It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Robert M. Bashford House gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Madison, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work and truly cares about the people she is in contact with. She is dedicated, diligent, and is devoted to her job assignment. She not only takes care of my Mom, but she goes above and beyond her call of duty. Bessie has a unique ability to connect with every person she meets. No day goes by that my Mom is not pampered. Bessie make sure she's always comfortable. She makes exceptional meals for her 3 times a day, cleans her clothes, gives her showers, washes her hair and makes her look amazing every single day. Bessie is so beneficial to our family we can't imagine our family without her. I myself and my family members could never do what she does for our Mom. She has been with my mom and our family for almost 1 year and we don't know what we would do without her, she truly is a gift from God. She not only takes care of my Mom daily, nightly and weekly, she also takes care of her personal life and whatever life throws at her. She is a devoted caretaker and should be recognized with the utmost respect. Her dedication to improving the health and well-being of my Mom is commendable. You can't find anyone as special as she. Her life commitment has touched our lives through her delivery of exceptional care in a compassionate, respectful, and safe manner on a daily basis. She has become a member of our family and she has shown us the meaning of adaptability. Her strong faith in God, Forgiveness, and Believing in each other makes her the great person that she is. On behalf of our family, we would like to thank you for the extraordinary care and services your company has provided to us. Thank you for all you do”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a few hours a week, they were very thorough in asking about my mother's condition, and what were the needs that were required. It's more like bathing, medication, and companionship. We used them for about a week.”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of Always Best Care for the outstanding service you have provided for our parents. ABC provided professional, first-class support that allowed our parents to remain in their home while relieving of us of concern for their care and is something we will never forget. You can be sure we will happily refer any family member or friend that is seeking care at home to Always Best Care.”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at home assisted by the caregivers from your company Always Best Care of Greater Bristol. This letter is a personal thank you from my father and the entire Ceuch family on how your caregivers treated and attended to my father during this time. The caregivers became part of our extended family who shared in countless family events resulting in beautiful lasting memories. Caregivers Frances Boateng, Jeremy Turner, and Yanice Hernandez were awesome in their care of my father. I want to especially acknowledge Francis as a person who went above and beyond his responsibility and became part of the Ceuch inner circle. It was not uncommon for Francis on his off days to stop by during a family picnic to say hello...he is truly loved by my father. Again, I want to thank you for the loving care your caregivers provided my father. I would highly recommend your company to anyone interested in having a caregiver attend to a loved one. Thanks again”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my step father, Daryl. It's unbelievable how the progression of his illness happened so quickly, however, Always Best Care was always ready to provide the level of care he needed as it increased. Most importantly, I'd like to thank his aide, Sue Malasics. She was wonderful to Daryl and took great care of his needs. I knew I did not have to worry with Sue there with him. She was always cooking wonderful homemade meals and desserts and I was happy to see how happy she made Daryl. I think she is a wonderful asset to Always Best Care. Should I know of anyone needing help in the future, I would recommend Always Best Care and Sue Malasics.”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure. My mother was also very demanding about her care and who she would allow into her home. After several attempts with various in-home care agencies my mother really responded well to Always Best Care Senior Services of Greater Bristol and we cant thank them enough for the high level of compassionate care they were able to provide during my moms final months.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal care assistant until placement in a quality skilled nursing facility became available. We reached out to home health care agencies in her local area but, by this point, had already worked with several agencies for med reminders for Barbara (and 24/7 care for our Mom in another area of CT) and were a bit skeptical that that we’d find one that could provide consistent quality of care.When I spoke with Rick Downey of Always Best Care Senior Services in Bristol, he conveyed both confidence in his knowledge of health care and empathy in understanding the frustrations that families experience when seeking quality care for their loved ones. We were next contacted by their care coordinator,Heather Kozikowski, who came to our sister’s home to conduct an assessment and further explain the services offered by Always Best Care.A further testament to the exceptional quality of Always Best Care is the service and care we’ve received after Barbara is no longer a client; our thanks to Always Best Care for the excellent care of our sister, and the peace-of-mind it afforded our family knowing that she was in such kind and competent hands!”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company, Always Best Care, offered our family and especially the caring, loving attitude that Amber and Natalie displayed to Carol at all times. They were outstanding and you should be proud to place them in any situation with the full expectation they will represent your firm in a most professional manner. Thanks again for all your help.”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting James Madison Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Statehouse or visit Harold C. Bradley House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Madison, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Madison, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Madison, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Knicks fans are bringing their best, but there's a local artist from Connecticut who is wearing his best.Alex Ruffin, 32, is the designer behind a unique jacket getting a lot of attention on social media that screams New York sports.The jacket has the Knicks on one sleeve, and the Rangers on the other.Ruffin has been making the jackets and selling them online, but it all went to another level when Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the New York Yankees was captured on the jumbotron at MSG, wearing a specially-made version, part of Ruf...
