Guest Chef – May 2026 – Community Table
Guest Chef – March 2026 – Mancora Restobar
A Curated Culinary Experience by Chef Don.
Meet Chef Don Fritz
Chef Don Fritz developed a passion for food and cooking at his mother’s stove. Between her Italian heritage and her love for Julia Child, she instilled in him a desire to spend his life feeding those he loves.
After decades in the restaurant business, he is thrilled to be working beside Louise Albin at Cafe Louise. Chef Don has owned Pizzeria Sassano, an Italian restaurant in South Glastonbury which featured hand-crafted pizzas and authentic Italian dishes. From there, he opened Catering by Sassano, providing corporate catering services. He also owned Tar River Barbecue, bringing authentic North Carolina barbecue to everywhere from weddings to music festivals. Additionally, he was the Catering/Executive Chef at Central Connecticut State University, overseeing and cooking for up to 400 people at a time!
In his spare time, he loves spending time with family, exploring photography, and going to as my concerts as he possibly can.
Chef Don's Menu
Appetizers
Potato Leek Soup
Creme Fraiche, Frizzled Leeks, Olive Oil
Entrees
Braised Short Rib
Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Carrot Puree, Cremini Mushrooms, Red Wine Sauce
Dessert
Carrot Raisin Pecan Cake
Pecan Crunch Filling, Cream Cheese Icing