Your guide to the heart of Litchfield County:
Discover local stories, hidden gems, and must-know events.

Litchfield’s Revolutionary Roots in Autumn
By Lydia Kennedy

Photograph courtesy of Litchfield Historical Society

As the crisp autumn air rolls through the Litchfield Hills, there is no better time to take advantage of the region’s history, where the legacies of Revolutionary War figures are preserved in its classic Colonial structures and unforgettable landscapes. 

Begin in Litchfield, home to the nation’s first law school, founded by Tapping Reeve in 1784. This pioneering institution trained nearly 1,000 men, including Aaron Burr and John C. Calhoun. Reeve’s historic schoolhouse still stands, allowing visitors to journey through the 19th-century life of a real Litchfield Law student. 

Continue your adventure north toward the rugged terrain favored by Ethan Allen, a soldier and frontiersman who led the Green Mountain Boys during the American Revolution. Allen’s revolutionary spirit is reflected in the beauty of Connecticut’s western frontier, especially when hiking Bear Mountain or Mount Riga. 

Then there is Benjamin Tallmadge, Washington’s very own spymaster and a native son of Litchfield. As head of the Culper Spy Ring, a covert intelligence network, Tallmadge fed crucial information about British-occupied New York directly to General George Washington. Today, you can walk on the same Green where Tallmadge drilled his militia—and returned to after the war. His Federal-style home still stands just off North Street. 

Connecticut remains dotted with Colonial homes and worn stone walls, all telling stories that intertwine centuries of history with the enduring beauty of New England.

Higher Than Expected, on display from September 13 at Kenise Barns Fine Art in Kent, brings to life a historical photograph of Lucy Smith and Pauline Ranken in 1908 climbing the Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Barred from joining the men’s climbing club on account of their sex, they defiantly formed the first women’s climbing club in Scotland. As experienced climbers and with only a rope between them for safety, they assumed more dangers than the men, by climbing in “traditional” women’s clothing such as long skirts, hats, and blouses. 

Katrina Majkut’s Game Changers, which also opens September 13, celebrates women-identifying athletes and pioneers who have overcome significant bias and discrimination. The portraits celebrate the athletes’ impacts and their leadership roles and references, but rejects the little-known art historical movement of Woman Power Portraits, which dictated that portraits of women in positions of power were only permissible if they mimicked preexisting masculine portrayals or fictional male characters. 

Majkut’s approach rejects these limitations, masculine archetypes, and the male gaze. Her goal is to set new representational standards of women in action with self-actualization, power, strength, fortitude, and perseverance. Using glitter, pearls, beads, and embroidery thread, the artist reveals how crafts—still stereotyped by their patriarchal ideas of femininity and domesticity—can be used to represent power and strength.

Both shows open with a reception on September 13 from 4 to 6 pm.

Kenise Barnes Fine Art, 7 Fulling Lane, Kent

—kbfa.com

By Allie Steers, Elizabeth Deegan, and Zandria Oliver

Fall is here, and the exquisite fall foliage, crisp weather, and fall activities make Litchfield County exceptionally magical this time of year. Check out our list of festive fall activities, from gorgeous leaf-peeping spots, to fall festivals, pumpkin patches, corn mazes and more.

1. Go leaf peeping.

• Drive route 7 to Kent
• Route 45 to Falls Village
• Lake Waramaug scenic route

2. Take a scenic hike at one of the many preserves and parks around us. Each offers varying levels of trails and points of interest.

• Hidden Valley Preserve in Washington
• Macedonia Brook State Park in Kent
• Steep Rock Preserve in Washington
• Macricostas Preserve in New Preston
• Mt. Tom State Park in Washington
• Kent Falls State Park in Kent
• Pine Knob Loop Trail in Sharon
• Lake Waramaug State Park

3. Get lost in a corn maze.

• Bunnell Farm in Litchfield
• The Farm in Woodbury
• March Farm in Bethlehem

4. Take a guided e-bike tour with Covered Bridge Electric Bike in West Cornwall or KC&E Adventures and experience the bucolic views that Litchfield County has to offer.

