A Culinary Gem in Danbury CT!! Della Francesca Sets the Standard for Italian Excellence!!!!
There are few restaurants that capture the essence of fine Italian dining quite like Della Francesca on Mill Plain Road in Danbury. From the moment you step inside, you're surrounded by warmth, soft lighting, elegant décor, and the comforting aroma of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs drifting from the kitchen. It's a place that manages to feel both upscale and welcoming, the kind of restaurant that makes you want to stay long after dessert just to soak in the atmosphere. Personally, it's my favorite restaurant in CT, been there DOZENS of times.
Exceptional People, Unforgettable Hospitality:
The heart of Della Francesca is its people. Benny, the manager, is the soul of the restaurant, kind, attentive, and effortlessly professional. He remembers names, makes thoughtful recommendations, and treats every guest like an old friend. His calm presence gives the entire dining room a sense of grace and warmth that's rare these days.
Tati, one of the most delightful servers you'll ever meet, adds his own touch of charm. His timing is perfect, he's always there when you need something, yet never intrusive. He brings a natural friendliness that makes every dinner feel easy and personal.
And then there's the head chef Johnny, whose passion and craftsmanship shine through in every dish. You can tell he cooks not just with skill but with genuine love for his craft. Each plate that leaves his kitchen feels cared for, beautifully plated, thoughtfully balanced, and cooked to perfection.
MUST TRY DISHES at the wonderful Della Francesca:
The Calamari Fritti is the perfect way to begin the meal, golden and crisp on the outside, tender within. It's offered with a choice of sauces, but the balsamic with Italian cherry peppers is a must-try. The sweetness of the balsamic paired with that slight heat creates an unforgettable flavor that keeps you reaching for more.
The Insalata di Arugula is refreshing and vibrant, peppery arugula tossed with creamy goat cheese, tart craisins, and juicy mangoes, all brought together by a raspberry vinaigrette. It's light, colorful, and balanced in every bite.
The Pollo Burrata is a standout entrée, breaded boneless chicken topped with soft, melting burrata cheese, served with your choice of marinara or vodka sauce (my favorite is the marinara). The burrata melts beautifully into the sauce, creating that perfect blend of creamy richness and tangy flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
Then there's the Pollo Martini, where the boneless chicken breast is dipped in Reggiano Parmigiano cheese and finished in a white wine and lemon sauce. It's delicate and full of life, tender chicken with a bright, buttery finish that feels both comforting and elegant.
The Vitello Della is the definition of indulgence, veal scaloppini topped with crab meat and melted fontina cheese, finished in a marsala wine sauce. It's layered, rich, and deeply satisfying, with flavors that linger long after the last bite.
And finally, the Bistecca Gorgonzola, a PERFECTLY cooked N.Y. strip topped with melted gorgonzola, mushrooms, and marsala wine sauce. It's a flawless balance of tenderness, depth, and creamy richness. The combination of savory steak, earthy mushrooms, and the bold tang of gorgonzola makes it a dish that defines why people fall in love with this place.
Everything about Della Francesca feels intentional, the soft yet VERY unique lighting, the crisp linens, the gentle background music. It's elegant without ever feeling stiff. You can come here for a romantic date, a family gathering, or a quiet dinner to unwind after a long day, and it always feels right.
What makes Della Francesca so special isn't just the food, it's the heart behind it. Between Benny's warm leadership, Tati's impeccable service, and Johnny's culinary brilliance, every visit feels like something worth remembering.
It's not just dinner. It's an experience, one that makes you feel welcome, satisfied, and already planning your next visit before you've even left the table.
5 out of 5 -- Della Francesca is more than a restaurant. It's where passion, flavor, and genuine hospitality come together perfectly. read more