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The Untold Story Of Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse Greenwich CT: Where Did The Iconic Chophouse Go?

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For years, Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse was more than just a restaurant; it was a cornerstone of the Greenwich, CT, dining scene, a place where old-school charm met upscale Italian-American cuisine. As of late 2025, however, those searching for the iconic Church Street establishment will find a different, albeit highly-regarded, modern concept in its place. The story of Gabriele's is one of legacy, evolution, and a family's enduring commitment to the art of the classic chophouse, a legacy that has since moved to a new, thriving location.

The Greenwich location, which built a reputation over nearly four decades, officially closed its doors in 2019, paving the way for a new chapter in the local dining landscape. This article dives deep into the history of the beloved steakhouse, the figures who made it famous, the iconic dishes that defined it, and the exciting new direction the Gabriele brand has taken in nearby Fairfield County.

The Legacy of a Greenwich Institution: From Luca's to Gabriele's

The history of Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse is deeply intertwined with the history of fine dining in Greenwich, CT. The establishment was not an overnight success but rather the culmination of a decades-long tradition started by the Gabriele family.

A Family's Culinary Heritage

The foundation of the steakhouse was laid by the patriarch, Luca Gabriele, who was a venerable restaurateur in the area. The restaurant space on Church Street was once Luca's Steak House, a local institution in its own right, which itself followed another classic Greenwich eatery, Manero's. This lineage cemented the location's status as a hub for classic American and Italian dining.

The modern iteration, Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse, was spearheaded by Luca’s son, Danny Gabriele. Danny, a Greenwich native, took the helm to reimagine the space, creating an upscale Italian chophouse that quickly became a favorite among local power brokers and celebrities, including high-profile diners like Robert DeNiro and Michael. The success was a testament to Danny Gabriele's vision for blending the classic steakhouse experience with authentic Italian roots, a concept he co-developed with Jody Pennette, president of the cb5 Restaurant Group.

  • Founder: Luca Gabriele (of Luca's Steak House)
  • Owner/Restaurateur: Danny Gabriele (son of Luca)
  • Location (Original): 27 Church Street, Greenwich, CT
  • Cuisine Style: Classic Old School Italian Steakhouse/Chophouse
  • Key Collaborator: Jody Pennette (cb5 Restaurant Group)
  • Noted Manager: Tony Capasso
  • Closure Date: 2019 (Greenwich location)

The Iconic Menu: Prime Beef, Italian Roots, and Signature Dishes

What truly set Gabriele's apart in the competitive Greenwich Avenue dining scene was its commitment to quality and its dual-cuisine approach. It was a true "Italian Steakhouse," meaning patrons could indulge in the finest cuts of beef while also savoring sophisticated Italian fare and fresh seafood.

The steak program was the heart of the operation. The restaurant sourced hand-selected, prime beef, offering both wet-aged and dry-aged cuts. This dedication to quality positioned it against the best steakhouses in Fairfield County.

The Italian side of the menu, however, provided the unique flair and warmth that diners cherished. It was a contemporary take on classics, ensuring the experience felt both familiar and elevated. Signature appetizers and entrees often included:

  • Scallops Gratin: A rich and savory seafood starter.
  • Clams Oreganata: A classic Italian-American baked clam dish.
  • Double Cut Pork Chop: A robust, flavorful option often served with Italian-inspired sides.
  • Skirt Steak: Often prepared with a sweet corn salad, salsa verde, and charred lemon, showcasing a modern Italian twist.
  • Heavy Seafood Options: Beyond the clams and scallops, the menu was known for its substantial seafood selection.

The atmosphere was equally important. Gabriele's successfully combined the elegance of a high-end steakhouse with the energy and old-school charm of a classic Italian supper club. The "Front of the House" staff, led by figures like manager Tony Capasso, was famous for providing attentive, professional service that made every guest feel like a VIP.

The Evolution: Townhouse Arrives and The Brand Moves West

The closure of Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse in Greenwich in 2019 marked a significant moment in the town's traditional dining scene. While the exact reasons for the closure were not universally publicized, the move was part of a larger trend of change and modernization in the high-end Greenwich restaurant market.

The New Occupant: Townhouse Greenwich

The historic 27 Church Street location did not remain vacant for long. In early 2020, the space reopened as Townhouse Restaurant & Bar. Townhouse introduced a new concept: an upscale American restaurant and bar that blends elegance with a more modern, inclusive energy. The new establishment is known for its well-crafted cocktails, photo-worthy food presentations, and a luxe atmosphere, continuing the location's tradition of high-quality dining, albeit with a different culinary focus under Chef Stephen Lewandowski.

The transition from a classic Italian chophouse to a contemporary American concept reflects the ever-changing tastes and demands of the Fairfield County clientele.

The Continuation of the Gabriele's Brand in Westport, CT

Crucially for fans of the original Greenwich steakhouse, the story of Gabriele's did not end in 2019. Restaurateur Danny Gabriele, born and raised in Greenwich, decided to expand his horizons and reintroduce his upscale casual Italian steakhouse concept in a new location: Westport, CT.

Gabriele's of Westport successfully captures the spirit of the original Greenwich institution. Opening in 2021, the new space continues the tradition of blending America's two favorite cuisines under one roof. The Westport menu is extensive, featuring signature cuts of prime dry-aged beef alongside a diverse range of Italian favorites prepared with the freshest ingredients. Diners can once again enjoy the high-quality dining and old-school charm that defined the Greenwich era, with updated dishes like:

  • Rack of Lamb
  • Chicken Scarpariello
  • Cauliflower Steak (a modern vegetarian option)
  • Ahi Tuna Tartare

The move to Westport ensures that the culinary legacy of the Gabriele family—a tradition spanning decades and built on prime cuts, Italian warmth, and professional service—remains a vibrant part of the Connecticut dining landscape. While the Greenwich doors are closed, the spirit of the classic Italian steakhouse lives on, just a short drive away.

The Untold Story of Gabriele's Italian Steakhouse Greenwich CT: Where Did the Iconic Chophouse Go?
gabriel's italian steakhouse greenwich ct
gabriel's italian steakhouse greenwich ct

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