The fall season is at its peak, and with the colorful change of falling leaves comes a bright new scene in local dining. On Saturday, November 3, the New Fairfield Food Center will celebrate the grand opening of its newly renovated café space, featuring cozy indoor seating and scenic reservoir view, now open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. All residents are invited to join the celebration!

A cornerstone business for over 40 years, the Food Center has undergone many changes. When purchased in 1974, this typical hometown market stocked a small variety of groceries, locally grown fruits and vegetables and select cuts of freshly butchered meats. Through the years, renovations have included expanding the grocery and meat departments, adding a prepared meals case and a large addition to the deli department, which includes bar style seating. “I am so very proud of what Johnny and his family have done to add to the continued success of the family business, including weekend and catering help from my grand kids, Karli and Michael,” said co-owner, Concetta Biele. “After so many years at this location, I still see customers who were here from day one.”

Since receiving the National Boars Head Market of Distinction Award in 2017, store owners, Johnny Petrone and Concetta Biele, ha
ve been busy completing their latest and largest renovation: the newly designed café space. This cozy room is perfect for “grab and go” dining, catering parties on the premises and hosting casual gatherings, such as sports teams after a game. “It’s always been my vision to expand and renovate the available store space to incorporate the beautiful view,” said Johnny Petrone. “The room’s warmth and casual feel is inviting for customers to get together and enjoy a meal. It’s been a family effort from the get-go, and I couldn’t be happier with the finished result.”

Responsibility for the final design and decorating details was taken on by Johnny’s wife, Kori. A gas fireplace and large screen TV complete the decor and extend the warm and friendly feel that the Food Center has been known for over the years. “This was my pride and joy,” said Kori. “All our customers are very excited to see it open; I’m looking forward to the grand opening!”

After almost two years and a lot of hard work, this family business is keeping it simple. The “ring-out and eat” policy makes it easy and stress-free. In addition to all the usual breakfast and lunch favorites, updates to the menu will include: new prepared meal options, which can be heated in the dining area, hot homemade soups, expanded deli choices, featuring Boars Head cold cuts, and much more.

Deli Manager and Culinary graduate of Johnson & Wales University, Joe Petrone, is ready to take on the challenge. “We are excited to offer gluten free and vegan alternatives, with many more creative ideas to come! This is a great opportunity to help continue to move the business forward,” said Joe.

The grand opening of the new café space is this Saturday from 11am-3pm. Stop by and join in the festivities — grab a meal, sit by the fire and enjoy the colorful view. Promotions will include: Boars Head hot dogs, hor d’oeuvres, drinks, give-a-ways, and lots of warm, smiling faces!

New Fairfield Food Center is located in the NF Shopping Center

Hours: M-F 6:30am-6:30pm

Sat 6:30a
m-6pm and

Sun 6:30am-3pm

By Marylou Schirmer