anderson Cooper. Meryl Streep of Salisbury is a regular, and people like George Clooney, Bill Murray, and Russell Crowe have been known to grace the door.

But celebrity status is universal once you enter through the drapes of the clubby boite overlooking the historic Litchfield Green. “Everyone is treated the same, like you’re the most important, adored person,” says Daniel Glass, CEO of Glassnote Records, who’s been dining at the Grill with his wife, Deborah, since it opened in 1990. Glass, who’s signed some of the biggest names in music, including the Grammy-winning Mumford & Sons, goes to the Grill “whenever possible” when at home in Washington, he says. “We go with our two kids, three grandkids, anyone who’s in town visiting. The freshest fish, the best burgers anywhere, the incredible vegetarian and vegan dishes. It’s absolutely our

favorite place.”

The Grill has long been hailed for its healthy, creative cuisine, winning awards nationwide. It was ranked one of America’s top 50 restaurants by Conde Nast Traveler, and voted the No. 1 New American Restaurant by Zagat Survey, which said, “This is the restaurant that changed Connecticut dining forever.”

At a recent dinner there, O’Shea regaled us with cocktails or mocktails, then a multi-course, wine-paired repast that included their signature cheesy charred peasant bread, mussels, Brussells sprouts, cauliflower tempura, mushroom ravioli, braised short ribs, and housemade vegan desserts: a trifecta of fruity sorbets and decadent chocolate mousse cake.

He lifted the glass off of our housesmoked Atlantic salmon, a mystical plume of heat rising above it. “It’s all about the purity and integrity of the freshest ingredients available,” he says. Wild-caught fish is delivered daily, and produce is procured whenever possible from local farms.

O’Shea knew he leaned vegan as a child growing up at his family’s seaside farm in Kenmare. “My father said, ‘James! You’re eating all the vegetables! I’m going to have to throw you over the hill with the rabbits, and you can nibble on lettuce all the day long!’”

Now, the Grill has an ever-growing cadre of younger community fans, like Litchfield financier Abraham Joseph, who goes almost every Friday after his kids’ sports practices at Rumsey Hall School in Washington. “The boys basically have a standing order for the lava cake,” he says. “The quality and execution of the food is perfection. And, sophisticated as it is, you feel like you’re home.”—weststreetgrill.com

25th Anniversary!

Litchfield County is lucky to have many talented chefs. We are also lucky to have many talented restaurant owners. But there are very few chefs who are also owners. Maybe that explains why this year chef/ owner Dennis DeBellis of John’s Cafe in Woodbury is celebrating his restaurant’s 25th anniversary.

“It’s a big deal to have a restaurant around for 25 years,” DeBellis says. “I’ve seen the local restaurant landscape change, and become a real foodie destination. I feel honored that people still seem to like our food after all this time.”

Best described as New American with an Italian twist, the innovative and well-priced menu always features fresh pastas and pizzas, and entrees that use meats and seasonal produce from area farms.

A New Milford native and a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, DeBellis began his career at The Mayflower in Washington as a line cook before landing at John’s Cafe in 2000. In 2015, he bought the place.

“It was a big risk, but one that I thought worth taking,” he says. “It’s been a great ride and one that I have no plan on stopping. After all this time, I still love what I do.”

John’s Cafe, 693 Main St. S, Woodbury —johnscafe.com — Charles Dubow

GREAT MOUNTAIN FOREST

The Quiet Place

BY WENDY CARLSON

›It’s early morning in the Great Mountain Forest, and the only sounds out here are the call of a hawk, the crunch of hemlock needles underfoot, and the rustle of a breeze in the trees. The town of Norfolk is nicknamed “the icebox of Connecticut” for its frigid winters; this stretch of woods feels like it should be called “the quietest place in the world.”

The Great Mountain Forest encompasses 6,300 acres of contiguous forestland and seven ponds in Norfolk and the town of Canaan. It is truly vast. Walking all of its 13 trails takes commitment—although even a short foray into the

photograph by STEPHEN SCHUMACHER

Moose and calf pause peacefully in Norfolk’s quiet summer forest.

On Our RADAR

125 Things To Do in Litchfield County This Summer

Looking for adventure, inspiration, or simply a way to soak up summer in Litchfield County? We’ve got you covered. Our annual roundup of 125 Things To Do in Litchfield County This Summer is packed with ideas that will keep your calendar full from now through Labor Day.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, our curated list has something for everyone. Go blueberry picking at March Farm, sip wine and take in the view at Hopkins Vineyard, or catch some theater at the Sharon Playhouse. Up for something active? Kayak down the Housatonic River or hike to the top of Mohawk Mountain. For family fun, don’t miss the Bethlehem Fair, Morris Bluegrass Fest, or a scoop of old-fashioned ice cream at Arethusa Dairy. Want to slow things down? Stroll through the gardens at Hollister House, or grab a table outside at The White Horse Country Pub in New Preston.

There’s so much more to explore—so scan the QR code below or visit litchfieldmagazine.com to see the full list of 125 things to do this summer.

Your next great memory in Litchfield County is just one idea away.

forest offers a glimpse into its history. Public access is available at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk, and near 200 Canaan Mountain Road in Canaan; there are trail maps at each gate.

Much of the forest is relatively young. From the late 1700s to the 1800s, the area was stripped of trees; the wood was used to make charcoal for blast furnaces to smelt iron ore. There are, however, remote sections that were too difficult to reach for logging— sparing trees that are now more than 350 years old.

Wildfires also reduced much of

was placed on the land, through the U.S. Forest Service and the Connecticut Division of Forestry. Today the forest is owned and managed by the Great Mountain Forest Corporation, a nonprofit, private-operating foundation.

Logging roads wind through the forest to allow selective lumbering, an effort to ensure the health of the trees. For decades, maples have been tapped to make maple syrup. Witch hazel is harvested here, and sold to Dickinson Brands. Since 1932, daily readings have been taken at the National Weather Service

There are remote sections that were too difficult to reach for logging—sparing trees that are now more than 350 years old.

the forest, leaving behind fields and the ghostly remains of the iron-making community: colliers’ hearths, house foundations, fireplaces, unmarked graves. Early agricultural use of the land created fields and pastures, further reducing woodland. At one time, there was even a golf course in these woods.

The effort to reforest and restore the wildlife to the land began in 1909, when Starling W. Childs and former U.S. Senator Frederic C. Walcott purchased 400 acres in Norfolk, and founded what later became known as the Great Mountain Forest. Over time, they acquired more acreage; eventually the Childs family took over full ownership and stewardship. In 2003, a conservation easement

Cooperative Observation Station, which was established by Starling Childs’ son, “Ted” Childs.

Ted, an avid naturalist and a graduate of Yale, also deeded 8 acres to his alma mater in 1941 to establish a camp for field training students in the university’s forestry program. The relationship between Yale and the forest continues today, at the original campus in the middle of the forest (which the Great Mountain Forest staff manages and uses for public programs).

A walk in these quiet woods reveals its rich past, and a chance to see rare plants and wildlife. Moose have reestablished habitats here, so keep your eyes peeled for their massive antlers! —greatmountainforest.org

Europa Cheese

In a historic achievement, Arethusa Farm Dairy’s Europa cheese was named Best in Show at the U.S. Championship Cheese Contest for the second consecutive time—something no creamery has accomplished in 40 years. The contest, held in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is the largest technical competition for cheese and dairy products in the country, drawing more than 2,400 entries from across the U.S.

Europa, an aged, traditional-style Gouda, was judged by a panel of 38 experts, who evaluated its texture, flavor, appearance, and overall quality. Winning once is an honor, but securing the title twice in a row underscores the dedication of Arethusa’s cheesemakers and the exceptional milk from local family farms.

Founded by Anthony Yurgaitis and the late George Malkemus, Arethusa Farm Dairy has long been committed to producing highquality dairy products in Litchfield County. The farm’s cheesemaking process is deeply rooted in tradition while also embracing innovation.

For Arethusa, this win is more than just an accolade; it’s a recognition of the hard work behind every wheel of cheese, from the cows that provide the milk to the craftspeople who bring it to life.—arethusafarm.com

LAKE WARAMAUG: A NEW CHAPTER

50 Years of Stewardship and Conservation

BY CLEMENTINA VERGE

›Renowned for its timeless beauty and tranquility, Lake Waramaug is one of Connecticut’s most cherished and picturesque destinations. Its crystalline waters invite recreation and relaxation, yet this natural splendor is no accident. It reflects decades of meticulous restoration, shaped by science, community, and an unwavering commitment to preservation.

“In the 1970s, it looked like a giant

bowl of pea soup,” recalls Christine Adams, a Lake Waramaug Board of Directors member whose family has kept a cottage on the lake for five generations.

Tom McGowan concurs, reminiscing about the days when stepping into the lake meant surrendering to its opaque depths. At the time, algae blooms fueled by phospho-

rus runoff clouded waters, limiting visibility to just two to four feet.

Swimming waned, boating became difficult, property values declined, and the ecosystem neared collapse.

Far right: A diver prepares to assess the aeration tower sustaining the lake’s clarity.

Out of this crisis, McGowan assembled the Lake Waramaug Task Force, a grassroots coalition of citizens united by one common goal: To revive the lake. The mission became a model

for environmental stewardship. Among the pioneers was Robert Kortmann, whose innovative lake aeration system—a scientific breakthrough, born in his garage—is now used nationwide.

“It’s the best work that’s been done on any lake, in any state, period,” declares McGowan.

This year, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, the group has rebranded as the Lake Waramaug Conservancy, reflecting its broadened scope and renewed dedication to be a permanent, science-led conservation organization.

“It’s been—and continues to be—a huge effort,” reflects executive director Sean Hayden. Scientific breakthroughs played a pivotal role, he explains, including an award-winning aeration system that revitalizes the lake’s oxygen levels.

An astounding success has been eradicating non-native invasive aquatic plants—achieved through two decades of mapping and meticulous hand-pulling by divers, who use a suction harvesting system in an approach that demands precision and persistence.

Water visibility has increased to depths of up to 19 feet—a recovery achieved without the chemicals that would have delivered only temporary relief, Hayden notes.

The Conservancy employs limnologists—freshwater scientists— to study the lake’s ecosystem and to guide interventions. From cultivating zooplankton to naturally control algae, to oxygenating the lake and stabilizing stream banks to prevent harmful blooms, the Conservancy’s efforts are vital and innovative, says board chair Lee Vance.

Protecting the lake is “a shared

responsibility,” notes treasurer Peary Stafford, who acknowledges the Warren Land Trust’s pivotal role in acquiring the 200-acre Tanner Farm—critical for further safeguarding the lake’s water quality.

Today, Lake Waramaug is a pristine haven for boating, fishing, and swimming, with public beaches serving the towns of Kent, Warren, and Washington. Yet its future is not guaranteed, as climate change pressures threaten even protected ecosystems.

The Conservancy invites all who value natural beauty to play a role in its preservation—through philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy. Every August, a community day offers residents and visitors a chance to engage more deeply, learn, and contribute.

In a world where natural treasures too often vanish too soon, Lake Waramaug stands as a testament to what can be saved through science and stewardship.—lakewaramaug.org

On Our RADAR

FACING THE MUSIC

Festival Brings Jazz to Thousands of Fans

BY MICHELLE MADDEN

›“Jazz is fundamentally improvisational. When you see musicians performing these unpredictable, complex harmonies, it’s magic. It’s incredible that humans can do this,” says Vita West Muir, the visionary founder and executive/artistic director of Litchfield Performing Arts—the organization that runs the jazz camp and jazz festival (celebrating its 30th anniver-

sary this summer).