Knicks fans are bringing their best, but there's a local artist from Connecticut who is wearing his best.
Alex Ruffin, 32, is the designer behind a unique jacket getting a lot of attention on social media that screams New York sports.
The jacket has the Knicks on one sleeve, and the Rangers on the other.
Ruffin has been making the jackets and selling them online, but it all went to another level when Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the New York Yankees was captured on the jumbotron at MSG, wearing a specially-made version, part of Ruffin's "Hometown Hero" series.
"I'm sitting over here, and I'm like, watching his story," Ruffin said. "So, I see him on his way to the game and with the jacket because I can tell by the collar, and I'm like, oh my god, he has my jacket on."
From there, the sky was the limit.
Ruffin gifted one to Knicks' star guard, Jalen Brunson, who sported the "Madison Square Guardian" jacket before a game.
"I got the photos back, and I was just like, wow, this is crazy," Ruffin said. "This is all happening in the same season, by the way, so guys, Chisholm being a big component of the Yankees right now, and Jalen Brunson obviously being the starting point guard for the Knicks. Like, this is something right here that has been, like, beyond humbling. It's an amazing feat."
It's a fashionable accomplishment that Ruffin's father, who passed away, would be proud of.
"My dad was big on New York teams and whatnot," Ruffin said. "And it kind of rubs off on you, so you grow up and you're like, I'm seeing all of this stuff right here, and it literally just, it's something that sits with you forever."
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The store has been a fixture in Madison for more than four decades.Updated Mon, May 19, 2025 at 9:59 pm ETMADISON, CT — After more than 40 years, Robert's Food Center in Madison is closing, due to an inability to come to terms on a new lease, the owners announced."After 40 plus years of operations and 12 months of lease negotiations, we were unable to reach an agreement on numerous outstanding disputes with our ...
Updated Mon, May 19, 2025 at 9:59 pm ET
MADISON, CT — After more than 40 years, Robert's Food Center in Madison is closing, due to an inability to come to terms on a new lease, the owners announced.
"After 40 plus years of operations and 12 months of lease negotiations, we were unable to reach an agreement on numerous outstanding disputes with our current landlord," father and son owners Bob and Zach Fusco wrote in a statement.
An exact closing date was not disclosed, but over the weekend, the store dropped the price of "all dry grocery, dairy and frozen food items" by 25 percent to reduce inventory before the closure.
Additionally, as the store, located at 514 Old Toll Road, winds down operations, it has changed its hours to 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The popular store has long been a fixture in town, and not only drew customers from Madison, but also from Guilford, Killingworth and Durham.
Over the years, it has hosted charity bake sales, been a meeting place for community events, and introduced a touchscreen kiosk nearly 15 years ago.
"Since 1983 and three family generations, we have been your local grocer, community partner and your friend," the Fuscoes wrote. "We have enjoyed watching your families grow along with ours through all the moments both big and small."
This little town by the sea has a big food scene, from dumpling feasts to decadent ice cream sundaes. Devoted foodies and restaurant newbies love The Feed. Sign-up now for our twice weekly newsletter. The laidback coastal Connecticut village of Madison is just a two-hour drive from Boston, offering a compact, pedestrian-friendly downtown full of shops and restaurants. The town green, a New England classic, boasts manicured lawns, free concerts, and a bountiful Friday farmers market. Best of all, Madison is anchored by beautif...
This little town by the sea has a big food scene, from dumpling feasts to decadent ice cream sundaes.
The laidback coastal Connecticut village of Madison is just a two-hour drive from Boston, offering a compact, pedestrian-friendly downtown full of shops and restaurants. The town green, a New England classic, boasts manicured lawns, free concerts, and a bountiful Friday farmers market. Best of all, Madison is anchored by beautiful beaches, including Hammonasset Beach State Park, making it the perfect destination for anyone who wants to play in the sand, swim in the Long Island Sound, and stroll a maze of wooden boardwalks.
