Beloved Restaurant Opening New Branford Location

BRANFORD, CT — The owners of Goodfellas's, a popular New Haven restaurant, will be taking over at the site of the former The Oxford Restaurant, the Connecticut Scoop first reported.

The Oxford Restaurant, which Google shows as permanently closed, is located at 2 East Main St.

On Oct. 1, Encore by Goodfellas posted on their social media that "Secret's Out Coming Soon," and then a photo of Dreas by Goodfellas.

Underneath the social post, someone asked, "Will you honor gift cards purchased for the Oxford? I purchased a gift card two weeks ago as a gift..."

And Encore by Goodfellas replied that they will honor gift cards to The Oxford. Many people commented about how excited they are to have the popular eatery coming to Branford.

"I was just at Goodfella’s on Saturday, unbelievably delicious!! I’m so excited that I don’t have to go into New Haven now."

"So excited ! Can’t wait for the grand reveal! Congratulations & good luck."

Encore by Goodfellas currently operates its very popular restaurant at 702 State St. in New Haven. More than 10,000 people follow them on social media.

On its website it states, "With a combined 50 years in the restaurant industry, we wanted to bring a modern interpretation of an era when dining and entertainment went hand in hand; a space where eating, drinking and performances come alive in a luxury setting with exceptional service. Welcome to our newest venture, our magnum opus, our Encore. Buon Appetito, Andrea and Chef Gerry."

Hearst Connecticut said the new Branford eatery will be more casual than the New Haven location, and it could open within a month.

The Connecticut Magazine did an in-depth feature in 2023 when Goodfellas rebranded as Encore by Goodfellas.

Reviews for Encore by Goodfellas are overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer on Google wrote, "Absolutely loved our experience at Encore by Goodfellas! The live piano music created such a refined and relaxing atmosphere, truly a highlight of the night. The ambiance overall was elegant and inviting, perfect for a special evening. "

Another reviewer wrote, "An outstanding experience from start to finish—excellent food, entertainment, and service."

"Dining at Encore was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. Each dish was a masterpiece, bursting with flavor and expertly prepared," another reviewer wrote.

The menu includes soups, salads, pasta dishes, and numerous entrées including pork chops, steak, seafood, lamb and veal. (You can view their full menu here).