Meet Chef & Owner, Alexandra Ayala Costache
Every dish at Belle Vie Café in Guilford, Connecticut begins with the vision and care of Chef Alexandra Ayala Costache.
Originally from Romania, Alex arrived in the United States in 2005 with a dream of creating food that connects people, food that feels as good as it tastes. After graduating from the French Culinary Institute (FCI) in Manhattan in 2009, she built her career in some of Connecticut’s most respected kitchens, including L’escale in Greenwich, The J House, and David’s Soundview Catering in Stamford.
In 2019, she took a leap of faith and opened her own business, Baked by Alexandra, a bakery built around one simple idea: that healthy can still be delicious. Her gluten-free, keto, and paleo recipes quickly earned a loyal following among customers who were thrilled to rediscover their favorite baked goods without compromise.
Today, as a proud mom of two boys and the owner of Belle Vie Café, Alex brings that same philosophy to the table every day, crafting meals that celebrate flavor, health, and balance. Her passion shines through in every detail, from sourcing quality ingredients to creating a menu that welcomes every dietary lifestyle.
About the Café
Located in Guilford, Connecticut, along the beautiful Connecticut shoreline, Belle Vie Café is a welcoming two-story eatery where wholesome food meets local creativity.
The dishes are made from scratch using high-quality ingredients, from nourishing soups and vibrant salads to savory sandwiches, crepes, and fresh-baked treats.
Whether you’re in Guilford or visiting from neighboring shoreline towns like New Haven, Madison, Branford, Clinton, or Old Saybrook, Belle Vie Café offers a warm space to relax, connect, and enjoy food that fits your lifestyle, without feeling restrictive.
Our menu caters to a variety of dietary needs, gluten-free, vegan, keto, paleo, and diabetic-friendly, so everyone can enjoy something delicious. Both floors of the café feature rotating artwork from local Connecticut artists, adding color, creativity, and community spirit to every visit.
At Belle Vie Café, “Belle Vie” — French for beautiful life — is more than a name. It’s our philosophy: eat well, feel good, and celebrate the beauty of everyday moments shared over great food.