I'm so excited about this post! If you follow me on Instagram you know I love sharing and supporting my favorite local places. I feel so lucky to live where we do and I love discovering new shops and restaurants on my own and as a family. Right now we basically take our kids everywhere with us on the weekends. I'm sure that will change once things like sports, swimming, etc. start but I'm taking advantage of the time we have now to explore our community! If you're local or visiting Fairfield County I hope this guide is helpful and I would LOVE to hear your feedback.
PS I'm a HUGE tea fan (always unsweetened) - hot, iced, loose leaf, so I included my favs if you are too!
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Caffeine + SHOP
Kirby & Co - Luke and I love popping in for a macaron. Once you try one you'll never go anywhere else! Kirby owner Elaine has curated the ultimate assortment from hostess gifts to the perfect pair of date night earrings at every price. If you visit tell her I said hi!
Fred - I love this boutique! Their new location in Westport has a coffee bar and offers snacks for shoppers on the run. They carry some of my favorite brands: SEA, Mother, Rebecca Taylor, and Misa to name a few and their one-on-one experience is personable not pushy.
Eat + SHOP
Terrain - When I walk into terrain I immediately feel like I've escaped. With or without the kids its a calming place for me which might seem strange because it is ALWAYS busy. The garden cafe is one of my favorite places to meet girlfriends for lunch (I had Harrison's sprinkle there) and during the summer we love to take the kids there for dinner outside on the patio. Insider tip: Make a reservation! I actually love using open table. Favorite Tea: House Tea with a Splash of Lemonade!
The Drawing Room - We used to live around the corner from this gem and I can confirm (through countless visits) that it is baby/kid approved! Meet a friend for traditional tea, scones, and finger sandwiches, but remember to leave yourself enough time to shop the art gallery and home boutique. Insider tip: They're closed on Mondays! Favorite Tea: Hot Mama Iced and Ginger Citrus Peach Hot
The Perfect Provenance - Perfect is definitely the right name for this place! Nestled on a little side street off of Greenwich Avenue you'll feel like you're walking into a European townhouse filled with home decor, women's and men's apparel, and delicious food. The chicken salad is my favorite! Favorite Tea: Iced Solstice Sun
Browne & Co. - This was one of the first places I "discovered" in Darien. I'm a HUGE fan of eating and shopping (surprise, surprise) and the prepared salads and sandwiches here are always fresh. Pro tip: They make family dinners that are amazing! Our fav is the chicken and mushroom stew. I just add chick pea pasta at home and it feeds the four of us! Favorite Tea: Iced Green
WELLNESS
Organachs Farm to Skin - I discovered Organachs when Harrison was about three months old. Before it I had been ordering almost all my products online. I love being able to try, feel, smell before I buy and shop owner Siobhan is so knowledgeable. Everything in the shop is natural and organic! More details on my natural skincare routine here and here.
Inner Light Going into inner light for the first time I had no idea what to expect. I'm not a huge "traditional" gym sauna fan so I wasn't sure if I was going to like it. Now I'm officially addicted. The infrared sauna is great for inflammation and overall its a very relaxing experience. Leave yourself time to enjoy a cup of tea before or after your session!
To and From - I've only had two manicures here but all the products used are chemical-free and toxin-free and I loved the experience. Its a short walk from Kirby and Co if you want an afternoon treat!
weekending
Stone Barns + Blue Hill Market - Exhale! Thats how I feel the minute we pull onto the farm. I grew up about 15 minutes away from the property so it always feels like I'm going home. I could write a whole post about my love for this place. With kids or without its a great destination for a day getaway.
Grace Farm - We stumbled upon Grace Farm for the first time last month and loved it so much we went back the following Saturday! Their Saturday drop-in art classes are creative and relaxing and only $5! The grounds offer everything from a delicious cafeteria, state of the art basketball courts, a curated library, and a tea room. A must visit!
Grab and GO
ROOST/Ada's - If you follow my Insta stories you know I'm a regular! Roost recently opened and is the sister restaurant to Ada's. Their selection is perfect for the family on the go looking for both healthy and kid friendly options. Favorite Tea: Iced Tropical White
By The Way (Gluten Free) - If you're looking for a gluten free cake this is the place! We've used them for a couple of celebrations now and they do not disappoint. Your non-gluten free guests will never know the difference:)
Organic Pharmer - My favorite spot for vegan and gluten free options on the go. They're smoothies are creative, tasty, and healthy. My whole family loves their soups and hummus and their made-to-order avocado toast is a must!
