‘Maddie’s’ Burger and Fried Chicken Sandwich Joint Opens on Pine Street

Despite a quiet launch, locals are already crowding into New Canaan’s newest eatery—the burger and fried chicken joint Maddie’s on Pine Street. Offering a build-your-own-burger model similar to Press Burger on South Avenue, as well as four types of chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese, salads, wraps and ice cream, Maddie’s opened in May in the former CT Sandwich Co. space at 78 Pine St. (opposite Zumbach’s). “All of our burgers are made to order with our custom 100% Certified Angus Beef Blend consisting of brisket, rib, and chuck to ensure a true classic taste,” according to the restaurant’s website.

‘One Medical’ Coming to Downtown New Canaan in July

A new healthcare provider is setting up doctors’ offices in downtown New Canaan. One Medical, partnering with Hartford HealthCare for speciality care, is on track to open at 22 Pine St. (the former Oxygen Fitness building) in July, company officials say. Asked why New Canaan is a good fit for One Medical, company officials said in an email, “Many elements are considered when identifying potential One Medical office locations. One Medical targets real estate that is easily accessible to areas where people work, shop and live so New Canaan was a great fit for the second One Medical office in Connecticut.”

One Medical helps with “everything from common illnesses and chronic diseases to mental health concerns,” according to its website.

‘Really Convenient’: New Canaanites Weigh In on the New Dunkin Location at South and Elm

A relocated Dunkin’ Donuts recently opened on the corner of South Avenue and Elm Street, and in a bigger space, expanding the town’s selection of coffee and pastry. 

The new location—just down the street from Dunkin’s longtime Elm Street home—has sparked discussion among locals, prompting conversations about convenience, space, aesthetics, service and parking. Maria and Michael Palladino, longtime New Canaan locals, said they are Dunkin’ regulars and like the new space. “We would say we are avid coffee drinkers, we really appreciate the variety of refreshments offered,” Maria Palladino said. “The new location is also really convenient for our daily visits.”

Though Dunkin has occupied commercial space in the same row of buildings next to Bank of America for decades, local customers say they’re making a smooth transition to the expanded store. The new location offers easier access to the parking at Morse Court, which includes metered spaces as well as free 15-minute spots that customers can use to visit Dunkin without crossing a street.

Town Resident Seeks P&Z Approval for Boutique Commercial Gym at Home

A homeowner in eastern New Canaan is seeking permission to operate a boutique gym as a business on the lower level of the house. Classes at “The Remix” at 57 Rilling Ridge—a 6,200-square-foot home on two acres, tax records show—are capped at four clients per session, according to an application filed with the Planning & Zoning Commission on behalf of the property owner by attorney David Rucci of New Canaan-based Lampert, Toohey & Rucci LLC. Under the New Canaan Zoning Regulations, a Special Permit is required from P&Z in order to operate a “Major Home” business (see page 51 here). The applicant is also seeking site plan approval. P&Z is expected to take up the application at its May 23 meeting.

Zumbach’s Plans Second Coffee Shop on Burtis Avenue

New Canaan’s best-established and locally owned coffee shop is planning to open a second location downtown. 

Zumbach’s Gourmet Coffee, a hub of activity at the corner of Pine and Grove Streets, is planning to open a shop on Burtis Avenue, according to an application submitted to Planning & Zoning. “Doug has leased a space at the above referenced address where he plans to open a second coffee shop location offering an expanded selection of handmade coffees including cold-brew as well as nitro-brew coffees,” Paul Tully of Imian Partners LLC, representing the property owner, said in an April 14 letter to Town Assistant Planner/Zoning Inspector Sarah Carey. Tully referred to New Canaan’s Doug Zumbach, owner of the eponymous coffee shop that also founded the popular car show “Caffeine & Carburetors.”

The commercial building at 22 Burtis Ave. is located in the Business A
Zone. Under the New Canaan Zoning Regulations, site plan approval is required from the Planning & Zoning Commission.