Last week I talked about some great neighborly food shopping spots in Litchfield County – including a mention of Arethusa Farm for its incredible dairy products. But what I have come to learn is that Arethusa Farm is a major dairy operation that is owned owned and by the people who also own Manolo Blahnik – George Malkemus and Anthony Yurgaitis….
This ever expanding operation has a story that continues to develop. In 1999, Malkemus and Yurgatis purchased a large piece of land in Litchfield County with a vision of creating a dairy. Arethusa Farm is increasingly known for their outstanding and award-winning all-natural dairy products, their champion pure bred Jersey, Holstein and Brown Swiss cows, and the incredible care and respect they show all of their livestock.
Just a few miles from the Arethusa Farm, they’ve opened a restaurant – Arethussa il tavolo in Bantam, Connecticut. A couple of weeks ago I went for lunch, it was a fantastic experience!
Open just over one year, it is clear that great attention is being paid to every detail.
The day that I went the weather was perfect for al fresco dining in their trellised garden; the service was gracious and friendly, appropriate and efficient – but not stuffy – and the food was beautifully presented, unpretentious, and sensational.
I can’t wait to go back!
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After leaving Arethusa al tavolo I noticed a storefront across the street for Bantam Tileworks: I ventured in, and had yet another wonderful experience seeing the handmade tiles with absolutely glorious glazes and the friendly owners – and all of the tile is made right there!
But more on that on Wednesday….
