A new market has come to Norwich and is already receiving rave reviews! The owner of La Stella, a long-standing Italian restaurant and pizzeria located in downtown, recently purchased the former Poppy and Rye Bakery and Cafe in Taftville. With the bakery owners retiring, La Stella’s Justin Burrows decided to open an Italian market that not only features amazing food but also has an emphasis on local products of all kinds.
Bakery!
Partnering with Burrows is Jean Stott. Stott is known in the region for the Stott’s At Bat eatery and batting cages. Stott’s was a fun mainstay across from Dodd Stadium, home of the town’s minor league baseball team. Since the closure of Stott’s, Jean has provided the community with her delicious pies to purchase around major holidays. She’s at the helm at La Stella, bringing her baked goods to the market.
Local Products!
Focusing on the local, La Stella Pasta and Pastry features coffee from Norwich coffee roaster Craftsman Cliff Roasters. Also helping out is Gabe Lipman, whose cookie recipes are showcased. As well as Ceil Vardar, who is famous for her homemade pasta. (Additionally, Vardar’s a winner on the television show Chopped.) The market features local companies such as Farmer’s Cow’s milk, as well as boutique Italian olive oils and vinegar. There is also a bookshelf for local authors (including Connecticut Lore by yours truly).
Most importantly, the food is amazing. My first visit included a slew of breakfast sandwiches and pastries to go. A sausage egg and cheese on brioche was a perfect start to the day. Couple that with a cup of a Craftsman Cliff Roasters dark roast coffee and a few pastries, including a chocolate-filled croissant and a cinnamon roll, and this is a breakfast to remember!
Come Try La Stella Pasta and Pantry!
Come here any time of the day as La Stella Pasta and Pastry is available from 7 am to 7 pm. Stop by for a pastry or a sandwich and peruse the market. Order a pie or just a cup of coffee. This market fits the bill for any customer. La Stella Pasta and Pastry is located at 137 Norwich Avenue in the Taftville village of Norwich. Visit them on Facebook for up-to-date information.
I’ve only popped in once since they opened and after a quick look around, popped back out as the place was just too busy for my liking. Everything looked great and I’ve heard lots of rave reviews on Facebook but since the pandemic, I’ve become a bit gun-shy at rubbing elbows with too many people in small areas. That said, if the place was that crowded on a Tuesday at 4:30. that’s definitely saying something! It’s great that Norwich has really embraced this new venture! I’m going to miss Poppy & Rye’s marble bread as it was the best I’ve ever had but I would be willing to bet I find lots I like here once I stop in again!
Definitely check it out. When I visited it wasn’t too crowded. And I’m sure you’ll find something you’ll like!