Business & Tech

Hidden Gems Of Hartford And Tolland Counties

Old-world Italian family recipes make today's Hidden Gem a destination worth the drive from anywhere.

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Francesco's Ristorante at 43 Mountain Rd. in Suffield.
Francesco's Ristorante at 43 Mountain Rd. in Suffield. (Tim Jensen/Patch)

SUFFIELD, CT — Normally, a business located on a state route for more than 30 years would not be considered hidden. However, when that route is 168 through Suffield, a quiet bedroom community with very little commerce, it is easy to see why many people have yet to discover the culinary gem that is Francesco's Ristorante. Until now.

Founded in 1988 by Francesco and Caterina Montefusco, the Italian restaurant at 43 Mountain Rd. has always taken pride in delivering top-quality food to its patrons, using old-world family recipes. Four years ago, the business was taken over by their son Johnny and his wife Crystal, who have carried on the family tradition.

"As a little kid, I was always here running around making stuff, and I worked here right after high school," Johnny Montefusco said.

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A year ago came the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, forcing severe restrictions on nearly all businesses, particularly restaurants. The Montefuscos maintained their take-out service, and decided to upgrade the dining room. The indoor seating capacity remains around a cozy 45, but some new decor and bigger booths were added.

"We decided it was the perfect time to renovate," Johnny Montefusco said.

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The grand opening of the renovated dining room is slated for Tuesday, March 23. Indoor dining hours will be Tuesday through Thursday, 4-8:30 p.m.; Friday, 4-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, noon-9:30 p.m.; and Sunday, noon-8:30 p.m.

A great number of veal, chicken, seafood and pasta entrees are offered, as well as appetizers, soups and salads. A popular choice among diners is Francesco's Best, a signature dish consisting of fresh eggplant and veal baked in a house-made tomato sauce, topped with mozzarella.

Crystal Montefusco said the couple plans to add some outdoor seating, and now has a full liquor license instead of just beer and wine. A few cocktails will be available, including three varieties of martinis.

Convenient services including DoorDash delivery, menus and online ordering may be found on the restaurant's website.

Owners Johnny and Crystal Montefusco.
The Montefuscos' two sons enjoying some Italian specialties.
Some of the decor on the walls of the renovated restaurant. Photos: Michelle Balch

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The Hidden Gems series features out-of-the-way mom and pop restaurants, small specialty stores you may have never heard of, little-known historical markers or beautiful nature spots that may be a bit off the beaten path, all located within Hartford and Tolland counties. Do you have a favorite "hidden gem" in the area that you wish to see featured in this column? Email your ideas to tim.jensen@patch.com.

Other columns in this series:

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