Owners Of Monroe Social Open Fairfield Location

FAIRFIELD, CT — Foodies near Fairfield have a new place to try after Fairfield Social held its grand opening earlier this month.

The restaurant, an off-shoot of Monroe Social, offers seasonal American cuisine and focuses on working with local farmers. Owners Douglas Vasquez, of Stamford, and Constantin Krama, of Stratford, chose to open their new restaurant in Fairfield because of its lively atmosphere.

"People like to go out and eat here," Vasquez said. "... We figured it would be a good fit."

Fairfield Social, which is open for lunch and dinner, is located at 116 Post Road in the space formerly occupied by Tazza Osteria & Bar. The new business's grand opening and ribbon cutting took place Dec. 5.

Among the restaurant's standout offerings are a roasted half duck, a house-braised short rib and at least 15 small plates made from scratch, Vasquez said. Fairfield Social also offers a full bar with craft cocktails and 12 beers on tap, as well as a Sunday brunch buffet with a raw bar, omelet station, carving station, bloody marys, mimosas and more. Vasquez said he and Krama made an effort to hire friendly staff who would create a social atmosphere at the restaurant.

Fairfield Social will enhance the town's already vibrant restaurant scene, Community and Economic Development Director Mark Barnhart said.

"They have a very successful operation up in Monroe," he said. "... We're excited to have them expand here to Fairfield."

The restaurant's Fairfield space is a bit bigger than the Monroe location and offers patio seating. The decor is trendy and casual, with industrial-inspired hanging light fixtures, white brick walls and a marble bar.

At the grand opening, a guitarist and vocalist performed live. The Monroe restaurant, which has been open three years, regularly features live music, trivia and karaoke, all of which may be offered in Fairfield if there's a demand for it, Vasquez said.

First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said she enjoyed meeting the new owners at the recent ribbon cutting.

"I think they'll be successful and I look forward to another awesome restaurant choice," she said.

For more information, visit www.thefairfieldsocial.com and www.facebook.com/Fairfieldsocial.