THIS IS YOUR TICKET TO THE ELICIT EXPERIENCE THIS IS YOUR TICKET TO THE ELICIT EXPERIENCE
Unique therapy to support mitochondrial function now offered in Fairfield County
Ozone therapy is one of the most exciting and versatile wellness treatments available today. This service will be provided in addition to our other IV drip services available on-site. What is IV Ozone Therapy? This innovative therapy uses medical-grade ozone to help: Benefits of IV Ozone Therapy: Improves mitochondrial function and oxygen utilization, supports immune function, cognitive function, anti-aging and has antimicrobial benefits.Check us out at www.fairfieldfamilyhealth.com
October 2025 Publisher’s Letter
Welcome, fall! As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures cool, our cravings shift toward comforting flavors that warm both body and soul. October is one of our most delectable issues of the year, and this month we’re celebrating the food and drink that makes our city such a delight for the senses.
For me, the smells of fall bring back memories of sitting in my mom’s kitchen. The aroma of cinnamon, baked apples, pumpkin pies, and hearty soups fills me with nostalgia. My family’s favorite tradition was gathering around the table for a big pot of homemade chili on chilly evenings, the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out.
There’s an art to creating a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also stirs memories of home. Food has a unique way of connecting us to our past while bringing us together in the present. Whether you’re enjoying a meal out with friends or hosting a cozy dinner at home, these shared moments are what make life flavorful.
This season is also about community—supporting local restaurants, visiting farmers markets, and celebrating the talented chefs and artisans who bring fresh flavors to our tables. When we choose to dine local or shop small, we’re not only treating ourselves, but also strengthening the bonds that make our town such a special place to live.
Here’s to savoring every bite this fall,
BERNSTEIN, PUBLISHER
October 2025
PUBLISHER
Bruce Bernstein | bruce.bernstein@citylifestyle.com
Pequot Library’s Summer Book Sale Preview Party 1: Tim and Bobbie Sue Russell 2: John and Sue Walker, Walt and Pat Lohotsky and Meg Francis 3: Kathryn Jaffer and Walt and Pat Lohotsky 4: Butzi Moffitt and Maggie Moffitt Rahe 5: Burdin and Jane Hickok 6: Sean Kelly and Grace Calderon 7: Sherri Daley and Alice Gorman Photography by Grace Calderon
The Recollective is a multivendor vintage and antique marketplace located in the heart of Bridgeport, Connecticut. Housed in a beautifully restored 50,000 sq ft historic printing press building, we offer a thoughtfully curated mix of vintage furniture, architectural salvage, home decor, antiques, art and found objects. Every item has a story, and we're here to help it find a new one. recollectivect.com
Photography by John O’Grodnick / Sonni
Perfect Playdate
Shelter Interiors is happy to announce the completion of their latest design project, Perfect Playdate, located at 163 Cherry Street in Milford, CT. They designed a street of pretend businesses, a stage for imaginative play, as well as a party room and a cafe area for adults to enjoy while the little ones play. This woman-owned business handled all aspects of the project from construction drawings to adorable design details. @shelterinteriorsllc shelterinteriorsllc.com
Ryan C. Sheppard | CPA,CFF Managing Partner
Photography by Abby Cole Photography
Kiin Sauna
Embark on a guided journey of wellness with Kiin Sauna, a mobile wood-burning sauna and cold plunge experience. Available for private events, partnerships, and coming to Southport Beach this fall, we offer a Nordic-inspired escape that warms you to your core, invigorates your senses, and reconnects you with nature and community. Breathe in the calming scent of cedar, embrace the contrast of hot and cold, and leave feeling deeply restored. Come sweat and chill with us. kiinsauna.com
Photography by Abby Cole Photography
Felner Corporation
Felner provides full service property management to residential (HOA) communities and commercial properties throughout Connecticut. Our every move is anchored in the ideals of family-business values and bolstered by significant investment into technology and innovation. From routine day to day operations to emergency calls and capital projects, we keep properties and communities running smoothly while keeping clients informed every step of the way. Discover why so many boards and owners trust Felner Corp. felnercorp.com
no man left behind Not in War, Not in Life
When a hidden bomb in Syria left U.S. Navy SCPO (Ret.) kenton stacy paralyzed, blind in one eye, and barely able to speak, his wife Lindsey made a promise :
“ i will be your arms . i will be your legs . i will be your voice ... until the very end . ”
Lindsey has kept her promise, no matter the cost. now it ’ s our turn to stand with the Stacy family.
