West Hartford Business Buzz: July 21, 2025

Published On: July 21, 2025Categories: Bishops Corner, Business, Corbins Corner, Elmwood, Park Road, The Center
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Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

A round-up of openings, closings, and other news about West Hartford businesses. 

Business Buzz is sponsored by NBT Bank, and we are very thankful for their support!

By Ronni Newton

I hope everyone enjoyed the nice weather over the past few days. The past few days have reminded me of why I love summer – and it looks like there will be some great weather coming up this week as well.

Last week I had the opportunity to enjoy several of the unique and wonderful activities this area has to offer. On Wednesday night Ted and I brought a picnic dinner to Elizabeth Park where we enjoyed the free concert by Le’ Mixx – a blend of “classic R&B, funk, and reggae” – on the law near the Rose Garden.

Le’ Mixx at Elizabeth Park. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Kilwins ice cream. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

We topped that off with an ice cream cone at Kilwins – WeHa Mud for me, of course!

A year or two ago at an auction we won a pair of tickets for a Slipaway River Tours sunset cruise, and we scheduled Thursday for our date. Depending on the day of the week the boat launches from different docks, and Thursday night was from Ferry Park in Rocky Hill. We saw several eagles – both adults and juveniles – nesting in the trees along the Connecticut River, and also saw them take flight. Other than a few jet skiers racing by and a boat or two, it was really quiet on the river. We enjoyed some Jimmy Buffett-type tunes and drinks and snacks that we had brought along – and a gorgeous sunset! Slipaway Owner/Operator, Captain Bill Keyt, was a great host and guide, and it’s amazing what an untapped resource this type of business is for the area. Visit the website or contact [email protected] for more info.

Sunset on the Connecticut River from the Slipaway River Tours boat. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

We topped off that night with a great casual dinner at Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina (where the kitchen is now under the direction of chef Xavier Santiago) in Wethersfield.

Chicken Tinga Quesadilla at Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Birria Taco at Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Ahi Tuna Tostada at Tequila Rio Mexican Cantina. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Then on Friday night, we saw Playhouse on Park’s fabulous and innovative version of “Singin’ in the Rain.”

Other than Kilwins we had not had a chance for a West Hartford dining out experience last week, and while we didn’t have that opportunity on Saturday night either, we enjoyed the amazingly delicious creations of Max Restaurant Group, DORO, Billy Grant, Tyler Anderson, and Prasad Chirnomula (owner of the former INDIA restaurant in Blue Back Square) – all in one place. Rich Rochlin’s 50th birthday extravaganza was an epic event, held at the beautiful Rosedale Farms & Vineyards in Weatogue, and I was very glad I arrived hungry (and had gone for a run in the morning) because I *had* to try everything! I missed getting photos of each item, but the available feast included a raw bar, charcuterie table, grilled cheese and bacon, mini lobster rolls, beef tartare, lamb lollipops, ravioli, seafood paella, ceviche, ribs, corn fritters, and more. Thank you so much to Rich (a divorce and family law attorney whose office is at 12 North Main Street) for inviting us to experience a truly memorable evening, that also included the Hartford Hot Several Brass Band, a drag queen, a stilt walker, and a “Loud Mime Show.”

Charcuterie table by MAX. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Chef Scott Miller of DORO Restaurant Group prepares seafood paella. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Chef Prasad Chirnomula prepares lamb lollipops. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Lamb lollipops. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Mini lobster roll. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Corn fritter. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Billy Grant’s Cacio de Pepe Ravioli. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Tyler Anderson served ribs and coleslaw. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

The “Loud Mime” performed various stunts, including juggling swords from atop a rolling platform that was on a 6-foot-high platform. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Stilt walker. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

The week ahead looks much more ordinary!

If you are a long term, regular advertiser on We-Ha.com and have a 60 to 75 word submission for a future Business Buzz please send to Bob Carr at [email protected]. You can also contact Bob if you are interested in becoming a sponsor of a section of the site.

No trolls last week, and the one person who submitted a comment without a full name responded immediately to my request for a full name and provided that information. Thank you to all who comment with your full names! Please note that it has been our policy for several years that full names be used when commenting directly on the site – with the exception of those commenters who were grandfathered when they commented prior to the policy being updated. Please comply or your comment will not be published.

If you have information to share about local businesses, please provide details in the comments or email Ronni Newton at [email protected].

