Shoreline Out and About » Guilford

Sauce And The Single Girl

Juliana Gribbins — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 10:00:48 +0000

Mom asks me a very stove-specific question one day when I’m over to visit. I respond with a blank look. She asks, “I know I was never much for cooking, but do you cook at all?”

“Is the stove the one that turns hot if you turn those little knob things?” I reply.

She laughs, but my response isn’t too far from the truth of how little I use my stove. Sure I make the occasional chili or stew, but for the most part I’m not into cooking. I eat a lot of salads and other low-labor meals. Cooking for one is no fun. Trouble is, it’s not easy to find something affordable to bring home that doesn’t involve a lot of grease and a dollar menu.

I’m as Irish as they come, but my favorite foods are Italian and Mexican. Keep your corned beef, I’ll take pane cotta or a big fat burrito any day. One Tuesday as I stare down my oven in a war of cooking wills, my friend Barbie calls. She works at C&C Pizza in Guilford.

“Do you want to come down for some pizza? Tuesdays are generally slow so you can hang out,” she says. It only takes as long as my putting down the phone and grabbing my coat before I’m out the door.

“Sorry pal, it’s not you, it’s me,” I say to my oven as I leave. “I hope we can still be friends.”

I’ve had C&C Pizza and love it, plus this gets me out of my too-quiet apartment on an otherwise dreary and lonely Tuesday. I meet up with Moo, and we order a large pie with meatballs and roasted red peppers. I wish I could claim credit for creating this combo, but the props all need to go to Moo. It’s a winner, and I crave it again the very next night.

I usually write about my experiences and not places because I don’t generally write straight-up, informative type articles. But when it comes to living on your own and finding an affordable, yet good, place to eat, I feel I can make an exception. Just this once.

A couple of Tuesdays later I meet John, the owner of C&C Pizza. He came to America across the big pond from Italy in 1966, so what he makes is no imitation. To prove this he sets down a plate of chicken marsala for me to try. The chicken is tender, the sauce is to die for.
He has a smooth Italian accent, which makes everything he says sound tasty. “We have our regular menu with our pizzas and subs, but we also have a new catering menu, featuring the antipasto, the lasagna, chicken marsala like you have right now, and lots of others,” he explains. My mind lingers over words like antipasto and lasagna.
His pizza is original Italian pizza with homemade sauce. As John says, it’s the “real deal.” He also has an entire lineup of specialty pizzas with names like “The Bomb” and “Coppola Special.” They take up an entire side of a 3 x 11 tri-folded brochure.
As I sit in a cozy booth, I eat my chicken marsala and listen to John’s story. He came to Guilford in 1974 to escape the crime that was erupting in the Bronx, NY. He worked in both New Haven and Florida at Italian restaurants before taking over C&C Pizza with a partner five years ago. One year ago he took on the place on his own. Now, through word of mouth and, more importantly, great cooking, the place is catching on.

While I’m enjoying my meal and conversation, my friend Yalie pops in to pick up his usual Tuesday order. When he hears I plan to do a write-up, Yalie says, “I think John feeds everyone I know!” He’s probably right. Guilford is a small town and word-of-mouth travels fast.

But there’s one thing Yalie and others may not know. Not only can John create an amazing, authentic Italian meal, he can also sing. He sings mostly for family and friends but has been told he’s quite good. He belonged to an Italian group that was so new it didn’t even have a name. But now he sings solo and only by special request.

I ask John if he’ll serenade me the next time I come in. He delivers a wide smile and says, “For you, anything!” And I think he may even mean it.

So, I’ve decided that Tuesday is a good day for home-style Italian that I don’t have to cook myself. John says, “If anybody comes here to C&C and they mention Shoreline Out and About or your column, they get 10% off their order. How does that sound?”
Sounds good to me. How about you?

Red Rooster Baking. The Best Cookies Bar None.

Edwin Bartlett — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:58:28 +0000

As many of you have probably guessed, I am a cookie fanatic. I am beyond the point of being able to buy something off the shelf. I guess that I am actually a cookie snob. Not just any cookie will do. It has to be fresh baked, it has to have substance to it, and it has to be unique. So when Kim asked if Shorelineoutandabout.com could help her with some advertising for Red Rooster Baking, I jumped at the opportunity.

