When I'm in the mood for some local food that's not "pubby" and I want fresh flavor and great atmosphere I always head for the Stone and Paddle in Rockville CT. I am a sucker for atmosphere and this place has it. They managed to turn the run down pizza shop that had occupied the space previously into a glowing dining room that always makes me feel like I'm in a much larger city like Portland ME - with it's hip, artsy vibe.

We have visited regularly since they opened in the summer and have seen the menu grow and the clientele increase as word of mouth spreads about this unique Italian restaurant in a nook where no one expects it. The owners are formerly of the famous Recovery Room in New London CT. The pizza is fabulous (better than Pepe's - and I ate at both places this week.), the salads and Italian favorites are all fresh and full of flavor. Don't miss the flat bread with dipping oil that they serve as an appetizer with every meal - I can't help wishing for hummus, but this is still unique, fantasticly fresh and very tasty.

In a three-town area where pizza comes in Greek, Greek and Greek - their Italian style pizza with it's thin, crisp crust, crushed whole tomato sauce and just about any other item you could ask for is like an oasis in the desert. I haven't asked lately but I know that eating there always makes me want to follow up with a cannoli or an Italian pastry - and they haven't had them in the past but they are always grrowing and changing and I imagine they will add them at some point in the future. Owners Neil Sharp and Mike Swanson are always willing to hear customers' thoughts and ideas. Also, Bianca Sharp is delightful and it is always great when she personally waits on our table.

BYOB - which means two full meals for two can get you out the door for under $40, or a shared pizza can get you out for around $20, the Stone and Paddle is a great value. You can check out their web site at http://www.stoneandpaddle.com/ for hours, directions and menu items.

By Kate LaFrance

As the Publisher of Hartford Woman Online Kate is passionate about bridging the gap between the work-from-home and the office dwelling career woman in the Greater Hartford Area. She is open to new ideas and new friends from all of the towns and neighborhoods throughout CT.

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