Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city with an easy weekend getaway? A quick one hour drive or 45 minutes by Metro North Railway and you can be in the quaint town of Greenwich, Connecticut. Home to 60,000 residents, this takes you away without the hassle of flights and airports. Have a relaxing weekend by visiting the Bruce Museum, see the tall ship SoundsWorks or shop on Greenwich Avenue. Many love to explore the arts at Stamford Theater Works or visit the historic 18th century Putnam Cottage.
While you're there, look into staying at the ultra-modern J House Greenwich. The 86 room property in Riverside features 86 high-tech rooms, complete with iPads, mirror TVs and free WiFi. The iPads allow you to order room service, adjust the temperature, turn down the lights, close the shades and find nearby attractions. It also eliminates the need for traditional printed hotel booklets. The glass box bathroom is sexy without revealing too much (About 75% of the glass is frosted) and the Japanese-style Toto toilet, Kohler fixtures and L’Occitane products are a nice, comfortable touch.
During your stay, grab a romantic bite to eat at eleven14. The gorgeous open space on the main floor spans from indoors to a covered outdoor bar and dining area. A clear glass box let’s you see the workings of the kitchen staff and your meals being created and artfully arranged. The head chef, François Kwaku-Dongo sources locally grown seasonal ingredients, organic meats and local cheeses to create a dining experience that is exceptional as well as healthy.
The options are reflected on the menu, with a strong presence of seafood and fall vegetables. We dined on Amish Chicken and Beef Stew, and finished with the signature eleven14 dessert bar: intricate layers of mousse and chocolate topped with 24K gold. If that doesn’t satisfy your sweet tooth, stop by The Chocolate Lab before heading upstairs. The unique chocolate shop and cafe features Chef Kwaku-Dongo’s pure, rich cocoa creations. Feast on handmade truffles, filled chocolates, pastries, confections, espresso and coffee drinks, and an assortment of premium coffee and loose leaf teas.