Muir and her late husband, Arthur Muir, came to Litchfield in 1976. They bought a Colonial on North Street with a living room that could hold a hundred, and began hosting classical concerts. “Our home was always a hotel for visiting artists,” says Muir. They ran the series until the audience began

to die—literally. So they pivoted to jazz to attract a younger audience.

The festival was, until 2018, held outdoors—most recently at the Goshen Fairgrounds (where Art was known to jump in and mow the lawn). It eventually swelled to a peak of 9,000 guests. “We had to tell people to stop bringing marshmallows. They would light them and throw them,” says Muir.

With age, the event has mellowed and—with no risk of projectiles—it is now held at the Tisch Family Auditorium at The Frederick Gunn School. This year, the Emmet Cohen Trio will open. In 2019 the American Pianists Association crowned Cohen with its top award.

Matt Dwonszyk—one of the fastest-rising, most in-demand bassists alive—and his sextet will follow. The guitar duo of Pasquale Grasso and Frank Vignola will also grace the mainstage. Grasso first performed at the festival in 2022 with Samara Joy (who at the age of 25 had already collected five Grammys).

The legend Pat Metheny is quoted as saying of Grasso, “The best guitar player I’ve heard in maybe my entire life.” Grasso and Vignola have residencies at the jazz clubs Mezzrow and Birdland Theater in New York City, respectively. Saturday will close with the world-class clarinetist/saxophonist Anat Cohen.

Past icons have included Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, Dave Brubeck (the father of “cool jazz”), Roy Haynes (one of the most recorded

drummers in jazz), Wayne Shorter (who teamed up with Miles Davis), and newcomers like the nine-time Grammy winner Christian McBride. Diana Krall performed twice in the late 1990s. “Two years later she was playing with Tony Bennett and we couldn’t afford her,” laughs Muir.

While known for the festival, the soul of the organization—and closely integrated with it—is the jazz camp, one of the most respected in the country. Ensembles perform in the tent on opening night; once their careers take off, the young musicians often land on the festival stage—and the Grammy stage. Nicole Zuraitis attended camp as a trombonist, and has performed multiple times at the festival; she has been nominated three times, and won in 2024. Zaccai Curtis, a pianist and composer, came to the camp when he was 13. He has performed at the festival several times and won Best Latin Jazz Album this year.

So, come. Take a seat. Open your mind—and witness magic. (The festival runs July 25-27.)

—litchfieldjazzfest.com

(Clockwise from top left) Jazz phenom Emmet Cohen opens the festival on July 25. The Grammy-nominated pianist and creator of “Live From Emmet’s Place” joins a stellar lineup hosted by festival founder Vita West Muir, including Grammy-winner Nicole Zuraitis, known for her soulful vocals and dynamic jazz piano, and the acclaimed Anat Cohen Quartetinho, the international group of multi-instrumentalist-virtuosos.

On Our RADAR

OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust preserves nature access

BY ERIK OFGANG

›For more than half a century, the Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust has been dedicated not only to preserving open space but also to sharing the experience with as many people as possible. They do so through a variety of programs, ranging from one-day nature-themed events, to camps and educational academies that incorporate curriculum-aligned STEM lessons.

The trust operates Van Vleck Farm and other conserved properties and nature preserves in Wood-

bury, Bethlehem, Southbury, and Middlebury. In all, the trust cares for more than 2,000 acres across multiple properties.

“So many people come here just to walk on the Van Vleck campus, because we’re free and open to the public, every day,” says Vincent D. LaFontan, executive director of Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust. “Many people will come and just walk over by the animal barn, to see our goats and pigs and the chickens and so on.”

Six of the Flanders properties are open to the public for hiking; they also maintain sanctuary space. The mission of sharing these natural spaces with people of all ages is only possible thanks to the support of the community. Each summer Flanders hosts two major fundraisers. The first is the Flanders Field & Forest 5K, an all-age walk or run in June through Flanders’ picturesque woods and fields.

Flanders’ second big fundraiser of the year takes place at the end of summer, Flanders hosts summer fundraisers the Farmto-Flanders dinner auction and the Field & Forest 5K run.

on the Sunday before Labor Day. Farm-to-Flanders is a gourmet picnic and auction that allows participants to enjoy the culinary creations of the best chefs in Connecticut in an idyllic setting. “We’ve been really lucky. We have a lot of support from restaurateurs and chefs in the area,” LaFontan says. Past participants have included John Bourdeau of Sparrow Bar and Restaurant in New Milford; Christopher Prosperi, chef/owner of Metro Bis in Simsbury; and Kate Truini and Zachary Redin of New Curds on the Block and To the Gills in Oakville. The auction features trips, artwork, flower arranging, and more.

Fans of the preserve and trust can also help the organization by purchasing a Flanders membership, or making donations earmarked for specific programs. The Flanders Campership, for example, provides camp and academy tuition for children who would otherwise not be able to afford to attend. “Flanders has been very dedicated to making sure that if a child has an interest in going to summer camp or to our summer academy, we’ll find a way to have their tuition covered if needed,” he says. “It’s a way in which a person can truly feel like they’re making a difference in a child and in a family’s life.”

Beyond that, LaFontan says, people should take advantage of the opportunities right here.

“We’re really lucky where we live, all of us who live in western Connecticut. There are some great nonprofit land trusts in our area, and they all have beautiful spaces,” he says. “That’s why so many people from around the world come to visit New England and Connecticut.” —flandersnaturecenter.org

BLUEBERRY PICKING

PYO Perfection

Old Barn Farm is not your typical pick-your-own fruit farm. For one thing, the grounds are immaculate. There is no romantic bohemianism here. The lawn is perfectly trimmed. The old barn and other buildings are in exquisite condition. The blueberries are neatly spaced, and weed free.

This is what pick-your-own looks like when it’s run by a successful businessman.

Carl Contadini’s name means “farmer” in Italian, but he spent his working life in Connecticut business, retiring as CEO of The Waterbury Companies, which he sold in 2005 (he continues to serve on multiple boards).

He bought 100-plus acres in Goshen in 2003. His daughter, Kara, had wanted the family to find a place where she and her sister, Sherri, and their spouses and children could live in proximity to their parents. The idea to create a blueberry farm was born in part from their discovery of wild blueberries growing on the property when they purchased it.

The first year, they planted 2,500 blueberry bushes; the second year, they planted the same number. The farm now has 19 varieties of blueberries that grow on ten acres of the large, exquisitely tidy property. The children and grandchildren (all in their late teens and early 20s) help out, and all have inherited their grandfather’s desire to do good and to do well.

The weather this year has been unusual, Contadini observes. It seems likely the picking season will begin earlier than normal. To find out more, visit the farm’s website; picking season dates are posted in early June.—oldbarnfarmct.com — Cynthia Hochswender

On Our RADAR

FOTODIARY

Art, Connection, and Creative Belonging in Kent

BY CLEMENTINA VERGE

›Tucked between the tree-lined hills of Kent, a quiet yet powerful creative movement is unfolding. At its heart is Cedric Gairard, a Paris-born documentary photographer and creative director whose work has spanned continents and iconic brands—but who now turns his lens toward something more personal: the shared spirit of artistic community.

Gairard’s newest venture, FotoDiary, is both a gallery and a multidisciplinary creative studio—a thoughtfully curated haven for artists, thinkers, and storytellers. Recently opened in Kent Barns—a small cultural enclave known for its galleries and artisanal shops— the distinctive space is quaint but grand in scope,

Cedric Gairard (top left) fosters artistic collaboration and community in Kent’s creative hub.

not merely to showcase art, but to nurture it. While individual artistic vision remains essential, FotoDiary transforms creativity into a shared experience, fostering a vibrant community where expression is deepened through collaboration.

“I’ve always been interested in the human story,” says Gairard. “FotoDiary is

a resource—a hub—for artists who want to collaborate, not compete.”

Born in Paris, Gairard began traveling at 20, driven by curiosity and a restless visual mind. Three decades in global advertising took him through creative epicenters like Paris, Amsterdam, and London— working with brands like Adidas, Coca-Cola, and Oatly—helping them expand, redefine, and reinvent. It was thrilling work—but it came with a growing desire to reconnect with something more grounded.

“Reinvention,” he says, “became a mirror. The more I helped others define their vision, the more I started to see mine.”

After 17 years building a life in New York, Gairard and his wife, Eliza, returned to her roots in Litchfield County. In Kent, he found stilliness, space to photograph night skies and

forests, and to capture “the connection and interdependence of humanity’s delicate balance with nature.”

Now, with FotoDiary, Gairard distills decades of creative production experience into something more personal, yet no less ambitious.The studio-gallery champions a philosophy of creative collaboration, where artists, clients, and storytellers converge to transform production challenges into opportunities. More than just a gallery, FotoDiary is a living workspace—an incubator for ideas where individual talent is celebrated, and creative partnerships are cultivated.

The studio became a response to a creative hunger Gairard recognized across disciplines: photographers, filmmakers,writers, illustrators, set designers—artists in motion—yearning not just for work, but for belong-

ing. Now, he builds bridges between the inspired and the inspired-by, and in the age of digital saturation, Gairard is advocating for something rare: depth.

“The studio wants to represent a diverse group of local creatives and image-makers,” Gairard shares. “The idea is to create opportunities—real ones—for artists to grow, and for clients to access work that is not only high quality but grounded in something authentic.”

“Every artist has a unique style, and I’m not here to replicate but to create a space where collaboration thrives over competition,” Gairard says. “Art holds the power to tell stories—stories that are too complex, too fragile, too charged. It bridges the gaps, sparks reflection, and invites conversation—and I’m grateful to open that channel.”—fotodiary.com

In 1938, a young, idealistic propaganda minister in Benito Mussolini’s fascist government (Gianni Orlandini) meets a Venetian girl of patrician family (Gabriella De Luca), also a nurse in the Italian Red Cross.

She is “ the most beautiful woman” he has ever seen. He “wears good will upon his heart like a badge of honor”. Enraptured they fall in love and plan to marry. All as Adolf Hitler places his first Nazi SS operatives in Rome.

As Germans arrive, they are welcomed. But when Hitler’s chief designate (Heinrich Durer) believing himself of “master race” begins to degrade Italian life and Italians themselves Gianni begins to question his support for his fascist government which allowed Durer entrance to Italian soil. When Durer ultimately harms members of Gabriella’s family to show support for the Reich, Gianni’s journey to destroy the SS officer and to embarrass Mussolini becomes an obsession.

Working in secrecy while maintaining his position in Mussolini’s regime he forms an astonishing coalition of Italian resistance fighters as diverse as an opera diva, a Jewish banker from Milan, a nurse from Flint Michigan on holiday in Italy at the time and a stage hand from the Teatro Reggio in Torino, and sets a plot to accomplish his goal. The emotional gut needed for this struggle shows the power of stalwart, honest people who want democracy returned to their land. The struggle brings both exhilaration and sorrow.

A QUIET GRIEF is particularly relevant today as U.S. politics veer ever closer to an “open” acceptance of authoritarianism. The book, accepted at the Bread Load Writers Conference in August 2023, received positive response.

“The book is extraordinary. Fabulous story and so eloquently expressed.”

“A beautiful love story set in a turbulent time that serves to remind us how easily a democracy can fall into chaos ending in authoritarian rule. The fact that we are there now in the US makes this novel not just relevant but scary.”

