Branford's growing reputation as a restaurant town has drawn the chef/owner of Middletown fave Fiore II to expand here with a new restaurant, Café Fiore. The Italian trattoria-style restaurant celebrated its Grand Opening May 12, at 420 East Main Street.

Branford First Selectman James B. Cosgrove helped Café Fiore proprietor Rusit "Russ" Cecunjanin cut a ceremonial ribbon outside the new restaurant this afternoon. Café Fiore began serving customers during a "soft opening" earlier this week, in time to serve families out to celebrate Mother's Day on May 8.

"In the one week he's been open, I've already heard rave reviews from people who've tasted the food," said Cosgrove.

"I'm really excited to be in Branford," said Cecunjanin.

His restaurants serve delicious Italian standards and chef specialties, all crafted with mouth-watering attention to detail while remaining true to the heart of each recipe.

"It's the simplicity of the food," said Cecunjanin of the formula that keeps customers coming back. "There's not too much complication. It's easy to prepare and easy to recognize."

The beautifully appointed, casual-attire restaurant for lunch, dinner and drinks (full bar) offers waiter service for its dining room and outdoor seating. Cafe Fiore takes reservations and welcomes walk-ins.  The restaurant is kid-friendly and welcomes groups. 

Café Fiore is open seven days a week, Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Saturday noon – 11 p.m. and Sunday noon to 10 p.m. For more information, call (203) 208-4690.