West Hartford Business Buzz: September 29, 2025

Published On: September 29, 2025Categories: Bishops Corner, Blue Back Square, Business, Corbins Corner, Elmwood, Park Road, The Center

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Burger Squad is preparing to open at 165 Park Road. 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

Happy National Coffee Day to all who celebrate! I will definitely be observing the holiday – but of course every day is coffee day for me.

Ted and I have been enjoying a long weekend in Denver, doing some hiking and having a wonderful visit with our niece and her husband, and meeting their adorable 11-month-old daughter. Thanks to our house and dog sitter, Alex, for holding down the fort at our home in West Hartford (and sending us lots of photos of Millie!), and to Mia Jaworski and our team of Conard and Hall interns for covering the town.

The weather has been beautiful here, and I love the lack of humidity! We wanted to take advantage of that great weather and have as many opportunities as possible to explore the mountains, and were very thankful to our niece’s husband, Matt Adkins (yes, there are several Matthews and several Kathryns in our family), who is an accomplished climber and hiker (his day job is as a firefighter) for being our expert tour guide. On our first full day here, we successfully climbed to an altitude of 11,719 feet above sea level during a 4.2-mile hike up St. Mary’s Glacier. After continuing past a spectacular alpine lake, we watched dozens of people who had hiked up with their skis and were skiing down the glacier, and we continued to the highest point of the trail where we could see several 14,000-foot peaks, and the Continental Divide. It wasn’t the wisest decision to ascend to such a high altitude less than a day after being at near-sea-level in West Hartford, and both Ted and I had a few hours where we didn’t quite feel our best, but I’m still glad we did it. We’ve also been to Boulder, and are hoping to visit Rocky Mountain National Park before returning to Connecticut.

Ted and I with Matt Adkins at 11,719 feet at St. Mary’s Glacier in Idaho Springs, CO.

View of the Flatirons in Boulder. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Ted and I grabbed a quick dinner at Pick & Mix in West Hartford on Thursday night after we finished packing, and it was so good! I think bibimbap needs to be up there with poké as among my favorite go-to foods.

Miso soup at Pick & Mix in West Hartford. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Bibimbap with teriyaki chicken at Pick & Mix in West Hartford. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Zucchini noodles with beef at Pick & Mix in West Hartford. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

We’ve also had some great meals in Colorado – including a delicious dinner prepared by Matt Adkins, who is also a great chef!

Elderberry and prickly pear margaritas at Perdida in Thornton, CO. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Chips, salsa, queso, and guac at Perdida in Thornton, CO. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Baja fish tacos at Perdida in Thornton, CO. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Ted had a bison burger at Westbound & Down Brewing in Idaho Springs, CO after our hike. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

While I really wanted a beer since we were at a brewery, this salad and a Diet Coke was all I could stomach at Westbound & Down Brewing in Idaho Springs, CO after our hike. The altitude had gotten to me, but it was actually the perfect meal and I was totally revived by mid-afternoon. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Dinner prepared by Matt Adkins: grilled chicken thighs marinated in warm shawarma spices and finished in a bourbon and apricot apricot glacé, grilled seasonal vegetable, mashed potatoes, apple fennel slaw. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

How could I resist churro doughnuts when we had brunch at The Kitchen in Boulder. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

Quiche at The Kitchen in Boulder. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

First amendment rights continue to be a highly-discussed topic, and unfortunately our consumer reporter, Harlan Levy, was personally impacted by an assault on freedom of the press when he was attempting to report on a recent presentation that took place at one of West Hartford’s senior center locations. Partway through he was taking some photos and at that time was told by the presenter (who was already aware that he was recording the session) that he was not permitted to record or take any photos and the presenter then demanded that he delete his photos and delete the recording, threatening to end the presentation if he did not comply, and even following him out of the room and into the parking lot as he opted to leave rather than continuing because it was not a friendly situation. He wrote his column about a completely different topic, and we immediately received an apology from Senior Center Director Becky Sears who confirmed what Harlan and I already knew: this was a free public event, on town-owned property, and the presenter had no authority to order him not to record or not to take photos. I often record town events so that I can double-check the accuracy of quotes (which is what Harlan was doing) and doing so is fully within our rights.

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 this week, and 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:

Burger Squad is preparing to open at 165 Park Road. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

I was finally able to connect with the owners of Burger Squad, which will be opening in the former Zaytoon’s Bistro space at 165 Park Road. A Google search had previously indicated the opening day was Sept. 21, and both the main sign and a blade sign are now installed, and I drove by midway through last week hoping to sample some items from the menu. The door was open and I was able to meet co-owners Asad, Jahan, and Raza, but the restaurant is not yet open and probably won’t be until sometime next month, Nov. 1 at the latest, they said. This will be the first location for Burger Squad, which is a halal concept that will feature a variety of Mediterranean food, burgers, as well as chicken shawarma, fried chicken, and wraps. “This is a very unique idea that we’re bringing to West Hartford,” Asad said, and they hope to also open a location near Yale at some point in the not-too-distant future as well. It will be “healthy food,” they said, with everything made fresh in-house. They are hoping that Burger Squad will also be a community gathering spot, and they will offer free Wi-Fi, and easily accessible outlets for charging phones, laptops, etc. Those who dine-in will also be able to get free drink refills. The three partners are longtime friends, who have worked together in the food business in New York City. They are waiting for some final permit approvals from the town, but have already done some remodeling of the interior, which will seat 30-35 people, and there will also be seating on the patio.

