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Tavern To Close Location In CT After 30 Years: Here's When Tavern To Close Location In CT After 30 Years: Here's When
Tavern To Close Location In CT After 30 Years: Here's When An Italian restaurant chain that has been around for three decades has announced when one of its Connecticut locations will close.  First & Last Tavern will serve its last meals at its location in the Hartford County town of Avon at 26 West Main St. (Route 202) on Sunday, Nov. 10, the chain announced on social media. The restaurant did not specify a reason for the closure but thanked those who stopped by over the decades, many of whom celebrated major life events within its walls.  "It's hard to believe 30 years has passed since we first opened our doors. As we reflect on it …

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by Ben Crnic
Business
Iconic CT Pizza Chain With Fairfield Location Announces 'Highly Anticipated' Fall Special Pie Iconic CT Pizza Chain With Fairfield Location Announces 'Highly Anticipated' Fall Special Pie
Iconic CT Pizza Chain With Fairfield Location Announces 'Highly Anticipated' Fall Special Pie A beloved and reknowned pizzeria with locations across Connecticut announced its new, cheesy fall specialty pizza.  Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, founded in New Haven in 1925, announced the Quattro Formaggio was added to its menus on Monday, Sept. 23, and would remain available through the end of the year.  The "highly anticipated" pizza was crafted by family members of Frank Pepe and features a blend of crushed Italian tomatoes and four cheeses, including mozzarella, asiago, ricotta, and Pecorino romano, according to the owners behind the iconic restaurant franchise. The…

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by Josh Lanier
Lifestyle
Popular Waterfront Westport Restaurant Adds Patio For Summer Dining Popular Waterfront Westport Restaurant Adds Patio For Summer Dining
Popular Waterfront Westport Restaurant Adds Patio For Summer Dining A popular Fairfield County waterfront Italian restaurant has added a new patio with a full-service bar just in time for summer dining. Arezzo Ristorante & Bar in Westport, located along the Saugatuck River, unveiled its new patio bar this week, complete with a full-service bar.  The restaurant, known for its authentic Italian food and drinks, and expansive wine list, said the new patio offers picturesque views of the Post Road Bridge leading into downtown Westport. The new outdoor bar.  Arezzo Ristorante & Bar In addition to the patio, the restaurant's main dining roo…

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by Kathy Reakes
Business
Well-Loved CT Restaurant Announces Closure: 'We Will Miss You' Well-Loved CT Restaurant Announces Closure: 'We Will Miss You'
Well-Loved CT Restaurant Announces Closure: 'We Will Miss You' A popular Italian eatery in Connecticut has announced that it will soon be closing for good.  Lena's Italian Kitchen, located in Hartford County at 206 West Center St. (Route 502) in Manchester, announced on social media that it would be open for its last day of business on Saturday, Jan. 20.  The owners, who ran the restaurant for a decade after taking it over from the past managers, cited medical reasons as the explanation for the closure.  "Our family has thoroughly enjoyed serving our customers and making many new friends in the community over the last 10 years," the own…

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by Ben Crnic
Lifestyle
Greenwich Eatery Featuring Homemade Pasta Opens Second Restaurant In Westport Greenwich Eatery Featuring Homemade Pasta Opens Second Restaurant In Westport
Greenwich Eatery Featuring Homemade Pasta Opens Second Restaurant In Westport Homemade pasta, exotic sauces, and impeccable presentation are just a few reasons a relatively new Fairfield County restaurant is creating a buzz in the foodie world. Il Pastaficio, located in Westport, is off to a strong start since opening its second location last year -- and was remodeled this year -- where you won't find your typical spaghetti and meatballs. The flagship II Pastaficio is located in Greenwich in the Cos Cob neighborhood. Known for its homemade pasta made fresh daily with flour from Italy, II Pastaficio also appeared on "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," one of the few in t…

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by Kathy Reakes
Lifestyle
Star-Studded Meal: Richard Gere Stops By Eatery Listed As Michelin Bib Gourmand Star-Studded Meal: Richard Gere Stops By Eatery Listed As Michelin Bib Gourmand
Star-Studded Meal: Richard Gere Stops By Eatery Listed As Michelin Bib Gourmand A restaurant in Westchester that has already been added to the prestigious Michelin Bib Gourmand list now has another claim to fame following a visit from famed Hollywood actor and local resident Richard Gere.  Gere, a North Salem resident formerly of Pound Ridge, stopped by Maria Restaurant in New Rochelle at 11 Huguenot St. on Saturday, Dec. 9.  The restaurant's owner announced the visit in an Instagram post on Monday, Dec. 11.  Gere, age 74 and best known for roles in films such as "Pretty Woman," and "An Officer and a Gentleman," is reportedly looking to buy a Fairf…

