Share the news!
Business Spotlight - Ani's Table "Distinctive Food & Catering"
Restaurant Spotlight
by Linda Kavanagh
Chef Ani Robaina Presents: ANI'S TABLE
An Original Culinary Concept and Catering Company Serving All of Connecticut
Classically trained at the famed French Culinary Institute and mentored by some of the culinary world’s most respected chefs, Chef Ani Robaina introduces Ani’s Table, an exciting new culinary concept wrapped in stunning and mouthwatering food experiences that make a statement.
“It’s a new day, “says Chef Robaina of introducing her new catering venture as the world slowly returns to a new normal. “Home entertaining, public events, and milestone celebrations are making their way back on people’s calendars. It’s a hopeful and exciting time for everyone.”
Before making a name for herself at the prestigious Pond House Café in West Hartford as the Executive Chef and as a frequent culinary talent on WFSB’s Better Connecticut, Fox 61 News, and NBC’s CT Style, Chef Robaina’s kitchen cred included internships with such food industry leaders as Chef Douglas Rodriguez and Chef David Bouley, and a Sous Chef position alongside Executive Chef Monique Barbeau at the James Beard Award-Winning Fuller’s Restaurant at the Seattle Sheraton.
Deeply rooted in Chef Robaina’s Cuban heritage and formal French culinary training, Ani’s Table takes an innovative approach to event planning and menu development with a flair for stunning food arrangements and plating. Seasonally inspired menus are complimented by Chef Robaina’s artistic style and love for vibrant tableware, linens, silk flower arrangements and unique packaging. Ani’s Table offers private in-home chef experiences, wedding celebrations, team building and cooking classes, mixology sessions, corporate and fundraising event catering, and event planning for any size.
Chef Robaina is a regular guest chef at Weekend Kitchen in Essex, CT where she conducts delicious theme dinners under the store’s festive tent and cooking classes in their kitchen showroom. Upcoming events include “French Classics” on Friday, September 19, 6-9 PM. Chef Ani will prepare her signature French 75 Cocktail (gin or cognac), a hearty Bouillabaisse with Rouilly (potato based aioli) and crostini, and a decadent
Mousse au Chocolat. On Friday, October 1, 6-9 PM, join Chef Ani for a Bourbon Fall Dinner featuring a variety of bourbon laced cocktails paired with comforting dishes that celebrate the season. Reservations: www.weekendkitchenct.com
Whether she’s sugar torching sweet custards from here Crème brûlée bike, shakin’ up cocktails in mason jars, arranging elaborate tablescapes, or
conducting cooking classes, there’s no denying the pure joy Chef Ani derives from creating unique food experiences for her clients and fellow food
enthusiasts.
ο»Ώ
203.715.5579
ChefAni@anistable.com
Fairfield Comedy Club Grand Re-opening
by Michele Blanco
We all know that laughter is the best medicine; it alleviates stress, elevates your mood, and fosters connection with the people around you. Comedy is one of the few things that are both good for you and lots of fun!
FAD is thrilled about the Grand Re-Opening of The Fairfield Comedy Club (FCC), which kicks off Saturday, September 18th, with comedian, actor, television, radio, and podcast host Chuck Nice.
Today I spoke with comedian and co-founder of FCC and the Connecticut Comedy Fest, Joe Gerics, about the club's history, keeping laughter alive during the pandemic, and the club's reopening at the Circle Hotel.
FCC started four years ago as a collaboration of 3 former Fairfield Prep students who each went on to have a hand in comedy. Through
their vast connections in the industry Joe Gerics, Beecher Taylor, and Emilio Savone (an owner of the well-known New York Comedy Club)
could attract top-flight comedians to Fairfield. All they needed was a venue when in stepped another Fairfield prep alumni, Ed Gormley, owner of
the Circle Hotel in Fairfield. A stage is brought into the Circle Hotel lobby on show nights to create a fun and intimate setting that seats 100 guests.
With everything in place, FCC took off and soon became a hot spot for comedy. When the pandemic shut down indoor shows, the team at FCC was able to amuse audiences via zoom, and the 2020 Connecticut Comedy Festival continued with creative outdoor performances. This year's
2021 Connecticut Comedy Festival returned with many incredible acts at favorite venues such as The SHU Community Theatre, Westport
Playhouse, The Wall Street Theatre, The Scandinavian Club, Indian Ledge Park, and many more throughout Connecticut.
Now, with summer coming to an end and safety protocols in place, it is time to reopen the indoor shows at The Circle Hotel. The line-up is
spectacular! For tickets and information, visit the FCC website: www.fairfieldcomedyclub.com.
This year Beer, Wine, and Snacks can be purchased at the Circle Hotel. FAD recommends you get a dose of laughter as often as possible and
make Fairfield Comedy Club part of your routine. So, Wind-down, have a blast, and feed your soul with some of the best comedy around!