5. Take a hayride.

• Bunnell Farm in Litchfield
• The Farm in Woodbury
• Barden Farm Market in New Hartford 
• March Farm in Bethlehem

6. Go pumpkin picking at a local farm.

• Bunnell Farm in Litchfield
• Angevine Farm in Warren
• Harris Hill Farm in New Milford
• March Farm in Bethlehem
• The Farm in Woodbury
• Barden Farm in New Hartford
• Deeply Rooted Farms in Harwinton

7. Go to a fall festival.

• 19th Annual Connecticut Garlic & Harvest Festival on October 11-12 in Bethlehem 
• Washington Harvest Festival on October 12
• New Milford Apple Festival on September 27
• CAMA Fall Festival September 26-28 in Kent
• Falls Village Fall Festival on October 18
• 46th Annual Watertown Fall Fest on October 4
• Woodbury Fall Festival on September 14
• Action Wildlife Foundation Fall Festival on September 20

Savor Litchfield
Litchfield County’s Culinary Event of the Year
Sunday, September 13, 2026 | South Farms, Morris, CT

SAVE THE DATE.
We are currently updating for 2026 and securing EVENT SPONSORSHIPS.

Sign up for SMS Updates Here

Join us for Litchfield Magazine’s Savor Litchfield on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026, the premier culinary event held at the beautiful South Farms in Morris. Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of flavor as Chef John Bordeau of Sparrow in New Milford brings together the area’s top culinary talents, each preparing signature bites for guests to enjoy. Expect craft cocktails from Litchfield Distillery and South Farms, upscale pop-up shops, live music by the Dirk Quinn Band, a full cash bar, and fun for the whole family with a dedicated kids zone.

Looking to elevate your experience? Our special limited quantity of VIP tickets offer early access beginning at 2 pm, featuring an exclusive hour of elevated offerings, including premium bites, signature cocktails, and a deluxe goody bag. VIP guests will enjoy special tastings —all before the main event opens to the public..

Make Savor Litchfield unforgettable with a private table for six. Your group will enjoy reserved seating for the entire event, elevated food and drink offerings, tableside service, a beautifully styled setting, and a special photo opportunity to capture the moment.

A portion of proceeds will benefit area nonprofits. First come, first serve. This event always sells out.

TICKET PRICES: 

GENERAL ADMISSION:  $150
◗ Tastings available for 26 local chefs from 3-6pm
◗ Kid’s Zone, craft cocktails, pop-up shop area

AGE 4-12 ADMISSION:  $50
◗ Age 3 and below – FREE ADMISSION

VIP EARLY ACCESS:  $225
◗ Early VIP entry before the crowds
◗ Complimentary glass of Prosecco
◗ Exclusive Chef’s Tastings, created just for VIP guests
◗ Swag bags filled with gifts from sponsors

PRIVATE TABLE FOR 6:  $2,400 (Limited availability)
◗ Reserved table for 6 for duration of event.
◗ Early VIP entry before the crowds
◗ Complimentary bottle of Prosecco
◗ Exclusive Chef’s Tasting Plate, created just for table guests
◗ Swag bags filled with gifts from sponsors
◗ Personalized table signage with your brand or group name
◗ Professional photo opportunity with the new Litchfield Magazine cover

THE CHEFS
We are so grateful that John Bourdeau will again be our lead chef in 2026.
The following list is of some of our 2025 participants. We will update to 2026 list once we have all confirmations in. 

Lead Event Chef John Bourdeau
Owner, Sparrow, New Milford

Chef Bourdeau’s restaurant offers a “world menu” to his guests with creative flavors and a variety of dishes from around the globe. Bourdeau is well-known for his previous beloved eateries, The Owl in New Preston and Lucia in New Milford. @sparrownewmilford

Chef Robert Arbor
Le Gamin, Sharon 

Chef Robert Arbor, of Le Gamin in Sharon, brings classic French charm and flavor to the table with his beloved café fare and warm hospitality. @legamin

Chef CJ Barroso
Lost Fox Inn, Litchfield 

Chef CJ Barroso has worked in some of NYC’s top kitchens, including Aquavit with Marcus Samuelsson, Michelin-starred Public, Saxon and Parole, and The Finch. At Lost Fox Inn, his seasonal menus reflect a passion for local ingredients and farmer partnerships. @plant_create_eat

