Tag Archives: Gruel Britannia

Roundup: Governor Lamont, Food News, Fishing Fun …

Posted on April 14, 2026 | Leave a comment

Governor Ned Lamont spoke to over 150 people at the Westport Library yesterday.

It was the 4th “Your State, Your Business” event, sponsored by the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce.

Lamont covered a lot of ground, from the stability of Connecticut’s economy and energy costs, to affordable healthcare and housing.

But the audience was interested in local issues too.

The first question — from Representative Town Meeting member Kristin Schneeman — concerned the future of the Cribari Bridge.

The governor said he was getting up to speed on the subject. He said he understands that residents are concerned, and will look to put people — including 1st Selectman Kevin Christie, and the state Department of Transportation commissioner — together to figure out a solution.

A video of the event will be available later today.

After lunch at Nômade, Governor Lamont spoke to a smaller group at the Senior Center.

Governor Lamont answers a question from moderator Matthew Mandell, director of the Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce. (Photo/Lindsay Katz)

At Nômade, Governor Lamont posed with Chef Zoli Kovacs. (Photo/Sal Liccione)

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After 4,000 people voted in 11 categories, CTBites has announced semifinalists for their “It’s a Woman’s World” contest.

Two are from Westport and Weston.

Alison Milwe Grace (AMG Catering & Events) is nominated in the Catering category. Melanie Pabon (The Cottage) is a finalist in the Server/GM category.

Winners — the tops in Connecticut’s culinary world — will be announced April 27 at Hotel Marcel in New Haven. Click here for tickets, and more information. Click here for the full CTBites story.

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Those are not the only local connections in this week’s CTBites newsletter.

There’s also a feature story on Gruel Britannia.

It’s a deep dive into the popular Cross Highway spot (and her first location, in Southport).

There are also hints about a few innovations owner Karen Hubrich has planned for her Westport space. Click here to read the full story.

Lunch menu at Gruel Britannia.

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One more restaurant item: Hey Taco! has opened on Post Road East, between the Shell station and ASF.

It replaces Border Grille, which itself replace another mostly-takeout Mexican place, Tacos or What?

Chris Dobransky — aka FairfieldFoodDude — recently visited. He loved it.

He wrote about the “authentic, made-with-love tacos done right. Between the bold flavors, generous portions, and obvious passion behind the food, this place is already making a name for itself.”

Click here or below for the full writeup.

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Book lovers, take note: The Westport Library’s big spring book sale takes place May 15-18.

There is something for everyone — toddlers through adults — with thousands of gently used books in over 50 categories of non-fiction and fiction, including antiquarian, comic books,  and vintage children’s books. 

Plus a huge assortment of DVDs, CDs, vintage vinyl, jigsaw puzzles, ephemera, and framed artwork, from small desktop pieces to large wall pictures.

Hours are:

  • Friday, May 15 (noon to 6 p.m.; early access with ticket, 8:45 a.m. to noon))
  • Saturday, May 16: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Sunday, May 17: (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; almost everything half price)
  • Monday, May 18 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; fill a Library logo bag for $10, your own equivalent-size bag for $8, or buy individual books for half price).

For more information, click here. To volunteer, email  volunteers@westportbooksales.org.

A small part of the large Westport Library book sale.

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Yesterday was the first day of the Westport schools’ spring break.

Many families have already skedaddled out of town.

But bright and early, Andrew Colabella spotted these 2 boys, at Riverside and Treadwell Avenue.

(Photo/Andrew Colabella)

“It’s 7 a.m. School is off for the week,” Andrew writes.

“Your buddy meets you at your house, fishing pole and gear ready to go. Take the long haul across the bridge to the fishing spot.

“Two kids, living in the moment. Reminded me of when I was a kid. I love this town!”

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Atla DeChamplain — a jazz vocalist, lyricist and educator known for her expressive phrasing, vocal control and authenticity — headlines this Thursday’s Jazz at the Post (April 16, VFW Post 399; shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7).

She’ll be joined by her husband, pianist Matt DeChamplain, plus bassist Sameer Shankar, drummer Ben Bilello and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Speaking of the VFW: Rock star/soul singer/multi-instrumentalist Eliot Lewis — a longtime member of the Average White Band and Hall & Oates’ band, and who has performed with legends like Joe Walsh and Todd Rundgren — brings his many talents to the VFW this Friday (April 17). He’s joined by special guest artist, Weston’s own Owen Daniel.