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by Ben Crnic
Lifestyle
These Restaurants Named Best In Town Of Fairfield, Report Says These Restaurants Named Best In Town Of Fairfield, Report Says
These Restaurants Named Best In Town Of Fairfield, Report Says Residents and visitors to the centrally located Connecticut town of Fairfield may be overwhelmed with the array of dining options, but a new report ranked the best eateries in the area to allow diners to book their next reservation with confidence.  The best of the town of Fairfield's many dining options, including casual dining and high-end options, has been revealed, thanks to the online family travel resource, Family Destinations Guide.  Topping the charts is Barcelona Wine Bar, located on Black Rock Turnpike. The eatery has five Connecticut locations, but it still made the list as the …

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by Morgan Gonzales
Lifestyle
New Eatery In Fairfield Loves 'The Sopranos' New Eatery In Fairfield Loves 'The Sopranos'
New Eatery In Fairfield Loves 'The Sopranos' If you're looking for a fun night out with plenty of fine wine and in a restaurant with a relaxed vibe, then a new Fairfield County spot hits the mark. At Gabagool, located in the old Toto spot at 70 Reef Road in Fairfield, owner Antonio Ninivaggi has created a unique space for Fairfielders to unwind from their hectic day.  Oh, and by the way, if you were wondering about the name, Ninivaggi loves "The Sopranos," and New Jersey and making light of well, all things Italian. When you stop in you'll find a great bar with fun drinks such as the "howyoudoin" made with spicy tequila, and foo…

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by Kathy Reakes
Business
Chef Bringing 'High-Quality, Natural' Italian Food To 2 New CT Locations Chef Bringing 'High-Quality, Natural' Italian Food To 2 New CT Locations
Chef Bringing 'High-Quality, Natural' Italian Food To 2 New CT Locations A chef who has already served fresh, authentic Italian food to a Massachusetts city for nearly two decades is expanding to two all-new locations in Connecticut.  The owners behind Gran Gusto, a restaurant located in Cambridge, Massachusetts at 90 Sherman St. since 2007, will soon be opening two new locations in both New Haven and West Hartford, Connecticut, according to owner and partner Cait Danahy.  The West Hartford location is expected to open in April at 111 Memorial Rd. in Blue Back Square, and the New Haven location will open soon after in late April or early May at 278 Park St. on …

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by Ben Crnic
Business
New Beginnings: Popular Italian Restaurant In Monroe To Relocate After 25 Years New Beginnings: Popular Italian Restaurant In Monroe To Relocate After 25 Years
New Beginnings: Popular Italian Restaurant In Monroe To Relocate After 25 Years The owner of a popular Italian restaurant in Fairfield County has announced plans to close the eatery as he prepares to move the restaurant to a new location. Carl Anthony Trattoria in Monroe will close its current location at 477 Main St. and relocate to a nearby neighborhood, representatives announced on Thursday, Jan. 5. The new location will be announced sometime early this year. The brand was first introduced in Monroe in 1998 by chef and owner Sam Devellis. Representatives said the news comes as Devellis and his Carl Anthony Restaurant Group have entered into a partne…

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by Nicole Valinote
Business
'Prepared Perfectly': Pound Ridge Restaurant Praised For Authentic Italian Cuisine 'Prepared Perfectly': Pound Ridge Restaurant Praised For Authentic Italian Cuisine
'Prepared Perfectly': Pound Ridge Restaurant Praised For Authentic Italian Cuisine A well-known restaurant in Northern Westchester is being commended for its cozy setting and well-prepared authentic Italian dishes.  DiNardo's Ristorante Italiano, located in Pound Ridge at 76 Westchester Ave., is known for homemade pasta and pizzas, as well as an extensive collection of wines, according to the business's website.  Fresh ingredients such as seasonal produce, Italian cheeses, meat, game, seafood, and fine Italian olive oils feature in the restaurant's dishes.  Opened 48 years ago by owner Frank Salvi, the business hopes to offer "a great atmosphere,…

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by Ben Crnic
Business
New Eatery In Fairfield County Offers Blend Of Traditional, Contemporary Italian Cuisine New Eatery In Fairfield County Offers Blend Of Traditional, Contemporary Italian Cuisine
New Eatery In Fairfield County Offers Blend Of Traditional, Contemporary Italian Cuisine A new restaurant in Fairfield is offering a seasonal menu that blends traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine. Il Pellicano officially opened on Friday, Sept. 23, said Massimo Tabacco, who co-owns the restaurant with Matthew Balk. The restaurant, located at 1460 Post Road, serves a selection of small plates and appetizers, such as charred octopus, burrata, meatballs, and rice balls stuffed with mozzarella. Il Pellicano, located at 1460 Post Road in FairfieldGoNation Guests can also choose from a variety of pasta dishes and entrées, including short rib ragout, New York strip steak,…

