Stamford’s Taco Daddy owners announce plans for Cugine’s, an Italian restaurant in Harbor Point

Stamford restaurateurs John and Morgan Nealon, who own and operate the popular Taco Daddy on Towne Street, are planning a new Italian restaurant, which will open later this spring.

Cugine’s Italian will open in the Harbor Point area of ​​southern Stamford with what the Nealons call “seductive, well-prepared Italian cuisine”, fine cocktails and an extensive wine list.

Cugine’s will replace Nealons’ Lila Rose, a tapas and cocktail spot that opened next to Taco Daddy in September 2020.

Taco Daddy’s eclectic space in Stamford.Caplanson Winter

“Our goal with Cugine’s is to bring not only Harbor Point, but Fairfield County as a whole, a whole new Italian dining experience,” John Nealon said in a statement. “This sophisticated restaurant will invite our guests to step back in time and dine in the days of Frank Sinatra, with dark interiors and furnishings, beautiful soft mood lighting, a vintage playlist and classic Italian cuisine .”

Morgan Nealon said Cugine will offer a chef-led menu with local ingredients and Fairfield County produce.


“While providing the ambience of an exclusive speakeasy, Cugine’s will be comfortable, invite people to connect with one another over exquisite and beautiful cuisine, and will be reminiscent of a classic dining experience at a renowned Italian restaurant in New York City. ” she said in a statement.

Lila Rose closed on May 8, the Nealons said.

“It provided the escape we’ve all needed for the past two years, but we’re thrilled to open the doors to this completely redesigned and unique concept,” said Morgan Nealon.

Cugine’s, at 121 Towne Street, will be open Friday through Sunday for dinner service, expanding to offer brunch shortly after. Follow updates on Instagram at @cuginesitalian.

Comments are closed.