Obviously, in order for me to convey my thoughts and opinions of Red Rooster Baking’s cookies, I had to do a little research. So I popped into the bakery to do a little scouting. Okay, it was all about the cookies. What I found was an experience far beyond what you would think possible in this little cookie boutique. We are talking Cookie Nirvana. The smell of fresh baked cookies just blows you away. Samples on of the cookies for you to try, and an absolutely wonderful business owner to greet you, and answer your questions, and provide exceptional service. Exactly what you want from a business like this.

So, for the past week, I have been pondering over how I could spread the word about Kim and Red Rooster Baking, so that you all could get the feel for the business, and pay her or her website a visit, so asked her to tell me her story, tell me why she started this business,and she did. I read it, and reread it,trying to figure out what quotes to use,but it wasn’t working for me, because I felt I was leaving something out. So, I decided that the best way is for you to read her story,and here it is.

“ I developed a passion for baking at a very young age. I never pursued it as a career until 3 years ago. At 18 I followed in my father’s footsteps and went into the insurance business. Well, I did this for 20 years and always in the back of my mind thought how cool it would be to have a business related to baking. I always baked cookies but then started playing with the recipe so that I could come up with a soft-baked cookie that was crispy on the outside and doughy in the middle. My first cookie which is now called the “Signature Rooster” has butterscotch, white chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate and cranberries. It turned out to be a hit among friends, family and anyone willing to try it. From there, all hell broke lose when the ideas for flavors would keep me up at night. The possiblities were endless!! Then I started incorporating liquors with glazes and frostings. Flavors like Raspberry Amaretto, Key Lime, Kahlua Espresso Bean, Carrot Cake, Apple Pie and so on. I love to make cookies and I really love to make people happy. I’ve heard hundreds of times how “this really is the best cookie I’ve ever had.” That makes it all worthwhile! It’s hard work and at times I feel overwhelmed as I am doing this all myself right now. I’m in a small space but I’m very clean and very organized so I can accomplish a lot. During the holidays last year I worked 18 hour days for 2 weeks!!! The gift boxes are a real hit for holidays or any occasion. Bottom line, I finally love what I do and I put my heart and soul into every cookie I make!

For your information, just note that each of these cookies weighs 3.5 ounces each. Although one cookie weighs 3.5 ounces each, and should be enough to satisfy any craving, I think that you should always play it safe, and get the dozen. Buy them as that special treat, or to make an incredible desert. How about taking two triple chocolate cookies, and putting a layer of Ashley’s coffee ic cream between them? Send them as gifts to your friends during the holidays,and Kim makes that easy, as she will ship them for you. So get out and about, and get to Red Rooster Baking located at 2614 Boston Post Road (rear) Guilford or visit the website Redroosterbaking.com

Tell kim where you saw the story,and receive your discount!!!

Great Dining For A Great Cause

Edwin Bartlett — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 17:51:15 +0000

I have a passion for charities, as many of you know. I feel that no matter what our situation is, we can always find a way to help. Whether it’s 10 bucks, a pint of blood, or just volunteering an hour of your time, it goes a long way, and it will not go unnoticed. I walk,volunteer, run events, whatever it takes. Mark O’Brien, one of our contributors recently completed a 100K with the Tour de Shore this fall. Steve Spurrell is committed to building a new VFW Hall , at no cost to the veterans, and the list goes on and on.

This is why I take great pride in posting this little note to you all. This Sunday, November 15th, Whitfield’s in Guilford will again hold a fundraiser, as they do every third Sunday, to raise money for the Guilford Food Banks. Local artist Brendan Laughlin donates one of his extremely popular oil paintings, and Jim Paradis provides some really great music. All for the cause. Every third Sunday. All you have to do is get down to Whitfields this Sunday, and enjoy one of Guilford’s finest restaurants, and you to have helped those who need it most. Great dining, Great cause, and a Great dinner.

What Do You Do On Dreary Sundays?

