Lena's Leaving Westville After 17 Years, Will Reopen In Branford

WESTVILLE, CT —The pandemic took its toll on families, communities and in far too many cases, small businesses. In Westville, the pandemic toll is in at least partly to blame for the closure of Lena's Café and Confections, a beloved and longtime fixture in the community.

Owner of the popular brunch spot, Lena Casinghino took to Facebook to announce that after many years, she must close her New Haven eatery.

The plan is to merge with her other business, GW Carson’s in Branford.

The celebrated café has a 4.4 Google review rating, from more than 400 customers.

"It is with a heavy heart that after 17 years in business we have made the very difficult decision to close Lena's Café and Confections in Westville," the Facebook post reads.

Its last day is Thursday, Dec. 2.

"This was not an easy decision to make, however due to numerous factors a necessary one," the announcement reads.

Casinghino told the New Haven Register that she was "looking at long-term," when deciding whether to invest further in the Westville storefront, in need of upgrades, or consolidate with her other restaurant.

"We will be merging Lena's Café with GW Carson’s restaurant, so you can continue to enjoy the Lena's food you love, just at a new location," her Facebook post reads.

GW Carson's is located at 308 E. Main St. in Branford.

"We would like to thank everyone who supported us throughout the years; the many friendships that were made, the strangers that became regulars and then became family," the post reads. "We will miss greatly being a part of the Westville community, but we hope we'll see you at our new location, only 11 miles away in nearby Branford."

The plan is to reopen Lena's in Branford around Dec. 15.

Dozens of customers shared their sadness on Facebook, but also their gratitude.

"Lena’s has been such a big part of our relationship. It has been our spot for long heart-to-hearts, the place we bring family and friends who visit us, the first meal we had inside a restaurant after we got our COVID vaccines. Having Christine recognize my voice on the phone, and stop by our table to chat, made us feel at home. We wish all of the staff wonderful things for the future. Sending lots of love through the sadness. - April & Neil P.S. How can we get that corned beef hash recipe…?"