“A must read for everyone. Kudos for an impressive, moving, thought provoking, impossible to put down novel.”

A QUIET GRIEF is available at Amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, Hickory Stick Books (Washington Depot, CT), Oblong Books (Millerton, NY), Northshire Books (Manchester, VT), and all independent bookstores throughout the US.

BETHLEHEM FAIR

A Big Affair

For Katie LeClerc, the fair is in her blood. Her mother, Eileen LeClerc, is the current president; her aunt, Elaine Brodeur, was president for 20 years; Katie is the current secretary. She was one month old when her mother first took her to the fair, and she has gone every year for as far back as she can remember.

LeClerc is among the legion of volunteers who will help get this year’s Bethlehem Fair up and running. It’s a mammoth undertaking. Between 20,000 and 25,000 visitors are expected to visit the fairgrounds between Sept. 5 and 7.

On tap are food and merchandise vendors, carnival rides, and several local bands. As always, the main draw are the fair’s robust agricultural programs, featuring events such as horse and oxen pulls.

The Bethlehem Fair is also touted for its array of exhibits, including canning, baked goods, produce, needlework, and crafts and hobbies. Ticket sale proceeds support the fair and the Fair Foundation, which, since 1995, has given more than $500,000 in scholarships to high school students.

“It’s a lot of work,” says LeClerc. But she recalls the pride she felt on one fair day when her aunt took her on the Ferris wheel ride and asked the operator to pause it at the top so they could get a bird’s-eye view “It was so rewarding,” she says. —bethlehemfair.com — Wendy Carlson

New Morning Market is more than a grocery store — it’s a place to belong — built on care, integrity, and heart. Since 1971, we’ve grown alongside our Connecticut community, championing health, sustainability, and connection. Discover the local difference at New Morning Market. Family-owned. Community-driven. Always evolving.

CT Run Co.

Performance, Belonging, and Wellness

...

BY CLEMENTINA VERGE

WHEN MEGAN SEARFOSS

founded Ridgefield Running Company in 2014—a run-specialty store—she launched a lifestyle movement. What began as a personal quest for premium gear and authentic connections has grown into CT Run Co., a refined retail experience where performance and luxury converge, just outside Litchfield County.

“I realized I didn’t have my people,” Searfoss recalls about moving to Connecticut 20 years ago, and dedicating herself to running after raising three daughters. “I wanted a community, a place with real expertise. But nothing like that existed, so I created it.”

Under Searfoss’ leadership, CT Run Co. has earned repeated acclaim as America’s Best Running Store and honored as Store of the Year. Locations in Ridgefield, Darien, Stamford, and, the newest, in Brookfield, offer elevated footwear, apparel, and accessories from iconic athletic brands, designed to support every stride.

Brookfield Running, conveniently situated just down Route 202 from Litchfield, brings its signature blend of expert service and high-performance style closer than ever to northwest Connecticut.

At CT Run Co., clients receive personalized attention through

Boston. Also an author, she inspires a brand rooted in wellness and tailored experiences.

With stores near trails like Still River Greenway, a short drive from Litchfield, Searfoss invites clients to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the serenity of the outdoors.

“Movement outside is essential,” Searfoss emphasizes. “It offers clarity and calm, more than any treadmill. Running, walking, or hiking nurtures the body, mind, and soul.”

CT Run Co. embodies the philosophy of Constant Forward Motion, symbolized by the triskelion—a Celtic emblem dating back to Neolithic times. Depicting three legs in perpetual movement, this ancient symbol represents progress, growth, and the journey toward deeper life understanding. For CT Run Co., it reflects more than physical motion; it signals a commitment to evolving health, happiness, and perspective.

advanced 3D foot scanning and gait analysis, allowing expert staff—trained in both performance and injury prevention—to recommend footwear tailored to individual biomechanics. Whether addressing Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, or simple lifestyle needs, the goal remains the same: “Happy feet mean a happy life,” says Searfoss.

“We don’t just sell gear; we equip people to move better, live healthier, and enjoy the outdoors,” she adds.

A competitive athlete, Searfoss brings significant experience to CT Run Co., including Ironman World Championships and more than 20 marathons, including

These ideals are evident through the company’s philanthropic focus. Signature events include Frozen Feet Challenge—a winter initiative promoting daily activity—along with monthly group runs and training programs. The brand also champions causes like Kicks for Kids, providing quality footwear to underserved local student-athletes, reinforcing its mission to empower the next generation. Ultimately, luxury isn’t about exclusivity—it’s about care.

“In today’s digital world, genuine human connection is becoming increasingly rare,” she reflects. “Our stores offer more than products—they offer belonging. It’s being seen, understood, and supported. At CT Run Co., everyone has a place. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just lacing up for the first time, we’re here to support you every step of the way.”—ctrunco.com

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A Getaway to Newport

BY MARY BETH LAWLOR / PHOTOGRAPHS BY KIM TYLER

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND doesn’t need much fanfare. Its weathered shingle homes, cliffside paths, and quietly storied past speak for themselves. For those looking for a refined and visually thoughtful place to stay, the Gardiner House, which opened in fall 2023, offers a fresh way to experience this historic town.

Co-owned by Newport residents Howard Cushing and Wirt Blaffer, the 21-room boutique hotel draws heavily from Cushing’s family history and artistic legacy. One of the hotel’s standout features is a stunning two-story mural that climbs the wall beside the winding central staircase. This digital recreation is based on a mural painted in 1905 by Cushing’s great-grandfather, renowned American artist Howard Gardiner Cushing, in the entryway of the family’s Newport estate, The Ledges. The original painting still exists today. For the hotel, the mural was reinterpreted in collaboration with twenty2 wallpaper + textiles, a Litchfield County-based design studio known for its contemporary take on classic textile arts. This partnership beautifully ties together history, art, and modern design in a way that feels both personal and timeless. On arrival, we explored nearby shops and galleries before

settling in for dinner at Flora, the hotel’s main restaurant. The interiors are beautiful and elegant, and the food, led by Chef Miguel Somoza, is polished without pretense. Our meal featured scallops with ginger-carrot purée, crab bucatini, and a simple, perfect olive oil cake. Service was warm, professional, and friendly.

The next morning, after indulging in avocado toast and poached eggs in Flora’s airy dining room, we set off for the Cliff Walk, Newport’s well-known path that edges the coastline and offers dramatic views of both the ocean and some of the town’s storied homes. From there, we toured The Breakers, the 70room Italian Renaissance-style mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in 1895, still jaw-dropping in scale and detail. A place where no detail was spared.

Just a few blocks inland, we visited the recently reopened International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum, housed in the historic Newport Casino. The museum has been thoughtfully updated with new exhibits and interactive features, making it a must-visit for tennis fans and history buffs alike. The museum also hosts the prestigious Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and various tennis-related events throughout the year, keeping the spirit of the sport alive in this charming coastal town.

Lunch was quick and casual at Yagi Noodles, where we enjoyed pork dumplings, freshly made ramen noodles, and matcha boba tea before boarding for an afternoon sail with

From the top, clockwise: The Gardiner House’s sunroom overlooking the marina; a Gansett Cruise boat touring guests through Newport; the green-lacquered studio bar at The Gardiner House; the International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum; and a cozy guest room at The Gardiner House.

The lobby mural at the Gardiner House, created by twenty2 Wallpaper, reproduces a 1905 painting by Howard Gardiner Cushing. A winding staircase greets you at the entrance. Flora—the Mediterraneaninspired restaurant led by Chef Miguel Somoza— serves vibrant coastal dishes celebrating local seafood, seasonal produce, and a standout crudo bar.

Gansett Cruises, which offers narrated tours of the harbor. From the water, Newport’s dramatic shoreline, bobbing sailboats, and landmark homes tell a different version of the town’s layered past.

Back at the hotel, we joined local resident and chef Kevin Des Chenes—a Newport-based culinary personality known for his appearances on Top Chef and the TODAY Show, and for cooking for celebrities and political leaders alike—for a cocktail in the richly colored, green lacquered lounge. Des Chenes recommended we have dinner that night at The Clarke Cooke House, a longtime favorite for fresh oysters, lobsters, and seafood dishes in a cozy, historic setting.

In a town where history is often viewed through velvet ropes and audio tours, the Gardiner House offers a quieter, more layered experience. It’s a stay grounded in place yet attuned to design—a thoughtful, beautifully executed addition to the Newport landscape.

For those planning a visit, Newport’s vibrant cultural calendar includes the Newport Jazz Festival, the Mansions Food and Wine Festival, the Folk Festival, and of course the summer sailing season, each bringing a unique energy to this coastal town. —discovernewport.org

Chef Kevin Des Chene’s Newport

WITH OVER 25 YEARS in hospitality, Chef Kevin Des Chenes has earned a reputation as one of the industry’s most sought-after chefs. He’s appeared on Food Network’s Chef Wanted, Beat Bobby Flay, The Great Food Truck Race, NBC’s Today Show, and more— also serving as a chef expert for Gordon Ramsay. Named Top Chef by Las Vegas Food & Wine and winner of Top Celebrity Chef Showdown, he currently serves as culinary director for the Newport Mansions while running a successful private chef and event company with clients including Garth Brooks, John Legend, and members of the Patriots and Red Sox. When it comes to dining in Newport, Chef Kevin recommends:

Clarke Cooke House

Classic Newport in the heart of Bowen’s Wharf with multiple dining rooms, each offering a different vibe.

CKD PICKS: Fresh oysters & espresso martinis

Sardella’s

Italian family recipes in a cozy setting— bustling in summer, cozy in winter.

CKD PICKS: Lobster ravioli & crème brûlée

Yagi Noodles

Chef Basil Yu’s fresh take on traditional handmade ramen.

CKD PICKS: Salt-roasted potatoes & udon with Sichuan chicken

Thames Street Kitchen (TSK)

Sit at the kitchen bar and watch the action.

CKD PICKS: Parker House rolls & Mission Cut ribeye

Cara at The Chanler

Elegant fine dining with ocean views.

CKD PICKS: Blind tasting menu & wine pairings

Breakfast Corner Café & Franklin Spa

Chef Kevin’s go-to spots for classic local breakfast favorites.

Fourth of July

Your arms stretch to hold the sparkler’s reckless light high into the night sky as you swirl through summer grass. Bottle rockets saturate the air with hiss and pop, explode high above the cottonwoods. Far off, sounds of the volunteer band playing with pomp in the square.

We stand in the middle of our meadow, faces alive with danger as I place Roman Candles on the ladder top. I wrap you wriggling in my arms as we watch the wick disappear, unleashing wave upon wave until all that remains is darkness and heat from the after-burn.

Where Cinema Meets Community

We spoke with Boondocks Film Society co-founders

Cindy Heslin and Jeff Palfini about their unique pop-up film event series, created with collaborators David Ruchman, Rufus de Rham, and Alix Diaconis. Boondocks hosts monthly film events across northwest Connecticut, the Hudson Valley, and the Berkshires, often in unexpected venues. Each screening is carefully themed around a chosen film to create an immersive, one-of-a-kind experience.

1. What kind of film events do you produce?

Jeff Palfini: We build themed events around rep-house films. Each screening includes a happy hour, with music by local musicians, film-inspired food from area chefs, themed cocktails, and sometimes a Q&A with someone connected to the film. Plus, guests can take home an artist-designed commemorative poster.

2. What inspired you to start Boondocks?

Cindy Heslin: We used to attend a curated film series at the Castro Theatre in

San Francisco called Midnites for Maniacs. It showed unexpected double or triple features that took on new meaning with an audience. That experience really stuck with us.

