Laura Mastroianni has been enjoying fine food at Pasquale's Osteria a few times a week for more than 20 years and likens the experience to being home. The Norwalk native said the cuisine tops all area options. Everything is made when you order it; it's like being in my kitchen; it's like being in my backyard," she said. "This is like being home."

After a recent funeral lunch for 40 people, Mastroianni said the eatery also brings its high standards when serving larger gatherings. "You thought you were eating in my kitchen," she said of the lunch. "That's how amazing it is."Fare offered at the gathering included  eggplant parmesan, chicken parmesan, cavatelli with broccoli rabe and sausage, homemade gnocchi and penne vodka.