Danny Gabriele lives in Greenwich. He ran a successful restaurant — Gabriele’s — there for years.
But he loves Westport too. Three weeks from now, a new Gabriele’s opens here.
The location — next to the Westport Country Playhouse — is storied. For years, it was the site of Player’s Tavern. Paul Newman and Michel Nischan founded The Dressing Room there. Most recently, it was Positano.
From the outside, the new Gabriele’s will look similar (with enhanced patio furniture and a new pergola).
New outdoor furniture was delivered yesterday to Gabriele’s. Still to come: the pergola, and finishing the exterior.
Inside though, it’s an entirely new, completely gutted and renovated space. A handsome, glass-backed bar with high-top tables sits on the left; couches and booths offer seating options throughout; a new dining area opens up in the rear. A new patio was built out back, too.
Gabriele’s is bright and light. But one thing has not been touched: Paul Newman’s fireplace.
The menu ranges from dry aged steak and seafood to pasta. It will be open for brunch, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week.
Gabriele loves his new location. There’s plenty of parking (and valet service, for those who want it).
The restaurateur has worked closely with the Playhouse management throughout the process. Soon after he opens, the theater will welcome back patrons too.
The sign at the Westport Playhouse entrance, on the Post Road. (Photo/Molly Alger)
Gabriele is excited by Westport’s robust dining scene. He’s been encouraged too by the reception he’s gotten from town officials.
“Everyone has been incredible,” he says. “This is the easiest town I’ve ever worked in.
“The inspectors are great. They call you right back. One guy was on vacation, but he got back to me 3 hours later. They tell you what to do, you fix it, and they come right back to say okay.”
Three weeks from now, diners will have their say about the newest restaurant in town.
“This is the easiest town I’ve ever worked in.” is an interesting statement. I wish him well.
We’ve enjoyed our well prepared delicious dinners and the uplifting buzz at the Greenwich location …really looking forward to making a reservation here in Westport’s iconic location of the Playhouse .
What was the restaurant there immediately before “The Dressing Room?” I think that was the best one ever in that location. Best of luck to the new place. It’s a lovely space, but a tough location because it’s not visible from the road.
Sole et Luna, I think! It was very good.