Burger Squad is preparing to open at 165 Park Road. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

In the most recent West Hartford Economic Development newsletter, it was noted that The Eight Gates has opened their doors at 266a Park Road. The blurb states that owner Tam Nguyen, who is board-certified in Acupuncture and Chinese medicine, “guides people to take an active role in their health. He specializes in support for the gut and brain for those tired of conventional approaches or who have exhausted their options.”

The Eight Gates is now open at 266a Park Road. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

West Hartford native Kirsten Youngstrom has just launched a new business, Holistic Abilities, which offers a unique blend of occupational therapy and Reiki to support clients of all ages. From helping children build developmental skills to guiding adults in achieving greater independence, stress relief, and balance, Holistic Abilities focuses on the whole person – mind, body, and spirit. With personalized care and a holistic approach, Youngstrom, owner and occupational therapist, is dedicated to helping clients reach their fullest potential. Holistic Abilities is located at 39 Talcott Road. For more information, visit the Holistic Abilities website.

Kirsten Youngstrom. Courtesy photo

Holistic Abilities is now open at 39 Talcott Road, West Hartford. Courtesy photo

Holistic Abilities is now open at 39 Talcott Road, West Hartford. Courtesy photo

I was not able to attend the ribbon cutting for Jer Bearfish, held at Good Cause Gifts on Sept. 20, and am very thankful to Darlene Borre, director of the MicroBusiness Program for Futures Inc., for sharing the details and photos. Says Rosie Shea, Jer’s mom, “We are in awe of humans helping other humans .. .we felt the love of family and friends and are so grateful for their support. We are also extremely thankful to Journey Found for taking the leap with us, to Darlene Borre, our feareless micro-business leader who promotes community and recognizing worth and competency in all individuals and to Futures and Good Cause Gifts for providing this beautiful space within our community. We are also very grateful to Mayor Shari Cantor and State Senator Derek Slap for taking time to celebrate with us. We are blessed to live in West Hartford and Connecticut,” Rosie Shea, Jer’s mom, said at the ribbon cutting. Here’s Jer’s story and how he came to develop this micro-business: Jeremiah (“JER”) finds peace hiking in nature. When Jer is in the woods he feels calm. He often skips along the trail because being in nature makes him happy. Jer has profound Autism and sometimes the world can seems confusing. On his hikes, he plays the noise game to feel connected and safe. He makes combinations of sounds and his friends say the same sounds back to him. In the woods he feels like he belongs. At a special tree on his hiking path, he leaves heart shaped stones and says “all done” to all of his worries. Jer also collects cans and bottles to help the earth. Jer’s business “Bearfish” comes from his “Jer Bear” nickname, his love of hiking and fishing and the common sightings of bears in his home town of West Hartford. Jer sells hats, t-shirts and other merchandise adorned with his bearfish logo. Each item comes with a small booklet “the Heart Stone tree” by Jer. Follow the map at the back of the book to find the special tree where people leave heart-shaped stones. “Everyone deserves a chance at a good life. Being employed gives us purpose. Jer’s business helps him connect with the community, give back, and have a meaningful day. His disability, particularly profound autism, shouldn’t prevent him from having a meaninful life,” said Borre. “My son went to Whiting Lane several years after Jer attended Whiting Lane,” she added. “Ben was often called ‘little Jer.’ Jer and his family paved the way in West Hartford for educating individuals with autism and we are grateful they are such wonderful advocates and people.” Borre added that she is also very grateful to Senator Derek Slap who was integral in procuring a grant for Futures Inc. to explore setting up a co-op for these businesses and also thanked Mayor Shari Cantor for her support of Good Cause Gifts and the work they do. Good Cause Gifts is a social enterprise where all profits support adults with disabilities, that employs individuals with intellectual disabilities, and where the products made by individuals with disabilities are sold. “In this crazy world it’s important to report that there are some people out here everyday slaying it!” Borre said.

Jer Bearfish ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo

Jer Bearfish ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo

Jer Bearfish ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo

Jer Bearfish ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo

Jer Shea (left) and Ben Borre. Jer Bearfish ribbon cutting. Courtesy photo

I love a coffee and appreciate the opportunity to share a positive coffee update – especially since today is National Coffee Day! We featured Sweet Bear Coffee in this column last December, and owner Cristina Savin was excited to report that her business has expanded beyond just online ordering, and Sweet Bear Coffee is now offered for sale at Beanz and Company in Avon and also at Big Y in West Hartford. Sweet Bear was named in honor of Savin’s son, and its mission is support nonprofit organizations that work to better the lives of people with disabilities. For more information visit the Sweet Bear website.