JP: Our personalities were shaped by rep-house programming. We’ve spent countless nights fueled by popcorn and Sprite, discovering what aged well—and what didn’t.

CH: Boondocks was born the moment we stepped into the Colonial Theatre in North Canaan in early 2017.

3. Do you come from film backgrounds?

JP: Not professionally, but we’ve spent so much time in theaters. Soundtracks introduced us to some of our favorite bands. Movies have shaped our sense of humor, style, and creativity.

CH: Boondocks is about more than film. The happy hour builds community. People discover new venues, bands, chefs, bartenders, and artists— all tied together by a movie we love.

4. How do you choose your films and themes?

CH: Sometimes the venue drives the choice. When we screened Porco Rosso at the Great Barrington Airport, we

had real planes on-site. Other times, we start with a chef or band we want to work with, and find a film that suits their vibe.

JP: We tend to highlight underappreciated movies, especially from the 90s, and stories about people on the fringes.

5. What’s the most rewarding part?

JP: Those unexpected magic moments—like a moving Q&A, or when the moon rises during an outdoor screening.

CH: We’ve met so many interesting and creative people through Boondocks. Some have become dear friends.

6. Since this is our food issue, what are your favorite food-related film scenes?

CH: Tampopo—especially the surreal scenes between the gangster and his girlfriend. They’re sexy, funny, and utterly strange. And of course, the food in every Studio Ghibli movie is unforgettable.

JP: The scene in Daisies where the girls dance across a feast table. It’s rebellious and chaotic—a punk rock kind of decadence.

CH: The breakfast scene in Big Night is quietly profound. No dialogue, just the act of feeding someone you love. When we screened it, the flipping of the timpano pan was a moment of pure joy.

JP: Honorable mentions: the opening of American Psycho and the mozzarella in carrozza in Bicycle Thieves

7. Dream film event?

CH: We’d love to screen something on a lake, or in this overgrown abandoned pool near Jeff’s house. We’re always up for making things beautifully complicated.

Keep an eye on boondocksfilmsociety.org and their socials to see what’s planned for this summer and fall. n

TC Builders, LLC

ALL GROWN UP

A Cornwall Garden That Took 25 Years To Grow

BY JANE GARMEY / PHOTOGRAPHS BY RANA FAURE

IT IS ALMOST 25 YEARS

since Debby and Barton Jones moved into their 1836 Greek Revival house in Cornwall. Known in local circles as “The White House” on account of its imposing front pillars, the property had languished on the market for two years, as the house needed work. In addition, a freak tornado that swept through Cornwall four years earlier had demolished the garden, and felled almost every tree on the property. All that remained were 30 unsightly tree stumps and two small rock pools.

The Joneses were not, however, discouraged either by the condition of the house or the lack of a garden. Debby, an artist and designer by profession, decided to turn those dispiriting tree stumps into building blocks for a new garden, and chose the smaller pool to be the starting point for a series of pathways to wind around the stumps and, in so doing, to carve out a number of undulating flower beds.

Initial plantings were determined by what would grow close to the stumps. Clematis worked well (two of Debby’s favorites are Etoile Violette and Guernsey Cream). Since the land is on a gentle incline, she fashioned a set of stone steps to reach the highest point and planted a long row of arborvitae, now grown huge, along the far side of the slope.

“I

LOVE

ENGLISH COTTAGE GARDENS. NO YUCCAS FOR ME”

Over the years, the plants have grown and multiplied. What began as a way to disguise some unattractive tree stumps is now a secret garden full of labyrinth-like twists and turns—and a treasured refuge for its owners. Vertical interest is provided by three arbors laced with clematis and roses, four white posts rescued from the dump and topped with bird houses, and even a decorative antique French bottle drying rack—an impulse tag sale buy.

Interspersed with orbs of boxwood, the color palette is predominantly pastel, and in early summer pinks, lilacs, and whites predominate. By mid-summer this extends to yellows and purples with a profusion of delphiniums, foxgloves, iris, lilacs, alliums, peonies, salvias, lilies, and lady’s mantle. But what Debby treasures most are the roses, her particular favorites being Fantin-Latour, Félicité Parmentier, Souvenir de la Malmaison, and Constance Spry.

When she first began growing roses, Debby ordered 30 bare-rooted bushes from Canada. Unable to plant them right away, she left them in water and, to compensate for the delay, added far more than the prescribed amount of the grower’s recommended growing aid. “A horrible error,” she recalls. “For four years, they grew and grew and had enormous glossy green leaves but never bloomed.” Today, that is all past his-

Previous page left: Outside “The White House,” Debby and Bart Jones with Honeybelle, their yellow Lab. Right: A simple white gate frames the garden from the road. This page left: In spring, wisteria and roses bloom atop a fanciful creation fashioned from repurposed limbs of a cedar tree. Top right: Two chairs, originally from Bart’s family, provide a viewing point for one of the two small pools. Center: An allée of crab apples, underplanted with nepeta, is home to a mobile sculpture by Tim Prentice. Bottom: Dutchman’s pipe swathes the main entrance to Debby’s enclosed garden.

tory, and the roses, still her passion, now bloom magnificently in early summer.

A few years ago, a deer fence was installed around the entire property, ingeniously hidden from view at the front of the house by being enmeshed within a hedge of cornus mas. Another inspired addition was an elegant crab apple allée that breaks up a large expanse of lawn and complements the formal style of the house. Also new is a kitchen garden outside the back door. Jubilantly planted with tulips every spring, it later sports dahlias, castor beans, and other jungly plants—their vibrant colors an intentional antidote to the delicate blooms of late spring and early summer.

“I love English cottage gardens. No yuccas for me,” is how Debby defines her horticultural style. While Bart mixes compost, drags stones, and takes charge of heavy jobs, assuming the role, as he puts it, of the family mule, Debby takes the lead on color, scale, and design. A harmonious division of labor that makes for a pastoral and picturesque garden—and not a yucca to be seen! n

S E R E N I T Y

on WASHINEE LAKE

A Restored Boathouse Gets a New Life

BY TARA KELLY / PHOTOGRAPHS BY COLIN

Way back in 1986, Anne MacDonald was living in an old farmhouse on Taconic Road in Salisbury, adjacent to Washinee Lake, when she saw the stone boathouse for the first time. “I used to kayak by there, and thought, wouldn’t it be spectacular to live on the lake. It was the most wonderful building.”

It had been built by the Scovilles, a centuries-old family with extensive land holdings on Taconic Road and surrounding the Twin Lakes. They owned several grand estates, with many accessory buildings, many of them made of stone. “Depending on whom you ask, the boathouse was built in the early to mid or late 1800s,” MacDonald says.

The one thing that is not in dispute is the elegance and allure of the building.

When MacDonald acquired the property in 1999, the boathouse had sat mostly unused for many years. And it came with a 1960s-style modern house. “It was low-ceilinged, despite a high-pitched roof line like a ski lodge, and filled with Formica and chintz,” she says.

“I was unsure how to renovate the boathouse. So many people knew the building. It seemed challenging. So, I did the house first, then started on the gardens, and literally worked my way down to the shore.”

Anne MacDonald, an avid rower, and gardener, restored the old boathouse on the shore of Washinee Lake. The exterior is virtually unchanged, though MacDonald added the floating dock for easy access. The woodland garden is populated with ferns with a few flowering shrubs for contrast.

The boathouse is basically two rooms. There is a living room, which only needed a deep clean for the ceilings and wood paneling. And what was the boat storage is now a dining area with a kitchenette and bathroom tucked out of sight behind a wall of stone.

By the time she started on the boathouse, MacDonald had assembled a team of designers, artisans, and craftsmen she trusted. Cassidy & Teti (a design team based in Salisbury), architect Pat Scarlett, and Rick Wells of Undermountain Builders all worked on the project. They were able to retain much of the original interior.

“The fireplace, windows, brick floor, and wood paneling in the living room area needed to be deep-cleaned, and the wood restored,” MacDonald says. “Dave and Tyler Beaujon put up scaffolding like they were painting the Sistine Chapel. They still take care of the wood today.” The two-bay structure and footprint are the same, but now, where boats used to be stored for the winter, there is a dining space with a kitchen and bath (creatively tucked out of sight behind a stone wall), inspired by something MacDonald saw in a restaurant in Singapore.

While it does have heat, she uses it mostly in the summer, for dramatic dinner parties, and weekend lunches—invitations coveted by her friends. But for all waterside passersby, the stone boathouse looks almost the same as it did more than 100 years ago.

And MacDonald, who rowed in college and did club rowing when she was in business school in England, has taken up the sport again. “When I moved here,” she says, “I would watch the boys from Salisbury School rowing, and say to myself, I really should get back to it.” Now she’s a member of the Salisbury Rowing Club, and keeps her single-seat wood scull at the Salisbury School boathouse. Except during COVID. “My friend Dick Kirber and I kept our boats in my boathouse. He would go out at 6 am and I would go out at 8. The boathouse got a chance to be a boathouse again.” n

The Forever House

A Stylish Aerie on a Quiet Country Road

BY CYNTHIA

IN GENERAL, THE IDEA OF DANISH DESIGN is understated, mellow, austere; it often creeps into mid century modern interiors, with their emphasis on space, light, and cool vibes.

But in the hands of designer/architect Daniel Heighes Wismer—and especially at the home in Sharon, CT. that he shares with husband Travis Wismer and their young daughter—Danish becomes a neutral palette that allows for layers of pattern, texture, and attitude. If most Danish design is like toasted seed bread with a swipe of butter, the Wismer house is like a cherry Danish.

In the lively home shared by designer/architect Daniel Heighes Wismer, left, his husband Travis Wismer, and their daughter, many of the furnishings are vintage (such as the cabinet, photo left)—but even the custom pieces such as the bar cabinetry have a mellow mid-century feel.

“We’re not afraid of color,” says Daniel, who is a partner in the Manhattan-based firm Dufner Heighes. Fear is not, in fact, apparent anywhere in the mix of fabrics, patterns, artwork, wallpaper, floor coverings—all of which blend seamlessly.

One of the triumphs of this mix is that the spouses found a way to take chances with their interiors without straining their relationship. Their method: They agree on a concept, then Daniel presents options.

“I’m an estate manager, so I know what’s out there,” says Travis. “But Daniel has so many more resources.”

Both share a strong sense of space and how to use it. And in fact, although the decor is what hits the eye first, the Wismers primarily like to talk about the spaces in their house, and the changes they have made to it.

When they bought their 1940s Cape Cod in Sharon, the year was 2016, and the house was 1,000 square feet. They didn’t yet have a child. They were still using the property as a weekend escape from the city.

Then 2020 came along, and brought with it COVID-19—and the birth of their daughter.

“We sold our apartment in the city, and began a renovation up here,” says Daniel. “We added two bedrooms

An Eero Saarinen Tulip Table from Knoll creates a cozy space for casual meals. Vintage pieces in the living room include an Edward Wormley sofa, and vintage lounge chairs purchased at auction in Denmark. The playroom gets a pink Arne Jacobsen chair.

and two bathrooms, and put in a big playroom for our daughter, an office for Travis, and a gym.”

They also adjusted the flow of movement through the house, by reorienting the entry so it faces the road (and by adding a foyer), and moving the kitchen to be close to the front door.

“The house is now set up so that guests enter, come through the kitchen to get a drink, and say hello,” explains Travis. “Daniel makes elaborate dinners, so he’s always in the kitchen when people arrive.