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Here’s this week’s Buzz:

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • Big Y Foods, which purchased the shopping center anchored by their Bishops Corner store in 2022, is undergoing an interior remodeling and also plans updates to the façade of the entire Crossroads Plaza, as well as to the rear of the property. While the property is a Special Development District, the updates fall within the scope of “administrative approval” with the Town Council expected to receive notice and approve the town planner’s action through the consent calendar at their August meeting. The improvements, according to the proposal filed with the town, include “replacement of deteriorated finishes and site elements, and mechanical upgrade accommodations related to the interior remodel.” The exterior will be completely repainted, with new cladding and signage at the main entrance. The retaining wall and railing next to the loading docks, as well as the concrete pad, will be replaced in the rear of the building, and unused rooftop equipment will be removed. The fabric awnings in the rear will be replaced, and several doors will be replaced and/or infilled with brick if not in use.

Plans for upgrades to Big Y and Crossroads Plaza. Town of West Hartford website

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Updates are planned for the shopping center in Bishops Corner anchored by Big Y. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • J.René Coffee Roasters (320 Park Road) obtained a liquor license several years ago, and is very excited to put it to use as part of the launch of “Analog & Aroma,” a transformation of the coffee shop into a lounge planned to take place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 5 to 8:30 p.m. There’s a menu of small plates that include a beet salad, mediterranean salad, meatballs, flatbread, and chicken empanadas created and executed by Chef Rui Correia (West Hartford resident and owner of Piri Piri Q), along with beer and wine. Local beers currently featured are from Vue Brewing, Counterweight, and Dead Language Brewing. The also offer reserve specialty coffee selections at the pour over bar, along with a full espresso menu. Playlists are curated by local DJs, along with live music on scheduled nights. “Our new evening service, Analog & Aroma, is more than a dream come true for us – it is an amalgamation of talents,” said owner José René Martínez. “Each team member brings decades of professional skill to the table, creating an unforgettable experience for guests. Chef Rui Correia delivers a tantalizing yet approachable selection of small plates that ignite the senses. Dana Borque, our production roaster and Beverage Manager, collaborated with Chef Rui and our team to curate a wonderful assortment of local beers and wines for guests to enjoy. Marie Engel brings her renowned hospitality to the space, while I draw upon my 20-plus year specialty coffee career to offer an exclusive menu of reserve coffee selections only available at Analog & Aroma. We’ve also partnered with local musicians and artists, such as Jared Beamish and Michael Carabello, for entertainment. Our team has gone above and beyond to craft this new experience at our coffee shop, and we couldn’t be more elated to share it with our West Hartford community.” I can’t wait to experience this!!

Mediterranean salad prepared by Chef Rui Correia. Courtesy of J.René Coffee Roasters

Specialty pour over at Analog & Aroma. Courtesy of J.René Coffee Roasters

J.René Coffee Roasters has introduced Analog & Aroma on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

J.René Coffee Roasters has introduced Analog & Aroma on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • Blue Back Square will again be “turning up the summer vibes” with the second Blue Back Block Party of the season. Billed as “a lively evening celebration packed with entertainment for all ages,” the event will include live music from Avenue Groove and family-friendly activities like face painting and give-aways. Blue Back Square restaurants – including Playa Bowls, Chip City, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, and Boqueria – will offer samples, and there will also be interactive art experiences courtesy of RiseUP for Arts, including assembling art boxes for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and mural painting. The event is Thursday, July 24, from 6-8 p.m. and there is no cost to attend. “The Blue Back Block Party is more than just an event — it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and summer fun. Designed to bring people together through music, food, and the arts, this signature event captures the energy and inclusivity that define Blue Back Square. It’s the perfect way for families, friends, and neighbors to connect and create lasting summer memories,” Blue Back Square said in an announcement.

Scene from the first Blue Back Block Party of 2025. Courtesy photo

Scene from the first Blue Back Block Party of 2025. Courtesy photo

  • Congratulations to Ken Schanke and Audrey Poynton, owners of five Teriyaki Madness shops in Connecticut (with three more in development), who were just honored with the Franchisee of the Year award. “After 25 years in corporate advertising and a successful run as multi-unit Jersey Mike’s owners, they launched their own restaurant group, Meraki, and have taken a highly strategic, growth-minded approach to franchising. Their impact was recently recognized nationally when they were named Franchisees of the Year by Teriyaki Madness – a nod to both their operational excellence and leadership within the system,” a spokesperson for Teriyaki Madness said in a statement. Meraki means “to do something with heart, soul, and passion” — and reflects their values-driven approach to business, she said. The West Hartford Teriyaki Madness location in Prospect Plaza opened on May 15, 2025.

