This week felt like a blend of comfort and celebration — from creamy pastas to Cajun-smoked pork chops and even a family steakhouse birthday. Between busy days, house-hunting ups and downs, and a few well-earned dinners out, food once again became the constant thread that tied it all together. Sometimes, it’s not just about what you eat — it’s about the moments those meals create.
Creamy Comfort to Start the Week
The week kicked off in the best possible way — with Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. I made both regular and gluten-free versions, keeping the sauce rich with cream, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. The key is to cook the broccoli just enough to stay crisp, giving the dish that perfect bite. The creamy sauce tied everything together beautifully — the kind of meal that instantly feels like home.
Taco Tuesday in Newtown
There’s something about Taco Tuesday that never disappoints. We met friends at Taco Día in Newtown, CT — a spot known for its modern take on classic Mexican comfort food. We started with the Street Corn Queso, a warm, cheesy dip topped with sweet corn and spices. I went for the Chicken Quesadillas with beans and rice, and they hit all the right notes: cheesy, smoky, and satisfying. My wife ordered her favorite Mexican Pizza — crispy, layered, and bursting with flavor. A classic margarita (or two) rounded out the night perfectly.
Taco Dia Newtown CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Midweek Comfort Food & a Little Disappointment
After learning our offer on a house didn’t go through, we needed some comfort food. We headed to Little Pub in Fairfield, one of our go-to spots for casual eats and a cozy atmosphere. I ordered the French Dip Sandwich with a pint of Guinness — and it was exactly what I needed. Juicy, tender beef, melted cheese, and that warm au jus. My wife got the Steak Salad, and while we were disappointed about the house, dinner gave us the lift we needed.
Cajun Smoke & Sweet Apple Whiskey
By Thursday, my mood turned around, and I decided it was time to fire up the pellet smoker. I seasoned bone-in pork chops with a Cajun rub, letting the smoky pecan wood work its magic. On the side: sweet potato mash mixed with brown sugar, Mike’s Hot Honey, and maple syrup — pure perfection. I topped it with sautéed apples cooked in brown sugar, cinnamon, and a splash of whiskey. The combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy made it one of my favorite home-cooked meals in weeks.
Bagels, Beer, and a Steakhouse Celebration
Friday started simple but satisfying with JBC Bagels in Trumbull — a new find worth the trip. Freshly baked bagels, great texture, and the perfect chew. Later that evening, we met friends at Notch 8 in Bethel for some casual eats. Their wings are solid, their pizza has that just-right char, and the beer selection always impresses. We got the Margherita and Honey Hot Roni, both hit the spot!
JBC Bagels Trumbull CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Notch 8 Bethel CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The weekend brought a highlight — my son’s 25th birthday at Joseph’s Steakhouse in Bridgeport. If you’ve never been, Joseph’s is one of those old-school steakhouses that does it right: impeccable service, perfectly cooked steaks, and a timeless atmosphere. My filet came out sizzling and seasoned just right — the kind of meal that reminds you why steak dinners are meant for celebrations.
Joseph’s Steakhouse Bridgeport CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ending the Week with Family & Simplicity
Sunday wrapped up the week with some time outside — my son and I worked on his car, then capped it off with a casual stop at Brewport in Bridgeport. Their pizza and beer lineup is always a hit, but after a week like this, the real win was a simple afternoon spent with family, good food, and laughter.
Brewport Bridgeport CT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️