The doors open at 6 p.m., for an opening set by Ecoustic Rock Monster.

Tickets are $15 online, $20 at the door. Light bar food and drink specials are available.

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The daffodils — and the daffodil photos — keep on coming.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” image shows the colorful scene, from the lower Imperial Avenue parking lot up the steps to the back of the Westport Woman’s Club.

(Photo/Laurie Sorensen)

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And finally … on this date in 1912, Titanic hit an iceberg in the North Atlantic. It sank a few hours later.

1,501 passengers and crew members died; 707 were saved.

(Was there room for Jack on the door frame? Why didn’t Rose beg him to try? Who knows? But here’s one thing we know for sure: You can click here, and support “06880.” Our hearts will go on. Thanks!)

 

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Roundup: Easter Joy …

Posted on April 5, 2026 | 2 comments

Gruel Britannia made sure that Easter was joyful, for families shopping at Homes with Hope’s food pantry.

The popular Cross Highway spot donated Cadbury Easter eggs — the best, as anyone who has had them knows — for clients.

“Scott and Karen are so generous,” says Homes with Hope CEO Helen McAlinden, referring to Gruel Britannia’s owners and operators.

“And the kids were so happy!”

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Meanwhile, early today, worshipers gathered at Compo Beach for the annual sunrise service.

The air was chilly. But they were warmed by the promise of the holiday, the fellowship of faith — and a fire.

(Photo/Thomas Samaranayake)

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“Primary Trust” — the next Westport Country Playhouse production, about change, friendship, quiet courage and mai tais — opens April 14.

As always, the Playhouse has planned special several events. They include:

Taste of Tuesday (April 14, 6 p.m.): Season ticket holders enjoy snacks, beverages, and casual pre-show conversation.

PRIDE Night (April 16): A pre-show gathering for the LGBTQ+ community.

Opening Night (April 18): A post-show reception, open to all ticket holders.

Sunday Symposium (April 19, after the 3 p.m. matinee): Panel discussion and Q&A about community, isolation and behavioral health with artistic director Mark Shanahan, Rev. Richard Williams of Pivot Ministries, and a representative of Silver Hill Hospital.

Taste of Tuesday Wine Tasting (April 21): Pre-show sampling of wines from The Grapevine, with snacks.

Together at the Table (April 26, $15): Families and groups enjoy a communal pizza lunch and discussion of the play before the matinee show.

Click here for tickets, and more information.

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Are you ready for Mothers Day?

The Westport Book Shop is. They’re celebrating with a card, featuring artwork from their talented employees.

Just click here. Choose your donation amount, and who it’s from and to. They’ll do the rest.

Westport Book Shop Mothers Day card.

More news from the Westport Book Shop: Their Short Story Club meets April 22 (6 p.m.).

This month’s selections are by Irish authors:

  • “As Kingfishers Catch Fire” by Colum McCann
  • “Foster” by Claire Keegan
  • “The Piano Teacher’s Pupil” by William Trevor.

To register, call 203-349-5141 or email RSVP@westportbooksaleventures.org.

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Hey, at least yesterday morning was nice.

Claudia Sherwood Servidio snapped this shot for our “Westport … Naturally” feature, on a long walk through Longshore.

(Photo/Claudia Sherwood Servidio)

The week ahead looks up and down. The temperature will drop to 29 on Tuesday night, then rise to 66 by Friday.

Welcome to springtime in New England!

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And finally … happy Easter, to all who celebrate!

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog — weekdays, weekends and  holidays, 24/7/365. If you appreciate our efforts, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Posted in Beach, Local business, religion, Westport Country Playhouse

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Old Mill Grocery Lawsuit Sustained; Judge Cites Zoning Issues

Posted on February 19, 2026 | 20 comments

A Superior Court judge yesterday sustained 2 objections to Old Mill Grocery & Deli’s “nonconforming use” of their 107-year-old property on Hillspoint Road.