Strong Girls Training
Strong Girls Training is a female focused youth athlete development program for girls grades 4 through 9, focusing on strength, agility and mobility while building confidence through positive mindset coaching and mentorship. Led by Athletic Development Coach Tara Lynn Bennett, Strong Girls Training utilizes a holistic and centered approach around motivation, positive self-image and progress tracking to impact each athletes’ success in reaching her goals — in sport and in life. StrongGirlsTraining.com
At SVP Partners, we’ve been proud to support sticks for soldiers for over a decade — helping honor the sacrifices of service members and their families. join us in supporting the stacy family . www . sticksforsoldiers . org
Modern Salon by Melissa Schiavone
Modern Salon by Melissa Schiavone is a luxury beauty destination in Fairfield, CT, specializing in expert hairstyling, color, and treatments. With 27+ years of experience, Melissa and her team provide master-level services in a chic, welcoming space. Following our highly anticipated grand opening in March 2025, we are excited to bring innovation, elegance, and personalized beauty experiences to our community. personalized beauty experiences. Follow @MelissaSchiavone_Fairfield on Instagram for updates and exclusive salon events! modernsalonfairfield.com
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM
SHARED PLATES
Food and Friends at Panicale Pasta
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX TORRES|PARK CITY STUDIOS
Meeting the team behind Panicale Pasta—co-owners and longtime friends Marty, Nick, and Stanton, along with Head Chef Carlos—feels like reuniting with old friends over dinner. The restaurant has a well-defined approach, centered on house-made pasta, Neapolitan pizza, and thoughtfully crafted small plates, all served in a friendly, relaxed setting. With an authentic wine bar philosophy highlighting Italian wines by the glass from small producers, Panicale Pasta is designed for connection—whether gathering with friends, meeting new people, or enjoying a meal solo. The atmosphere is comfortable and inviting, the service impeccable, and the food nothing short of exceptional, with every dish worth savoring. Settle in—it’s the kind of place that quickly becomes part of your weekly routine. Families and food lovers alike will appreciate the authentic flavors, exceptional quality, and approachable elegance of this beautiful space. “I love how food brings people together and that connection is something I truly appreciate,” says Carlos.
Named after a town in Italy, the idea for Panicale Pasta began with Marty, a seasoned restaurateur, who saw a need for a style of Italian pasta he had often
Nick Leone, Stanton Lesser and Marty Levine
Carlos Rojas
“I see us being a place where people love to come and hang out, have a cocktail or glass of wine, and enjoy some truly excellent food.
The most rewarding thing is seeing the large number of returning customers. Although we have only been open for a few months, we have many patrons who have returned many times.”
enjoyed in New York but rarely found locally—light, fresh, and authentic. To round out the menu, they added a style of pizza not often seen in the area. “I have always loved restaurants, how they operate, their food and vibe - the whole experience,” says Marty. The concept was first tested in a food hall in New Haven, and after proving successful, the team decided to move to a full-service location in their hometown of Fairfield. After considering many spaces, they chose the Fairfield Sportsplex for its brick walls, high ceilings, and post-industrial charm, completing a year-long build-out. Says Nick, “This was an exciting opportunity to pursue a start-up venture with friends.”
