NYC Restaurant Group Opens First CT Location
An acclaimed New York City restaurant group has launched its first Connecticut location in Westport. The opening marks the group's initial expansion into the Connecticut market.
The restaurant, Felice Westport, is part of a larger, family-owned group of Tuscan-inspired eateries that first opened on the Upper East Side in 2007. The expansion into Connecticut is a deliberate move to follow their loyal New York clientele as they establish roots in the region. Felice is one of three brands operated by SA Hospitality Group, which was founded in its current form in 2003 and also runs the Sant Ambroeus and Casa Lever restaurants. The group operates locations across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Long Island, Westchester, and Florida. The new Westport spot is located at 38 Main Street, taking over a second-floor space previously occupied by Mexicue, which closed in December 2024 after a two-year run. The interior has been completely renovated to feature exposed beams, a large mural inspired by the Italian landscape, and backlit wine displays. The menu focuses on Tuscan dishes like Branzino al Cartoccio and veal-ragù fettuccine. The wine list is a core feature, emphasizing hand-selected Tuscan bottles and small-production organic and biodynamic labels. According to founder Jacopo Giustiniani, the goal is to create a modern Italian "neighborhood restaurant" that balances sophistication with approachability for regulars. The move is seen as bringing a piece of their New York experience to where their guests now call home.