Tracey Scheer — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:00:49 +0000

Sunday was a dreary day, chilly, gray and with more bare branches showing against the sky. My husband and I were on our way to Guilford to check on the boat and thought we would grab a sandwich and eat it on the way. Passing Quattro’s on River Street, we spotted a small group sitting at a table by the window, and so decided to wander on in and have lunch off a white tablecloth. Inside we were handed a regular menu and the Sunday brunch menu.
Well, well, we had just stumbled across what has to be one of the best bargains on the Shoreline: a three course meal with an aperitif or beverage for $20. Make that $13 for kids 12 and under.
We settled down at a table near the bar and considered our choices. Mimosa or Bloody Mary? Hot appetizers including calamari and crab cakes, lobster bisque, or a couple of interesting salads. For a main course, salmon with lobster cream sauce, eggplant rolatini, chicken saltimbocca, homemade gnocchi or the omelet of the day.
For dessert, there is a choice of homemade tiramisu or chocolate mousse, both excellent and definitely not for those on a low fat diet. Also possible, sorbets in a fruit shell or ice cream.
Everything we tried was very good indeed. Service was reasonably attentive, and the check was the cure for the Sunday blues. Why there were only three parties taking advantage of this deal I cannot guess, other than folks just don’t know about it. So the cat’s out of the bag. Head on over to Quattro’s next Sunday and have a midday meal worthy of any Italian grandma. You won’t be hungry for dinner.

Friday Night Happy Hour: Welcoming KC’s Pub To Town

Edwin Bartlett — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 10:15:40 +0000

Many of us who grew up in this town have been to Chips Pub. We always loved the food, the atmosphere, just the fact that it was part of Guilford, and many of us were sad to see it go. It was part of lives, one that we won’t forget. But times change, and so do businesses. So when I heard that another “Pub” was coming in, I was hoping that we would get back what was lost. And I believe that is what we are going to get. Based on what I have seen, I feel very strongly that Kelly Carney, and obviously the KC in KC’s Pub is going to do the same thing that Bruce did – create a family friendly restaurant with good food, and a strong sense of community. I have stopped in there already, and love the fact that even though the place has gone through a substantial renovation, it still feels like warm and comfortable. A place unique to Guilford, and inviting to all.

So bearing this in mind, I think that we at Shorelineoutandabout.com should take some time on Friday and welcome Casey, and the rest of the crew to town, and wish them the best of luck. And we need to do that in person, so therefore Friday October 16th’s Happy Hour social gathering will be here. Starting around 5:30 until you feel like going home. Bring lots of friends, and let’s have a good time.

Country Tavern

admin — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:46:44 +0000

704 Long Hill Rd Guilford, CT
(203) 453-9205

The Country Tavern is a regular “Cheers” tavern in Connecticut, complete with a friendly atmosphere, loyal patrons and good food. However, you have also found the location of the coolest Halloween party in the state. Bad Assets hare in the house rocking you through the night. So come on down and bring friends.

Now that you found me, leave me a comment and I will give you a prize.

Some Of The Finest Italian Dining On The Shoreline

Mike Moretti — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 07:00:43 +0000

I am all Italian. Well, I should say I am of Italian heritage. Both my parents were Italian and as far back as I have gone with my “tree” the Moretti’s are 100% Italian. In fact, my father’s parents came over from Italy in the late 1800′s and my father was born in RI in 1915. As most families in the early 1900′s they lived together under one roof focused around the dinner table. Meals were rituals made to comfort you and nourish you. And lets not forget the wine.

So when I moved to CT I was constantly in search of great Italian cuisine. Not the typical parma dishes, or broccoli rabe dishes, but great regional cuisine that I could count on day in and day out. Well, I didn’t have to look to far living in Guilford, CT. One visit to Quattros and I have not missed a weekend visit for an appetizer, dinner or glass of wine. Speaking of wine, Quattros has one of the most extensive wine lists on the CT Shoreline. Wines from Italy, France, Argentina, Chile, Spain to name just a few.