Carlos has crafted a distinctive menu that reflects both his passion for food and his culinary expertise. “Falling in love with food and cooking when I was seventeen was a transformative experience for me, thanks to my brother, who introduced me to the culinary world. It allows me the freedom to explore, create and experiment with new ideas. I enjoy trying out various ingredients and techniques,” he says. Never one to stick to the mundane, Carlos continually experiments and expands his skills, keeping his dishes inventive while rooted in classic Italian flavors. Signature offerings include Fried Artichokes, Meatballs, Roasted Cauliflower, Garganelli, Tagliolini, Spaghetti alle Vongole, Peppers & Sausage Pizza, and Verde Pizza—familiar favorites elevated with surprising flavor twists. Each dish is crafted with quality ingredients and meticulous care, ensuring every bite delights the palate.
Panicale Pasta is your neighborhood essential and will become that go-to spot for dinner and drinks. Says Stanton, “I see us being a place where people love to come and hang out, have a cocktail or glass of wine, and enjoy some truly excellent food. The most rewarding thing is seeing the large number of returning customers. Although we have only been open for a few months, we have many patrons who have returned many times.” So go ahead: order that third appetizer, enjoy another glass, stay for dessert… You’re truly among friends here.
Date night. Family dinner. Working lunch. Surprise Party. Weekend Brunch…
From celebrations to casual bites, RGR Hospitality’s collection of restaurants has every occasion—and every craving—covered. The Sinclair, Malibu and Sophie’s Pizza Bar have become hallmarks of the downtown dining scene. While each is known for mouthwatering menus and topnotch service, every spot brings its own unique flavor and personality to the table.
ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA SCHOENGOLD BERANBOM PHOTOGRAPHY BY MEGHAN OLSON
The Sinclair
Food industry veterans Nick Racanelli Sr., Paul Garbuio, and Nick Racanelli Jr. founded RGR Hospitality in 2018 following the opening of The Sinclair. As longtime Fairfield residents, they bring decades of culinary and hospitality expertise to every venture, infusing each restaurant with a deep commitment to quality, community, and innovation.
The Sinclair: Led by notable Executive Chef Edgar Cebada, The Sinclair is known for its approachable sophistication. This Fairfield mainstay offers a refined American cuisine mixed with global influences to create a dynamic menu of dishes, wine and specialty cocktails, in an elegant
yet relaxed setting that makes every meal feel special, whether dining on the patio, covered terrace or in the large dining room, especially when live music fills the air on Thursday nights. Fan favorites range from the raw bar and mussel pot to steak frites, spicy salmon crispy rice and shrimp and grits. While guests travel from near and far for The Sinclair’s signature brunch, its newly introduced Sunday Surf and Turf is poised to become the next standout draw. Malibu: The name says it all—fun, relaxed, and effortlessly easy-going. Established in 2019, Malibu was created to bring that laid-back West Coast vibe to town.
Malibu's signature tacos
“FROM
CELEBRATIONS TO
RGR HOSPITALITY’S
CASUAL BITES,
COLLECTION OF RESTAURANTS HAS EVERY OCCASION—AND EVERY CRAVING—COVERED.”
Today, with Chef Jose Luis Mones at the helm, it continues to embody a stylish spirit while elevating the dining experience. Known for its variety of flavorful tacos and classics like guacamole and street corn, Malibu has expanded its offerings with Chef’s curated larger plates. The coastal-inspired menu is fresh, modern, vibrant and diverse, featuring standouts such as ponzu ahi tuna, shrimp ceviche, spicy cucumbers in rice vinegar, braised short ribs, and Valencia paella. Speciality cocktails like crowd favorites Malibu Marg and Patio Lemonade set the tone and keep the mood lively for happy hours on the now iconic outdoor terrace.
