I was recently invited by Artisan Restaurant in West Hartford to experience their beautiful and unique restaurant, with an added stay at the Delamar Hotel and Spa, for a weekend away in Connecticut. Falling on my birthday weekend, my husband and I were excited to get away for a little R + R. From the moment I arrived at the Delamar, everyone from valet to the front desk made me feel welcome. Our gorgeous suite was both elegant and modern in design, with conspicuous attention to every detail, right down to the chocolate on my pillow each night. To top things off, The Artisan so kindly had flowers, a bottle of wine, and a cheese and fruit platter delivered to my suite, waiting there for me when I walked in.
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Later that evening, I had the pleasure of meeting with Jeannette and Catherine, of Eat IN Connecticut, who worked with The Artisan to orchestrate this wonderful weekend, beginning with my dinner that night. The Artisan is a unique and innovative casual, fine-dining restaurant nestled in the heart of West Hartford. The suburban oasis speaks to your every sense with impeccable decor, a distinctive onsite garden and a menu influenced by the rhythm of the seasons. From the refreshing and signature L’Artisan, to the classic hot toddy, each cocktail was made with love and fresh, home-grown ingredients from the garden. The cusisine was equally as exquisite, with a menu delineated in four parts – The Garden, The Mill, The Sea and The Land. Everything from my crab cake appetizer, to my swordfish entrée and pumpkin crème brûlée, was specially prepared in the most unique and delectable way.
I was also scheduled for an amazing massage at the Delamar Spa Saturday morning, which was the perfect way to kick off my birthday. Fully relaxed and pampered, we then set off to the Wadsworth Athenium Museum of Art, following a fabulous breakfast at The Artisan. Saturday night I celebrated my birthday dinner, thanks to The Artisan, at Restaurant Bricco of West Hartford. We were greeted by Chef Billy Grant, who couldn’t have been more gracious and talented, as his food surpassed my expectations. From sharing his story to presenting the dishes, his passion spilled out, a characteristic that can be tasted in his food. The authenticity in the 3-hour homemade sauce and his grandmother’s recipe meatballs and ravioli, transported me to Sunday dinner at my own grandmother’s house.
I have no hesitation in giving the highest of recommendations to visit Connecticut, dine at The Artisan and Bricco with Billy Grant, and stay at the beautiful Delamar Hotel!
By: Lynette Barbieri
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