Back in 2019, I sang the praises of Grano Arso in Chester, an excellent Italian restaurant in a gorgeous building in a picturesque town. It was fairly new at the time but had already garnered raves in local and not-so-local media. I have since demanded dinner at Grano for most special occasions since and it has yet to disappoint.

Now there’s even more to love at Grano’s sister operation, Gargano Pasta & Italian Market in Old Saybrook. Launched by Joel & Lani Gargano, the same savvy team that made Grano Arso a destination, their new enterprise offers foodies several more ways to enjoy their own signature fresh Italian fare, as well as the ingredients that inspire it.