Sophie’s Pizza Bar: The newest spot in the RGR family isn’t your typical pizza joint. Since opening in 2021, Sophie’s has an informal yet polished atmosphere, serving distinctive flavors rooted in tradition and enhanced with a creative flair. Chef Luke Charof has thoughtfully crafted a menu of rotating seasonal specials, small plates and main dishes you won’t see anywhere else. Along with their marquee homemade oven-fired pizzas, with an extensive selection of unique toppings, Sophie’s pastas, sandwiches, seafood and salads are always next level. Guests keep returning for signature favorites like the Chicken Parm and Pork Chop Parm; for
a bold twist, ask for it Bronx style- with vodka sauce and spicy cherry peppers. Finish the meal with a decadent espresso martini for the perfect finale.
Every restaurant in RGR Hospitality’s portfolio delivers exceptional food, impeccable service, and something for every palate. From signature dishes to standout cocktails, each venue offers a distinctive taste of Fairfield’s vibrant dining scene. While each restaurant tells its own story, together they form a seamless collection where culinary artistry, approachable sophistication, and thoughtful hospitality converge in this food-lover’s town. With a new steak-andsushi concept already planned for 2026, the group continues to expand its vision and grow its presence as a leading force in the community’s dining landscape.
The Sinclair 1229 Post Road Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 292-6800 thesinclairct.com
Malibu 1177 Post Road Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 292-8544 malibutaco.com
Sophie’s Pizza Ba r 1275 Post Road Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 292-3925 sophiespizzabar.com
Malibu
The Spicy Marg at Malibu
Pizza from Sophie's
SOPHIE’S
INGREDIENTS
• 2 oz Vanilla Vodka
• 1 oz Kahlua
• 1 oz Frangelico
DIRECTIONS
• 1 oz Espresso
• ½ oz Baileys (optional)
• Espresso beans for garnish
1. Add all the ingredients into a shaker, in the sequence of order listed above.
2. For a creamier martini, add a ½ oz of Baileys at the end.
3. Add one scoop of ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.
4. Double strain into a martini or coupe glass.
5. As a special finishing touch, garnish with three espresso beans to symbolize Peace, Love & Happiness
Sophie's Espresso Martini
Effortless Living Starts with Intentional Design
Schedule your consultation with Jill Rae Designs today and let us bring your design vision to life!
INTERIOR DESIGN | CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION | DESIGN STUDIO
Photography by, Main Ridge Creative
At ComForCare, our caregivers are highly compassionate and love what they do. We screen to provide our families with caregivers who are:
• Empathetic
• Trained in Senior Care
• Matched with Clients Based on Experience, Skills & Compatibility
We would love to help your loved one to age in place safely. Let us provide peace of mind for you and superb care for them.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDON OJAKIAN
THE BEST BREAKFASTS & BRUNCHES IN FAIRFIELD
When you read most “best food” lists, they usually start the same way: the well-seasoned food critic rattles off their awards, years of culinary coverage, and all the reasons you should trust their refined palate. That’s not me.
I’m not a professional food writer. My résumé isn’t packed with restaurant accolades and I don’t pretend to be a culinary expert. In fact, if you peek at my @Bald_Bites bio on Instagram, you’ll see exactly who I am: “Just a bald dude posting food.”
What I am, however, is someone who has eaten breakfast out in Fairfield County almost every single day for the past 16 years. That’s roughly 5,800 breakfasts and I can say with confidence that qualifies me to know where the best breakfast and brunch spots are in town.
The places you’ll find on this list aren’t every great breakfast joint in Fairfield. They’re the ones I return to again and again, the ones I trust to start my day right.
I fell in love with Country Cow back in 2009, when my colleague, Jim Serafino, a proud Fairfield Prep alum, told me I had to try their bacon, egg, and cheese. I can’t tell you exactly why it’s better than every other one in Connecticut, it just is. Maybe it’s the buttery roll, the perfectly crisp bacon, the over-medium egg, or the way the American cheese melts into every layer. Whatever the magic is, I’ve been ordering it the exact same way for 17 years.
Recently, a foodie friend, @Boujee_yet_humble_bites, convinced me to add crispy home fries inside the sandwich and now I can’t imagine ordering it any other way. Pair it with one of their rotating iced coffee specials (my favorite so far is the Samoa Cookie Iced Coffee) and you have breakfast perfection.