Sweet Bear Coffee is a new West Hartford-based business that gives a large percentage of proceeds to charity. Courtesy image (we-ha.com file photo)

Many coffee shops have special deals today for National Coffee Day, including Hartford Baking Company which shared with me that they have a BOGO special on all prepared drinks at their locations in West Hartford, Farmington, and Glastonbury. “From rich lattes to perfectly crafted cappuccinos, customers can enjoy their favorite beverages and get one free – the perfect way to treat a friend (or yourself!) while celebrating the day dedicated to coffee,” HBC said in an email.

Courtesy image

Pizza is also among my favorite things to ingest (not with coffee though, except maybe if the pizza is eaten for breakfast), and Sally’s Apizza has shared that for National Pizza Month, which begins Oct. 1, they will be offering a new pizza – “Spicy Little Meatball” – at all locations, including Westfarms. In addition, for $18 a Large Tomato Sauce & Mozzarella Cheese Pie will be available all day, every day, via online ordering through Sally’s website. (The $18 offer excludes the New Haven location.) Also during National Pizza Month, Sally’s is “holding multiple social media giveaways (@sallysapizza) including the opportunities to win free apizza for a year, hundreds of dollars in gift cards, merch and Goldbelly boxes.”

Spicy Little Meatball from Sally’s. Courtesy photo

It’s not open yet, but China Wok will be taking over the former Au Bon Pain space on the lower level of Westfarms in the California Pizza Kitchen wing.

China Wok will be opening soon at Westfarms. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

American Eagle Financial Credit Union, which has a branch in West Hartford, shared in a news release that the business “demonstrated its commitment to help address food insecurity across Connecticut this summer, collecting 1,238 pounds of nonperishable food at its branches, donating $50,000 to 20 local nonprofits, and volunteering at the Connecticut Foodshare.” Included was a $2,500 donation to the West Hartford Food Pantry. According to Connecticut Foodshare and Feeding America, one in seven residents in Connecticut faces food insecurity. “With grocery costs increasing and many families living paycheck to paycheck, we knew we needed to step up,” said American Eagle President and CEO Howard Brady. “Supporting our neighbors is core to who we are, and this is one way we can make a real difference.” All American Eagle branches and administrative offices held food collections, with the Plainville branch collecting the most at 193.6 pounds and the Card and Deposit Services team close behind with 160 pounds. In addition, 20 American Eagle employees volunteered a combined 60 hours at Connecticut Foodshare, sorting more than 15,000 pounds of food. “American Eagle Financial Credit Union’s commitment to ending hunger in Connecticut is making a real difference. Their generous support and volunteer efforts help us bring meals—and hope—to thousands of families each year. We are proud to partner with them in building a stronger, hunger-free community,” said Jason Jakubowski, president and Chief Executive Officer, Connecticut Foodshare.

American Eagle Financial Credit Union Team Members sorted and packed more than 15,000 pounds of food at CT Foodshare. Courtesy photo

Great news for the University of Saint Joseph’s Nursing School, which has been recognized as No. 3 best nursing school in the state on RegisteredNursing.org’s 10th annual rankings of the best nursing programs in Connecticut for 2026. Full details about the ranking methodology can be found here.

Courtesy image

USA Today recently published a feature entitled “10 New England towns that glow with fall foliage magic” – and included in that list was Hartford at No. 9, with Litchefield the other Connecticut location listed. I do think the author wasn’t clear about that West Hartford is a separate location (or necessarily clear about some other details), because while the write-up that specifically mentions the state’s capital city notes “Elizabeth Park’s formal gardens and walking loops burst with beautiful leaves,” it also states “Upscale West Hartford has five reservoirs offering scenic trails and even fishing. For hands-on fun indoors, visit the Connecticut Science Center and The Children’s Museum.”

West Hartford in autumn. Photo credit: Patrick Dugan (courtesy photo, we-ha.com file photo)

I wanted to get an updated photo of the Animal Control facility construction as late in the week as possible, but unfortunately it was raining when I stopped by on Thursday afternoon. I took this photo out of the window of my car, but there definitely appears to be more progress when compared to last week’s photo!

Progress on the construciton of the new Animal Control facility on Brixton Street, Sept. 25, 2025. Photo credit: Ronni Newton

There has been plenty of disruption on LaSalle Road as the roadway reclamation continues as part of the West Hartford Center Infrastructure Master Plan construction, and throughout last week the roadway was open to southbound traffic only. The photos below were taken on Wednesday when paving was actively ongoing. I know there was some heavy rain on Thursday, but if all remains on schedule the work should be shifting to the western side of the roadway this week with traffic permitted in a northbound direction only. There may be some driveway access temporarily unavailable during the process, the contractor reported, but they will make every effort to minimize those disruptions. Some business owners in the Center are very upset about the disruption – which has also delayed the sidewalk work on the east side of LaSalle – so please support our local retailers and restaurants as much as you can during this time. Don’t forget, parking is free for now on LaSalle Road and Farmington Avenue!