How To Spend the Perfect Day Around the Neighborhoods in Greenwich CT
There’s nothing like walking into your favorite neighborhood spot. You know the place, they offer a dependable pick-me-up or a refuge with family and friends. These endearing small businesses in the Greenwich CT area are an essential thread to the soul of our community. As a real estate agent, I often let my clients know my favorite places when they move here. So I decided to share how I would spend the perfect day around the neighborhoods in Greenwich, CT.
Did your favorite spots make the list?
Photo From: Adas Instagram
If I had it my way I would start every day at Ada’s Kitchen + Coffee in Riverside. This historical-house-turned-eatery serves up some of the best coffee around. The magic of Ada’s also lies in the friendly service and high quality of their ingredients. It’s really no wonder that they often have a swarm of customers extending past their front door waiting patiently for their favorite treats.
I’m willing to bet – if you ask any east coaster what their favorite bagel shop is – they have one they’re passionate about. Mine is Upper Crust Bagel Company in Old Greenwich. They specialize in old fashion water-boiled and hearth-baked bagels. A perfect day around the neighborhoods in Greenwich, CT wouldn’t be complete without stopping in. When I’m in need of a special treat, my go-to order is the Muenster Melt, but you really can’t go wrong because everything is freshly made. And the vegetable cream cheese is a must.
After grabbing coffee and a bagel, the next step would be to check out our unique local shops. Back 40 Mercantile has a curated collection of…well…everything. From clothing to home decor to jewelry to books and games this store is filled with charming details. If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift this is the spot for you.
Photo From: The Fred Shop
For more clothing options check out The Fred Shop nearby. I love their selection of high-end pieces. You’ll find wardrobe essentials, work attire and semi-formal dresses all conveniently under one roof.
For more options on shoes and accessories, I can’t recommend Lily enough. This quaint shop will offer you a cup of tea while you browse their living room-inspired space. Owner Aubrey sought to bring a slice of London’s Portobello Road Market with this shop and Greenwich locals are so glad she did.
Photo From: Jenny Allen
After patronizing local shops, the next move would be to grab a sandwich at Alpen Pantry and enjoy it bench-side at Tod’s Point. Their artisanal sandwiches feature imported cheeses and Schalle & Weber meats. So you know you’re getting a top-notch bite. And any local will tell you Tod’s Point tops the list for what makes the Greenwich area so special. There you can dip your toes in the vast sandy beach overlooking the Long Island Sound. The 147.3 acres are open only to Greenwich residents for most of the year. You’ll find an array of locals jogging, cycling, bird watching, boating, fishing, sunbathing, swimming or camping – depending on the season. It’s our happy place.
After lunch, it’s time to stop at another place that’s close to the heart of locals: Perrot Memorial Library. Established in 1904, this independent public library is a historic gem. Their quaint reading space features a warm fireplace and cozy arms chairs. Making it easy for time to dwindle effortlessly. Their frequently-updated event calendar is filled with programs for your little ones. From sing-a-longs to yoga for kids, this spot is a lifesaver on rainy days.
After snatching up a few books, I’d head out to Dorothy Hamill skating rink for some winter fun. The rink is open from September to mid-March – and offers group ice skating lessons and birthday party rentals. Otherwise, you can lace up those ice skating shoes and go for a twirl 7 days a week – as late as 9 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays. I love stopping in with my kids to put our balancing skills to the test.
Photo From: Le Fat Poodle Instagram
It’s no secret Le Fat Poodle is a serious favorite of mine – so it makes perfect sense to add it to the list of places I’d stop into on my ideal day. Their views and atmosphere alone is reason enough to stop in. But, luckily for us, their creative dishes are equally as impressive. They also feature a great selection of wines by the glass. . My go-to is the chicken paillard and truffle fries with a glass of Pinot Grigio.
Their space offers a relaxing reprieve after a day of Old Greenwich shopping and exploring. It would be a crime to not feature them on a list of Greenwich, CT's best restaurants!
After dinner, I’d head to one of the many locations of Gofer Ice Cream to enjoy small-batch frozen treats. Our family loves their soft serve and sundaes. They earn extra brownie points for having plant-based options, too. This neighborhood spot rightfully earns its place in the heart of many locals. It’s the perfect way to end any day.
All of these locally-owned businesses are what help make Greenwich the town we all admire and love. They are entwined in the fabric of our community. As a lifelong resident, married to another Greenwich native, these places offer a feeling of being home.
What are your favorite local places to visit? And if you’re planning on moving to the area – reach out! I’d be happy to show you around.