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by Nicole Valinote
Business
Opening Date Announced For New Italian Eatery In Fairfield County Opening Date Announced For New Italian Eatery In Fairfield County
Opening Date Announced For New Italian Eatery In Fairfield County The opening date is approaching for a new Fairfield County restaurant that will offer a seasonal menu featuring a wide variety of Italian dishes. Cugine’s Italian is set to open in Harbor Point in Stamford on Friday, June 10, representatives said. The eatery is located at 121 Towne St. and is owned by John and Morgan Nealon. In the announcement, Morgan said the menu will feature familiar Italian favorites, along with new dishes, and the kitchen will be led by Executive Chef Rick O’Connor. Some appetizers include steamed clams with Calabrian chili butter and Crostini with whipped…

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by Nicole Valinote
Lifestyle
Here Are Eight Brand-New Eateries Expected To Make Splash In Hamptons This Summer, Report Says Here Are Eight Brand-New Eateries Expected To Make Splash In Hamptons This Summer, Report Says
Here Are Eight Brand-New Eateries Expected To Make Splash In Hamptons This Summer, Report Says A variety of new restaurants are set to make a splash in the Hamptons this summer, according to a new report from Bloomberg. The news outlet reported that the restaurants span a variety of types of food, from upscale seafood eateries to expanding pizzerias from established owners.  Bloomberg reported that the following eateries are set to open up this summer or have recently begun serving guests: Roberta's, a pizzeria in Montauk O by Kissaki, a Japanese restaurant located at 47 Montauk Highway in East Hampton Lobster Roll, located at 32 Montauk Highway in Southampton, and an off-shoo…

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by Nicole Valinote
Business
Husband, Wife Hold Grand Opening For New Italian Restaurant In Greenwich Husband, Wife Hold Grand Opening For New Italian Restaurant In Greenwich
Husband, Wife Hold Grand Opening For New Italian Restaurant In Greenwich A husband and wife who opened a brand-new Italian eatery in Fairfield County are working to make sure their guests feel at home from the moment they step through the restaurant's doors.  Constantino’s of Greenwich hosted its grand opening on Sunday, May 15. The restaurant is located at 699 West Putnam Ave. in Greenwich. Owners Michael and Robyn Bordes began working to open their own restaurant together in July and went through a lengthy approval process. “It was definitely a lengthier process than we anticipated," Robyn said. "But it worked out, and we’re opened, and we’re t…

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by Nicole Valinote
Business
Restaurant Offering Classic Italian Cuisine Set To Open In Fairfield County Restaurant Offering Classic Italian Cuisine Set To Open In Fairfield County
Restaurant Offering Classic Italian Cuisine Set To Open In Fairfield County A new restaurant offering classic Italian cuisine will soon open in Fairfield County. Cugine’s Italian is expected to open its doors at 121 Towne St. in Harbor Point in Stamford sometime this spring, according to representatives. Restauranteurs John and Morgan Nealon are the owners. “Our goal with Cugine’s is to offer not only Harbor Point, but Fairfield County as a whole, an entirely new Italian dining experience,” John said in a statement. “This sophisticated restaurant will invite our guests to take a step back in time and dine in the era of Frank Sinatra, with dark interiors and furnit…

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by Nicole Valinote
Business
Brand-New Restaurant Serves Up Traditional Italian Dishes In Fairfield County Brand-New Restaurant Serves Up Traditional Italian Dishes In Fairfield County
Brand-New Restaurant Serves Up Traditional Italian Dishes In Fairfield County A brand-new restaurant in Fairfield County is serving up a wide selection of traditional Italian dishes.  Mamma Bella Cucina & Pizzeria officially opened on Sunday, May 1 at 19 North Water St. in Norwalk. Joe Giuliano and Anthony Sandolo are the co-owners. Mamma Bella Cucina & PizzeriaMamma Bella Cucina & Pizzeria Giuliano said opening a restaurant was always a dream of his, and he and Sandolo jumped at the opportunity to open their own place. Giuliano said his father previously owned a restaurant, so he grew up with an understanding of the business. The menu features cla…

