Community Corner
The Criscuolo Brothers Bring Tasti D-Lite to Stamford
With over 100 customizable flavors to choose from, it won't be hard for Stamford residents to "dessert their guilt" as Tasti D-Lite's slogan suggests.
Where do you go in Stamford when you want a tasty frozen treat that is low in calories, fat, carbs and guilt but big on taste and satisfaction? Brothers Aldo and Joe Criscuolo have made it as simple as walking through the front door of their newest location of Tasti D-Lite at 211 Main Street.
Tasti D-Lite opened its doors last week and is projecting a grand opening sometime in early- to mid-July. And right now, they’re giving away free samples of their frozen desserts with their signature creamy texture.
So, what is Tasti D-Lite?
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Tasti D-Lite isn’t ice cream, sorbet, or even frozen yogurt. What it is, however, is a soft serve fresh blended frozen dessert that is made with all natural ingredients, contains less sugar than ice cream, has less than 10 percent butter fat. With a four fluid ounce serving containing only 70 to 100 calories, its kind to your waistline. It's marketed as a healthier alternative to ice cream and yogurt without sacrificing taste.
At Tasti D-Lite, they start with six base flavors: classic Chocolate and Vanilla, along with four other "Flavors of the Day," which rotate on a daily basis. But there is more to Tasti D-Lite than a mere six flavors. They can customize over 100 different flavor profiles such as Raspberry Chocolate Truffle, Chiffon Mint, Apple Pie, Peanut Butter Cup, Rice Pudding and many more. In addition, there is one yogurt in their line called the Tart ‘n Tasti™.
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With such a strong emphasis today being placed on leading a more active lifestyle and focusing on being more health conscious, Tasti D'Lite seems to fit right in.
“People can have a treat and not feel guilty about it,” co-owner Aldo Criscuolos told Patch.
The Criscuolos are quite well known in the lower Fairfield County area. They own in Glenbrook, in Darien, in Norwalk and GNA Associates, a local real estate and property management company. They also own and operate the in Darien, which is one of only three Tasti D-Lite centers in Connecticut. When asked why they chose Stamford for their latest venture, they were matter-of-fact.
“We love downtown Stamford,” Joe Criscuolos said. “It’s a good fit and I think we’re filling a niche.”
The Criscuolos are hopeful that Tasti D-Lite will become more than just a stroll-by attraction, but will develop into a targeted destination for people to come after a movie, after dinner or just because. And not just because the thermometer dictates it.
“Frozen yogurt comes and goes in cycles,” Aldo said. “And ice cream is very seasonal. Frozen dessert isn’t a fad. It’s lifestyle-driven. We get devoted customers all throughout the year.”
Tasti D-Lite frozen desserts are served in a cup, sugar cone, cake cone or a waffle cone, which is hand-crafted on the premises. There’s also a range of toppings to choose, from kiwi to strawberries to granola to Oreo® crumbles and more. And when you’re in the mood for more, Tasti D-Lite also serves smoothies, shakes, sundaes, crepes and cakes.
Loyal customers of Tasti D-Lite can reap the benefits of the Tasti TreatCard. By joining the TastiRewards program, participants can earn points good towards free Tasti cups or cones.
“You can get points just for registering online,” shop manager Amanda Barbosa said. “Whenever you make a purchase, you get points for every dollar spent.”
Tasti D-Lite
211 Main Street
Stamford, CT
203-504-8732