Located on Black Rock Turnpike, Country Cow is cash-only, but there’s an ATM inside. Expect a lively crew behind the counter who clearly enjoy the breakfast rush and who will happily fuel students, locals, and busy professionals alike.
Since opening in 2016, Hole in the Wall has become a Post Road staple with its colorful blue-and-yellow exterior and an impressive menu that straddles breakfast and lunch. While their loaded breakfast burrito and spicy chicken omelet have cult followings, my personal go-to (recommended by my friend Daniella from @ yella.eats.alot.ct) is the “Hole in One”: two fried eggs, steak, beef chili, American cheese, and a hash brown patty, usually served on a roll, but I like mine in a wrap with avocado.
If you’re more in the mood for lunch, their cheesesteaks are outstanding, especially “The Kicker,” with jalapeños, onions, and sriracha mayo for just the right amount of heat.
Country Cow Deli
Hole in the Wall
PopUp Bagels
Old Post Market
Fairfield’s claim to Connecticut’s best bagel is, in my opinion, undisputed and the crown belongs to PopUp Bagels. These are bagels, not sandwiches (it’s literally written on their window). They’re sold by the dozen, served warm, and feature just five flavors: poppy, salt, plain, sesame, and everything.
The magic is in the texture a thin, perfectly seasoned crust gives way to a chewy, airy interior. PopUp also makes inventive schmears, from scallion cream cheese to cacio e pepe butter to chocolate chip cannoli spread. My routine? Grab a dozen, head to Sherman Town Green, and devour one everything and one salt while they’re still hot.
Tucked in Fairfield’s beach community, Old Post Market is known for friendly faces and a breakfast sandwich that locals (and my friends @ctcocktailhunters) swear by. However, my favorite breakfast option is their Stag Bowl.
Picture this: crispy tater tots as the base, topped with two fried eggs, barbecue-smothered pulled pork, silky cheese sauce, and a sprinkle of scallions. The textures are a dream, the crunch of the tots, the creamy melt of the cheese, the savory tenderness of the pork, and the richness of the eggs. It’s a complete breakfast experience in a single bowl.
Esh Modern Mediterranean
Esh is one of my favorite restaurants in Fairfield, period, but their Sunday brunch is in a league of its own. The space is sleek yet warm, with moody lighting, high ceilings, and the open flame of the taboon oven flickering in the background.
When I recently visited with my friend Casey (@Cheatmealfoodz), owner Noam Langleib insisted we experience brunch as a feast. What followed was a three-course parade of dishes:
• Fresh-baked flatbread with Esh’s signature dips, including my favorite Labneh with Sour strain yogurt, spice cherry sweet tomato jam, nigella, and olive oil.
• Their Croque Madame-inspired flatbread with mornay sauce, potato, prosciutto, comet cheese, and sunny side up eggs.
• Four entrées, including their shakshuka (poached eggs in a fragrant tomato sauce), wagyu bacon benedict, crispy chicken sandwich, and coal-fired Esh burger.
• Sweet finales of Moroccan doughnuts and one of the best French toasts I’ve ever had, top three, easily.
Paired with $10 sparkling rosé (available all day Sunday), this is brunch worth dressing up for.
Fairfield’s breakfast scene is fueled by creativity, character, and community. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic deli sandwich, a bold Mediterranean spread, or a bagel so good it doesn’t need toppings, our town delivers morning meals that are anything but ordinary.
See you at the counter, and if you want more bites from my adventures, follow along at @Bald_Bites on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.