Chef Pam Buchler 
New Morning Market, Woodbury 

Chef Pam Buchler, Culinary Director at New Morning Market, brings decades of experience and a passion for seasonal, nourishing food. Trained under CIA chef Rich Herzfeld, she rose to Head Chef at Chef’s Table, founded Aquarian Caterers, and champions local farms and food education. At New Morning, she crafts vibrant dishes and leads culinary innovation with heart and purpose. @newmorningmarket1971

Chef Ryan Carbone
Swyft, Kent 

A CIA graduate, Ryan brings refined technique and creativity to Ore Hill and Swyft. Previously Chef de Cuisine at Jupiter in NYC and Executive Chef at Tied House in Chicago, he’s inspired by local farms and values balance, flavor, and community in his work. @chefboyrc91

Chef Carl Ciacia III
South Farms, Morris 

Chef Carl brings his Italian culinary training to offer fresh Mediterranean-style cuisine. Head Chef of South Farms, Ciarcia leads the development of their culinary program. @carlciarcia

Chef Dennis DeBellis
John’s Cafe, Woodbury 

Chef DeBellis is a 1994 graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and earned an additional degree in international bread baking from the French Culinary Institute in 1999. He has served as the chef of John’s Café since 2000 and became the owner in 2015. @johnscafe693main

Chef Matthew Delongis
Marketplace Tavern, Litchfield 

Chef Matthew Delongis, Corporate Executive Chef for Market Hospitality Group, oversees 11 Connecticut restaurants with a focus on quality, creativity, and sustainability. A CIA graduate, he trained under Jean-Georges and worked across fine dining and casual kitchens. His innovative menus highlight global flavors, local farms, and his passion for culinary excellence.

@marketplace.kitchenandbar

Chef David DiStasi
Materia Ristorante, Bantam 

Chef David DiStasi, of Materia Ristorante in Bantam, brings a refined, ingredient-driven approach to Italian cuisine. A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, he honed his craft at Blue Hill at Stone Barns before returning to his Connecticut roots. At Materia, he focuses on seasonal ingredients and modern techniques, creating elegant, thoughtful dishes in a warm, minimalist setting. @double_d224

Chef John Gapasin
The Abner, Litchfield 

Chef John Gapasin is an experienced culinary professional with a history of working in the hospitality industry. He has held various positions, including executive roles, and has experience in kitchen management and dish preparation. His background includes working at notable establishments, contributing to his expertise in delivering quality dining experiences. @theabnerhotel

Chef Cecilio Garcia
La Guera, Morris 

Chef Cecilio Garcia, a seasoned culinary professional, co-founded La Guera Cantina in Morris, Connecticut, alongside Erin Vasquez. After three successful years operating a food truck, they transitioned to a brick-and-mortar location at 5 Watertown Road, offering a vibrant menu that includes tacos, burritos, and birria. Chef Garcia’s dedication to authentic Mexican cuisine has garnered positive reviews from patrons.

Chef Anna Gowan and Lance Feola 
Kingsley Tavern, Kent 

Anna Gowan and Lance Feola are both native to Litchfield County, and have dedicated themselves to creating fine, approachable food, showcasing the best local ingredients. @kingsley_tavern

Chef Tyler Heckman
Belden House and Mews, Litchfield 

Tyler Heckman, a Connecticut native, showcases seasonal ingredients and seafood at Belden with refined, Asian-accented dishes. After a decade in acclaimed NYC kitchens—including El Quijote, Villanelle, and Toro—he returned home to create nuanced, farm- and coast-sourced fare that reflects both classical technique and his passion to cook.

