These Fairfield County Locales Rated Among Best For Up-And-Coming Chefs In CT

A “panel of culinary experts” at Connecticut Magazine compiled a new list of the state’s best restaurants, and a number of Fairfield County establishments ranked for having some of the top up-and-coming chefs.

Gaudí Tapas and Wine, located at 52 1/2 Pembroke Road in Danbury
Photo Credit: *Google Maps*

Valerie Musson

05/12/2019 4:00 p.m.

Here are the four Fairfield County eateries that made the cut:

Chris Gonzalez, HAPA food truck (Stamford): Serving up a wide and delicious variety of American street food crossed with Asian Pacific cuisine, HAPA food truck is run by Chef Chris Gonzalez. The menu includes rice bowls, tacos and Korean brisket as well as traditional American specialties like burgers. You can also take your pick from some savory sides like Brussels sprout salad and Furikake fries (shoestring fries with dried seaweed, sesame, salt and gochujang aioli). Gluten-free and vegan options are also available. To view the HAPA’s food truck schedule, click here, and follow HAPA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for real-time updates.
Dan Sabia, catering and special wood-fired cooking events, formerly of Jesup Hall (Westport): Located at 90 Post Road East in Westport, Jesup Hall has become well known for its lunch, dinner and dessert offerings, many of which were crafted by Dan Sabia, the restaurant’s former chef. Fresh meats, cheese and veggies fill up the restaurant’s massive menu. From eccentric options like whipped chicken liver and trout to classics like beef porterhouse and roast chicken, you’re bound to find a dish chock full of fresh and delicious signature flavor. The eatery also offers a variety of sweet desserts and a massive list of wine, beer and cocktails. For more information, visit the website, Facebook and Instagram pages.
Jess Bengston, Terrain Garden Cafe (Westport): Located just down the road at 561 Post Road East in Westport, Terrain Garden Cafe is a restaurant and retail store rolled into one. Each meal is crafted by Chef Jess Bengston. The greenhouse cafe offers brunch, lunch and dinner options that change with the season, ensuring freshness with every meal. The eatery also provides hand-selected local produce, meats and dairy in an environment the chefs describe as “blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces.” Needless to say, you’re bound to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal in an unforgettable atmosphere. For more information, visit the restaurant’s website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.
Juan Flores, Gaudí Tapas and Wine (Danbury): Nestled at 52 1/2 Pembroke Road in Danbury, the small and unassuming Gaudí Tapas and Wine serves up small plates of tapas, desserts and other authentic Spanish dishes made by Chef Juan Flores. You can stop in for Sunday brunch starting at 11 a.m. or enjoy dinner Tuesday through Saturday starting at 5 p.m. For more information, visit the website and Facebook page.

To view Connecticut Magazine’s full list of restaurant rankings, click here.

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