OCTOBER 4TH
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
Pink Pledge Strides for Strength
Seaside Park | 9:00 AM
Come run or walk along the stunning beaches of Bridgeport’s iconic Seaside Park to help raise awareness and life-saving funds for the patients and programs of NPBC! For more information, to register for the event or to make a donation please visit pinkpledge.org
OCTOBER 5TH
Popshop Autumn Market
Elicit Brewing Company | 12:00 PM
Shop a curated lineup of local vendors, festive vibes, and the perfect blend of style, sips, and seasonal finds. Come discover something unique and support small businesses in a fun, vibrant setting. popshopmarketct.com
OCTOBER 5TH
Manual Cinema- Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster
The Quick Center for the Arts | 3:00 PM
Emmy Award-winning company Manual Cinema (known for mixing low-fi props with interactive technology) has created Leonardo! A Wonderful Show About a Terrible Monster . Poor Leonardo. He tries so hard to be scary, but he just… isn’t. Manual Cinema uses puppets, props, and songs to bring acclaimed children’s author Mo Willems’ books about courage and friendship to life. Visit quickcenter.fairfield.edu for tickets.
OCTOBER 7TH
Chamber Coffee Connect
Bricks and Minifigs | 8:00 AM
Wake up with the Chamber Members over a cup of joe to start your day! Bring a friend and network or just learn about new and existing businesses in the area. $15 Non-members. Register online at fairfieldctchamber.com
OCTOBER 13TH
Oktoberfest
FTC and Sanford Street Lot | 2:00 PM
Enjoy a selection of seasonal beers as well as local food trucks with festive food offerings. Commemorative Fairfield Oktoberfest t-shirts and steins will be available for purchase. All ages! For wristband must be 21+. For more information visit experiencefairfieldct.org
OCTOBER 18TH
Harvest Market
Old Town Green | 10:00 AM
The Fairfield Harvest Market has something for everyone! Enjoy over 70 retailers, crafters, local businesses vendors, food trucks and more! Dog Costume Parade at 12 noon! Prizes awarded. Rain Date: October 25th. For more information visit fairfieldctchamber.com
Want to be featured?
OCTOBER 24TH
Drive In Movie Night
Lake Mohegan | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a night fun for the whole family featuring Disney Pixar's Coco. Parking begins at 6 PM. Go to fairfieldrecreation.com for updated details.
OCTOBER 24TH
The Rocky Horror Picture Show 50th Anniversary
FTC | 8:00 PM
Celebrate half a century of cult cinema’s most outrageous phenomenon with a special anniversary screening that’s all about the experience: yelling at the screen, dancing in the aisles, and reveling in every delightfully weird moment. This is not your typical movie night. Audience participation is not just allowed — it’s encouraged. For ticket purchase go to fairfieldtheatre.org
OCTOBER 25TH
Haunted Candy House Workshop
Fairfield Museum & History Center | 10:00 AM
Savor spooky season by assembling your very own haunted candy house using recycled materials and lots of sweet treats! $25 per house includes museum admission for 1 child and 1 adult. Registration required. fairfieldhistory.org
OCTOBER 25TH
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Interactive Show
SHU Community Theatre | 1:00 PM
Experience the spellbinding stories and colorful characters of beloved author and artist Eric Carle in a whole new way. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, this innovative stage brings to life four Eric Carle stories, through 45 magical, handcrafted puppets, world-class puppeteering and lively original musical that invites your little one to play along with their favorite stories! Visit shucommunitytheatre.org to purchase tickets.
