Pizza is a little bit like religion, especially in the New York region. Everyone has a different opinion as to the best choice, and debates at backyard picnics or Thanksgiving dinner tables can get heated. Well, get ready to break out your debate team tie once again, since one of Connecticut's favorite pizza places has opened a new shop right here in Fairfield.
You might remember the space as the former home of Fairfield Stationers (now located in the Brick Walk Promenade), but you won't find greeting cards or pens inside anymore. It is now home to Colony Grill, a legendary Stamford pizza parlor that has been serving up thin-crust pizza since 1935. Colony Grill is beloved by Stamford residents and those who make the trek down Interstate 95 just for the pizza.
And that's really all there is, since Colony Grill serves nothing but pizza; they don't even have salads, appetizers, or bar food. They do have drinks and a full bar. You'll need to be in the mood for pizza, since Colony Grill packs them in.
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On a recent Thursday night at the early-bird time of 5:30 p.m., the place already had a 30-minute wait. Once inside, you'll wait another 25 to 30 minutes for the pizza, but the charming exposed brick walls, black wood booths and convivial bar makes for an enjoyable wait.
Grab a seat at a table or a comfortable booth and get ready for one of the easiest orders at a restaurant you've ever made. Yes, I'll have a pizza, thanks. Of course, you do need to pick a topping but you can never go wrong with one of the three signature pies. The hot oil (hot peppers are marinated in the oil, removed, and then the oil is drizzled over top before baking) is a crowd favorite, as is the stinger (think hot oil version with the peppers left in), and the sweet sausage (handmade daily in Stamford.)
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The 12-inch pizzas can be split or eaten as individual pies, and since they are so thin, you'll never feel overstuffed.
Overall, Colony Grill's pizza is thin and light and the cheese and sauce combination is tasty, but I'm not a convert just yet. Maybe it's because I strayed from the signature pies and topped mine with mushrooms, which were undercooked and missing that wonderful charred look and taste I was expecting (especially since it cooked so long in the oven.)
Just like religion, though, I overheard both sides when I exited - some licking their lips in anticipation and others unsure what all the fuss is really about.
The Stamford location is run by two brothers, while the Fairfield location is owned by four friends (including an NHL star) who loved the original and wanted to open one just like it.
Colony Grill, 1520 Post Road, is open seven days a week, beginning at 11:30 a.m. and closing at 1 a.m. during the week and 2 a.m. on weekends.
Parking is available on the street and in a small lot behind the building.
