Great Escape

Long work week? Check. Kids driving you nuts? Definitely. Well, every Thursday through Saturday starting at 5:30 p.m., the bustle of turns into a sophisticated dinner environment. Conveniently located in Trumbull Center by , Marie's is a great destination for a memorable night out. Whether you're looking for great food or live entertainment, Marie's has it!

Every Friday night there is live music presented by local bands who dazzle customers with the acoustic guitar and jazz numbers. The feature entertainment this Friday is Marie's house band, Tommy & Cuz, who play to the loved tunes of Frank Sinatra and other classic oldies.

"Tommy is a regular daytime customer, eating breakfast in the restaurant several times per week. He is a tile guy by day and a singer by night," said Kathy Hallahan, owner of the sandwich shop for more than five years.

"He actually suggested the idea of adding music to the evening venue once he came to the dinner and understood the unique offerings of 'After Dark'. He was the first act to appear and typically draws a sell-out crowd," she said.

While enjoying the soothing music of the band, you can indulge in great dishes such as grilled filet mignon, oven roasted salmon and their special menu which is comprised of mouth-watering Chili Rubbed Grilled Rack of Lamb, Bacon Wrapped Scallops and Szechuan Chicken Lo Mein.

Start your night off with their signature appetizer for this weekend, an Asian style Prawn Cocktail and an Organic Roasted Beet Salad.

Dinner at Marie's is a "bring your own alcohol" friendly establishment. Whether you want to accompany your meal with wine, beer or liquers, Marie's gives you the option to do so.

"The BYOB makes the fine dining experience more affordable. The combination of incredible food with your own great wine and live music is a complete expeience that far too many Trumbull residents are missing," Hallahan said.

Although there are no age requirements, Marie's After Dark is more suitable for adults. However, if you can't find a babysitter it's not a problem. If the kids tag along, appropriate meal portions can be made from anything on the menu.

Marie's After Dark is giving Trumbull a reason to get up and out but not stray too far from home.

"It is different and can make the night just that much more special. Folks don't have to travel far, they can be right down the street from their babysitters, not having to go all the way to New Haven or Norwalk to hear live music," Hallahan says. "The music is provided as an accompaniment to dinner, so there is no cover. We are not a bar or a concert venue."

With a great reputation around town and beyond, Marie's is still making a name for itself. The dedication of the staff, chefs and the constant flow of new ideas is what makes this little sandwich shop such a success.

"Although we offer entertainment each week (showcasing local talent), the combination of the entertainment with the extraordinary cuisine is the key to this unique experience. Our chef is a culinary trained professional with an executive dining managment position during the week. This is his creative hobby on the weekends," The proud owner continues. "He is talented and we get the full benefit of his hands-on creativity every week. There absolutely is not any better food in Trumbull!"

Catering is also available. To learn more visit MariesSandwichShop.com. Reservations are required for Marie's After Dark. You can call today at 203- 268-0872.