Great restaurants have many components that contribute to an unforgettable experience. While the food is inherently one of the most important factors, most would argue that the ambiance of a restaurant is a large part of an enjoyable meal. When we learned that the antique shop and restaurant that had been closed for a few years on Upper Long Ridge Road in North Stamford had recently been converted into a brand new farm-house style spot, we knew it was worthy to check in on. North Stamford has the feeling of farm country, and this restaurant fits in more than perfectly. The Farmhouse at the Crossroads feels like a farm to table oasis, with a gorgeous outdoor seating area elegantly lush with greenery and string lights leading into the large wooden interior. The Farmhouse is built to resemble an upscale farm-style log cabin, which is a large change from other places in Stamford. The four dining areas in the restaurant are inspired by the four elements. “Set in 4 separate dining rooms, you may find yourself surrounded by the beauty and sounds of nature in the earth room, or you can relax in the dark romance of the flickering flames dancing on the rock walls of the fire room. The Air room is alive with movement and light for a simple yet elegant experience, while the water room will whisk you away with its 26-foot waterfall and inspired decor.” When we were brought to our table, we knew we were in for a grand experience with the waterfall beaming next to our table, and the menu featuring highly seasonal and handcrafted options. We decided to splurge with the charcuterie and cheese board with ten different options, and when brought the table, was overflowing with cheeses like truffle burrata and Beemster gouda, cured meats and salami including ‘Nduja and finocchiona, and accompaniments galore (crostini and jam, tomato and olives, and anything else you would need to enjoy this massive spread). Chef Matthew Cook continued to delight our taste buds with the entrees we ordered, each more flavorful and satisfying to the eye and the palate than the last. We ordered a special, which was the large prime beef ribeye with bleu cheese, cooked to medium rare perfection and utterly melted in the mouth (though we wished the bleu cheese sauce was paired on the side, as it slightly overpowered the delicate intricacy of the ribeye itself). The Berkshire pork chop was also perfectly cooked and seasoned well, with cheesy and crispy brussels sprouts, potatoes, and a slightly spicy pepperoncini sauce. We also tried the gnocchi bolognese, which was paired with homemade basil ricotta and heirloom tomatoes. House-made gnocchi are difficult to perfect, but the Farmhouse delivered subtle yet crispy gnocchi that provided bite on the forward, but a creamy interior that went perfectly with the bolognese. Everything about our meal at the Farmhouse at the Crossroads contributed to a fantastic evening. The bread, the drinks (the gin martini was icy and as briny as you could ask for), the food, and especially the atmosphere was something that made us want to make a reservation for the next week almost immediately. This restaurant proved to be an important addition to the Stamford food scene, and with one meal, has become one of our staples.
The Farmhouse at the Crossroads