Chef Bolivar Hilario
Community Table, New Preston 

At Community Table, Chef Bolivar weaves his Mexican heritage with inspired Japanese and French-style cooking for a healthy approach to modern, local cuisine. His dishes highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on bold flavors and sustainable practices. Chef Bolivar’s passion for culinary innovation and his dedication to using locally sourced produce create an exceptional dining experience. @bol1var_

Chef Dino Kolitsas
Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar, New Milford 

Chef Dino Kolitsas is the chef/owner of the award-winning Greca Mediterranean Kitchen + Bar in New Milford and the director of The Silo Cooking School. With a passion for Mediterranean cuisine, Chef Kolitsas brings bold flavors and innovative techniques to his dishes. His commitment to culinary excellence has earned him recognition, while The Silo Cooking School fosters a love of cooking in the community. @greca.med

Chef Daniel Meissner
Pointy Snout

Chef Daniel Meissner has been working in professional kitchens since the age of 13. After graduating from the International Culinary Center in 2015, he went on to further develop his skills in the high intensity spaces of Michelin-starred fine dining kitchens like Noma, Fäviken, and The Finch. Currently, Daniel is the executive chef at Willa in Millerton, NY where he cooks with seasonality as a guiding force. His intentions are to responsibly source food from small producers in the North East. He wishes to build relationships with the farmers that grow our vegetables, fruit, herbs and raise our meat. In this pursuit of flavor and friendship, it is his goal to create tasty food that showcases the hard work of these individuals. @acooksjourney

Chef Paul Pearson
White Hart Inn, Salisbury 

Chef Paul Pearson, originally from York, England, brings a refined yet approachable culinary style to The White Hart Inn in Salisbury. After training in various hotels and restaurants in the UK, he worked in Bermuda before moving to the U.S.His experience includes leading kitchens at Blantyre in Lenox, North Pond in Chicago, and Seasons at the Ocean House in Rhode Island. At The White Hart, Chef Pearson emphasizes seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, collaborating with local farms like Whippoorwill Farm and Green Hollow Farm. He also oversees the inn’s Provisions café and the popular Wednesday night wood-fired pizza program. @pavypearson

Chef Carlos Perez
@ the Corner, Litchfield 

Chef Carlos Perez, a Woodbury native, leads The Corner in Litchfield with award-winning, farm-to-table cuisine. His culinary approach blends artistry and bold flavors, creating memorable dishes that highlight locally sourced ingredients. Chef Perez’s innovative style has earned him recognition, and his dedication to seasonal, fresh food is at the heart of every plate he serves. @chefcarlosperez

Chef Carlo and Michelle Pulixi
Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria, Torrington 

Chef Carlo Pulixi, originally from Sardinia and trained in Rome, co-owns Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria in Torrington with his wife, Michelle. Together, they bring authentic Italian cuisine to Connecticut, drawing from their extensive experience, including their previous venture, Convivium Osteria in Brooklyn. Their Torrington restaurant offers a warm, rustic atmosphere and a menu inspired by regional Italian flavors. @geppettoct

Chef Jeff Schmidt
Hindsight BBQ, Waterbury

Hindsight BBQ is an all wood-fired craft barbeque experience. Rated a Top BBQ Joint outside of Texas, by Texas monthly chief editor Daniel Vaughn. @jefftakespics

Chef Mike Sorensen
Sparrow, New Milford 

Mike Sorensen, a San Francisco Bay Area native and culinary school graduate, refined his chops working alongside James Beard Award winning chefs in Orlando, Florida and Houston, Texas. Currently he is teamed up with successful Chef/Owner John Bourdeau at acclaimed Sparrow Bar + Restaurant in New Milford, where the two highlight their authentic and sometimes whimsical approach to globally inspired cuisine and cocktails. @sparrownewmilford

Thank you to the local farms that provide food for our event.

Autumn Harvest, Earth’s Palate farm, Hungry Reaper Farm, Why Not Farm, Chanticleer Acres, Riverbank Farm, Calf and Clover Creamery, Fort Hill Farm, Hoadley Hills Farm, Oracle Mushroom, North West Corner Farm, Daffodil Hill Growers, Vibrant Farm,  and Maple Bank Farm.

THE 2025 SPONSORS

The Abner Hotel, Christie Caters,  Classic Turf, Dobson Pools, Dunahoo Paradise Wealth Management,  Eyes On Litchfield,  Litchfield County Pools, The Litchfield Inn, Litchfield Luxury Property Management, Northeast Fine Flooring Design,  New Morning Market, Pointy Snout Caviar, Rumsey Hall School, Sea Island Forge, South Farms, The Spa at Litchfield Hills,  William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, and Winvian.
Please reach out to us at info@litchfieldmagazine.com if you are interested in becoming a sponsor. THANK YOU!

