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Other highlights include lollipop chicken wings, root beer lamb, a dish of "sweet and savory" shanks, and lobster gnocchi. In addition, there are many comfort foods such as hamburgers. So said co-owner Bruno DiFabio, a Ridgefield resident, who told Daily Voice: "The gnocchi is like soft pillows."
He further explained how chef and co-owner Germano Minin, who moved to Connecticut from Santa Monica, Calif., is a past winner of a pizza episode of "Chopped." Joe Chelednik rounds out the trio of partners. They opened The Village Tavern at 378 Main St. on Jan. 23 after completing renovations.
The new establishment, next to Fairfield County Bank, occupies the home of the former Dog and Pony.
"We started work in November to beautify the space," said DiFabio. "We brought in brick from an old church in Chicago for the walls and copper for the bar. The warm establishment with its old-world touches is casual and welcomes kids, families, anyone.
"Our menu for kids is viewed in an old fashioned Viewfinder (toy) where the kids can see pictures of the food they want to order."
Just two weeks since opening, the restaurant -- open for lunch and dinner daily from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. -- has drawn many locals to the bar and in to eat. The weekday happy hours are another draw.
"We have a tremendous bar program," said DiFabio. "Our mixologist is Steve Barone. He's an expert on classic cocktails. He's written a book on mixology. You can sit at the bar and enjoy an upscale drink, or have a craft beer or wine. It's a nice experience."
For more information, call 203-403-3400 or click here for the restaurant's Facebook page.
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