2025 review

top eats of 2025

connecticut, sweden & more

In terms of the traditional “calendar year,” this review is arriving a little late. But if we’re going by the Chinese New Year—which I absolutely am (hello, Year of the Horse)—then I’m perfectly on time… even a little early. Along with my long list of resolutions, I’m ready to shed whatever last year was and focus on all the amazing plans ahead. One of them: a lot more writing.

This list, however, is going to be a tad shorter than it deserves. The first half of 2025 was spent in Rhode Island, so if you’re looking for recommendations, please refer to “Newport Favorites” and let’s politely not discuss it. But the second half of the year? Delicious. Filled with great drinks, incredible food, CTbites features, and even better company. So, without further ado…

In proper ordering fashion, I’ll start with the drinks.

Kouzina: This place has it all. And by “all,” I mean napkins in the air, smashed plates, licorice-flavored shots, and Greek spreads that make your mouth water. It’s the ultimate night out—transporting you straight to an island when you’re actually just on a main street in Stamford. The Kouzina margarita is a personal favorite, but honestly, the entire cocktail list is just as impressive as the “show” they put on.

The Americano: While this spot stays busy, it’s either a perfect place to start the night or end it. It’s a cocktail bar, so go for the drink—specifically, the tiramisu espresso martini. As for food, I can’t speak to it unless you’re counting the ladyfinger floating in my martini. Mouthwatering.

You can argue whether it’s a drink or a dessert—personally, I say both—but a quick note: if you’re on Block Island, order a mudslide at The Oar.

Realizing now I probably should’ve started with breakfast or pastries, but since I already did a full write-up on Downright Breads on CTbites, consider this a quick honorable mention: cinnamon pumpkin rolls, caraway sourdough, sourdough chocolate chip cookies... Need I say more?

https://www.ctbites.com/blog/2025/9/26/hidden-gem-downright-breads-micro-bakery

And of course, breakfast pairs best with coffee. After spending my summer exploring just about every coffee shop Fairfield County has to offer, Black Rock Coffeehouse takes the cake. Fully obsessed. Each season brings a new spread of fun flavors, and they truly never miss.

For heavenly pastries, Sift in Mystic is definitely worth mentioning. While the coffee didn’t quite live up to my expectations, they more than make up for it with an impressive display of pastries and homemade macarons. Try one of everything. Trust me.

Since this list has officially gone rogue, let’s throw appetizers into the mix. Barcelona has had my heart for years with its massive tapas menu—perfect for snacking alongside a generous six-ounce pour of red. But this year especially, you’ll find me camped there weekly with the girls. My favorite bites: patatas bravas (obviously), eggplant, albondigas, and carrots. Special shoutout to the giant bins of bread and olive oil they drop on the table; they know the way to my heart.

Now onto dinner, if you’ve managed to stick with me this far. This past fall, we spent a rainy night in Litchfield at Lost Fox Inn & Tavern, and there was something about being tucked away in an old inn by the fireplace, surrounded by New England foliage, that made the experience even better. The food lived up to the setting: homemade butter, dates, burrata, croquettes, smashburgers, and more. Worth the drive for a cozy, intimate meal.

I’ve already done a write-up on Bar Rosina, so I’ll keep this brief—but clearly, this was my year of the smashburger, because I can’t stop thinking about that one. Pair it with a spritz and an expansive spread of Italian appetizers, and you’ll be there all day (no complaints).

To end this—very fittingly, considering where I ended my year—if you find yourself in Sweden, go to Vinci in Borås. Trendy, well designed, perfect for people-watching while sipping an impressive old fashioned and eating oysters and pasta. It was so good, we went twice.

I’m a creature of habit, so if this list felt a little sporadic—or short—it’s mostly because I’m usually skipping back to places I’ve already mentioned (and loved). But in the spirit of new year, new me, I’m planning to try a lot more this year—and come back here to review it all. So, happy new year. Something tells me it’s going to be a good one!