Strega Branford

One word... AMAZING! I was born in Naples, Italy and grew up eating Neapolitan food most of my life. So, when restaurants make claims that they have "authentic Neapolitan food" along with real Italian style pizza, I love to check them out. Upon entering Strega, my first impression was WOW, what a great looking place. The restaurant is a beautiful classic style with a modern twist. The wooden menu's, upholstered back seating along the with the authentic stone oven give it a welcoming warmth that immediately draws you in. The hand crafted drinks and specialty beer selections are second to none. So, finally the food. The menu had many traditional Neapolitan specialties like stuffed squid, different types of hand made pastas with seafood, and thin crust wood grilled pizza just to name a few. We had a few appetizers and I had to order the stuffed squid. The apps and pizza were scrumptious. The pizza and a very thin crust just like downtown pizza shops in Naples that you can easily cut or fold if you like. The simple premium ingredients were evident in every tasteful bite along with perfectly charred crust from a real wood heated stone oven. The stuffed squid was so delicious like my moms but was presented in a way that I have never seen before. The large white plate was bursting with an assortment of colors like orange, green, and red. It look like a edible work of art. There was sautéed spinach, quinoa, bright colorful vegetables placed oh so pertly along with all the appropriate sauces, garnish, and finishes. AMAZING! The service was great too. The owners are from Italy and very hospitable; we even spoke in Italian. It was great! So, if you find yourself in Branford, CT, the Strega Restaurant is a must. Ask for Carmela and tell her Vittorio sent you!

Was a little hesitant to try this place out because I had heard the previous owners had just renamed the place. Well, I sure am glad I did. The new owner and staff are bringing an energy and passion to this place that I hadn't seen before. Great food, friendly service and a decent craft beer selection will definitely bring me back for a return visit... or five.