Culinarily speaking, this small town punches above its weight, with gastronomic offerings including French fare, Connecticut-style lobster rolls, dim sum, and more. It’s no wonder iconic chef Jacques Pépin has lived here for decades and can be spotted dining around town. Here are a dozen must-try restaurants, cafés, and other dining destinations in this seaside gem.
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Ashley’s—named for a famous frisbee-catching whippet—is a time-honored mini-chain of scoop shops founded in New Haven in 1979 and dotting the Connecticut Shoreline today. Eschewing artificial colors and flavors, Ashley’s mixes up popular ice creams like brownie chip and salted caramel, plus seasonal specials such as fresh peach, pumpkin, and eggnog. Sherbet, sorbet, sugar-free, and dairy-free offerings assure there’s something for all stripes of frozen-dessert lovers. Go for broke and order a decadent sundae in a freshly made waffle bowl topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a shower of sprinkles.
724 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-245-1113, ashleysicecream.net.
The upscale yet comfortable ambiance at Bar Bouchée transports you to a neighborhood bistro on the Left Bank, minus the jet lag. Start your evening with a très français apéritif (a Lillet Blanc or Kir Royale, perhaps) at the zinc bar, imported from France, before heading to your table to indulge in traditional Gallic fare, including foie gras, escargots, and steak tartare. The pastry chef spins edible magic, making it hard to resist light-as-a-feather profiteroles filled with creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzled with warm chocolate sauce. The owner, chef, and much of the waitstaff are French, adding a certain je ne sais quoi.
8 Scotland Ave., Madison, Connecticut, 203-318-8004, barbouchee.com.
Craving food like Nonna used to make? Cafe Allegre is a trip down memory lane, if your memories involve a grandmother stirring Sunday sauce. Here, you’ll find fortifying dishes of the Italian-American kitchen, such as spaghetti with fresh clams and rigatoni topped with meatballs and sausage. Chef-owner Ilario Suppa’s parents were the original owners of the restaurant, and he honors their legacy by cooking the crowd-pleasing favorites that they served for decades while personally welcoming each guest like famiglia. Gems beyond pasta include escarole and cannellini bean soup that’s elegant in its simplicity and chicken Marsala loaded with earthy mushrooms.
725 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-245-7773, cafeallegre.com.
Every New England coastal town deserves a clam shack like the Clam Castle. Open seasonally from approximately April to October, it has been a Madison mainstay for over 60 years. Expect a minimalist experience: Order at the counter, pick up your food when your number is called, and dine at a picnic table. Tried-and-true favorites like clam strips or whole bellies, scallops, and cod, lightly battered and fried, are served in paper boats with lemon wedges and coleslaw. On a cool day, it’s hard to beat a bowl of Rhode Island-style clam chowder, with clams and potatoes floating in the clear broth. But don’t miss the noteworthy Mexican-influenced dishes, including tangy fish tacos and warm tortilla chips served with hand-chopped salsa.
1324 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-245-4911, clamcastlect.com.
From traditional bagels like poppy and sesame to fun flavors like cinnamon crunch and an Instagram-worth rainbow bagel, Cohen’s offers at least a baker’s dozen fresh varieties daily, each with a firm crust and chewy interior. A cornucopia of house-made schmears, from a classic vegetable cream cheese to the popular spinach-artichoke spread, means there’s something to please every palate. For a heftier breakfast, it’s worth it to wait a bit for egg and cheese on a bagel.
1347 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-318-5090, cohensbagelcompany.com.
Pancake lovers, this one’s for you: Cristy’s all-day breakfast menu includes over 40 varieties of light, fluffy pancakes, from classics like blueberry to creatives like banana caramel crunch. Hefty stacks are served with a dusting of powdered sugar and plenty of butter. (It’s a hit with local families, who stroll a few steps to play on the beach after they’ve eaten.) Cristy’s is open for dinner, too, when the menu is rounded out with reliable burgers and homestyle entrees like meatloaf and Yankee pot roast. Bonus: Simple guest rooms are available for those who want to wake up and smell the pancakes.
73 West Wharf Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-245-7377, cristysmadison.com.
If you don’t think art can exist between two slices of bread, you’ve never eaten a sandwich at Madison Cheese, a cheese shop and café. Mother-and-son owners Fawn Nebinger and Ian Hagerty select each ingredient with care, and they’re wizards when it comes to building luscious grilled and cold sandwiches. Take the crowd-favorite Hamlet, for example, composed of sizzled nitrate-free ham, Emmental, and a smear of Dijon mustard, heated to melty perfection, or the Turkey Tango, with turkey and assorted vegetables on a demi baguette, a mango habanero sauce adding punch. (A cup of tomato soup is an excellent accompaniment.) Don’t leave without perusing the shop’s collection of global cheeses, charcuterie, and tinned fish.