“Then we go to the dining room, and after dinner we end up in the study, sitting on this enormous sofa that Daniel designed.”

The couple had furnished the house and made some adjustments when they first moved in, nine years ago. During this more recent and extensive renovation, the Wismers consciously chose strategies and products that they truly loved.

“We’d think, ‘If we do this, then it’s a house we’d like to live in for five years,’” Daniel recalls. “Or if we do this other thing, then it becomes our forever house.”

The tipping point: “When we moved the kitchen, it became our forever house.” —dufnerheighes.com

JUNE 8 – JULY 1

Anne

JULY 11 – AUGUST 19

Kathleen L’Hommedieu

Marcela Manubens

Maureen Previn

Danica Wishkovich

AUGUST 29 – OCTOBER 7

Kayo Burmon

OCTOBER 17 – NOVEMBER 25

Elizabeth MacDonald

SEPTEMBER 14 / MORRIS, CT

Join Litchfield Magazine for the premier culinary event of the season, Savor Litchfield, taking place Sunday, September 14, from 3–6 pm at South Farms in Morris. This unforgettable afternoon brings together 22 of the region’s top culinary talents, each serving signature bites. Enjoy craft cocktails from Litchfield Distillery and South Farms, a full cash bar, upscale pop-up shops, and fun for all ages—including a dedicated kids zone.

Want to elevate your experience?

A limited number of VIP tickets offer early access beginning at 2 pm, with an exclusive hour of elevated culinary offerings before the main event opens to the public. VIP guests will enjoy premium bites from Michelin-award-winning chef Gabe McMackin, artisanal cheeses by Kate Redin, fresh seafood by Zach Redin of To the Gills, Pointy Snout caviar, Prosecco, signature cocktails, and a deluxe goody bag. Live music by the Dirk Quinn Band will set the tone for a festive and flavorful afternoon. New this year: reserve a VIP table for six, which includes a private table for the duration of the event and upgraded food and drink perks—perfect for those looking to savor the day in style. A portion of proceeds supports F.I.S.H. NWCT, a vital Torrington shelter providing food and support for those in need.

LITCHFIELD

SOUTH FARMS MORRIS, CT

SEPT 15TH / 6PM - 9PM

Scan for Ticket information

On Sunday, September 15, South Farms in Morris hosted Savor Litchfield, the region’s premier culinary event. Chef Christian Hunter, of Michelin-starred Atelier in Chicago and formerly of Community Table, led the festivities.

Set against the scenic countryside, the festival brought together 400 guests and 15 top Litchfield County chefs who showcased their talents using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Attendees enjoyed unlimited tastings and artisanal cocktails from Litchfield Distillery, alongside upscale pop-up shops.

VIPs were treated to a caviar bar by Pointy Snout Caviar, a private cocktail hour, and special goody bags. A portion of ticket sales supported F.I.S.H. NWCT, a nonprofit serving the local community.

BY LITCHFIELD MAGAZINE

The Chefs

Lead Event Chef

John Bourdeau

Owner, Sparrow, New Milford

John Bourdeau’s globally inspired menu reflects a rich culinary history, from Lucia to The Owl. Sparrow continues Bourdeau’s tradition of creative, flavorful, and beloved dining. @sparrownewmilford

Chef Robert Arbor

Le Gamin, Sharon

Chef Arbor brings classic French café charm and hospitality to Sharon, with timeless bistro dishes served in a welcoming, community-centered setting.

@legaminstudioagraire

The Sponsors

Chef CJ Barroso

Lost Fox Inn, Litchfield

Trained in NYC’s top kitchens, Chef Barroso creates thoughtful, seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients and partnerships. @plant_create_eat

Chef Pam Buchler

New Morning Market, Woodbury

With deep roots in farm-to-table, Chef Buchler crafts nourishing, seasonal dishes, leads culinary innovation, and champions food education.

@newmorningmarket1971

Chef Carl Ciarcia III

South Farms, Morris

Chef Ciarcia blends Italian roots with local bounty, leading South Farms’ fresh, Mediterranean-style culinary offerings. @carlciarcia

Chef Dennis DeBellis

John’s Cafe, Woodbury

CIA-trained Chef DeBellis has led John’s Cafe for decades, blending classic techniques with personal flair and local warmth.

@johnscafe693main

Chef Matthew DeLongis

Marketplace Tavern, Litchfield

Chef Delongis oversees menus at 11 restaurants, combining innovation, consistency, and over 20 years of culinary leadership across Connecticut. @marketplace.kitchenandbar

Chef David DiStasi

Materia Ristorante, Bantam

Chef DiStasi crafts refined, seasonal Italian cuisine at Materia, inspired by CIA training and time at Blue Hill at Stone Barns.

@materiaristorante

Chef Cedric Durand

The Pink House, West Cornwall French-trained Chef Durand blends global experience and local ingredients to deliver refined, seasonal menus at The Pink House.

@thepinkhousect

Chef John Gapasin

The Abner, Litchfield

Chef Gapasin brings extensive hospitality experience and executive-level creativity to The Abner, focusing on quality and thoughtful execution.

@theabnerhotel

Chef Cecilio Garcia La Güera, Morris Co-founder of La Guera, Chef Garcia shares bold, authentic Mexican cuisine, evolving from a food truck to a vibrant restaurant in Morris. @laguerafoods

Chef Anna Gowan Kingsley Tavern, Kent

Chef Gowan’s community-rooted gastropub features fresh, locally sourced ingredients and heartfelt fare in a cozy, welcoming space. @kingsley_tavern

Chef Bolivar Hilario Community Table, New Preston Chef Hilario combines Mexican roots with Japanese and French techniques for bold, sustainable, and seasonal cuisine. @bol1var_

Chef Dino Kolitsas Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar, New Milford Chef Kolitsas infuses modern Mediterranean flavors into Greca’s award-winning menu, and inspires culinary learning at The Silo Cooking School. @greca.med

Chef Gabe McMackin

Michelin-starred Chef McMackin’s creative American cuisine reflects experience from Blue Hill, Roberta’s, and his acclaimed Brooklyn bistro, The Finch. @gabemcmackin

Chef Daniel Meissner Willa, Millerton

Chef Meissner, formerly of Noma and Fäviken, champions seasonal sourcing and farmer relationships. @acooksjourney

Chef Paul Pearson White Hart Inn, Salisbury From England to the U.S., Chef Pearson crafts seasonal menus at the White Hart, sourcing from local farms and leading with experience. @whitehart_inn

Chef Carlos Perez @ the corner, Litchfield Chef Perez brings bold, artistic flair to farm-to-table cuisine at @the Corner, earning accolades for fresh, seasonal flavors. @chefcarlosperez

Chef Carlo and Michelle Pulixi Geppetto, Torrington Sardinian-born Chef Carlo and his wife, Michelle, serve rustic, regional Italian dishes in a warm setting inspired by their Brooklyn and Roman roots. @geppettoct

Kate Redin

New Curds on the Block, Oakville

Cheesemonger Kate Redin celebrates Northeast-made cheeses, supporting local dairies and sharing her passion for fermentation and education. @newcurdsontheblock

Chef Zach Redin

To the Gills, Oakville Seafood expert Zach Redin sources the freshest catch, delivering flavorful, expertly prepared dishes with a deep love of the craft. @to.the.gills

Chef Mike Sorensen

Sparrow, New Milford

Chef Sorensen blends whimsical global cuisine with serious culinary chops, collaborating with John Bourdeau at Sparrow for inventive dishes and cocktails. @sparrownewmilford

SOUTH FARMS

Litchfield County

July/August Events

Celebrating all the best of Litchfield County

Litchfield Wellness Festival, Litchfield

July 19

A day of yoga, wellness workshops, healing services, and holistic vendors promoting mindbody balance on the Litchfield Green. Over 50 vendors! litchfieldmagazine.com/events/ litchfield-wellness-festival

Fireworks at Lake Waramaug, Kent

July 4

Celebrate July 4th with fireworks over Lake Waramaug. A familyfriendly lakeside tradition. Bring a blanket and enjoy the show. Public parking available in Kent at Lake Waramaug State Park and Campground. waramaugassoc.org

Caribbean Vibe

Steel Drum Band, Litchfield

July 25

Feel the rhythm of the islands with this high-energy steel drum performance. Perfect for a lively summer evening with family or friends. thecommunitycenter.org

JULY 13

Enjoy an unforgettable evening with chamber music by Mozart, Weber, and Beethoven—plus a special dance by Pilobolus! Presented in collaboration with Spring Hill Vineyard and Pilobolus. washingtonct4music.org

Morris Bluegrass Festival, Morris

July 5

An afternoon of bluegrass, food trucks, and local vendors at scenic South Farms. Great music, laidback country summer vibes, lawn games, family fun, and dancing. southfarms.org

Litchfield Jazz Festival, Washington

July 25–27

A nationally renowned jazz event featuring top performers, student ensembles, and jam sessions. Set against the rolling hills of northwest Connecticut. litchfieldjazzfest.com

Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Goshen

JULY 25-27

Festival features favorite artists, four stages, expanded dance program, workshops, family activities, artisan vendors, and community music in a lively, all-day folk celebration. falconridgefolk.com

Boondocks Film Society Presents: Before Sunrise, Morris July 12

Live music, themed bites, craft cocktails, and a free collectible poster make this film screening an unforgettable, immersive experience. boondocksfilmsociety.org

Annie at Sharon Playhouse, Sharon August 1-10

Discover why this beloved musical continues to inspire audiences year after year, now on the Olsen Stage for the first time! sharonplayhouse.org

Sharon Summer Book Signing Weekend, Sharon August 1–3

Meet celebrated authors, attend readings, enjoy cookbook demos and tastings, live music, family fun, and local food vendors. Proceeds benefit the Hotchkiss Library of Sharon. hotchkisslibraryofsharon.org

Tour of the Litchfield Hills, Torrington

August 3

A non-competitive bike ride through scenic Litchfield County, with routes of varying lengths. Proceeds support cancer care and research. tourofthelitchfieldhills.com

Historic Festival 43 & Sunday in the Park, Lime Rock Park August 29

Vintage racing, rare cars, and the Sunday in the Park Concours— an automotive celebration for enthusiasts and families alike. limerock.com

Midsummer Party for Conservation, Bridgewater AUGUST 16

Elegant evening event with farm-to-table food, music, and a silent auction at a private estate in Bridgewater. Supports Northwest Connecticut Land Conservancy, and local land and water conservation. ctland.org

Out &About

›› Trade Secrets

More than 3,000 garden lovers gathered May 18–19 for the 25th anniversary of Trade Secrets, a two-day event benefiting Project SAGE, which supports survivors of domestic abuse in northwest Connecticut. The sold-out weekend featured private garden tours, rare plant vendors, and a book signing by Martha Stewart, raising over $700,000—the most in the event’s history. “This year’s success will make a lasting difference,” said executive director Kristen van Ginhoven. project-sage.org.

Out &About

›› Greenwoods Gala

Greenwoods Counseling & Referrals celebrated 33 years of affordable mental healthcare in Litchfield County at its May 17 gala, Boogaloo on Bee Brook!, held at Spring Hill Vineyards. The event honored Julie Scharnberg and raised vital funds. Guests danced, dined, and supported Greenwoods’ mission. Learn more about their mental health services at greenwoodsreferrals.org.