The sweeping decision could have implications for 2 other businesses in Westport — and for other actions taken by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

Judge Dale Radcliffe’s 21-page ruling involved a pair of text amendments, adopted by the P&Z in 2024.

The first permitted the consumption of alcoholic beverages in a retail food establishment located in a “B” residential zone.

The goal was to “offer more flexibility to … existing establishments to keep afloat.”

Old Mill Grocery & Deli. (Photo/Matt Murray)

Many members of the public advocated for the text amendment, which was proposed by OMG’s owner, the Soundview Empowerment Alliance (SEA). The non-profit — which includes neighbors and other Westporters — bought the building several years ago, to keep it as a market and community hub.

A small group of residents appealed the text amendment. They maintained that it constituted “spot zoning,” and illegally expanded a non-conforming use. They also alleged that the P&Z usurped the powers of the Zoning Board of Appeals, by granting a zoning variance that only the ZBA can give.

While the appeal was pending, the SEA submitted a second text amendment. Changes — involving Old Mill Grocery’s use of a gelato cart and picnic tables — were designed to address objections raised by the plaintiffs.

In addition to Old Mill Grocery & Deli — operated by Romanacci’s — 2 other businesses would be affected: The Country Store on Wilton Road, and what is now Gruel Britannia on Cross Highway (formerly Christie’s Country Store, and The Porch).

Gruel Britannia on Cross Highway may be affected by the Superior Court ruling.

In December 2024, the P&Z passed that text amendment, 5-0.

In his decision, Judge Radcliffe wrote that “the proposed use of certain nonconforming uses in Westport’s residential zones as Retail Food Establishments (RFE) including the sale of alcoholic beverages and outdoor dining would unambiguously constitute an impermissible expansion of the existing nonconforming uses.

“The use of property as nonconforming is permitted only to the extent that it existed at the time of the adoption of the zoning regulations which rendered it nonconforming. Otherwise, it is prohibited.”

He added, “the Text Amendments were drafted with the clear intent of allowing certain nonconforming uses to operate in a fashion which constituted an expansion of the nonconforming use and avoided the necessity of concocting a legally cognizable hardship, a prerequisite to obtaining a valid variance.”

Old Mill Grocery dates back to the early 1900s. In the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s it was operated by Ken Montgomery.

The judge declined to rule on the plaintiffs’ claim of spot zoning, because the P&Z did not decide to change the zoning classification.

However, he concluded, “Both consolidated appeals are SUSTAINED.” SEA and Old Mill Grocery are “ordered to cease and desist from any use … which is inconsistent with the lawful preexisting nonconforming use existing on the property” prior to adoption of the 2 text amendments.

“The sale of alcoholic beverages at 222 Hillspoint Road, which was not authorized prior to the adoption of the challenged Text Amendments, is found to be illegal, and an unlawful expansion of the nonconforming use of the property.”

This is a developing story. “06880” has reached out to SEA for a comment on what this means for the future of Old Mill Grocery & Deli, and to Planning & Zoning Commission chair Paul Lebowitz and town attorney Ira Bloom, on implications for zoning decisions in Westport generally. Bloom said he is reading the decision, and will reply this afternoon.

To view the full Superior Court decision, click here.

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Roundup: Sandy Suarez, Mid-Term Exams, Lesley Vincent …

Posted on January 4, 2026 | Comments Off on Roundup: Sandy Suarez, Mid-Term Exams, Lesley Vincent …

A popular local server needs help.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Sandy Suarez. She’s worked at Gruel Britannia since it opened; before that she was at The Porch @ Christie’s, and spent many years as a nanny.

Sandy recently received a stage 2 cancer diagnosis. Surgery was largely successful, but she must undergo 28 rounds of chemo. The first is tomorrow.

Treatment presents a significant financial challenge.

“Sandy has served our community for years,” the GoFundMe page says. “Now it’s our turn to help her.” Click here to donate. (Hat tip: Katie Phillis)

Sandy Suarez

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The Westport Public Schools’ Christmas vacation is almost over.

At Staples High, that means mid-term exams loom.

As always, the Westport Library offers a warm welcome to stressed-out students.

Today and next Sunday (January 4 and 11), the library will open early, at 9:30 a.m. However, parents, teachers and adult tutors will not be allowed in until 1 p.m.

