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Malibu's signature tacos

Featured Article

A Culinary Collection

The Distinctive Restaurants of RGR Hospitality

Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom

Photography by Meghan Olson

Originally published in Fairfield Lifestyle

Date night. Family dinner. Working lunch. Surprise Party. Weekend Brunch… 

From celebrations to casual bites, RGR Hospitality’s collection of restaurants has every occasion—and every craving—covered. The Sinclair, Malibu and Sophie’s Pizza Bar have become hallmarks of the downtown dining scene. While each is known for mouthwatering menus and top-notch service, every spot brings its own unique flavor and personality to the table. 

Food industry veterans Nick Racanelli Sr., Paul Garbuio, and Nick Racanelli Jr. founded RGR Hospitality in 2018 following the opening of The Sinclair. As longtime Fairfield residents, they bring decades of culinary and hospitality expertise to every venture, infusing each restaurant with a deep commitment to quality, community, and innovation.

The Sinclair: Led by notable Executive Chef Edgar Cebada, The Sinclair is known for its approachable sophistication. This Fairfield mainstay offers a refined American cuisine mixed with global influences to create a dynamic menu of dishes, wine and specialty cocktails, in an elegant yet relaxed setting that makes every meal feel special, whether dining on the patio, covered terrace or in the large dining room, especially when live music fills the air on Thursday nights. Fan favorites range from the raw bar and mussel pot to steak frites, spicy salmon crispy rice and shrimp and grits. While guests travel from near and far for The Sinclair’s signature brunch, its newly introduced Sunday Surf and Turf is poised to become the next standout draw.

Malibu: The name says it all—fun, relaxed, and effortlessly easy-going. Established in 2019, Malibu was created to bring that laid-back West Coast vibe to town. Today, with Chef Jose Luis Mones at the helm, it continues to embody a stylish spirit while elevating the dining experience. Known for its variety of flavorful tacos and classics like guacamole and street corn, Malibu has expanded its offerings with Chef’s curated larger plates. The coastal-inspired menu is fresh, modern, vibrant and diverse, featuring standouts such as ponzu ahi tuna, shrimp ceviche, spicy cucumbers in rice vinegar, braised short ribs, and Valencia paella. Speciality cocktails like crowd favorites Malibu Marg and Patio Lemonade set the tone and keep the mood lively for happy hours on the now iconic outdoor terrace.

Sophie’s Pizza Bar: The newest spot in the RGR family isn’t your typical pizza joint. Since opening in 2021, Sophie’s has an informal yet polished atmosphere, serving distinctive flavors rooted in tradition and enhanced with a creative flair. Chef Luke Charof has thoughtfully crafted a menu of rotating seasonal specials, small plates and main dishes you won’t see anywhere else. Along with their marquee homemade oven-fired pizzas, with an extensive selection of unique toppings, Sophie’s pastas, sandwiches, seafood and salads are always next level. Guests keep returning for signature favorites like the Chicken Parm and Pork Chop Parm; for a bold twist, ask for it Bronx style- with vodka sauce and spicy cherry peppers. Finish the meal with a decadent espresso martini for the perfect finale. 

Every restaurant in RGR Hospitality’s portfolio delivers exceptional food, impeccable service, and something for every palate. From signature dishes to standout cocktails, each venue offers a distinctive taste of Fairfield’s vibrant dining scene. While each restaurant tells its own story, together they form a seamless collection where culinary artistry, approachable sophistication, and thoughtful hospitality converge in this food-lover’s town. 

The Sinclair

1229 Post Road 

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 292-6800

thesinclairct.com

Malibu

1177 Post Road 

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 292-8544

malibutaco.com

Sophie’s Pizza Bar

1275 Post Road 

Fairfield, CT 06824

(203) 292-3925

sophiespizzabar.com 

Sophie's Pizza Bar Classic Espresso Martini

INGREDIENTS 

  • 2 oz Vanilla Vodka
  • 1 oz Kahlua 
  • 1 oz Frangelico 
  • 1 oz Espresso 
  • ½ oz Baileys (optional)
  • Espresso beans for garnish  

DIRECTIONS

1) Add all the ingredients into a shaker, in the sequence of order listed above. 

2) For a creamier martini, add a ½ oz of Baileys at the end. 

3) Add one scoop of ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds. 

4) Double strain into a martini or coupe glass. 

5) As a special finishing touch, garnish with three espresso beans to symbolize Peace, Love & Happiness

From celebrations to casual bites, RGR Hospitality’s collection of restaurants has every occasion—and every craving—covered.