Teriyaki Madness officially opened on May 15, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton (we-ha.com file photo)

Chicken teriyaki (one with brown rice and one with white rice) and steak teriyaki from Teriyaki Madness. Photo credit: Ronni Newton (we-ha.com file photo)

  • Town staff are currently reviewing a site plan application to eliminate the mechanical bays and expand and convert the majority of the building to a convenience store at the Phillips 66 station at 2526 Albany Avenue, and to “upgrade the building’s façade to modernize and enhance its aesthetic appeal,” the application states.

An application has been filed to combine the mechanical bays and existing convenience store at 2526 Albany Avenue into an expanded and modern convenience store. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

An application has been filed to combine the mechanical bays and existing convenience store at 2526 Albany Avenue into an expanded and modern convenience store. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

An application has been filed to combine the mechanical bays and existing convenience store at 2526 Albany Avenue into an expanded and modern convenience store. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • It appears that Z Bowls (165 Park Road), which opened last October, has closed and Burger Squad will be opening in its place. I have not been able to connect with either the owner of Z Bowls or the owner of Burger Squad, but there are permit applications file with the town and a sign on the door indicating that Burger Squad is “coming soon.” More to come once I can get the details!

A sign in the window of Z Bowls indicates that Burger Squad will be opening soon in the 165 Park Road space. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

A sign in the window of Z Bowls indicates that Burger Squad will be opening soon in the 165 Park Road space. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • The following is from a news release: The Light Source Center, a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to the teaching of enlightenment on all levels of the human experience, proudly announces the launch of its newest youth program, IlluminateU – a 10-week journey designed to help children develop emotional awareness, confidence and inner peace. Beginning Sept. 10, 2025, IlluminateU will run weekly for 10 consecutive weeks at The Light Source Center, located at 2437 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT. The program is tailored for two age groups: Ages 6-8: Wednesdays from 3:15-4:45 p.m. and Ages 8–10: Fridays from 3:15-4:45 p.m. Each session is 90 minutes and includes guided visualization meditations, along with dynamic, kid-friendly activities such as art, movement, and play. These experiences are intentionally designed to support children in identifying and navigating stress, anxiety, anger and other emotional challenges. “IlluminateU is more than a program – it’s a foundation for lifelong tools in emotional intelligence and self-trust,” said Jen Truken, the LSC’s lead teacher. “We help children realize the light they carry within and how to lead with it in their everyday lives.” Enrollment is now open. Space is limited. The cost for the 10 week program is $250. Scholarships are available. For more information or to register, visit www.lightsourcecenter.org or call 860-287-3119.

Ribbon cutting at The Light Source Center in July 2024. Photo credit: Caitlin McBee, Balance Massage and Wellness Center. (we-ha.com file photo)

  • Round Room LLC, the Verizon authorized retailer located at 712 North Main Street in West Hartford’s Bishops Corner area, is one of more than 1,200 stores in the country that will be hosting the 13th annual “School Rocks Backpack Giveaway.” On Sunday, July 27, beginning at 1 p.m., a total of more than 140,000 backpacks – worth more than $3 million overall – will be given away to local students. “This is one of those moments each year that reminds us why we do what we do,” Scott Moorehead, CEO of Round Room, said in a statement. “It’s not just about the backpacks, it’s about showing up for our neighbors. When our teams gather in stores across the country to give back on the same day, it’s a magical thing.” This year’s event also marks the conclusion of Round Room’s first-ever “Stuff the Bus” campaign, a nationwide school supply drive held throughout June at its participating stores. Designed to provide essential classroom tools to under-resourced schools, the initiative rallied community members across five states. The finalists, each nominated by a local business, will receive the supplies collected in their area. Additionally, Round Room will be gifting one winning school a bus filled with nearly $40,000 of essential supplies during Backpack Giveaway. Since the event’s inception, Round Room has been able to provide more than 1.5 million children with a backpack. Any leftover backpacks will be donated to local schools of each store’s choice.