Newport, Rhode Island doesn’t need much fanfare. Its weathered shingle homes, cliffside paths, and quietly storied past speak for themselves. For those looking for a refined and visually thoughtful place to stay, The Gardiner House, which opened in fall 2023, offers a fresh way to experience this historic town.

Co-owned by Newport residents Howard Cushing and Wirt Blaffer, the 21-room boutique hotel draws heavily from Cushing’s family history and artistic legacy. One of the hotel’s standout features is a stunning two-story mural that climbs the wall beside the winding central staircase. This digital recreation is based on a mural painted in 1905 by Cushing’s great-grandfather, renowned American artist Howard Gardiner Cushing, in the entryway of the family’s Newport estate, The Ledges. The original painting still exists today. For the hotel, the mural was reinterpreted in collaboration with twenty2 wallpaper + textiles, a Litchfield County, Connecticut-based design studio known for its contemporary take on classic textile arts. This partnership beautifully ties together history, art, and modern design in a way that feels both personal and timeless.

On arrival, we explored nearby shops and galleries before settling in for dinner at Flora, the hotel’s main restaurant. The interiors are beautiful and elegant, and the food, led by Chef Ted Gidley, is polished without pretense. Our meal featured scallops with ginger-carrot purée, crab bucatini, and a simple, perfect olive oil cake. Service was warm, professional, and friendly.

The next morning, after indulging in avocado toast and poached eggs in Flora’s airy dining room, we set off for the Cliff Walk, Newport’s well-known path that edges the coastline and offers dramatic views of both the ocean and some of the town’s storied homes. From there, we toured The Breakers, the 70-room Italian Renaissance-style mansion built by the Vanderbilt family in 1895, still jaw-dropping in scale and detail. A place where no detail was spared.

Just a few blocks inland, we visited the recently reopened International Tennis Hall of Fame Museum, housed in the historic Newport Casino. The museum has been thoughtfully updated with new exhibits and interactive features, making it a must-visit for tennis fans and history buffs alike. The museum also hosts the prestigious Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and various tennis-related events throughout the year, keeping the spirit of the sport alive in this charming coastal town.

Lunch was quick and casual at Yagi Noodles, where we enjoyed pork dumplings, freshly made ramen noodles, and matcha boba tea before boarding an afternoon sailing with Gansett Cruises, which offers narrated tours of the harbor. From the water, Newport’s dramatic shoreline, bobbing sailboats, and landmark homes tell a different version of the town’s layered past.

Back at the hotel, we joined local resident Chef Kevin Des Chenes — a Newport-based culinary personality known for his appearances on Top Chef and The Today Show, and for cooking for celebrities and political leaders alike — for a cocktail in the richly colored, green lacquered lounge. Des Chenes recommended we have dinner that night at The Cooke House, a longtime favorite for fresh oysters, lobsters, and seafood dishes in a cozy, historic setting. 

In a town where history is often viewed through velvet ropes and audio tours, The Gardiner House offers a quieter, more layered experience. It’s a stay grounded in place yet attuned to design — a thoughtful, beautifully executed addition to the Newport landscape.

For those planning a visit, Newport’s vibrant cultural calendar includes the Newport Jazz Festival, the Mansions Food and Wine Festival, and the Folk Festival, and of course the summer sailing season, each bringing a unique energy to this coastal town. discovernewport.org

By Wendy Carlson

Photo by Stephen Schumacher

It’s early morning in the Great Mountain Forest, and the only sounds out here are the call of a hawk, the crunch of hemlock needles underfoot, and the rustle of a breeze in the trees. The town of Norfolk is nicknamed “the icebox of Connecticut” for its frigid winters; this stretch of woods feels like it should be called “the quietest place in the world.”

The Great Mountain Forest encompasses 6,300 acres of contiguous forestland and seven ponds in Norfolk and the town of Canaan. It is truly vast. Walking all of its 13 trails takes commitment—although even a short foray into the forest offers a glimpse into its history. Public access is available at 201 Windrow Road in Norfolk, and near 200 Canaan Mountain Road in Canaan; there are trail maps at each gate.