119 Samson Rock Dr., Madison, Connecticut, 203-245-5168, madisoncheese.com.
With mom-and-pop roots dating back to 1988, Meriano’s sells custom cakes, pies, cookies, and Italian pastries, including cannoli that give Boston’s North End selections a run for their money. Meriano’s takes it a step further with a mobile cannoli truck, filling each crisp shell with a rich ricotta mixture seconds before you pop it into your mouth. Around the holidays, expect long lines to purchase old-world breads and cakes, as folks come from miles away for the authentic taste and fabulous customer service.
200 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-779-5812, cannolitruck.com.
Madison is home to one of New England’s finest independent bookstores, RJ Julia Booksellers. In addition to a vast selection of reading material, the establishment treats bibliophiles to a fantastic onsite eatery serving salads, soups, sandwiches, and divine baked goods (including award-winning cupcakes) in a comfy setting. Grab a padded window seat or head outdoors to enjoy a table in the sun, and don’t hesitate to order the flavorful Italian wedding soup if it’s the offering of the day. The curried chicken salad and the grilled cheddar, arugula, and fig sandwich are menu stalwarts, too, and the espresso is the best this side of Rome, although the old-school root beer float often proves more tempting.
768 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-318-8008, rjcafebistro.com.
Lose yourself in the leaves at this well-stocked shop, which sells over 300 varieties of tea leaves from around the world, from black to green to oolong and beyond. Owner Phil Parda treats Savvy Tea Gourmet like a tea education center, offering plenty of in-store tastings and workshops. Stop by for a cup or reserve the afternoon tea, which includes a bottomless pot of tea and sweet and savory bites tastefully presented on a tiered tray.
712 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-318-8666, drinkgreatteamarketplace.com.
For delicious dim sum at a modest price, head to Steamed, where dumplings star, each slim wrapper bursting with slurp-worthy filling. The sampler platter comes with 18 plump dumplings (two of each available variety), perfect for sharing, with fillings such as pumpkin or chicken mixed with a harmonious blend of garlic, ginger, and other spices. Beyond dumplings, the hearty soups and noodle dishes are uniformly delectable.
670 Boston Post Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-779-5628, steamedmadison.com.
For delicious food with an incredible water view, the Wharf can’t be beat. (Doesn’t hurt that it’s located within the Madison Beach Hotel, one of New England’s finest seaside hotels.) The chef champions a “boat-to-table” philosophy of local, seasonal sourcing, and the heated porch provides nautical vibes that’ll have you feeling like you’re on a boat yourself. That said, a table inside by the fireplace is also quite cozy. Start at the bar for a memorable Bee’s Knees, made with honey-infused gin from Bar Hill Distillery in Montpelier, Vermont, and delve into the various seafood options for your meal, from a shrimp cocktail appetizer with zesty cocktail sauce to a warm, buttery Connecticut-style lobster roll accompanied by a mountain of shoestring fries. Save room for dessert, especially if the showstopping carrot-cake baked Alaska is on the menu.
94 West Wharf Rd., Madison, Connecticut, 203-350-0014, thewharfmadison.com.
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MADISON, CT — Madison's Budget Referendum for 2025-26is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, according to officials.In addition to voting on the proposed $100.1 million budget, residents will also vote on the Academy Community Center Project budget, which has increased to $24 million.Information on the Referendum is below:Referendum[On April 22], the Town Clerk a...
MADISON, CT — Madison's Budget Referendum for 2025-26is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, according to officials.
In addition to voting on the proposed $100.1 million budget, residents will also vote on the Academy Community Center Project budget, which has increased to $24 million.
Information on the Referendum is below:
Referendum[On April 22], the Town Clerk adjourned the Special Town Meeting for the Academy question to Referendum. The Budget Referendum will be held on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, and will include the Academy question. There will be three questions on this year's ballot; the first regarding the Town budget, the second the Education budget, and the third the Academy Community Center Project.
Absentee ballot information, voting locations, and a sample ballot can be found by visiting the Town Clerk’s webpage.Read below for more information on the budgets and Academy.
2025-2026 BudgetThe Board of Finance approved a recommended budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The Town & School Budgets total $100.1M, representing a 2.59% increase from the previous fiscal year. The Board of Education Budget is increasing by 1.87% and the Town Budget (which includes Town and School capital and debt service costs) is increasing 3.92%.
