Brewery Plans To Open 2nd Location In Old Saybrook

OLD SAYBROOK, CT — Thimble Island Brewing Company plans to open a second location in Old Saybrook in January, CT Insider reported. The brewery's flagship location is in Branford.

Thimble Island was founded in 2010 by Justin Gargano and Mike Fawcett. In 2020, the establishment expanded its taproom into a full-service restaurant. They offer 30 rotating draft lines with a variety of specialty and seasonal beers.

Old Saybrook First Selectman Carl Fortuna said that since he was elected in 2011, residents have been asking him about getting a brewpub in town, CT Insider reported. He said he expects the new location will be "very active" and "very successful."

The Old Saybrook location will occupy the former Denali building downtown at 75 Main St., previously home to Gargano Pasta & Italian Market, which closed in August. The market was operated by Joel Gargano, Justin's brother.

"Being a part of the Old Saybrook community this past year has brought us immense joy," the Italian market posted on Facebook. "We appreciate the patronage from near and far. This Sunday 8/6 was our last service at Gargano Pasta, we know it was sudden but it was an important decision to make."

Thimble Island's restaurant, bar, and brewing area will occupy the 4,000-square-foot first floor. The 3,000-square-foot basement will be dedicated to prep work and catering.

Read the full story at CT Insider.