Out &About

›› Arts Connected Gala

The Northwest Connecticut Arts Council, celebrating over two decades of arts advocacy, recently held its annual fundraiser, Arts Connected, on April 26 at Bryan Memorial Town Hall in Washington Depot. Co-chaired by designer Diane von Furstenberg and Antonia Steinberg of Buck’s Rock Camp, the event welcomed more than 250 guests for an evening of performances, visual art, and community connection. Highlights included a striking gallery of regional artists, local food and drink, and a powerful finale by Pilobolus. The $50,000 raised will support the Council’s mission to uplift the region’s vibrant creative community. —artsnwct.org

Out &About

›› Library Luminaries

Gunn Memorial Library’s annual Library Luminaries fundraiser brought together community members for an unforgettable evening of celebration and connection. The night began with cocktails at the library, followed by intimate dinners in private homes, each hosted by gracious supporters and featuring a special “Luminary” guest. As Gunn Memorial Library must raise 70% of its budget, this cherished event helps sustain its programs.

July/August

E ATS

BUENA CATRINA

Mexican Cuisine With a Twist

BY CHARLES DUBOW

›In Mexican culture, La Catrina is a female skeleton that is a ubiquitous symbol for the Day of the Dead festival, when people dress up, party, feast, and remember loved ones who have died. It is also the name and inspiration for a terrific new Mexican restaurant in Bantam.

Opened in September 2024 by husband-and-wife team Enrique and Consuelo Estrada, La Catrina of

Bantam is not your typical Mexican restaurant. To be sure, it does offer excellent margaritas, guacamole, and burritos, but chef Enrique has worked hard to infuse his own Asian-inspired spin on his dishes. For one appetizer, he takes shredded chicken with a classic mole sauce, and wraps it in pillowy, handmade bao buns.

Equally innovative are his Asian duck tacos with hoisin barbecue sauce,

spicy guacamole, and pico de gallo, served on a wonton shell; or the crispy calamari served with salted peanuts, cilantro, and sweet-and-spicy Thai habanero sauce.

One of La Catrina’s most popular dishes is a miso-glazed salmon with stir-fried vegetables and crispy edamame dumplings. On the other end of the culinary spectrum, they also make a mean half-pound burger with

caramelized onions, Gruyere cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickle, fries, and chipotle mayo on toasted potato bun. It is also worth mentioning that the bar offers more than 20 different tequilas.

I would be remiss if I did not also praise their more traditional fare. The cochinita pibil—braised pork shoulder with pickled red onions and soft tortillas—is one of my favorite Mexican dishes, and I highly recommend it. Also worth trying are the Sopa Azteca: shredded chicken and crispy tortilla soup with cotija cheese, crema fresca, avocado, and ancho chile (served in handmade bowls shaped like La Catrina herself); the flounder

al pastor, with organic red quinoa, corn esquites, and orange beurre blanc; and the shrimp and octopus ceviche.

Much of the quite beautiful crockery was sourced by Consuelo in Mexico. She is also responsible for the dramatically colorful décor, which, unsurprisingly, prominently features many iterations of La Catrina.

“I started in the restaurant business in 1993, washing dishes,” says Enrique. “I never had any formal training, but I worked my way up.” He spent much of his career working for restaurant management group Fort Pond Bay Company, which operates restaurants in Westchester and Long

Island. “But my real love for cooking came from being in the kitchen with my mother when I was a boy. When we opened La Catrina, I wanted to combine my experience with basic Mexican recipes from my childhood.”

What drew the Estradas to Litchfield County in the first place? “I wanted to open my own place; we knew Westchester, so we were going to go there. But then some friends of ours who live here introduced us to the area, and we fell in love with it.”

The restaurant is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and for brunch on the weekend. La Catrina of Bantam, 810 Bantam Rd., Bantam. lacatrinabantam.com

THE WEEKNIGHT SPECIAL

Creative Ways Restaurants Are Luring Weekday Diners

BY CHARLES DUBOW

›During the off-season and midweek, many Litchfield County restaurants find it a challenge to fill their tables. What to do? It helps to have great food—and a gimmick. A few have come up with creative ways—from Taco Tuesday to Backgammon Brunch—to attract diners who otherwise might stay home.

“We started doing Burger Night in 2018,” says Jo-Ann Makovitzky of Community Table in New Preston.

“Clearly, Monday was one of the slower days; the idea was to create something where the community could come and enjoy a less complicated meal.” Not to mention a killer burger. To see which other local restaurants offer regular weekly enticements, read on.

@The Corner

Chef Carlos Perez is known for giving a spicy Latin twist to his sea-

sonal American pub fare featuring locally sourced ingredients. For a mid-week treat, check out his Taco Tuesdays.

3 West St., Litchfield 860-567-8882 atthecorner.com

Bohemian Pizza & Tacos

There are many reasons to love this funky Litchfield eatery. Not only does it serve tastebud-teasing pizzas and tacos, but come on Trivia

Thursdays to tease your brain cells. 342 Bantam Rd., Litchfield 860-5673980 bohemianpizzaandtacos.com

Community Table

This local favorite features innovative dishes from chef Bolivar Hilario. For a more laid-back vibe and a lively scene, come for the popular Burger Mondays. Reservations recommended 223 Litchfield Tpke. Rt. 202, New Preston 860-868-9354 communitytablect.com

The Falls Village Inn

For years, the inn has hosted a wildly popular Burger Night every Monday. For $20 you get one of their specialty burgers—many named after regular customers—plus fries, and beer, wine, or a soft drink. 33 Railroad St., Falls Village 860-823-0033 thefallsvillageinn.com

Fife ‘n Drum Restaurant & Inn

Sundays from 5 to 8 pm, come listen to David Grausman—voted Litchfield Magazine’s favorite musician in 2025—tickle the ivories.

53 N Main St., Kent 860-927-350 fifendrum.com

Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria

Come Sundays for ravioli al uovo, a Northern Italian delicacy filled with ricotta, asparagus, and egg yolk, Umbrian truffle butter, and guanciale. Also try Risotto Tuesdays! 24 E Main St., Torrington 860-618-0721 geppettoct.com

John’s Cafe

Celebrating 25 years, chef/owner Dennis DeBellis serves up—besides his terrific fresh pastas—two weekly attractions: No Corkage Mondays for BYOBers and Fish & Chips Fridays. 693 Main St. S, Woodbury 203-263-0188 johnscafe.com

Le Gamin Café

Chef/owner Robert Arbor hosts a backgammon brunch on Saturdays at his French bistro in Sharon. Enjoy a café au lait, a glass of rosé, the restaurant’s signature Oeuf Gamin—and game on!

10 Gay St., Sharon 860-397-5382 l egamin.com

Lost Fox Inn

This charming newly restored Colonial-era inn is the perfect setting for chef CJ Barroso’s Monday Pub Nights, featuring such U.K. specialties as bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie.

571 Torrington Rd., Litchfield 860-222-0855 lostfoxinn.com

Materia Ristorante

At Litchfield Magazine’s 2022 reader’s choice for best new restaurant, star chef David DiStasi cooks

his lasagna alla bolognese every Sunday—just, he says, “like nonna would make.”

637 Bantam Rd., Bantam 860-567-3326 materiaristo.com

The Pink House

Monday nights they serve moules frites, Thursday is Lamb Burger night, and Sunday is Pasta Night when chef Cedric Durand prepares homemade pasta in addition to his regular menu.

34 Lower River Rd., West Cornwall 860-248-3207 pinkhousect.com

The White Hart Inn

Enjoy Taco Tuesday and Pizza Wednesday every week from White Hart Provisions. Dine in, or take out. Available from 4:30 to 7:30 pm.

15 Under Mountain Rd., Salisbury 860-435-0030 whitehartinn.com

John’s Cafe fish and chips

Bantam

ARETHUSA A MANO

Enjoy their housemade bagels, macarons, and coffee. 833 Bantam Rd. 860-567-5722 arethusafarm.com I

ARETHUSA AL TAVOLO

Exquisite cuisine and superior service. 828 Bantam Rd. 860-567-0043 arethusaaltavolo.com E

JACKIE’S

Casual Bantam staple serving breakfast and lunch. 920 Bantam Rd. 860-567-0770 I

LA CATRINA OF BANTAM

Mexican cuisine combining traditional recipes with modernized cooking techniques. 810 Bantam Rd. 860-361-6401 lacatrinabantam.com M

WOOD’S PIT BBQ

BBQ dishes, sandwiches, and traditional Mexican fare. 123 Bantam Lake Rd. 860-567-9869 I

ZINI’S

Presenting a modern twist on traditional favorites. 938 Bantam Rd. 860-567-1613 zinisrestaurant.com M

Bethlehem

OLIVA ON MAIN

Serving delicious Mediterranean specialties and wine.

15 Main St. S / 203-266-5558 olivacafe.com M-E

Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER BISTRO

Seasonal local, sustainable, food in a charming space. 27 Main St. S / 860-354-2863 bridgewatervillagestoreandbistro.com M

North

Canaan

BLACKBERRY RIVER BISTRO

Serving delicious made-fromscratch food. Pork belly buns, Korean fried chicken, street corn, and rhubarb almond crumble. 99 Main St. 860-453-4067 M

INDUSTRY KITCHEN & BAR

Philly steak eggrolls, wings, avocado ranch burger, Atlantic salmon, and more. Don’t miss happy hour from 2-6 pm. 14 Railroad St. / 860-453-4317 Industrykitchenbar.com I

PICANTE’S CANAAN

Mexican food prepared fresh

YiaYia’s Greek Kitchen

Nestled in the heart of Torrington, our charming Greek taverna brings the warmth and flavor of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy authentic dishes, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Discover the taste of Greece, right here in your neighborhood.

1057 East Main St., Torrington 860- 618-3076

yiayias.net M

every day. Outdoor dining. 499 Ashley Falls Rd. 860-453-4271 picantescanaan.com I

West

Cornwall

THE PINK HOUSE

Upscale cuisine in a lovely setting near the Covered Bridge.

34 Lower River Rd. 860-248-3207 thepinkhousect.com M

Falls Village

THE FALLS VILLAGE INN

Classic American comfort fare served 5-8 pm in this historical landmark.

33 Railroad St. / 860-824-0033 thefallsvillageinn.com M

MOUNTAINSIDE CAFE

Fresh and wholesome choices for breakfast and lunch. 251 Rte. 7 S 860-824-7876 mountainside.com/cafe I Kent

The Iron Rail

The Iron Rail is New Milford’s premier women-owned steakhouse. Indulge in high-quality steaks, seafood, and fresh seasonal ingredients in a history-steeped dining room. Enjoy a craft beverage or a locally brewed beer at our 120-year-old bar. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, Sunday for brunch and dinner. Our private dining room accommodates business lunches, birthdays, and celebrations. 10 Railroad St., New Milford 860-799-5606 theironrailct.com M

45 ON MAIN

Espresso drinks and pastries in a festively decorated space.

45 N. Main St. 860-592-0171 I

COZZY’S PIZZERIA

Serving up a fast-casual dining experience. Pizza and salads. 24 N. Main St. 860-927-1551 I

FIFE ’N DRUM

Enjoy live music and great food at this Kent staple. 53 Main St. 860-927-3509 fifendrum.com M-E

KENT PIZZA GARDEN

Delicious pizza plus full menu, fun atmosphere, full bar. 17 Railroad St. 860-927-3733 kentpizzagarden.com M

KINGSLEY TAVERN

Wide variety of fresh and local food in a friendly, casual setting. 14 N. Main St. 860-592-0261 kingsleytavern.com M

NO. 109 CHEESE MARKET

Gorgeous sandwiches on baguette, made with artisan cheeses and charcuterie. 6 Kent Green Blvd. 860-592-0366 109cheeseandwine.com M

ORE HILL

Fine dining. Intimate farmfocused tasting menu. 3 Maple St.

