Westporter of the Week: Sal Gilbertie

Name:  Sal Gilbertie

Age:  I am 74 and was born and have lived or worked in Westport all of my life.

Favorite restaurant in Westport:  My favorite restaurant is Nistico's Red Barn...love their raw oysters from Norwalk when they are in season and Tom Nistico always calls me when his Mom has a special dish she has prepared...always a surprise and always delicious!

Favorite place in Westport:  Obviously, my favorite place in Westport is Gilbertie's Herb Gardens. A customer recently wrote me a note describing it as "that tempting Eden on Sylvan Lane". Our daughter-in-law, Carrie, and her great staff have maintained the charisma and tranquility of that garden paradise that I enjoyed as a youngster growing up and still revel in today. There is a special calming effect in the greenhouses and gardens that you can't find anywhere else in town.

Why Westport?  I have always been exposed to the great people in Westport through our business. It is a real blessing, because gardeners are happy, smiling people. They are especially grateful, optimistic about life and caring about the goodness of nature. Westporters are the best....just look at all of the environmental good works that are happening in Westport......that only happens with caring, good people.