John Riina, founding owner of the successful Village Bagels chain throughout Fairfield County, and his talented wife Chris, who, along with  Tia Winters Design Associates, designed the interior of the restaurant, are thrilled to introduce their unique restaurant to Greenwich.

“Small spaces do have their challenges,” explains John, “but the intimate atmosphere was what we were hoping to create from the start.” Terracotta flooring, dramatic lighting, and vibrantly colored imported Italian tiles that line the walls and the wine bar countertop, come together to add warmth and energy to this unique space.  Romantic Italian music can be heard in the background.

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Another unique aspect to Riina’s Fresco Café is their BYOB policy due to Greenwich zoning restrictions. Fresco invites diners to bring their favorite wine with them, or they can choose from a list of Italian wines specially created for them by neighboring Bruce Park Liquor that will be fetched for the customer. “We even have a great little wine bar where customers can linger over antipasti before the movies, or during a break from shopping,” says John.

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John and Chris have put together a young and energetic team of chefs, including a talented student from The Institute of Culinary Education in NYC who is studying to be a pastry chef. Menu highlights include: Manila clams sautéed with garlic, white wine and tomato broth; Hearty panini sandwiches such as the “bisteca” of sliced sirloin steak, sharp provolone cheese, red onion, and black olive tapenade; Thin crust pizza; Fresh salads including an imported Italian tuna and white bean salad; Chicken breast with imported artichoke hearts sautéed in a white wine and lemon sauce; and Chef’s signature pasta dishes such as; Cavatelli Rapini with sautéed broccoli rabe, crumbled sausage, roasted garlic, and pecorino cheese; Capellini alla Fresco with chopped scallops, shrimp, and lump crab meat in a pink cognac sauce; And daily ravioli specials with seasonal fillings or whatever the chef feels like creating that day.   Breakfast includes fresh baked goods, frittatas, egg dishes, and a scrumptious crespelle, a thin Italian style pancake spread with Nutella. In addition, mouthwatering desserts, pastries, and sweets are prepared daily by their pastry chef.