Whether you attend Fairfield University, you are resident here or you're just taking a road trip, it's always exciting to explore downtown Fairfield's various restaurants and delis. As both a native to Fairfield and a member of the class of 2019 at Fairfield University I have had the opportunity to explore the restaurants of downtown Fairfield my whole life and let me tell you -- it has been nothing but delicious. So, to save you and your friends the trouble of breaking the bank while testing out the sub-par restaurants, I have compiled a list including some of my favorites.
1. Wild Rice
Located at 1612 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
This restaurant is best known for its sushi and vietnamese-styled noodles known as pho. I am a sucker for sesame chicken and always order some along with my meal. I am not the biggest fan of sushi, but my sisters and friends have told me hands down that Wild Rice has the best in town. The interior of Wild Rice is embelisehed with warm woods along with cool blue lights to act as accents. Not only is the design of the restaurant itself stunning, but the presentation of the dishes can take your breath away as well. Some of them almost look like they're too pretty to eat.
2. Firehouse Deli
Located at 22 Reef Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
This is that kind of place where the fries are seasoned with pepper and salt so they melt in your mouth. This place also allows customers the opportunity to indulge in an array of toppings at the salad bar. And if you're anything like me that means you sprinkle a million topics on your salad just to make it more aesthetically pleasing. I suggest you sit in the sunroom inside at least once, but I also suggest you maximize your people-watching by grabbing a seat another time on the patio out front. Also, don't forget the free pickles!
3. Beachside Deli & Pizza
Located at 740 Fairfield Beach Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
Although this small shop isn't located directly in downtown Fairfield, it's just a short walk to Fairfield Beach Road. When I was younger I would buy my breakfast, lunch and dinner here and eat it on the beach. I would recommend the bacon egg and cheeses and the pepperoni calzones. The staff here is like one big family. I'll never forget when I was two feet tall and would get thrown a free black and white cookie just for being cute. Man, those were the days.
4. Cafe Madeline
Located at 1603 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
This restaurant is cozy and emulates a truly Italian vibe. The pizzas are delicious, the staff is like family and the dessert is not to be skipped out on. I recommend the homemade gelato; I guarantee you it will make your mouth water.
5. Centro
Located at 1435 Post Rd, Fairfield, CT 06824
Centro is one of my favorite places to dine in the town of Fairfield. The restaurant covers all the bases including soups, salads, pastas, pizzas and more. I will admit I ate the lemon chicken with mashed potatoes there less than an hour ago and was so full I practically rolled home. Aside from the excellent food the staff is very kind and the location of the restaurant makes for an upbeat and charming atmosphere. If you get the chance to eat outside there I encourage you to do so. Sometimes there is live music on the neighboring lawn which only adds to the charm.
I hope you get the chance to check out some of my favorite restaurants and delis in the downtown area of Fairfield. Although I have been to a majority of them, there are still so many more I have yet to explore. Hopefully you get the chance to do the same as you indulge in the cuisine that downtown Fairfield has to offer.