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by Nicole Valinote
Lifestyle
Acclaimed Italian Eatery Near Westchester/Fairfield County Border Draws Diners From Near, Far Acclaimed Italian Eatery Near Westchester/Fairfield County Border Draws Diners From Near, Far
Acclaimed Italian Eatery Near Westchester/Fairfield County Border Draws Diners From Near, Far A popular Italian restaurant located near the border of Westchester and Fairfield counties has drawn praise from guests from near and far. Pasquale Ristorante is located in Port Chester at 2 Putnam Ave. The eatery offers a wide selection of pasta dishes, from gnocchi bolognese to linguine made with shrimp and calamari. Other entrées include broiled filet of salmon, lamb chops, and scallops made with garlic and lemon. Some online reviewers have praised specific starters and dinner dishes that restaurant offers. "Had dinner with friends here," Amy P., of White Plains said in a Yelp review.…

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by Nicole Valinote
Lifestyle
New Stamford Restaurant Cited For 'Great Pizza, Great Service' New Stamford Restaurant Cited For 'Great Pizza, Great Service'
New Stamford Restaurant Cited For 'Great Pizza, Great Service' Sizzling pizzas and heaping pasta dishes mixed with great service have made one new Fairfield County restaurant a must-visit spot. Bari167 in Stamford, which opened late last year, is off to a good start by offering diners and foodies just what they -- good food with great service. The menu is just what you would expect at a high-end Italian restaurant, but the prices won't shrink your wallet, and the to-go service, a must in these times, is fast and efficient.  Foodies from across the region have been singing the praises of Bari167 online with stellar five-star reviews in almost every in…

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by Kathy Reakes
Lifestyle
New Italian Restaurant Opens In Fairfield County New Italian Restaurant Opens In Fairfield County
New Italian Restaurant Opens In Fairfield County Italian lovers in Fairfield County have a new restaurant to try with the opening of Cibo  -- a bistro that says it specializes in fresh farm-to-table Italian street food. Located on Federal Road in Brookfield in a shopping plaza with several other eateries, the new restaurant, pronounced "Chee-Bo," says it will have a rotating menu that will offer the "best of Italy."   A glance at the menu shows they offer an array of specialties from numerous pasta dishes to interesting salads and appetizers. And of course, pizzas. They offer a little of everything that is sure to please all, including …

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by Kathy Reakes
Lifestyle
Meatball & Company Serves 'Em Up Straight Up Or Spicy In Darien Meatball & Company Serves 'Em Up Straight Up Or Spicy In Darien
Meatball & Company Serves 'Em Up Straight Up Or Spicy In Darien You don’t have to have a hankering for Italian cuisine to enjoy the huge range of menu items featured at Meatball & Co., located at 20 Center Street in Darien. Meatball & Co. was opened in May of 2013 by Chef Joe Criscuoulo, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America. With an extensive background in Italian cooking, he’s managed to successfully merge his favorite type of cuisine with modernized varieties and “fun” comfort food options to specialize in one dish: the meatball. “This isn’t like any other meatball establishment…Chef Joe put his own spin on it and took the challenge…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
These Are Five Delis You'll Want To Drop By In Fairfield County These Are Five Delis You'll Want To Drop By In Fairfield County
These Are Five Delis You'll Want To Drop By In Fairfield County When your appetite calls for a custom sandwich carefully layered with wafer-thin cold cuts, meatballs, chicken parmesan and an endless array of hearty options, here are five delis to try in Fairfield County.  Giacomo's Italian Deli, 1100 Hope St., Stamford: An Italian deli with in-house seating, hot and cold specialty dishes and of course, customized heroes. They offer free delivery. Alex Delmar of Stamford told Daily Voice some items she orders here. "They have a good hot buffet that I have packed up and saved for dinner, sausage and peppers, chicken scarpariello" and for dinner…

