The Main Moose Is Loose Again In Eastern Connecticut

COLUMBIA, CT — Yes ... the Main Moose is open again.

After a whirlwind turn of events, the rustic and stylish roadside eatery on Route 66 was back in business Friday. It was a complete turn of events after a see-saw saga that began last fall.

The Main Moose is located at 94 Route 66 in Columbia. For seven years, it was considered a popular stop with travelers headed to Eastern Connecticut State University and for residents of the eastern part of the state and those driving through that part of the state along the Route 6 corridor.

On Oct. 28, the owners said they were closing the business after seven years.

Attempts to sell the business had fallen short and its owners said on March 27 that the Moose would remain closed for the 2026 season.

Suddenly, a month later, came a social media post that said, "Things are happening ... Stay tuned."

That was followed by a June 11 post that the Moose was hiring seasonal staff.

Then, the Friday opening announcement was posted.

In addition to the ice cream and shakes, featured items include lobster rolls, clam strips, burgers, fish and chips, and pastrami Reubens.