From January 5 to 15 (except January 8), from 5 p.m. on, the Komansky Room (behind the Trefz Forum stage) is available for quiet study.

The Higgins Room will be open for study breaks — including board games, and a therapy dog. Check the website for exact dates and details.

The Patron Services desk is the place to go for highlighters, index cards, other supplies — and those all-important chargers.

Staples students don’t love mid-terms. But they love that the Library is there for them, every semester.

Students flock to the Westport Library at exam time. (Photo/Patricia McMahon)

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Photos of New England are on display all month at the Westport Book Shop.

The work of guest exhibitor Lesley Vincent, the images include Westport, Southport, Black Rock, Provincetown and Martha’s Vineyard. All works are available for purchase.

A reception is set for January 16 (6 p.m.).

Lesley Vincent, and his photos.

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In a rare nighttime “Westport … Naturally” image, Kona wanders outside under a full moon.

(Photo/Carl McNair)

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And finally … today is Tom Thumb Day. It honors the birthday of Bridgeport native Charles Sherwood Stratton. Born in 1838 with what is now called pituitary dwarfism, he was discovered and promoted around the world by showman (and Bridgeport mayor) PT Barnum.

Under Barnum’s management, Tom Thumb became a wealthy man. He owned a house in a fashionable part of New York, a steam yacht, and a specially adapted home in the Thimble Islands.

He died at 45, of a stroke.

He was 45 years old. Over 20,000 people attended the funeral. Barnum bought a life-sized statue of Tom Thumb for his gravestone at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport.

(Tomorrow, we start the first full week of a new year. Today, you can start “06880” off right by clicking here, to make a tax-deductible contribution. Happy new year — and thank you!)

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Roundup: Run For RTM, Eat At Gruel Britannia, Clean Up Trash …

Posted on July 22, 2025 | 4 comments

Westport residents interested in running for the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) can pick up a petition at the Town Clerk’s office, starting today.

To qualify for the November 4 ballot, candidates must collecct at least 25 signatures from registered voters in their district. Completed petitions must be returned to the town clerk by September 9.

The RTM is a 36-member, nonpartisan legislative body. Four representatives are elected from each of 9 voting districts. Members serve two-year terms.

RTM members play a vital role in town governance. They vote on appropriation requests over $20,000, approve town ordinances, provide final approval of the town budget, and serve on committees that review and make recommendations on budgetary and legislative matters. They may also review certain decisions made by town boards and commissions.

For more information about the petition process or other election questions, contact Town Clerk Jeffrey Dunkerton: 203-341-1105; jdunkerton@westportct.gov.

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Yesterday marked a jolly good opening for Gruel Britannia.

The new Cross Highway restaurant — an outpost of the very popular Southport spot, taking over the vacant Porch @ Christie’s — was packed from the moment the doors opened.

Neighbors, other Westporters from further away, Fairfield fans, construction workers, delivery people — all were impressed with the menu, the interior, and owner Karen Hubrich’s welcoming vibe.

Click here for last week’s preview story, and menus.

Gruel Britannia: ready to serve. (Photo/Dan Woog)

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Today marks the beginning of the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force drive.

They’re collecting household items for clients at their 2 safe houses. Supplies are part of “move-in baskets,” which help recipients transition into apartments.

Items needed include

  • Laundry detergent
  • Laundry baskets
  • Plastic reusable plates
  • Plastic reusable utensils
  • Dish soap
  • Sponges
  • Dish towels
  • Hand towels and washcloths
  • Condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.)
  • Tin foil
  • Plastic wrap
  • Parchment paper
  • Toilet paper
  • Paper towels
  • Disinfecting wipes
  • Brooms and mops
  • Dustpans
  • Paper napkins
  • Hand soap

Donations can be dropped off in the lobby at the Westport Police station, through July 29.

For more information on the Westport Domestic Violence Task Force, click here. For 24-hour assistance with domestic violence, call 888-884-2900, or click here.

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As “06880” and the Compo Beach Improvement Assocation put the final touches on this Sunday’s Soundview Summer Stroll (July 27, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), we’re looking for a few teenagers (or parents!) to help run games and fun for little kids, in 1-2 hour shifts.

