Beloved Hartford Restaurant Is Closing

HARTFORD, CT — A well-known and popular seafood restaurant in Hartford announced Tuesday morning it will soon be shutting down for good.

When that will happen, however, is not known, though the owners said in a statement posted on Facebook that, after nearly three decades, "we will be serving our last guests at the Chowder Pot of Hartford location in the coming months."

Located at 165 Brainerd Road, Hartford, the Chowder Pot of Hartford's been there since 1994, according to the owners, and that site has a long history in the local dining scene, as it first opened as a steakhouse in 1965.

Currently, it is known as a prime New England seafood, lobster and prime rib spot, a destination eatery that is a regular birthday, anniversary or holiday dining location.

But, the owners said, it is time to close the facility and sell it to a developer at that location.

Restaurant officials cited the building's age and costs associated with maintaining the building as one key reason for the impending closure.

"After almost 60 years and millions of customers, the location is showing its age," wrote the Chowder Pot.

"Due to the age, size and constant amount of work need to maintain this big, old building combined with a new business wanting to make this property their home, we have decided the right decision is to sell at this time."

Owners said Chowder Pot soups can still be bought in local markets and they are mulling the organization's next steps.

The Chowder Pot said it will update the announcement when an actual closing date is finalized.

"We hope to see you again at least one more time in the coming months," wrote the Chowder Pot.

For the Chowder Pot of Hartford's Facebook page, click on this link.

For more information on the Chowder Pot of Hartford, click on this link.