Nicholas O’Connell/The Mirror
Bonda’s New York strip with French Fries and roasted garlic aioli
Bonda
75 Hillside Road, Fairfield, Conn.
***** out of *****
$$$$ out of $$$$
Hours of Operation
Dinner: Tuesday – Saturday, open at 5 p.m.
Sunday Supper: October – April, open at 5 p.m.
Reservations suggested.
With a very minimalist, luxurious atmosphere, Bonda is the perfect spot for an upscale weekday date. The friendly staff greets you as if you are a guest in their own home. The décor is classy and modern, which lends itself to the clean-cut feel of the restaurant. The space is primarily devoted to tables, yet there is a small bar as well. The menu and beverage list is concise but the selections are extremely interesting. The owner, James, makes a conscious effort to rotate new products and recipes frequently. I was particularly impressed with the small, tasteful selection of five quality craft beers. Here are my choices:
Starter:
Iceberg wedge with blue cheese and Russian dressings, with organic Berkshire smoked bacon: The crisp lettuce is complemented by the duet of dressings. With the thick, freshly cooked bacon incorporated, the salad provides all of the flavors you will be craving. I am not usually a fan of thick bacon, but this sampling changed my entire perspective by forcing me to appreciate every bite like a steak. It is clearly the focus of the presentation.
Pasta:
I have not personally had any of the pasta, but the restaurant purchases all of its pasta from Tutto Pasta on Post Road in Fairfield. My friends have told me nothing but good things about all three choices: spaghetti puttanesca, linguine with sausage, apple and arugula and the tagliatelle with three meat ragu.
Entrees:
New York strip with French fries and roasted garlic aioli: This was cooked exactly how I ordered it and was extremely lean and tender. As far as I am concerned, it is one of the best steaks I have had in the town of Fairfield. Complemented perfectly by the zesty aioli, fries and of course, great Napa Cabs (see picture).
Pork chop scarpariello with sweet bell peppers, hot cherry peppers, Israeli couscous and broccoli rabe: One of the most moist and flavorful pork chops I have had in my entire life. Very thick and extremely tender; you need to have at least one person in your party order this so you can have a bite.
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