Wine And Cocktail Lounge Coming To Downtown Fairfield

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield residents looking to enjoy a nightcap or a drink after work will soon have a new option. J.B. Percival Co., a lounge focused on small vineyards, local beers and hand-picked spirits, is expected to open in the coming weeks.

"I've always wanted to open up a small business in downtown Fairfield," said Amy O'Shea, who co-owns the business with husband Billy O'Shea. "... It seemed the right timing and I found the right location."

That location is 63 Unquowa Road on Donnelly Walk, within easy walking distance of the Fairfield Theatre Company, the Sacred Heart University Community Theatre and the downtown train station. The intimate space, inside a former factory building, was previously home to Broadway Method Academy, which moved to a location on Black Rock Turnpike.

The O'Sheas are paying homage to the building's manufacturing roots with their business's name — J.B. Percival Co. was a handbag maker that once occupied the space — and with the decor, which includes salvaged light fixtures, vintage trunks and copper finishings.

Some of the drinks will be reminiscent of another era as well, with cocktails such as a gin fizz, Manhattan and Sazerac on the menu alongside more contemporary offerings. Amy wants the lounge to be a place where people can learn about different spirits and wines, and enjoy a variety of options with wine flights or whiskey tastings, she said. An eight-tap beer tower will showcase beers from nearby breweries.

J.B. Percival Co. will also serve light bites such as cheese, charcuterie, caviar, deviled eggs and pate, as well as desserts.

The lounge hosted a free vendor tasting event during Fairfield Shop & Stroll earlier in December, which was attended by First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick.

"I think it's an interesting and fun new business that will enhance our downtown and I think it's in a great location," Kupchick said.

J.B. Percival Co. is the first restaurant the O'Sheas have opened. Amy has a background in real estate law and is a Representative Town Meeting member for District 1. Billy is a residential builder.

Once the lounge opens, hours will be 4 to 11 p.m. seven days a week. For updates on J.B. Percival Co., follow the business on Instagram @jbpercivalco.