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Featured Article

A Family Affair

Sonia's Gourmet Kitchen

Article by Samantha Schoengold Beranbom

Photography by Dariusz Terepka Photography

Originally published in Fairfield Lifestyle

They say food tastes better when you eat with family. The same could also be said when you  cook together. Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen is a family-owned and operated business offering classic dishes for the whole family, prepared by Sonia’s whole family. “My favorite thing about owning a restaurant is that I get the opportunity to work with my family: my mom Conchita, my husband Marvin, my son Julian, my daughter Jasmine and my sister Marilu.”

Sonia has always been passionate about cooking, especially alongside her mother. After years of working in restaurants with many talented chefs, she acquired her trademark of traditional Mediterranean and Latin Cuisines.

Following a stint in Norwalk, Sonia and her husband, Marvin, loved the idea of opening a place closer to home. They found that ideal spot in Fairfield - street level, convenient, close to the Post Road and I-95, with ample parking - it was exactly what they were looking for. Working tirelessly for nine months to rebuild the outdated, tired space, they were able to see their vision through. Sonia’s Gourmet Kitchen has a charming modern, rustic ambiance that is cozy and casual, the look and feeling this husband and wife team were striving for.

Using only the highest quality of simple, fresh ingredients, Sonia and Marvin collaborate to create unique dishes that have become their signature. They also make sure each and every occasion is as special as each dish -  welcoming families again and again. Because this loving family is at the helm, the atmosphere is always warm and inviting - the perfect space to share quality time with loved ones over delicious food. Sonia elaborates, “My husband and I love creating an unforgettable experience. Seeing all the new and familiar happy faces makes us so appreciative of all the guests we have had the pleasure of meeting. This is what keeps us going.”

During the holidays, SGK likes to create seasonal specials with a twist and a festive, joyful mood. "We love adding new flower arrangements on every table to match every season, setting a welcoming tone.”

Sonia’s thoughtful tip for entertaining at your home during the holidays is another example of how family is at her core. “Choose a dish that you feel comfortable cooking. Take advantage of the holiday season to create wonderful memories with your loved ones, get everyone involved in the art of cooking, using simple ingredients, preparing it with love and enjoying a tasty dish.” 

Try this SGK dish with loved ones at home for the holidays.

Gnocchi and Sweet Sausage.

Serves: 2

TOOLS: Chef knife, sauté pan, tongs

INGREDIENTS:

  • 10 oz of sweet Italian crumble sausages
  • 10 oz of fresh gnocchi
  • 1 Tablespoon of chopped shallots
  • 1/2 Teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 oz of corn kernels
  • 2 oz of green peas
  • 2 oz of heavy cream
  • 1 oz of tomato sauce
  • 6 oz of chicken broth
  • 2 oz of pecorino Romano cheese
  • 2 oz of white wine Chablis 
  • 2 oz of butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 oz of Shaved Parmesan cheese

DIRECTIONS:

Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for about 4 minutes, drain the water and put it aside.

Heat sauté pan on medium-high heat, add oil, then the Crumble sausages until golden brown and cooked through.

Get rid of excess fat from the sausages, add shallots, corn, peas, white wine, butter, crushed red pepper, salt & pepper and chicken broth.

Wait a few minutes. Once it's boiling add heavy cream, tomato sauce and Pecorino Romano.

Add cooked gnocchi, stir in sauté pan for couple of minutes and it's ready to serve.

Plate and garnish with shaved parmesan cheese.

My favorite thing about owning a restaurant is that I get the opportunity to work with my family.

  • Gnocchi and Sweet Sausage
  • Sonia and family
  • The charming rustic interior