New brews are big news

The 8,000 square foot lease was signed with McCormack-Baron Associates of St. Louis and a related New York City company. Plans to open are set for early 1997.

The owner of the Hartford Brewery, Philip Hopkins, is anxious to get his new project underway. "I've been quietly looking for a space in New Haven for about three years," Hopkins said. "I like the excitement of a city."

Hopkins is confident that New Haven is a "logical market" for the brew pub, and believes that expanding will go relatively smoothly since New Haven is "demographically similar" to Hartford.

Some of the Hartford Brewery's more renowned beers include the "Arch Amber" and the "Praying Mantis Porter," named after the state insect.

Founded in 1988, the Hartford Brewery was the first brew pub to open its doors in Connecticut and was the first legal holder of a brew pub permit.

"I like the unique approach of a brew pub," adds Hopkins. "You can only get the beer there, and it's fresh from the tap."

Beer will not be the only thing that the Hartford Brewery will bring to the already exciting New Haven night-life scene. Hopkins' plans also include a restaurant, game room, and coffee shop. Entrées such as steak and salmon will be served for prices under fifteen dollars, and there will be plenty of beer to wash it down with.

--Al Wahlig