Calandra's Mediterranean Grill — Restaurant in Fairfield

My partner, our friends and I wanted to try somewhere different for dinner and decided on Calandra's Mediterranean Grill in Fairfield off of Route 46 East as first-timers today. Reservations were easily made via Open Table. Do not be put off by the fact that this establishment is located inside the Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel. It is not a hotel restaurant but rather privately owned by the Calandra family. The atmosphere is reminiscent of Tuscany in color, the tile floors, and an outdoor patio with fountains. Upon entering, one walks into the lobby area, which has high ceilings and a nice, massive fireplace. We were greeted by the hostess and opted for the restaurant. Our server was Lauro. The menu consists of Northern Italian cuisine options with a variety of fish, chicken, steaks, and pasta that is house-made. For appetizers, we decided on one of tonight's specials with Fried Zucchini Blossoms stuffed with seasoned Ricotta cheese and a side of marinara sauce and Caprese Salad (Fresh mozzarella cheese, steak tomatoes, prosciutto, and roasted peppers; finished with EVOO). For our main meal, we opted for several of tonight’s specials, starting with Sautéed Chicken Breast Piccata Style" served in a lemon butter white wine sauce topped with fresh melted mozzarella cheese accompanied by Brussels sprouts and roasted potatoes; Pan-seared Chilean Sea Bass served with baby shrimp, cannelloni beans, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli rabe in roasted garlic and olive oil; Blackened Swordfish served with mushroom risotto; and Gnocchi al Funghi (potato dumplings in a creamy mushroom sauce). Our meal started with a basket of their handcrafted bread and a plate of oil mixed with grated Parmigiana. We had an excellent experience tonight, as the food was outstanding, well seasoned, and delicious. Their breads and desserts come fresh from their own bakery daily. The service was excellent—very attentive and helpful. The price was a bit pricey, but well worth every moment considering we’re only 15 miles from Manhattan. We can't wait for the next occasion on which we can...

This place… was amazing. It is on the side of a hotel so at first I was a little eh about it but I am so glad we went in. My boyfriend took me here to celebrate my birthday. I found this recommendation from Instagram so at first I was a little hesitant but oh this place does not disappoint. First when we sat down there was live music playing right next to us. It was a Wednesday night and they usually don’t have it on the weekdays so that was a nice surprise. Then we were pleasantly greeted by our waiter. He was so attentive and very friendly, I wish I got his name. They bring out bread and olive oil when you first sit down and give you some grated Parmesan cheese on the side (a great little touch) we ordered the meatballs to start and while they’re not exactly like my Italian grandmother and mothers, they’re pretty darn close. The ricotta was so light and the perfect compliment. Then we both ordered the rigatoni special. My tastebuds were on cloud nine. This may be TMI but I had to use the bathroom right before they put the plate down, I did not move. The whole plate had to be gone first. I don’t usually do dessert but since it was my birthday, it’s the exception. Ordered the tiramisu. Again. Light, airy, amazing. I have no notes. I would come here again but expect to spend some money!! Hey, good food doesn’t come cheap. What a phenomenal experience. Great job to the whole restaurant staff. My mouth is starting to...

This was my first visit to this establishment, which is within the Hamton Bays hotel on US-46 in Fairfield NJ. We were seated outside, at our request, in a courtyard type setup that has a very nice ambiance. We had a late lunch early dinner, which the menu definitely accommodates. Items ordered were a ▪︎Margherita Pizza (pepperoni added) made from Baresi tomato sauce, house made mozzarella, fresh basil, Parmigiano Reggiano. ▪︎Salmon Burger made from ground salmon patty, micro greens, tomatoes, and Sauce Gribiche on a toasted Calandra’s brioche roll. ▪︎Pollo Griglia which is grilled chicken, sautéed broccoli rabe, sun-dried tomatoes, and melted provolone cheese on a Calandra’s brioche roll. ▪︎Broiled Salmon, which was on the specials menu. All entrees were excellent!

Service was friendly and reasonably quick. Drinks were mixed well, and beer was served at the right temperature in addition to the Pinot Grigio. The desert tray will have something for everyone. Items ordered were ▪︎Creme Brulet ▪︎Raspberry Chocolate Mousse ▪︎NY Cheese Cake ▪︎Custard with Fresh Berries.

Oh boy! It's a great way to top off a really good meal. So, if you are in the Fairfield area, definitely give this place some patronage. I will not be...