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by Donna Christopher
Lifestyle
New Restaurant Serves Up Mix Of Italian, Mediterranean Dishes On Fairfield Avenue New Restaurant Serves Up Mix Of Italian, Mediterranean Dishes On Fairfield Avenue
New Restaurant Serves Up Mix Of Italian, Mediterranean Dishes On Fairfield Avenue A new restaurant in the area will be holding its grand opening this week. Forza Ristorante, located at 3171 Fairfield Avenue in Bridgeport, serves an array of authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes. The eatery was opened by chef Eric Sierra, who started his first restaurant in Westport in 1994 called “Le Bistro des Amis.” Sierra is also known for his role as the original owner of El Palio in Shelton. He also opened Rive Bistro on River Side Avenue in Westport five years ago. Forza is different from Sierra’s past eateries in that it specializes in a unique blend of Italian and Mediterr…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
These Fairfield County Restaurants Rated Among Best For Desserts In CT These Fairfield County Restaurants Rated Among Best For Desserts In CT
These Fairfield County Restaurants Rated Among Best For Desserts In CT No meal is complete without a sweet treat, and three restaurants throughout Fairfield County have been rated for having the most decadent desserts in the state. Connecticut Magazine’s “panel of culinary experts” ranked the following three locales for their rich and flavorful desserts: Aranci 67, Wilton: A self-described “modern throwback,” Aranci 67 is a family owned and operated restaurant serving up authentic Italian fare at 142 Old Ridgefield Road. On the dessert menu, you’ll find homemade and handcrafted delicacies like torte caprese, gelato, tiramisu and cannoli. For more information,…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
Romanacci Pizza's Westport Location, One Of Three In Fairfield County, Expanding In Space Romanacci Pizza's Westport Location, One Of Three In Fairfield County, Expanding In Space
Romanacci Pizza's Westport Location, One Of Three In Fairfield County, Expanding In Space With locations in Norwalk, Westport and Trumbull, Romanacci Pizza Bar has become something of an area staple when it comes to authentic Italian cuisine, and the eatery’s Westport location has just announced an upcoming expansion. The pizza bar will expand into the adjoining space next to the 54 Railroad Place locale. The space is currently occupied by Winfield Espresso and Panini Bar, which opened in February 2016 and will close at the end of the month, according to Romanacci owner Maurizio Ricci and co-owner and brother Graziano. Ricci says that the expansion will allow for additional seat…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
These Fairfield County Eateries Rank Highest In CT For Best Italian Food These Fairfield County Eateries Rank Highest In CT For Best Italian Food
These Fairfield County Eateries Rank Highest In CT For Best Italian Food Connecticut Magazine’s “panel of culinary experts” have named three Fairfield County eateries among the best in the state for their exquisite Italian cuisine. Here are the restaurants that made the cut for their authentic Italian-style eats. Aranci 67, Wilton: Located at 142 Old Ridgefield Road, Aranci 67 is a family-owned establishment specializing in anything and everything Italian. From house-made potato gnocchi and pasta dishes to fresh paninis, fish, chicken and more, Aranci 67 truly has something for all lovers of traditional Italian fare. Aranci 67 is open for lunch Tuesday through …

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
Wood-Fired Pizza Is Star Attraction At Lombardi's Trattoria In Redding Wood-Fired Pizza Is Star Attraction At Lombardi's Trattoria In Redding
Wood-Fired Pizza Is Star Attraction At Lombardi's Trattoria In Redding The chefs at Lombardi’s Trattoria have been crafting wood-fired pizzas for hungry customers and making a name for the Redding establishment for more than five years. Located at 22 Main Street, Lombardi’s Trattoria, which opened in 2013, offers a massive variety of appetizers, soups, salads, calzones, burgers, pastas and more. However, the stars of the show are their hand-crafted and wood-fired pizza pies. Lombardi’s offers unique spins on the Italian staple, many featuring some high-end ingredients and flavor profiles. For example, the Capriccios pizza is made with Pomodoro cheese, fresh mo…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
Pair Of New Restaurants Making Splash In White Plains Pair Of New Restaurants Making Splash In White Plains
Pair Of New Restaurants Making Splash In White Plains Food fanatics, rejoice: Two new establishments have been added to the restaurant scene in White Plains, and they're off to strong starts. First, Z Prime Italian Steakhouse, located at 189 E. Post Road, offers a wide variety of traditional steakhouse and authentic Italian cuisine. The menu features fresh fare like clams, mussels, and shrimp as well as land options like filet mignon, Colorado lamb, and veal chops. The restaurant’s Facebook reviews provide some insight regarding its impression with customers: “The service and food were equally superb. Very hospitable hosts. Staff and owners w…

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by Valerie Musson
Lifestyle
Six-Time World Pizza Champ Bruno DiFabio From Stamford Opens New Restaurant Six-Time World Pizza Champ Bruno DiFabio From Stamford Opens New Restaurant
Six-Time World Pizza Champ Bruno DiFabio From Stamford Opens New Restaurant This month, six-time world pizza champion Bruno DiFabio brings his exciting concept to the Hudson Valley in the form of Pizza Union Gastro-Kitchen & Bar located in Newburgh. DiFabio made his first pizza dough as a teenager in a little Italian restaurant in Springdale near Stamford, CT. Numerous awards, 16 restaurants, and several Food Network gigs later,  DiFabio bought that neighborhood eatery in 2015 and created Amore Cucina & Bar, a high energy restaurant and gathering place that features his signature Pizza Romana and hearty Italian fare, offering food enthusiasts old and new sc…

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by Jon Craig