It’s already organized. We just need helping hands! If interested, please email at kristinemott@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, get ready to enjoy live music, eat, play, stroll, Rollerblade, and otherwise enjoy the Compo Beach exit road — closed to all traffic — on Sunday.

See you there!

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An “06880” reader whose home abuts the Longshore golf course writes: “During the 4 years we have lived here, we have found empty beer cans, candy wrappers and the like on our rear property.

“On Sunday, one of my granddaughters discovered 2 empty Coors cans.

“Of course, there’s a teaching lesson for them: Respect other people’s property, don’t litter, etc.

“However, the real lesson is: Golfers and other Longshore attendees are disrespectful to their neighbors.

“My husband and I are shocked that we live in aqqa community that has no respect for our property. We thought when we moved here Westport was a kind,caring and respectful community. We sadly are finding that that is not the case.

“Everyone should treat their neighbors’ property in the same manner they would like others to treat their property.”

The back of a Longshore-area resident’s property.

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The Westport Police Department says: Connecticut is updating its e-bike laws.

Effective October 1, e-bikes without pedals, and with batteries over 750 watts, will now be classified as motor-driven cycles. A driver’s license will be required to operate them.

E-bikes over 3,500 watts are expected to need registration and insurance — similar to motorcycles.

Class 1–3 e-bikes are not affected. They still will noto require a license.

Police say tell parents: “As you shop for e-bikes, keep these changes in mind –especially for younger riders. If a bike performs like a motorcycle, it may not be the right fit for a child just yet.”

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Speaking of transportation: Spaces in the Westport Weston Family YMCA parking lot closest to the Merritt Parkway are narrower than in other rows.

There are “Compact Cars Only” signs. But not a lot. They’re easy to miss.

What’s not easy to miss is when you have to squeeze into a spot. And come within millimeters of scraping the car next to you. Like this driver:

I’m pretty certain the green car was already there.

Getting in was the easy part. Getting out will be much harder.

It’s always amazed me that people will do anything they can, to park as close to the Y as possible.

So they can then go inside, and work out.

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Westport is home to all kinds of summer camps. Cello, art, computer, SAT prep — you name, there’s something for you.

Including water polo.

Northeast Elite offers an August 4-9 camp for middle and high school students. Experienced and new players are all welcome. It’s non-competitive and focused on fundamentals, with both land and water activities.

It’s the 6th year for this special opportunity — and it certainly is unique. The site is Schlaet’s Point, right off Compo Beach. Click here for more information.

Coach Danilo Sierra-Giraldo, at the Northeast Elite water polo camp.

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Speaking of water sports: Congratulations to Zadie Schatz!

The young Westport swimmer — a rising 8th grader at Pierrepont School — earned 1 gold and 3 silver medals, 4 junior national times (100 breast, 200 breast, 200 IM, 400 IM), and a few national swimming news mentions at the recent Novato Sectionals in California.

Her 100 breaststroke time is 0.7 seconds away from last year’s Olympic trial cut —  very unusual for a 13-year-old, particularly a dual sport athlete (she also plays water polo).

Sectional meets are open age, so she raced against adults and college athletes too.

Congratuations too to Zadie’s Stamford Sailfish teammate and fellow Westporters, Connor Cheung

The 15-year old, who will be a Staples High School sophomore this fall, placed 51st, 97th and 105th in, respectively, the 50 free, 100 free and 200 free.

Zadie Schatz

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Like all reunion classes, they can’t believe it’s been xx years.

But Staples High School’s Class of 1980 celebrates their 45th reunion next month.

They’ll meet Friday, August 15 at the VFW. They’ll spend Saturday afternoon and evening at Compo Beach, with dinner from the Szabo Seafood truck.

As always, they’ll raise money for their beloved classmate Susan Lloyd, and the Susan Fund that for over 50 years has provided more than $2 million in scholarships, to Fairfield County residents with cancer. Funds will come from a raffle of art, by Class of ’80 artists.

For more information on the reunion, and to register, click here. Questions? Email Amy Potts: amy@aapk.com.

Susan Lloyd

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When vocalist/actor/writer Abena Koomson-Davis sat in with her husband at Jazz at the Post, she brought the VFW house down.