Much of the forest is relatively young. From the late 1700s to the 1800s, the area was stripped of trees; the wood was used to make charcoal for blast furnaces to smelt iron ore. There are, however, remote sections that were too difficult to reach for logging—sparing trees that are now more than 350 years old. 

Wildfires also reduced much of the forest, leaving behind fields and the ghostly remains of the iron-making community: colliers’ hearths, house foundations, fireplaces, unmarked graves. Early agricultural use of the land created fields and pastures, further reducing woodland. At one time, there was even a golf course in these woods.

The effort to reforest and restore the wildlife to the land began in 1909, when Starling W. Childs and former U.S. Senator Frederic C. Walcott purchased 400 acres in Norfolk, and founded what later became known as the Great Mountain Forest. Over time, they acquired more acreage; eventually the Childs family took over full ownership and stewardship. In 2003, a conservation easement was placed on the land, through the U.S. Forest Service and the Connecticut Division of Forestry. Today the forest is owned and managed by the Great Mountain Forest Corporation, a nonprofit, private-operating foundation.

Logging roads wind through the forest to allow selective lumbering, an effort to ensure the health of the trees. For decades, maples have been tapped to make maple syrup. Witch hazel is harvested here, and sold to Dickinson Brands. Since 1932, daily readings have been taken at the National Weather Service Cooperative Observation Station, which was established by Starling Childs’ son, “Ted” Childs.

Ted, an avid naturalist and a graduate of Yale, also deeded 8 acres to his alma mater in 1941 to establish a camp for field training students in the university’s forestry program. The relationship between Yale and the forest continues today, at the original campus in the middle of the forest (which the Great Mountain Forest staff manages and uses for public programs).

A walk in these quiet woods reveals its rich past, and a chance to see rare plants and wildlife. Moose have reestablished habitats here, so keep your eyes peeled for their massive antlers! 

—greatmountainforest.org

By Charles Dubow

During the off-season and mid-week, many Litchfield County restaurants find it a challenge to fill their tables. What to do? It helps to have great food—and a gimmick. A few have come up with creative ways—from Taco Tuesday to Backgammon Brunch—to attract diners who otherwise might stay home. 

“We started doing Burger Night in 2018,” says Jo-Ann Makovitzky of Community Table in New Preston. “Clearly, Monday was one of the slower days; the idea was to create something where the community could come and enjoy a less complicated meal.” Not to mention a killer burger. To see which other local restaurants offer regular weekly enticements, read on.

 @The Corner
Chef Carlos Perez is known for giving a spicy Latin twist to his seasonal American pub fare featuring locally sourced ingredients. For a mid-week treat, check out his Taco Tuesdays.
3 West St., Litchfield 860-567-8882 atthecorner.com

 Bohemian Pizza & Tacos
There are many reasons to love this funky Litchfield eatery. Not only does it serve tastebud-teasing pizzas and tacos, but come on Trivia Thursdays to tease your brain cells.
342 Bantam Rd., Litchfield 860-567-3980 bohemianpizzaandtacos.com

 Community Table
This local favorite features innovative dishes from chef Bolivar Hilario. For a more laid-back vibe and a lively scene, come for the popular Burger Mondays. Reservations recommended
223 Litchfield Tpke. / Rt. 202, New Preston 860-868-9354 communitytablect.com

The Falls Village Inn
For years, the inn has hosted a wildly popular Burger Night every Monday. For $20 you get one of their specialty burgers—many named after regular customers—plus fries, and beer, wine, or a soft drink.
33 Railroad St., Falls Village 860-823-0033 thefallsvillageinn.com

 Fife ‘n Drum Restaurant & Inn
Sundays from 5 to 8 pm, come listen to David Grausman—voted Litchfield Magazine’s favorite musician in 2025—tickle the ivories.
53 N Main St., Kent 860-927-350 fifendrum.com

Geppetto Osteria e Bisteccheria
Come Sundays for ravioli al uovo, a Northern Italian delicacy filled with ricotta, asparagus, an egg yolk, Umbrian truffle butter, and guanciale. Also try Risotto Tuesdays!
24 E Main St., Torrington 860-618-0721 geppettoct.com

