Kawa Ni is a Japanese restaurant but it’s not sushi-focused. They make Japanese pub food and it’s heavenly. The lamb dan dan, miso cucumbers, tofu pockets, and the scallop nigiri are must-haves. They also make my favorite cocktail in all of Fairfield County (true story), The Kyushiki, an Old Fashioned made with smoked soy sauce. If you’re really feeling crazy, get a sake bomb!

The Whelk is, without a doubt, my favorite local restaurant. Anel and I go here for anniversaries, birthdays, date nights, and everything in between. I’ve never once eaten anything there without loving it and the vibe always feels like The West Village on a Saturday night. If you go to one restaurant in FFC, make it The Whelk. And don’t miss the green goddess deviled eggs with fried oysters and the crab toast.

Whenever I meet a girlfriend in Westport for lunch, I pop into the Spotted Horse for the Chinese chicken chopped salad. It’s one of those always-there-for-you type of restaurants. It’s not the best food in Westport but it’s always a solid choice. It’s also really cozy in the winter with a big fireplace.

Southend’s farm-to-table menu is surprisingly good compared to what the restaurant looks like from the outside. I like to sit outside in warmer months for cocktails and apps with girlfriends. I recommend the little gem Caesar salad, the burger, and the local burrata.

Rowayton Seafood is a local hotspot and always packed to the brim. Make a reservation in advance or sit on their outside deck in the summer. We go for lobster rolls (cold, not hot), rosé, and the amazing view.

Colony Grill is the most famous pizza joint in Stamford but Riko’s was started by a chef that left Colony and started a rival restaurant that actually delivers. It is by far the best pizza delivery in FFC. I’ve never actually been there in person so can’t speak to that. You have to order through their website.