Quattros Italian opened in Guilford CT in 1996 with one simple philosophy: Prepare the best Quality Italian Cuisine at reasonable prices. Quattro’s Cuisine is best classified as Northern Italian, with both French and Spanish influences. Their specialties include fresh fish & shellfish, filet minion, lamb, veal, chicken, pasta & vegetarian dishes. They prepare over fifty sauces to order and the specials are always out of this world!

I would suggest you stop by and take in the warm atmosphere and attentive service and quickly realize why I have gone back over and over since they opened.

So Come check them out, especially since October 4th thru the 10th is Connecticut Restaurant Week. Shoreline Out and About members will receive a 10% discount Sunday thru Thrusday every week of the year. Make sure you tell your server when you place your order

The Stone House Restaurant

Edwin Bartlett — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:15:21 +0000

506 Whitfield St Guilford, CT 06437-3441

(203) 458-3700

Since reopening in April, 2000, The Stone House Restaurant has resumed its place as a fine dining establishment. Located mid – way between Boston and New York City, its contemporary cuisine featuring seafood and steak is appealing to both travelers and shoreline residents. The superior level of service combined with an exceptionally comfortable ambience makes The Stone House one of the more popular restaurants in the area.

The new owners, led by James P. Quinlivan, previously Executive Chef of the West 63rd Street Steakhouse and the Doral Time and Again Restaurant, both in New York City, envisioned the creation of cuisine made of quality ingredients, meticulously prepared and artfully presented, that would excite its customers with an extremely distinctive dining experience.

SOUPS AND SALADS

Soup Du Jour 6.00

New England Clam Chowder 6.00

Roasted Porcini and Crimini Soup with Hazelnut Gremolatta 7.00

Arugula, Radicchio and Endive with Blue Cheese-Butter Milk Dressing and Pumpkin Seeds 8.00

Danielle Prosciutto with Apricots, Toasted Pignolas, Spinach and Aged Balsamic Vinegar 8.00

Mixed Local Baby Organic Greens with Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette 6.50

California Freesia with Pears, Apples and Gorgonzola 8.00

Caesar Salad with Parmesan Crisp 8.00

MAIN COURSES

Seared Diver Sea Scallops with Herb Risotto and Asparagus 26.00

Grilled Skirt Steak with Chimmichurra and French Fries 23.00

Sesame Seared Tuna with Stir Fried Vegetables, Wasabi Mashed and Wakimi 24.00

Bouillabaisse of Clams, Mussels, Shrimp, Scallop and Red Snapper with Rouille 25.00

Seared Salmon, Polenta Fries and Smoked Tomato Guinness Sauce 23.00

Almond Dusted Swordfish, Roasted Beets and Pumpkin Sauce 27.00

Baked Crab Stuffed Sole, Vegetable Couscous and Lemon Fries 26.00

Pan Roasted Red Snapper, Spinach Gnocchi and Sicilian Tomato, Caper, Currant Sauce 26.00

Seared Shrimp and Angel Hair Pasta, Sun Dried Tomato Romanesco Sauce and White Truffle Oil 23.00

Grilled New York Sirloin with Roasted Garlic Butter and Salted Creamer Potatoes 27.00

Dijon Crusted Rack of New Zealand Lamb, Lentil Ragout and Roast Butternut Squash 26.00

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, Cranberry Ginger Chutney, Mashed Sweet Potatoes 23.00

Panko Crusted French Cut Chicken Breast, Vegetable Orzo and Parmesan Cream 20.00

Seared Veal Medallions, Wild Mushroom Risotto and Roasted Cipollini Onions 26.00

All Fish Can Be Simply Grilled, Sautéed or Roasted 22.00

Whitfield’s On Guilford Green

Edwin Bartlett — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 06:10:37 +0000

25 Whitfield Street Guilford, CT 06437
203-458-1300

Whitfield’s On Guilford Green is in the center of Guilford – regarded as the most beautiful and historical town on the Connecticut shoreline. This popular dining destination is a true American Café and occupies the entire first floor and patio of a fully restored colonial home built in the late 1700’s. The restaurant’s leaded picture windows overlook the length and breadth of the largest of all New England town greens with continually changing seasonal activities.

Come and enjoy a truly delightful brunch, lunch, or dinner!