860-592-0404

orehillandswyft.com E

SWYFT

Savor small plates and woodfired pizzas in a cozy Scandinavian setting.

3 Maple St. / 860-592-0404 orehillandswyft.com M

THE VILLAGER RESTAURANT

Breakfast and lunch at this popular spot. Outdoor patio. 28 N. Main St. 860-927-1555 villagerkent.com I

WILSON’S BY HIGH WATCH

Popular breakfast and lunch spot, espresso drinks.

8 N. Main St. 959-300-0080 wilsonsbyhighwatch.com I

Lakeville

BLACK RABBIT

Gastropub cuisine and Sunday brunch.

2 Ethan Allen St.

860-596-4227 blackrabbitbarandgrille.com M

FERN

Italian menu featuring seasonal local ingredients. Full bar. Great space. 9 Sharon Rd. 860-596-1930 fernlakeville.com M

ON THE RUN

Popular coffee spot, open for

decades, serving breakfast and lunch.

4 Ethan Allen St. 860-435-2007 I

THE BOATHOUSE AT LAKEVILLE

Known for burgers, sushi, friendly service. Popular spot for dining at the bar. 349 Main St. 860-435-2111 theboathouseatlakeville.com M

THE WOODLAND

Large selection of favorites and specials at iconic local eatery. Famous for fresh sushi. 192 Sharon Rd. 860-435-0578

thewoodlandrestaurant.com M

Litchfield

@ THE CORNER

Comfort food and fine dining. Full bar.

Fife ‘N Drum Restaurant

Since 1973, Kent’s Fife ‘n Drum Restaurant & Inn has been providing hospitality for locals and visitors alike.

Hosted by second-generation owner Elissa Potts, “The Fife” remains notable for its great food, award-winning wine list, live music, and an incomparable tableside Caesar Salad— not to mention the 10-room inn, and the gift shop.

53 Main St, Kent 860-927-3509 fifendrum.com M

CULINARY BLOOM

SOMETHING DELICIOUS IS HAPPENING IN MORRIS. Once a sleepy town known mainly for rolling hills and quiet charm, it’s fast becoming a hotspot for food lovers thanks to a burst of creative culinary energy centered around Pasture at South Farms. Anchoring the movement is South Farm Kitchen, setting up an adorable food truck that will serve up inventive bites for the season and offer on-site catering. They’re joined by bold, flavorful newcomers like The Codfather, a seafood lover’s dream, and the beloved returning Hindsight BBQ truck, where smoky, slow-cooked meats steal the show. Beyond the Pasture, the revitalization continues. Penny Farthing Tea Room brings vintage English charm and scones, while the new La Güera Mexican Cantina delivers authentic cuisine, a full bar, and a lively patio perfect for summer nights. The seasonal Popey’s ice cream shoppe has expanded its space, giving locals more room to enjoy their burgers and cones. Located right behind Popey’s, there is the new Bill’s Brick Oven Pizza—wood-fired and available for takeout only. Pair any meal with a bottle from The Wise Old Dog, or pick up seasonal produce at Hungry Reaper Farm Stand, open Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Morris may be small, but its flavor is big—and growing.

3 West St. / 860-567-8882 athecorner.com M

BELDEN HOUSE

A celebration of seasonal produce, often starring seafood. Beautiful space. 31 North Street

860-337-2099 beldenhouse.com E

BOHEMIAN PIZZA & TACOS Pizza, tacos, and drinks. 342 Bantam Rd. 860-567-3980

bohemianpizzaandtacos.com M

THE COURTHOUSE AT THE ABNER HOTEL

Elegant ambience with a diverse menu, great service, and historical charm 15 West St. 860-898-8000 theabnerhotel.com M

DA CAPO

Italian food, casual atmosphere. Brick oven pizza, paninis, and salads. 625 Torrington Rd. 860-482-6246 dacapolitchfield.com M

LOST FOX TAVERN & RESTAURANT

1740s tavern transformed into a chic space serving mussels, loin of lamb, and more. 571 Torrington Rd. 860-222-0855 lostfoxinn.com M

MAGGIE’S TAVERN

Casual farm-to-table dining at the bar in this Relais & Chateaux inn. 155 Alain White Rd. 860-567-9600 winvian.com M

MARKET PLACE TAVERN

Burgers, pasta, seafood. Outdoor seating and bar. 7 North St. 860-361-9930 mptavern.com M

MATERIA RISTORANTE

Fine Italian dining, excellent food, cocktails, and service. 637 Bantam Rd. 860-567-3326 materiaristo.com M

Roma Ristorante

Across Italy, food preparation is a labor of love, carefully crafted and guaranteed to nourish the body and soul. Such values are showcased at Roma Ristorante in Oakville where—from homemade cavatelli to the famous meatball, from veal saltimbocca to chicken milanese—the same attention and time are extended to every dish.

179 Davis St., Oakville 860-274-2558 romaristorantect.com M

West Street Grill

Seriously fresh, simple, and healthy foods with classic culinary influences from France, Italy, and Asia. This modern American bistro has been running for 35 years, providing smooth and effortless service. Our community is welcomed warmly, accommodating both old and new arrivals. The owner hails from Kerry, Ireland.

43 West St., Litchfield 860-567-3885 weststreetgrill.com M

MERAKI

Delicious take-out; high-quality sandwiches and salads. Catering also. 239 West St. / 860-361-9777 merakifood.com M

PATTY’S RESTAURANT

Casual eatery whipping up classic diner specialties. 499 Bantam Rd. 860-567-3335 pattyslitchfield.com I

88 Keys On Main

A premier event venue for private gatherings. With its retro charm, tin bar ceilings, and sophisticated dining room décor, 88 Keys offers the perfect ambience for all events. Whether you’re planning a business gathering, cocktail reception, or a special celebration, 88 Keys delivers a truly personalized and unforgettable experience.

1278 Main St., Watertown 860-417-2414 88keysonmain.com M

PETRAROIA DELI

Sandwiches, salads, prepared foods in this beautiful deli.

33 West St. 860-361-6006 petraroiadeli.com I

SAGE AND SALT

New All-American menu at the former Saltwater Grille. 26 Commons Dr. 860-567-4900 sageandsaltct.com M

SALT 2.0

Gluten-free and vegan-friendly affordable takeout.

26 Commons Dr. 860-689-7989 salt20togo.com I

THE VERDICT

Enjoy local beers, creative cocktails, and a friendly rooftop atmosphere. 15 West St. 860-567-4137 theabnerhotel.com M

TOAST & CO.

Avocado toast, sandwiches, egg dishes, specialty drinks. 18 Commons Dr. 860-567-0301 toastandco.com I

THE VILLAGE RESTAURANT

Neighborhood haunt serving big portions of bar food. 25 West St. 860-567-8307 village-litchfield.com M

WEST STREET GRILL

This cozy, often star-studded mecca is home to great dining. 43 West St. / 860-567-3885 weststreetgrill.com E

WINVIAN

Fine dining. Fresh and seasonal foods are served in this Relais & Chateaux inn. 155 Alain White Rd. 860-567-9600 winvian.com E

Morris

La Güera Cantina

Traditional Mexican favorites, open for lunch and dinner. 5 Watertown Rd. 860-361-6438 I

PENNY FARTHING TEA ROOM

Quaint tea room offering British-inspired meals, delicious teas. 1 Watertown Rd.860-361-6109 britsbrand.com I

Echo Craft Kitchen

Echo Craft Kitchen is your neighborhood restaurant in Watertown, with a deep history in pizza and classic comfort food. Enjoy handcrafted pies, elevated favorites, and timeless dishes in a relaxed, welcoming space. The full bar offers craft cocktails, wine, and beer—perfect for any night out or casual gathering.

150 Echo Lake Rd., Watertown 860-274-8829 echocraftkitchen.com M

New Milford

AL DENTE RISTORANTE

Home-style Italian dishes. Pizza, seafood, chicken, and house-made desserts. 7 Main St. / 860-799-0059 aldentenewmilford.com M

A TASTE OF RIO

Casual lunch spot open six days a week, serving authentic South American grilled meats.

1754 House

1754 House, considered by many to be Connecticut’s oldest inn, blends historic charm with chef-driven cuisine. Enjoy refined fare in the main dining room, savor tavern classics and live music in the Flat Five, or host your wedding or special event in our restored Carriage House.

506 Main St. S, Woodbury 203-405-3735 1754house.com M

The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main

The Smithy Cafe at 9 Main serves breakfast, lunch, coffee, and fresh-baked confections. It offers quality, local products by working with small farms and vendors— including their own Smithy Market and Sunny Meadow Farm. Guests can dine indoors or out, with plenty of readyto-go soups, salads, and dinners to take to your own table.

9 Main St., New Preston 860-619-0699 cafeat9main.com M

12 Danbury Rd. 860-799-0599 I

COLOSSEO

Sharing the family’s Italian heritage, serving traditional dishes. Brick oven pizza. 38 Park Lane Rd. 860-350-9596 colosseoristorante.com M

GRASSROOTS ICE CREAM

Classics, plus flavors like blood orange chocolate chip, goat cheese blackberry, dark coffee. 12 Bank St. 860-799-0057 grassrootsicecream.com I

GRECA MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN + BAR

Fresh grilled fish, grilled meats, and small plates in a Mediterranean style. 1 Kent Rd. 860-799-6586 grecamed.com M

THE IRON RAIL

Casual and modern steakhouse with classic menu. 10 Railroad St. 860-799-5606 theironrailct.com M

LA PICCOLINA

Northern Italian cuisine on the town Green. Locally grown ingredients prepared in modern combinations. 27 Main St. 860-210-9669 lapiccolinact.com M

LUCIA RISTORANTE

This charming spot offers Northern Italian fare.

Prosciutto di Parma rollatini, bucatini carbonara, and quattro stagioni pizza.

51 Bank St. 860-355-5100 luciaofnewmilford.com M

MOMMA’S TACOS

Casual eatery serving fresh Mexican cuisine. Empanadas, enchiladas suizas, chimichangas, and taco salad. 17 Church St. 860-717-4577 mommas-tacos.com I

RIVER & RAIL CAFE

Café menu served in a modern pretty space. 21 Bank St. 860-799-7272 riverandrailcafe.com I

SPARROW BAR + RESTAURANT

Featuring exciting flavors in a worldly cuisine. Amazing tacos, duck fried rice, grilled pork loin banh mi.

31 Bank St. / 860-799-7111 sparrowbyjb.com M

TANDOORI FLAMES

Authentic Indian cuisine with a friendly atmosphere. Chicken tikka masala, tandoori mixed grill, vegan korma, and amazing cocktails from full bar. 471 Danbury Rd. 860-210-0020 M

THAI CHARM RESTAURANT

Thai food including chicken satay and pad thai. 218 Kent Rd. 860-799-5271 thaicharmct.com I-M

VEGAS MEXICAN

KITCHEN & BAR

Street tacos and classic Mexican fare. Full bar. 24 Railroad St. 860-799-0873 vegasmexican.com I

YOKOHAMA

Classic and modern sushi, plus other Japanese cuisine. 131 Danbury Rd. 860-355-0556 smorefood.com M

Lost Fox Inn & Tavern

This historic tavern has won accolades since opening. Chef CJ Barroso creates a fresh, seasonal menu with his personal flair. Excellent wine list and fresh cocktails. The lovely patio is an oasis for outdoor dining. Upstairs, the stunning Great Hall is the perfect spot for a private party. Stylish and welcoming.

