By Emma Barhydt
In Chickahominy, Constantino’s Pastabowls has arrived with a burst of flavor, offering a fresh and vibrant twist on the classic Italian dining experience. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between comfort and style. With counter service that feels as warm as a family gathering and an airy, spacious room adorned with photos of famous faces enjoying pasta, this place radiates charm and authenticity.
Robyn and Michael Bordes now have three restaurants in Greenwich, Constantino’s Pizzeria & Ice Cream, Love You a Latte, and now, Constantino’s Pasta Bowls. When asked how Robyn started in the restaurant industry, she shared, “I started in restaurants when I was 13, and I was in my 20s and I started waitressing and bartending at Villaggio’s in Parksdale. When the owner started to get a little bit older, I had said to him, ‘When you’re interested in selling, will you let me know? Just in case.’”
From there, it was a true community effort to get Robyn the restaurant. She borrowed money, a patron of the restaurant co-signed with her for a loan, and it almost got scooped out from under her. In the end, she made it happen. It’s that grit and passion that drove her to open up in Greenwich, and I’m so happy she did.
Constantino’s Pastabowls offers a menu that’s robust without being overwhelming. Whether you’re craving a classic pasta dish or something with a bit more pizzazz, the options are thoughtfully curated, ensuring just enough variety to keep things interesting. The restaurant’s roots are evident—having started with the idea of just fresh pasta and sauce, they’ve since built a menu that revolves around the culinary expertise of their chef. And while pasta remains the star of the show, the supporting acts shine just as brightly.
One of the standout appetizers, the burrata, is a masterpiece of contrasts. Though fried, the dish remains light, with a perfectly balanced pesto and balsamic glaze accompaniment adding depth to the creamy cheese. Pickled red peppers offer a delightful zing that complements the dish’s richness, while the presentation is as appealing as the flavors. Despite initial concerns that the burrata might be too runny, it melded seamlessly with the sauce and was mopped up by the fried coating creating an indulgent experience that didn’t overwhelm and wasn’t too messy.
For those craving a heartier dish, the bang bang chicken skewers are like nothing you’ve ever had. Seasoned with warming spices that offer a kick without overwhelming the palate, the chicken remains tender and juicy. Served with a refreshing side salad and extra chipotle mayo, this dish finds the perfect balance between heat and cool, spice and freshness.
Of course, no meal is complete without indulging in the potatoes—the “Best Potatoes Ever,” a dish that lives up to its name. Imagine buttery, creamy potatoes topped with melted cheese that got just a little bit crispy on the bottom on the grill. It’s comfort food elevated.
Service at Constantino’s Pastabowls is a true highlight. The staff exudes kindness and care, making every guest feel like a priority. A testament to their commitment? When a young guest spilled his soda, he was quickly checked on to make sure he was okay and offered a replacement without hesitation. As Robyn proudly noted, “They care, they really care. They respect the business and can take care of it when I’m not there.”
Each table is equipped with red pepper flakes, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, oregano, and olive oil, allowing diners to personalize their dishes to their heart’s content. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite to-go or settling in for a meal, the drink selection perfectly complements the menu, offering just the right mix of options.
And don’t forget to save room for dessert. The churros, served with whipped cream and strawberries, are crunchy, beautifully coated in sugar, and the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
Constantino’s Pastabowls also embraces the community spirit with their Family Pasta Night where kids aged nine or younger eat free on Mondays with the purchase of an entrée or pasta dish.
With its combination of stellar service, thoughtfully crafted dishes, and a genuine sense of community, Constantino’s Pastabowls is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where food, family, and friendship come together in the best possible way. The next time you find yourself in Chickahominy, stop by Constantino’s Pastabowls for a meal that’s sure to leave you feeling full, satisfied, and part of the family.
Another great reason to meander down that way is for my favorite coffee shop in town, Love you a Latte. Nestled right next door to Constantino’s Pastabowls, this cozy café is serving up love in a cup. Its inviting atmosphere, creative menu, and stellar service make it a standout in the neighborhood.
The space itself is warm and bright, with a little bar near the front where you can sip your drink while watching the hustle and bustle of Hamilton Avenue. In the back, there’s a comfortable couch perfect for leisurely reading and a small table with high chairs for those who need to get a bit of work done.
But it’s not just the atmosphere that draws you in—Love You a Latte’s menu is as delicious as it is creative. They’ve managed to balance classic coffee shop staples with inventive drinks.
One of the café’s most popular offerings is the Nutella Latte. This fan favorite combines the decadence of a mocha latte with the indulgent richness of Nutella, creating a drink that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, providing just the right balance of coffee and chocolate-hazelnut goodness.
For those who prefer cold brew, the Nitro Cold Brew is a well-rounded option. Smooth and strong, it’s an excellent pick-me-up, especially on those hot Connecticut early fall days. And if you’re looking for something to warm your soul as the weather cools, the Abuelita Hot Chocolate is the answer. This hot chocolate, with its delightful cinnamon notes, is a hug in a mug—perfect for a chilly fall morning when you need a little extra warmth.
Another treat is the Frozen Hot Chocolate, Love You a Latte’s fun take on the classic frappe. It’s cool and sweet with just the right amount of chocolate flavor to satisfy any craving. It’s not just a chocolate frappe either, it truly tastes like hot chocolate. If you’re reminiscing about summer nights spent around the fire, the S’more Latte will take you right back. With its blend of coffee, chocolate, and marshmallow flavors, it’s a perfect pick for both summer and fall.
For those looking for a little spice, the Hot Honey Mocha Latte is a hidden gem. This drink isn’t listed on the regular menu, but once you discover it, you’ll be hooked. The honey and chocolate provide a deliciously rich sweetness, while the spicy kick at the end ensures you’re definitely awake after that first sip. This is my absolute favorite coffee, hot or iced.
On the lighter side, the Lavender Honey Latte is a surprisingly refreshing choice. Lavender can be a polarizing flavor, but this latte manages to strike the perfect balance. The floral notes are subtle, not overpowering, and the honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to round out the flavors. It’s a delicate, soothing drink that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Love You a Latte Greenwich isn’t just a place to grab a drink, though. The staff here are as warm as the beverages they serve. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado who knows exactly what you want or someone who needs a little guidance in choosing the perfect drink, the baristas are always ready to help.
If you’re in the mood for something to eat, Love You a Latte’s pastry selection won’t disappoint. From croissants to muffins to cookies and even donuts, there’s something to satisfy any craving. Many of their delicious pastries come in fresh from a fantastic bakery in the Bronx, but some are handmade with the owner’s family recipes.
Whether you’re grabbing a Hot Honey Mocha Latte to-go or sitting down with an Abuelita Hot Chocolate and a good book, Love You a Latte Greenwich is the perfect spot to unwind, savor the moment, and enjoy a bit of cozy indulgence.
“We’re a family-owned business that truly appreciates the community support,” said Robyn, “I really, truly love the support and being a part of such a beautiful community of people.”
Constantino’s Pastabowls
160 Hamilton Ave, Greenwich, CT
Phone: (475) 55-PASTA
Monday-Saturday: 11A-9P
Sunday: Closed
Love You a Latte
160 Hamilton Ave, Greenwich, CT
Open 7 Days a Week
Phone: 203-487-8181
6:30 AM – 4:30 PM
