Local Bites: Seafood at Rufina's, Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Westford

We know Chelmsford residents don’t just stay in Chelmsford when they want a night out and a break from cooking.

Restaurant comings and goings, new business and the best dishes and recipes are among the items that have appeared on area Patch sites over the past month. 

Below is a look at the restaurant and food stories local Patch sites have covered over the past month. Read through our round up for the latest food news in the area.

CHELMSFORD

Celebrating one year since Vincenzo’s in Chelmsford changed to Rufina’s,  Ribeck says the most popular item on the menu is Chicken Parmigiana (followed closely by any of the other parms, veal, eggplant and the combination of all three). Her favorite menu item is a toss up between Lobster fra Diavolo (loaded with fresh lobster meat simmered in a spicy marinara sauce tossed with linguine) or Haddock di Estate (haddock of the summer) oven roasted day boat haddock fillet served with julienned summer vegetables finished in a sherry wine and shallot sauce served over angel hair.

 Do you have a go-to spot for drinking or dining in Chelmsford? Chelmsford Patch recently asked people what small businesses they support and like the most. 

WESTFORD

 For Westford resident Gail Flannery, a career set back has turned into a sweet opportunity. Westford Patch recently profiled Flannery and her 2- year-old shop Sweet Visions Patisserie. The cakes and confections have generated a niche market at Carlisle Farmers’ Market. 

 Speaking of sweets, Westford has become a hotbed for cupcakes. Between home-based businesses and shops popping up, Merrimack Valley residents are going to be running to Westford when cravings call.  

TEWKSBURY

Just in time for summer, Tewksbury Country Club has announced it outdoor dining will now be an option. The outdoor patio, has been redesigned to accommodate a larger tavern and, at the same time, provide the same prices and view of the country club property. Outdoor speakers will ensure that everyone can enjoy the entertainment no matter where they choose to sit. 

The  170 River Road in Tewksbury now has a liquor license.

Lorraine Trull, co-owner with her husband Roy also made improvements to the snack bar, changing its name to T's Bar and Grill and expanding its menu. Although Roy has worked at the course since he was a young boy, the couple has been the sole owners of Trull Brook for the past year and a half.