Black Rock Restaurant Owners Open New Pub In Bridgeport

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Two former colleagues from the Black Rock restaurant scene have partnered to open Carpenter’s Pub at 2931 Fairfield Ave. in Bridgeport’s Black Rock neighborhood, Patch has learned.

Joseph Farrell and Sean Nye first worked together at Walrus + Carpenter, a restaurant Farrell opened in 2013 on Fairfield Avenue. Nye joined the business as a bartender in 2014.

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After pursuing separate restaurant projects across Connecticut, Farrell and Nye partnered with Fire Engine Pizza Co. owner Marty McCarthy on the new venture.

McCarthy, whose Fire Engine Pizza has operated in Black Rock for more than 26 years, also has locations in Milford and Shelton.

Farrell said Black Rock played an important role in his personal and professional life.

"Black Rock is where I started my family," Farrell said. "I was able to pop home during my work day and walk waterside at St. Mary’s with my young sons. It is also where I met so many people in the industry and learned the ins and outs of the restaurant business."

Nye, who lives in Black Rock, said the neighborhood has continued to evolve in recent years.

"It is great seeing the new generation of energy in the area," Nye said. "The area has grown with the addition of condos and the updates to the train station. It brings Black Rock to the next level of evolution, keeping its neighborhood feel while adding some vibrancy."

Carpenter’s Pub will serve American fare including steak, oysters, burgers and fried chicken sandwiches. According to the owners, the restaurant’s menu avoids seed oils, artificial flavors, artificial colors and high-fructose corn syrup.

The kitchen is led by Chef Jon Vaast, who has worked with Farrell since 2015. Before joining Farrell’s restaurants, Vaast worked at the former Dressing Room in Westport and is a member of the James Beard Foundation.

The Carpenter's Pub also plans to offer craft cocktails and draft and canned beer selections.

"We are offering the best quality food, in an inviting space," Farrell said. "Our goal is for everyone to come in and feel like it is their place. Whether they are hedge fund managers or local artists, Carpenter’s will offer the best in hospitality and flavor."