Some weeks are about staying close to home, and others take you miles away — this one did both. Between house hunting in Fairfield, a quick work trip to Charlotte, and dinners shared with family and friends, food became the thread tying it all together. From pub classics to Italian comfort, this week reminded me how the simplest meals — whether cooked at home or found on the road — can create moments of Amore Life magic.
House Hunting and a Fairfield Classic
The week started with a drive around Fairfield, scouting neighborhoods and potential homes. After a long afternoon, we stopped at Archie Moore’s, a longtime downtown staple known for its wings and hearty pub fare. I ordered the Blackened Chicken Sandwich, and it hit the spot — juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor. Sometimes simple pub food done right is all you need.
Archie Moore’s Fairfield CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Charlotte Arrival and a Reliable Favorite
By Tuesday, I was on an early flight to Charlotte. Coffee was my only breakfast before landing, so when I saw a First Watch nearby, I knew exactly where to go. Their Farmhouse Hash — with eggs, potatoes, avocado, and bacon — was the perfect fuel for a long day of meetings.
Later that evening, I headed to West Loop Local in Kannapolis — a hidden gem of a spot with craft beers, friendly staff, and cozy vibes. I went with a local IPA and a few small plates: Buffalo Chicken Empanadas and Pulled Pork Sliders. The flavors were fantastic, and the relaxed energy made it a great place to unwind after a workday.
Back at the hotel, I grabbed a Pepperoni Flatbread from the Golden Owl Tavern, located inside the JW Marriott at UNC Charlotte. The Tavern’s menu has a nice mix of upscale bar food, and even this late-night bite was perfectly crisp and satisfying.
West Loop Local Kannapolis NC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Quick Bites and Travel Eats
The next morning started early with eggs, potatoes, and bacon again at the Golden Owl Tavern, a no-fuss, hearty breakfast before client meetings. By midday, I was back at the airport. I grabbed a Shake Shack burger and fries at CLT before flying home — classic, reliable, and exactly what airport food should be: fast and delicious.
Back in Fairfield: Familiar Comforts
Once home, it was back to one of my go-to lunch spots, Little Pub in Fairfield. I was still in a comfort-food mood and ordered their Fish and Chips, which hit all the right notes — crispy coating, flaky fish, and hand-cut fries.
Friday night was the highlight of the week — dinner with friends at A’Vuchella in Bridgeport. It’s become one of my absolute favorite Italian restaurants. The Cavatelli e Salsiccia (fresh cavatelli with homemade sausage and cherry tomatoes) was incredible, perfectly al dente with just the right kick from the sausage. Paired with a glass — or two — of Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, it was the ideal Friday night meal. Dessert was their homemade cheesecake, creamy and rich without being too sweet. Truly Amore Life at its best.
A Weekend of Food and Family
Saturday morning started at Cosetta, the new Italian café in downtown Fairfield, owned by Ralph Gencarelli of Plaza Deli fame. I tried the L’Inferno Sandwich — eggs, soppressata, mozzarella, and Calabrian chili aioli — and it was outstanding. The coffee was equally good, and the atmosphere feels authentically Italian, cozy yet modern.
Later that day, we attended a family reunion at Sherwood Island with the Cardamone side of the family. I didn’t have time to cook, so I brought a few Colony Grill pizzas — always a crowd-pleaser. It was great catching up with older cousins and enjoying simple food in the sun.
We wrapped up Saturday night at my brother-in-law’s house, where he served up a fajita feast with perfectly cooked chicken and fresh veggies. It was one of those casual, laughter-filled nights that make weekends special.
Sunday ended on a relaxing note — filets on the grill, roasted potatoes, and sautéed green beans with the kids. Nothing fancy, just good food, family, and a reminder of how much joy there is in slowing down and eating well together.