571 Torrington Rd., Litchfield 860-222-0855 lostfoxinn.com M

Sage & Salt

Sage & Salt (formerly Saltwater Grille) serves modern comfort food in a relaxed, stylish setting. Enjoy dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 4 pm with Happy Hour from 4 to 6 pm Wednesday through Friday. Screened porch and outdoor dining available.

26 Commons Dr.,Litchfield 860-567-4900 sageandsaltct.com M

New Preston

THE HAYLOFT WINE BAR

Gourmet morsels and local wine served overlooking Lake Waramaug. 25 Hopkins Rd. 860-868-7954 M

THE OWL WINE & FOOD BAR

Wine bar serving light fare. Kale salads, brick oven pizzas, short rib sliders. 18 E. Shore Rd. 860-619-0585 owlnewpreston.com M

John’s Cafe

A New American restaurant offering a bistro-style dining experience with an Italian flair. All pastas are made fresh in house, daily. Whether you are in the mood for our famous pork chop, homemade pasta, or our awardwinning desserts, John’s Cafe is the perfect choice. Patio, private party room, catering menu.

693 Main St. S, Woodbury 203-263-0188 johnscafe.com M

THE SMITHY CAFE @ 9 MAIN

A neighborhood hot spot serving breakfast and lunch. 9 Main St. 860-619-0699 cafeat9main.com I-M

THE SMITHY MARKET

Specialty groceries from local farms and vendors. 10 Main St. 860-868-9003 thesmithymarket.com M

WHITE HORSE COUNTRY PUB

English pub food in authentic pub atmosphere with large bar and patio. 258 New Milford Tpke. 860-868-1496 whitehorsecountrypub.com M

Salisbury

NEO RESTAURANT & BAR

Woodfired pizza spot offering paninis, burgers, pasta, and more. 19 Main St.

860-689-1476 neorestarantbar.com M

SWEET WILLIAM’S COFFEE SHOP & BAKERY

Featuring scones, croissants, layer cakes, and coffee drinks. 17 Main St. / 860-435-3005 sweet-williams.com I

WHITE HART INN

English-influenced menu and beautiful decor. 15 Under Mountain Rd. 860-435-0030 whitehartinn.com I-M

Sharon

LE GAMIN

Delicious French cuisine from restaurateur Robert Arbor. 10 Gay St. / 860-397-5382 legamin.com/sharon M

WHEN PIGS FLY SOUTH

A favorite Southern barbecue joint. Try the pulled pork. 29 W. Main St. / 860-492-0000 whenpigsflysouth.com I-M

Torrington

BRINX KITCHEN AND BAR

A tapas menu featuring fresh cuisine in a stylish interior. 53 Main St. 860-201-4179 M

GEPPETTO OSTERIA E BISTECCHERIA

Quaglia ripiena, tagliatelle al ragú di vitello, pinenut-crusted rack of lamb.

24 E. Main St. / 860-618-0721 geppettoct.com M

Uncommon Grill

Colosseo Ristorante & Bar

Taste the bold flavors of Italy in the heart of Litchfield. Authentic Italian dishes, specialty pizzas, and a warm, inviting ambience; it’s a celebration of traditional cuisine and local charm. A must-visit destination for food lovers this summer in Connecticut’s vibrant culinary scene.

38 Park Lane Rd., New Milford 860-350-9596 colosseoristorante.com M

PIZZERIA MARZANO

Delicious brick oven pizzas in welcoming atmosphere. 1315 E. Main St. 860-618-0875 pizzeriamarzano.com M

SASSO’S COAL FIRED PIZZA

Pizza, seafood, beer, and wine served in a modern cafe. 52 Main St. 860-618-7162 sassoscoalfired.com M

At Uncommon Grill, comfort meets creativity. Our chef reimagines American favorites with unexpected twists, blending tradition and innovation. Pair your meal with one of our handcrafted cocktails or local draft beers. Whether you’re here to relax or celebrate, you’ll always find something extraordinary.

777 Echo Lake Rd., Watertown 860-417-3104 UncommongrillCT.com M

Wood’s Pit BBQ & Mexican Cafe

Hickory-smoked BBQ and Mexican dishes. All meats are smoked in-house. Our sauces are all made here and are gluten free. Having a big party? Call us about our catering menu. Dine in or takeout.

123 Bantam Lake Road, Bantam 860-567-9869 Woodspitbbq.com I

TASTE OF THAILAND

Enjoy their wok stir fry, curry, noodles, fried rice, seafood. 19 McDermott Ave. 860-201-4684 tasteofthailandct.com M

THE VENETIAN

In business for 100 years serving classic Italian fare. 52 Main St. 860-489-8592 venetianrestaurantct.com M

VIENTIANE THAI CUISINE

Excellent, traditional Thai food. Friendly service. 231 High St. 860-489-0758 torringtonthaicuisine.com M

YIAYIA’S GREEK KITCHEN Greek favorites served by a husband-and-wife team. 1057 E. Main St. 860-618-3076 yiayias.net M

ZACH & LOU’S

Pulled pork, St. Louis ribs, brisket, and pork belly at this casual spot. 2936 Winsted Rd. 860-482-6573 zachandlous.com M

Warren

HOPKINS INN

Enjoy views of Lake Waramaug while dining on Austrian cuisine. 22 Hopkins Rd. 860-868-7295 thehopkinsinn.com E

Ice Cream!

Our summer interns put together a list of their favorite places to grab ice cream in Litchfield County. When you’re out and about this summer, cool off with a sweet scoop at one of these local favorites!

ARETHUSA DAIRY in Bantam is a classic: creamy, farm-fresh ice cream made right from their own dairy cows.

CADDIE SHACK in Canaan offers mini golf, batting cages, and a full arcade alongside their frozen treats.

POPEY’S ICE CREAM SHOPPE in Morris is a local go-to, serving handscooped and soft-serve options, flurries, floats, and milkshakes, near Bantam Lake.

THE COLEBROOK STORE, Connecticut’s oldest general store, serves up old-fashioned charm with each scoop.

PEACHES N’ CREAM in Litchfield is known for its generous variety of flavors, including dairy-free and sugar-free options.

SCOOP IT UP in Thomaston stands out for its fun flavors (try Cookie Monster!) and cheerful, welcoming vibe.

ESPRESSO 59 in Litchfield offers Italian-style gelato—smooth, rich, and made fresh in small batches.

DARI DELITE in Woodbury is a no-frills favorite located in Middle Quarter Mall, known for its classic soft serve.

Wherever you are in the county, a delicious ice cream adventure awaits!

WARREN GENERAL STORE

Sandwiches, coffee, breakfast foods and sandwich specialties for all three meals. Open seven days a week. Offers dinner specials throughout the summer.

10 Cornwall Rd. 860-868-3354 warrengeneral.com I

Washington

COMMUNITY TABLE

Farm-to-table cuisine in an elegant setting. Wonderful cocktails.

223 Rte. 202

860-868-9354 communitytablect.com E

G.W. TAVERN

Serving traditional and contemporary cuisine. Full bar and outdoor seating.

20 Bee Brook Rd. 860-868-6633 gwtavern.com M

MARTY’S

Breakfast and lunch treats. Popular outdoor cafe. 4 Green Hill Rd. 860-868-1700

seeyouatmartys.com I-M

MAYFLOWER INN & SPA

Elegant setting in the main dining room, or more casual in the tap room. 118 Woodbury Rd. 860-868-9466 aubergeresorts.com E

THE PANTRY

Popular breakfast and lunch spot. Prepared food and cheeses. Outdoor seating. 5 Titus Rd. 860-868-0258 thepantryct.com M

THE PO CAFE

Homemade sandwiches and salads. Fresh baked goods and custom cakes. Outdoor seating. 5 Kirby Rd. 860-868-1879 meetyouatthepo.com I

Watertown

ECHO CRAFT KITCHEN

Fresh, high-quality dishes with excellent cocktails. 150 Echo Lake Rd. 860-274-8829 echocraftkitchen.com M

ROMA RISTORANTE

Authentic Italian dishes with generous portions. Bustling atmosphere. 179 Davis St. 860-274-2558 romaristorantect.com M

UNCOMMON GRILL

Serving comfort food with a twist; fresh ingredients. 777 Echo Lake Rd. 860-417-3104 uncommongrillct.com M

Woodbury

CHARCOAL CHEF

1950s diner feel Most food prepared on a charcoal grill. 670 Main St. N 203-263-2538 thecharcoalchef.com M

EL CAMION

Award-winning tacos and Mexican food. 308 Sherman Hill Rd. 203-405-3008 el-camion.com I

GOOD NEWS

Farm-fresh locally sourced ingredients. New owners. Newly renovated interiors. 694 Main St. S 203-266-4663 goodnewswoodbury. com M

JOHN’S CAFE

Pork Milanese, crispy rice arancini, steak and fries, served in this cozy popular restaurant. 693 Main St. S 203-263-0188 johnscafe.com M-E

MARKET PLACE KITCHEN & BAR

Large bustling rustic modern restaurant with a

wide range of menu items. Full bar. 641 Main St. S 203-586-1215 marketplacekitchenbar. com M

MISCHIEF ON MAIN

Casual dining at the Woodbury Brewing Company, featuring tacos, fried specialities, wings, salads, sandwiches, etc. 738 Main St. S. 203-405-3811 woodburybrewing.com M

MIX PRIME

Bustling beautiful steakhouse, sushi, and fish restaurant. Full bar. 757 Main St. S 203-586-1788 mixprimesteakhouse.com M

NEW MORNING MARKET

Organic produce with catering. Delicious prepared foods and juice bar.

129 Main St. N 203-263-4868 newmorningmarket.com M

RACHEL’S KITCHEN

Beloved for breakfast, lunch, and brunch favorites like challah French toast, lobster Benedict, grain bowls, and stacked sandwiches. Catering services also.

230 Main St. S 203-263-2235 M

WEST EGG CAFE

Pastries, egg dishes, lunch items. Cute spot for brunch and lunch. 20 Sherman Hill Rd. 203-586-1456

westeggcafect.com I

1754 HOUSE

Serving small plates and traditional fare in a cozy historical space. Full bar.

506 Main St. S 203-405-3735 1754house.com M n

ART news

MORRISON GALLERY

› MORRISON GALLERY IS PLEASED to announce a Summer Group Exhibition in Kent. Coinciding with the launch of a new gallery building, this exhibition brings together influential artist partnerships that have shaped the gallery’s legacy and newly represented artists that lend a fresh perspective and visual language to the gallery. William Morrison commissioned and designed the space as a part of his vision to exhibit monumental and site-specific installations, and to bring innovative contemporary art to Kent. Morrison’s programming conveys a reverence for artists rooted in modern and mid-century New York and New England artmaking, with a focus on abstract expressionist and minimalist works. This is highlighted in the Summer Group Exhibition, with works by Ronald Bladen, Edward Dugmore, Cleve Gray, and Alexander Liberman. The exhibition also features sculptures by Alice Aycock and George Sugarman, and a magnificent Kenneth Snelson sculpture in the courtyard. Morrison pairs these with a new generation of contemporary abstract and figurative artists, including Fanny Brodar, Mike Hammer, Jung Jisook, and Michelle Weddle. morrisongallery.org