OCTOBER 25TH
Halloween Magic Show and Jack-o’-Lantern Contest
Pequot Library | 5:00 PM
Bring your carved pumpkins to the third annual Jack-o’-Lantern Contest. Enjoy a whole new bag of tricks with Ed Popielarczyk and his hilarious Halloween Magic Show. Vote for their favorite jack-o-lantern. Winner announced after the magic show. All participants will bring their jacko’-lantern home after the winner is announced. Wear your Halloween costume. Fun for all ages! Registration is encouraged. pequotlibrary.org
OCTOBER 26TH
Halloween On The Green
Museum Commons | 12:00 PM
Come wearing your best costume for a day filled with trick-or-treating, giveaways, displays at the historic buildings, food vendors, a bounce house, and much more! Weather-permitting. For updates visit fairfieldhistory.org
Bruce turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Fairfield Lifestyle
Published by Bruce Loved by Fairfield
BATTIMELLI’S A&S ITALIAN FINE FOODS
CAVATELLI WITH AND SAUSAGE BROCCOLI
A COMFORTING, CLASSIC ITALIAN DISH WITH FRESH PASTA, SAVORY SAUSAGE, AND A RICH, GARLICKY BROTH
A weekly staple for stocking up on prepared favorites, deli items, and everyday essentials— or for a quick stop to grab lunch—Battimelli’s A&S Italian Fine Foods has become a Fairfield favorite. As the holiday season approaches and celebrations come into focus, A&S is the go-to for all your catering needs. Here, they share a perfect entrée fit for any occasion or better yet - add it to your next order.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX
TAYLOR
Battimelli’s A&S Italian Fine Foods Cavatelli with Broccoli and Sausage:
INGREDIENTS
• 1 lb fresh cavatelli (Il Palio by Margherita Aloi made for A&S Battimellis)
• 1 head broccoli
• ½ lb A&S cheese & parsley sausage
• 2 oz extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup freshly grated Pecorino Romano
DIRECTIONS
1. This dish comes together quickly, so having everything prepped and ready is key.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
3. Bring about 1 gallon of well-salted water to a boil—the water should taste salty like the sea.
4. Roast the sausage for approximately 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, cut the broccoli into florets and finely mince the garlic. Set both aside.
6. Cook the fresh cavatelli in the boiling water for about 2 minutes. Just before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot and blanch for an additional minute. You’re not looking to fully cook the broccoli here—just enough to brighten the color.
7. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, and do not rinse. You want to keep the natural starches to help the sauce come together. Set aside and keep warm.
8. In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat until hot. Slice the roasted sausage into ¾-inch pieces and add them to the pan. Sauté until golden and slightly crispy on the outside.
9. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until fragrant.
10. Carefully deglaze the pan with the white wine, removing the pan from the heat while pouring to avoid flare-ups.
11. Return to heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for about a minute to allow the alcohol to cook off.
12. Add the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Don’t worry if the sauce seems thin at this stage—it will thicken as it comes together.
13. Once simmering, add the cooked cavatelli and broccoli into the pan. Stir gently and allow everything to heat through.
14. When the pasta is hot and the sauce has slightly reduced, stir in most of the Pecorino Romano, reserving a little for garnish. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky sauce.
15. Serve in a bowl or on a rimmed plate. Spoon the pasta, sausage, and broccoli into the dish, then ladle the sauce over the top. Finish with a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano, a crack of black pepper, and a touch of chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
BATTIMELLI’S A&S ITALIAN FINE FOODS
2079 Black Rock Tpke Fairfield, CT 06825 203-576-1600 asfinefoods.com
Luxury...Lifestyle.
Custom built beach-area home on oversized .42-acre lot — steps to Penfield Beach.
Spacious, sun-filled interiors with top-of-the-line chef’s kitchen, 9-ft ceilings, and en-suite bedrooms. Oversized backyard with plenty of room for a pool. Quiet cul-de-sac location just a short stroll to the beach and town center.
WENDY RYAN
Founding Member
Southport Office wryan@bhsusa.com 203-964-7450
ANDREW WHITELEY
Founding Member
Southport Office
awhiteley@bhsusa.com 203-258-1595
With 36 years of combined expertise and over $1 billion in closed sales, Andrew and Wendy are two of Fairfield County’s most trusted luxury real estate agents. Known for their deep local knowledge, exceptional service, and proven results, they deliver a concierge-level experience from firsttime buyers to record-breaking sales. As part of Brown Harris Stevens, one of Manhattan’s premier firms, they connect every listing to a powerful network of New York City buyers, referral partners, and loyal past clients — giving properties unmatched exposure and access to qualified clientele.
