The charming town of Ridgefield Ct. is home to a new and classic restaurant and bar serving elevated tavern fare and craft cocktails.  The Village Tavern opened in January 2017.   The 19th Century facade of the Main Street building invites the patron into a warm and instantly comfortable interior space.  A handsome dark wood bar, leather seating, exposed brick walls, extensive wood trim and white and black tile floor create a space that is both familiar yet modern. A large mural of the “abondanza” woman reminds you of the Italian influence of the menu and pays homage to a former tenant of the space, Brunetti’s Market.   There are intimate spaces upfront, the main dining room in the rear and a smaller dining room up 1/2 flight from the main floor.  There will be outdoor dining during warm weather.

The menu is described as American with a “kiss of Italian”.  Chef  Germano Minin is a winner on the Food Networks hit show “Chopped”.   He has worked at restaurants from Washington D.C. to Scottsdale, Arizona and was partner in a restaurant in Santa Monica California.  He now his brings his talents and Italian roots to Main Street in Ridgefield.

Recently we were able to sample some of the delicious from the menu.  There is really something for everyone.  The King Napolean was unique dish with king crab meat, herbed cheese and crisps beurre blanc.  An interesting blend of soft crab and crispy wonton, that was  tasty and an interesting presentation.

Salads were creative and delicious.  “In the Tin” is bibb and iceberg lettuce, tomato, avocado, bacon, blue crumbles and herb dressing is presented in a metal can which the server then slowly raises to reveal the delicious contents.

The “Ribbons” is another salad dish that is unique and colorful. It is composed of shaved cucumber, carrot , fennel, radish, in a parsnip vinaigrette.  Each veggie has been thinly sliced into long ribbons and make a healthy dish for everyone.

The Gnocchi was a fantastic dish served with Maine Lobster in a zucchini busera sauce.  The gnocchi which was filled with potato was soft, and melted in your mouth.  A great choice

The VT Burger is great for the burger lover in your party and is served on a wooden board that is the shape of the State of Connecticut. Very creative.  The large burger is served with aged cheddar, and a compliment of other toppings on the board so you can load up your burger as you wish.

The menu also offers such items NY Strip, Fish and Chips, Root Beer Lamb Shank, and Black Cod Fillet. There is something for everyone.   The bar serves some creative cocktails which you should investigate.

Prices are as follows:  Appetizers-$11-15, Salads- $11-$12, Main course-$16-$33.

The Village Tavern is a much needed addition to the dining scene in Ridgefield Ct. and with its ambiance and great food it should be a success.

The VillageTavern

378 Main Street Ridgefield Ct

tel.  202.403.3400

web.   http://www.vtridgefield.com