 John’s Café
Celebrating 25 years, chef/owner Dennis DeBellis serves up—besides his terrific fresh pastas—two weekly attractions: No Corkage Mondays for BYOBers and Fish & Chips Fridays.
693 Main St. S, Woodbury 203-263-0188 johnscafe.com

Le Gamin Café
Chef/owner Robert Arbor hosts a backgammon brunch on Saturdays at his French bistro in Sharon. Enjoy a café au lait, a glass of rosé, the restaurant’s signature Oeuf Gamin—and game on!
10 Gay St., Sharon 860-397-5382 legamin.com

Lost Fox Inn
This charming newly restored Colonial-era inn is the perfect setting for chef CJ Barroso’s Monday Pub Nights, featuring such U.K. specialties as bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie.
571 Torrington Rd., Litchfield 860-222-0855 lostfoxinn.com

Materia Ristorante
At Litchfield Magazine’s 2022 Reader’s Choice for Best New Restaurant, star chef David DiStasi cooks his lasagna alla bolognese every Sunday—just, he says, “like nonna would make.”
637 Bantam Rd., Bantam 860-567-3326 materiaristo.com

The Pink House
Monday nights they serve moules frites, Thursday is Lamb Burger night, and Sunday is Pasta Night when chef Cedric Durand prepares homemade pasta in addition to his regular menu.
34 Lower River Rd., West Cornwall 860-248-3207 pinkhousect.com

The White Hart Inn
Enjoy Taco Tuesday and Pizza Wednesday every week from White Hart Provisions. Dine in, or take out. Available from 4:30 to 7:30 pm.
15 Under Mountain Rd., Salisbury 860-435-0030 whitehartinn.com

A Big Affair

The Bethlehem Fair Celebrates 100 Years

By Wendy Carlson

For Katie LeClerc, the fair is in her blood. Her mother, Eileen LeClerc, is the current president; her aunt, Elaine Brodeur, was president for 20 years; Katie is the current secretary. She was one month old when her mother first took her to the fair, and she has gone every year for as far back as she can remember.

LeClerc is among the legion of volunteers who will help get this year’s Bethlehem Fair up and running. It’s a mammoth undertaking. Between 20,000 and 25,000 visitors are expected to visit the fairgrounds between Sept. 5 and 7. 

On tap are food and merchandise vendors, carnival rides, and several local bands. As always, the main draw are the fair’s robust agricultural programs, featuring events such as horse and oxen pulls. 

The Bethlehem Fair is also touted for its array of exhibits, including canning, baked goods, produce, needlework, and crafts and hobbies. Ticket sale proceeds support the fair and the Fair Foundation, which, since 1995, has given more than $500,000 in scholarships to high school students. 

“It’s a lot of work,” says LeClerc. But she recalls the pride she felt on one fair day when her aunt took her on the Ferris wheel ride and asked the operator to pause it at the top so they could get a bird’s-eye view “It was so rewarding,” she says.

—bethlehemfair.com

Culinary Bloom

Something delicious is happening in Morris. Once a sleepy town known mainly for rolling hills and quiet charm, it’s fast becoming a hotspot for food lovers thanks to a burst of creative culinary energy centered around Pasture at South Farms. 

Anchoring the movement is South Farm Kitchen, setting up an adorable food truck that will serve up inventive bites for the season and offer on-site catering. They’re joined by bold, flavorful newcomers like The Codfather, a seafood lover’s dream, and the beloved returning Hindsight BBQ truck, where smoky, slow-cooked meats steal the show. Beyond the Pasture, the revitalization continues. Penny Farthing Tea Room brings vintage English charm and scones, while the new La Güera Mexican Cantina delivers authentic cuisine, a full bar, and a lively patio perfect for summer nights. The seasonal Popey’s deli and ice cream shop has expanded its space, making locals rediscover the art of the perfect sandwich. Located right behind Popey’s,  don’t miss the new Bill’s Brick Oven Pizza—wood-fired and packed with flavor, available for takeout only. Pair any meal with a bottle from Wise Old Dog Wine Shop, or pick up seasonal produce at Hungry Reaper Farm Stand, open Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Morris may be small, but its flavor is big—and growing.