After months of speculation and front-page headlines suggesting its days in Chickahominy were numbered, Garden Catering has officially signed a long-term lease at its Hamilton Avenue location—despite early signals that the site might be redeveloped.
The announcement comes after public reports raised alarms about the fate of the local favorite, following approval in 2022 of a plan to redevelop the site at 177 Hamilton Avenue into a residential building. While earlier news articles described a proposal that would demolish the existing building and eliminate the restaurant space, Garden Catering worked behind the scenes to preserve its presence and legacy in the neighborhood.
Garden Catering at 177 Hamilton Avenue in Greenwich. Sept 10, 2025 Photo: Leslie Yager
“There’s been a lot of uncertainty, and we heard from so many people who were worried we might be forced to leave,” said Frank Carpenteri Jr., Owner of Garden Catering. “We’re thrilled to officially share that our Hamilton Avenue location is here to stay.”
A Local Staple with Deep Roots
Founded in Old Greenwich in 1978, Garden Catering has deep roots in the town. The Hamilton Avenue location opened as Garden Catering’s third location in 1999, and has survived a devastating fire, the pandemic, and—most recently—a potential development that threatened its future. Despite headlines suggesting the building might be torn down and converted to housing, Carpenteri and his team worked to secure a long-term deal that allows Garden Catering continue operating at its current location.
Garden Catering at 177 Hamilton Avenue in Greenwich. File photo
“Chickahominy is home,” Carpenteri said. “I grew up around the corner on top of Tom’s Deli, went to Ham Ave school, and when I started full time at Garden, this was the store where I learned the business. We’ve been part of the Ham Ave community for over 25 years, and we are all very happy to know we’ll be here for at least the next 15 years.
What’s Next
To celebrate the news, Garden Catering plans to launch a fall campaign filled with giveaways, nostalgic menu items, and promotions that honor the brand’s history.
“This is one of our original locations,” Carpenteri added. “And we’re incredibly thankful to our loyal guests and the community that’s stood by us.”
Founded in Old Greenwich in the late 1970s, Garden Catering has grown into a local institution, known for its hand-cut chicken nuggets made with No Antibiotics Ever chicken, signature sides, and all-day breakfast. The brand has been recognized on Fast Casual’s Movers & Shakers Top 75 list every year since 2021 and has donated over $400,000 to local nonprofits, with a focus on children’s initiatives and pediatric cancer research. Still proudly family-owned and operated, Garden Catering is run today by siblings Frank Jr. and Tina Carpenteri.
Garden Catering 177 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830
Tel. (203) 422-2555
Mon – Fri: 7:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday 7:00am – 5:00pm
Closed Sunday