Next Door

"The way Taproot in Norwalk describes itself is a bit of a yawn, but this “New American” restaurant serving “farm-to-table seasonal Connecticut cuisine” is anything but boring. Leaning into big hits of smoke, sweetness, and fresh herbs, with a slight Asian influence, a meal here doesn’t skimp on flavor. Start with one of their fantastic cocktails, then go for the fresh salads and cooked vegetable appetizers, the knockout lamb patty melt with gouda and tangy onion jam on caraway-heavy rye, and the caramelized croissant bread pudding, which will make you thankful you saved room for dessert. Consider coming during brunch—the only time their standout smoked cabbage okonomiyaki is offered. It’s also worth trying their “Taproot Next Door” Southeast Asian concept in the back of the restaurant, with a completely different menu that similarly delivers." - chloe zale, ciera velarde