Courtesy photo

  • From a news release: Fuchs Financial is proud to announce that company founder Ben Fuchs has been invited to join the Foundations Advisory Board for one of the nation’s leading Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firms – Foundations Investment Advisors. Ranked sixth in the country by USA Today, this elite RIA firm selected just six advisors for its board in 2025, including Ben Fuchs. The selection reflects his deep commitment to advancing thoughtful, client-first financial planning and his growing influence within the industry. As a member of the Foundations Advisory Board, he will contribute insights and guidance to help shape the firm’s strategic direction and enhance service across the financial advisory space. “Our goal is to help people to plan for their retirement in a way that is specific to their circumstances and objectives, and which will minimize their taxes and maximize their retirement,” said Fuchs, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Private Wealth Advisor professional, with two decades of experience.  “Our goal is to help our clients be in the best position for a financially secure retirement.”

Ben Fuchs. Courtesy photo

  • The West Hartford-based Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford (Foundation) has appointed Kathryn Gonnerman as President and Chief Executive Officer. Gonnerman, who previously worked at the Foundation for 10 years, will begin her new role on Aug. 18. She will oversee a nine-member staff, expand the Foundation’s mission and grow its assets under management, which currently are $190 million. “We are truly delighted to welcome Kathryn back to our community,” said Gayle Temkin, Chair of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees. “Kathryn is an outstanding strategic thinker and an inspiring leader, deeply committed to our community. She has a remarkable ability to build trusted relationships with donors, trustees, and lay leaders alike,” she continued. “We are confident that Kathryn is the ideal person to lead the Foundation into a new era of growth, innovation, and financial strength.” Gonnerman first worked at the Foundation from 2013-2024 in various leadership positions. She began as the Marketing Director and was promoted to Executive Director of the Foundation’s Center for Innovative Philanthropy. In 2018, Ms. Gonnerman served with distinction as Interim CEO of the Foundation and was appointed Vice President of Philanthropy in 2019-2024. In this role, Gonnerman restructured and grew the Development Team staff, and managed fundraising and donor relations, generating $4-6 million in revenue per year. She also counseled Jewish agency and synagogue leaders on effective endowment initiatives and supported the migration of a new database system for greater operational efficiency. Gonnerman speaks Mandarin Chinese and Spanish, and has traveled extensively through her work in international education and cross-cultural competency. She earned her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Yale University in East Asian Studies. Ms. Gonnerman was named one of Hartford Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 in 2016.

Kathryn Gonnerman. Courtesy photo

  • Last week there was so much construction news to share that I wrote a completely separate article about it published later on Monday, with Vision Zero quick-build and other updates along with information about the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan. I’m returning to providing updates in this column regarding the Center, and this past week there was more progress on Phase 2B, the west side of LaSalle Road, where curbing has been installed and soil cells for the new street trees and electrical conduits have also been installed. Last week also saw the visible commencement of work on Phase 2A – the stretch of the east side of LaSalle Road from bluemercury (at the corner of LaSalle and Farmington) through The Friendly Toast – will get underway, beginning with the installation by contractor Gerber Construction of roughly 150 linear feet of construction fencing. The initial work taking place last week was from the intersection of Farmington and LaSalle south to Penzeys. While access to businesses will remain open at all times, officials said the LaSalle Road entrance to the Farmington Avenue parking lot will be temporarily closed off. The other entrance to that lot – on Farmington Avenue – will remain open and the exit onto South Main Street will not be impacted. The initial work on Phase 2A will include storm drainage improvements and the installation of soil cells for the new street trees as well as electrical conduit.

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on Phase 2A has started but as of Thursday. July 27 had not yet moved south beyond the entrance to the Farmington Avenue parking lot. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2B on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2B on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Work on West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan Phase 2A on LaSalle Road, July 17, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

  • Many are following the plans to construct a new Animal Control facility on Brixton Street, and there has been some activity on the site. According to the town manager (and the markings on the pavement), the site has been surveyed for “Call Before You Dig” and Connecticut Natural Gas has also been on the site to mark the location of utilities. The construction trailer for G Donovan has been delivered, as has construction fencing. I’ll continue to check on the status every few days and report back!

A construction trailer, fencing, and a backhoe at the site of the future Animal Control facility on Brixton Street. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Construction trailer at Animal Control facility. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Call Before You Dig” and Connecticut Natural Gas markings at the site of the new Animal Control facility. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Remember, if you have any business news to share, add it in the comments section below or email Ronni Newton at [email protected].

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