This week was a whirlwind of international travel and local comfort. Between meetings in Amsterdam, disappointing canteen lunches, and a few culinary bright spots, I wrapped up the week back home in Connecticut with family favorites, sweet treats, and plenty of good food.
The Schiphol Start: Jet Lag and Room Service
After landing in Amsterdam Monday morning, I checked into the Sheraton Amsterdam Airport Hotel. Convenient for meetings near Schiphol, but not ideal for foodies. By 4 p.m. I was done from jet lag and ordered room service pizza. Sadly, it was a bust—bland, chewy, and definitely not a slice worth remembering. A rough start to the week.
Canteen Misses in Zaandam
Tuesday’s meetings took me to Zaandam, where the office canteen provided the day’s meal. Pasta with salmon was the best option on offer, but it was a miss—overcooked pasta and flavorless fish. It’s one of those “fuel only” meals, the kind you eat because you’re starving, not because you enjoy it.
De Kroon Bar & A Dinner Detour
By the evening, my team and I needed redemption. We stopped at De Kroon Bar, a casual Amsterdam pub known for cold beers and lively atmosphere. It hit the spot after a long day.
De Kroon Bar⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I campaigned for Ceppi’s, my favorite Italian restaurant in Amsterdam, but it was packed on a Tuesday night—proof of how beloved it is. Without a reservation, we pivoted to Maya’s Steakhouse, an Argentinian grill. Unfortunately, another disappointment. The steak was tough, underwhelming, and left me wishing we’d fought harder for a table at Ceppi’s.
Maya’s Steakhouse Amsterdam ⭐️⭐️
We did end that evening on the positive side with a few bottles of wine from Shiraz Jardin des Vins. Super cool wine bar on a canal, not too far from Ceppi’s, making it an excellent after dinner spot.
Shiraz Jardin des Vins ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wednesday’s lunch was another canteen situation—this time a meatball sandwich that had an odd texture, almost more filler than meat. Dutch office food isn’t exactly known for culinary greatness, and this week proved the point.
Finally, something decent arrived with a hotel dinner of chicken skewers and mashed potatoes—flavorful, tender, and exactly the comfort food I needed. The highlight abroad came at a coworker’s house where the team gathered for a celebratory BBQ feast. After days of disappointing meals, the home-cooked spread felt like a gift.
Back Home and Straight to A’ Vucchella
Nothing says welcome back quite like authentic Italian food. My first stop was Trattoria A’ Vucchella in Bridgeport, where I ordered the orecchiette with sausage and broccoli rabe. Wow. The flavors transported me right back to Italy—bitter greens, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta. This restaurant never disappoints, and it felt like the perfect way to shake off a long week of travel.
Weekend Family Vibes
Saturday was all about family, college football, and comfort food. While watching the games, we indulged in easy eats and sweet treats. The standout was a trip to Alina’s Cakes in Fairfield, where we picked up gluten-free cupcakes (alongside some regular ones). The texture and flavor were spot-on—proof that gluten-free baking can truly shine. Everyone raved about them, and I know we’ll be back for more.
Alina’s Cakes in Fairfield ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Alina’s Cakes & Cookies has become a favorite among Fairfield dessert lovers, and for good reason. As noted in CT Bites, Alina Dancho’s bakery is praised for using non-GMO sugar and flour, organic milk, and cage-free eggs. Nearly all of her offerings—cupcakes, pastries, breads—include gluten-free options. The bakery emphasizes quality ingredients and flavor over flashy display, which gives every treat an honesty people rave about.
On review sites:
- Yelp commenters highlight the “beautiful cupcakes” and very good frosting, saying the raspberry cupcake and other sweet treats are standout picks.
- The Facebook page shows high recommendations—people say Alina’s “makes cakes and sweets with love” and note the delight in finding serious gluten-free options.
- One small caveat: because the facility is not strictly nut-free or dedicated GF, some customers with severe allergies suggest checking directly with the baker.
So when I grabbed gluten-free cupcakes (and regular ones) at Alina’s this week, it wasn’t just dessert—it was part of why people in town are talking about this spot fondly. The texture, the flavors, and the care show up in every bite.