This Thursday, the 3-time Tony winner — who has performed with Stevie Wonder and recorded with Natalie Merchant — headlines her own shows (July 24, 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; $20; $15 veterans and students).

Koomson-Davis will be joined by pianist Rick Germanson, bassist Matt Dworszyk, drummer Jonathan Barber and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall. Click here for reservations.

PS: Even if you’re not a jazz fan, check out the performance below. Spectacular!

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Also this Thursday (July 24): The Fairfield County Dance Festival returns to Westport (6:30 p.m., MoCA CT). The free, outdoor performance features the Amy Marshall Dance Company and New England Ballet Theater.

All are welcome — from longtime dance enthusiasts to families looking for a fun summer evening outside.

Audience members are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and picnics. For more information, click here.

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There’s a word for “fear of spiders” (arachnophobia).

But even the most arachnophobic “06880” reader must marvel at spiders’ creation.

Pam Kesselman spotted (and snaped) today’s “Westport … Naturally” featured photo — on her deck.

(Photo/Pam Kesselman)

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And finally … “who” knew this was coming?

(From the RTM and Gruel Britannia to e-bikes and water polo, “06880”‘s Roundup has it all. That’s the way we roll. If you enjoy features like this, please click here to support our work. Thanks!)

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Posted in Arts, Beach, Local politics, Longshore, Police, Staples HS, Transportation, YMCA

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Gruel Britannia Opens Soon: “Where Old England Meets New England”

Posted on July 15, 2025 | 9 comments

In 1777, British troops landed at Compo Beach.

They marched up Cross Highway on their way to Danbury, where they burned a supply depot.

But on their way back, they were ambushed by patriots. It was reported that fighting was fiercer than at Lexington and Concord.

The British never returned.

Until now. Next Monday, the British will be back on Cross Highway.

This time, they’ll be welcomed with open arms.

And hungry stomachs.

Karen Hubrich’s Gruel Britannia — the popular and unique Southport restaurant — will open its second outpost. The site is the former Porch, closed since December.

2025 sign harks back to 1777.

The spot between North Avenue and Bayberry Lane is iconic. It wasn’t there when King George’s soldiers marched by. But it has been around for over a century. For much of that time, it was Christie’s Country Store.

Now it’s poised for a new life.

Hubrich — a Johnson & Wales graduate whose varied, 46-year culinary career includes stints as personal chef for Michael Bolton, and at the Fairfield County Hunt Club, New York Times executive dining room and Pequot Yacht Club — has a partner with even deeper Westport roots than hers.

Staples High School graduate Scott Rochlin — who owned Henry’s (now Tarantino) in Saugatuck, and built the Porch’s interior for owners Bill and Andrea Pecoriello — approahced Hubrich with the idea after the Porch closed.

She had been thinking about opening another place in Westport. She’d already considered the former International House of Pancakes on Post Road East.

But the Cross Highway space was much more intriguing.

Who you gonna call? Karen Hubrich and Scott Rochlin. (Photos/Dan Woog)

When Hubrich walked into the vacated space, she had a vision: a space with all the fun of Gruel Britannia — and “where old England meets New England.”

There will be afternoon teas, pig roasts, lobster bakes, cigar night dinners, a cooking class, etiquette class, car show in the parking lot, private events … the possibilities are endless.

S0 are opportunities to partner with Wakeman Town Farm, just up the road.

Unlike the Porch, they won’t close at 3 p.m. That’s when kids from nearby Staples High and Bedford Middle School will start arriving. A couple of hours later, families will stop for meals to eat in, or take out. (Dinner hours begin after Labor Day.)

Earlier — starting with breakfast — the gazebo will be open. Formerly an ice cream stand, it is rechristened as the Tuck Shop.

The British term will soon become familiar to Westporters. And to everyone else driving by, including contractors, landscapers, deliverers and others.

They can pop in for coffee, breakfast (egg sandwich, bacon butty, breakfast burrito), baked goods (scones, muffins, cookies), lunch (carnita rice and bean bowl, chicken parm sandwich, smashburger, hot dog), or an ice cream sandwich, gelato or sorbetto.

Tuck Shop menu …

The menu in the main, century-old building includes sandwiches, wraps, salads — and of course bangers and mash, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, mushy peas and other traditional dishes from across the pond.