Find more detailed information on the recommended budget, view the Digital Budget Book.
AcademyThe Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance approved a resolution to bring to a vote on May 6th an increase in the Academy Community Center Project budget, from $15.9M (approved in February 2022) to $24M. After seeking bids for construction of the project, it was determined that the project budget was short by approximately $8M and more funding would be needed to meet community expectations for the renovation of the building.
Any additional spending on the project above the $15.9M in bonding already approved would be solely financed by grants and donations - no additional bonding or town funds are being requested for the construction of the project. The Town has already been awarded $7.625M in major grants that the Board is requesting to use to fund the $8M budget gap.More information can be found on the Academy 2025 page.
If you have any questions, email [email protected]. The answers to these questions can be found on the FAQ sheet on the Academy 2025 page linked above. This document will be updated as questions are received.
For additional questions about the Referendum process, contact the Town Clerks Office at 203-245-5672.
MADISON, CT — Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, has been selected as the 2024 Year-End recipient of the prestigious Connie Award, Hilton’s highest honor recognizing exceptional performance and guest satisfaction across its global portfolio.Managed by Distinctive Hospitality Group, Madison Beach Hotel continues to raise the bar for excellence in bespoke luxury hospitality, and Connie Award is a reflection of the hotel’s unwavering commitment to service, quality, and guest experience.“This r...
MADISON, CT — Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, has been selected as the 2024 Year-End recipient of the prestigious Connie Award, Hilton’s highest honor recognizing exceptional performance and guest satisfaction across its global portfolio.
Managed by Distinctive Hospitality Group, Madison Beach Hotel continues to raise the bar for excellence in bespoke luxury hospitality, and Connie Award is a reflection of the hotel’s unwavering commitment to service, quality, and guest experience.
“This recognition is a testament to the commitment of our owners, the Duques family; our management company, Distinctive Hospitality Group; and our entire team,” said the hotel’s general manager, John Mathers. “We're fortunate to be supported by an unparalleled team of hospitality professionals that deliver a level of product and service matched only by the beauty of our location. We’re honored to receive this recognition from our partner, Hilton Hotels, whose relationship and commitment to service excellence align with our own.”
With only a select few recipients recognized across all Hilton brands each year, the award is an incredibly competitive and rare distinction. Winners are carefully selected based on a comprehensive evaluation of guest experience scores and quality assurance audits that assess everything from hotel cleanliness and physical condition to compliance with brand standards and overall guest accommodations.
“The Connie Award is the highest honor at Hilton, awarded to hotels for exemplifying our founder Conrad Hilton's vision to ‘fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality,’" said Brooke Thomas, brand leader, Curio Collection by Hilton. "A big congratulations to John and the Madison Beach team for earning this esteemed award and thank you to all of the team members for delivering remarkable, welcoming stays for our guests while setting the standard for Curio Collection hospitality."
Nestled along the scenic Connecticut shoreline, Madison Beach Hotel stands as one of New England’s premier boutique beachfront resorts. It is also one of the few coastal properties in the region to achieve the coveted AAA Four Diamond Rating, awarded to establishments that deliver superior guest comfort, upscale accommodations, and personalized amenities through a team of experienced, highly qualified professionals.
About Curio Collection by Hilton
Curio Collection by Hilton is a global portfolio of more than 160 individually remarkable hotels hand-picked to immerse guests in one-of-a-kind moments in the world’s most sought-after destinations. Each hotel in the Curio Collection evokes a bespoke story through distinctive architecture and design, world-class food & beverage and curated experiences, while providing the benefits of Hilton and its award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors. Experience Curio Collection by Hilton by booking at curiocollection.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about Curio Collection by Hilton at stories.hilton.com/curio and follow the brand on Facebook, Instagram and X.
About Madison Beach Hotel
Madison Beach Hotel is a AAA Four Diamond Award-winning boutique resort and was chosen as Hotel of the Year by Hilton, the highest hotel award across all Hilton brands. The hotel, with 33 deluxe guest rooms and one premier residence, offers luxurious accommodations with sweeping ocean views, private balconies and beach, and is part of Curio Collection by Hilton. Opened in May 2012, Madison Beach Hotel features The Wharf Restaurant with both dining room and porch seating, concierge spa, state-of-the-art fitness center and more than 5,000 square feet of private event space. Madison Beach Hotel is managed by Distinctive Hospitality Group.
860-261-4405