Virtually everything — including fries and chips — is home-made.

… and lunch.

A soft (“very soft,” Hubrich emphasizes) opening is set for Monday (July 21). This week, she and Rochlin are taking care of all the details necessary to open a new restaurant.

“The Pecoriellos (former operators )took good care of the Porch,” Rochlin says. The new ones are just adding fresh paint, new wallpaper — and of course the Union Jack colors at the Tuck Shop.

Hubrich is also making sure the staff watches “Downton Abbey.”

“They must get the vibe,” she says.

(“06880” regularly covers new businesses. If you enjoy learning more about our town, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

 

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Gruel, Britannia!

Posted on June 7, 2019 | 9 comments

Growing up in London, Karen Hubrich hated traditional English food.

Fortunately, her Austrian mother and Hungarian father made sure she ate well.

When she was 21, she got a job serving meals at the prestigious Foreign Press Association, near Buckingham Palace. She looked at the first plate and thought, “This is diabolical.”

Soon — without any training whatsoever — she became the organization’s chef.

It was one more stop on a life that had already provided plenty of surprises. And would offer many more.

Four years earlier — just 17 years old — Karen had “escaped” to New York. She found work as a nanny. “It was a horror story,” she recalls. “I worked 12 hours a day, 6 days a week, and lived in a closet.”

The Foreign Press Association job was a step up. But Karen longed to return to New York. “I didn’t have a pot to piss in,” she says. But she came back, lived with friends in the West Village, and — after spotting an ad in the New York Times — landed a job as chef of the MetroTech faculty dining room in Brooklyn.

She had no green card. Back in the day, there was a simple solution: Her employer sponsored her.

She biked to work, had “bankers’ hours,” and weekends off.

After a couple of years though, she got the urge to move. Another Times ad led her to apply to be chef at the Williams Club.

The room was filled with “old fuddy-duddies in suits,” she says. They were there to be interviewed too. Karen was the only woman.

She got the job.

She also moved to Westport. She knew the town well: Her stepfather lived here, and she visited him often each summer.

She commuted to work by train. She had one son, then got pregnant again. The Williams Club offered her a great severance package. She took it.

Her next gigs were closer to home: Food for Thought, the health food place on the Post Road near Norwalk, then 5 years as chef at the Fairfield County Hunt Club.

For the third time though, Karen found a new job through the New York Times. This time it was at the Times — they were looking for an executive chef for their dining room.

So it was back to commuting. She soon ran the the entire food service. It was a great job, in the Times’ historic old building.

But when the paper moved to its new office, an outside firm came in to handle the food. Karen was soon “a single mom with 2 kids, unemployed, and stressed out.”

Even while working other jobs, Karen Hubrich had a catering business.

Fairfield County Hunt Club hired her back. She was there for another 5 years, until Pequot Yacht Club came calling.

Oh, yeah: In between was another 5-year stint, as the personal chef for Michael Bolton and his family.

“He was a great guy — very pleasant to work with,” Karen says. He lived right down the street, in her Old Hill neighborhood.

And she also did catering, and prepared meals to go. Plus all the prepared meals at Double L Farm Stand (which she still does).

These days, Karen is 62. Naturally, she’s on to her next project.

In mid-May, Karen opened a restaurant — her first ever. It’s at 2217 Post Road in Fairfield, just before South Pine Creek.

Warm and cozy, she designed it herself. It’s called Gruel Britannia.

Gruel Britannia, in Fairfield.

In a nod toward the way life can take unexpected turns, she specializes in English cuisine. The same food Karen loathed as a girl.

Now she makes shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, bangers and mash, Yorkshire pudding, mushy peas — all simple, classical, with her own special twist.

Karen serves breakfast too: English bacon spread with butter and HP sauce, scones, and coffee — specially roasted by her son Lucas.

The Gruel Britannia pastry case, and menu.

“The food in London is now unbelievable,” she says of her decision to feature a cuisine she once called “diabolical.”

That’s jolly good.

(Gruel Brittania also offers prepared foods, soups, baked items and frozen selectons. Click here for more information. Hat tip: Darcy Sledge)

Gruel Britannia’s loo.

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