Popular Downtown Milford Restaurant Suddenly Closes

MILFORD, CT — Bistro Basque & El Barrio, a mix of French bistro and Spanish tapas, has closed its downtown location after more than a decade.

Regional Chamber of Commerce Director Simon McDonald said that "this closing came as a surprise to us as well.

"Bistro Basque has been a part of the downtown dining scene for more than a decade and I am sure many diners will miss it," he added. "We look forward to seeing someone take this space and create a new experience location."

Bistro Basque & El Barrio was located at 13-17 River St. Owner David Fernandez could not immediately be reached for comment.

The establishment is listed as permanently closed on Google.

Bistro Basque and El Barrio were two separate restaurants that were combined in 2020 due to the pandemic, according to the restaurant's website.

McDonald said he's "very excited" to see Sorrento Cafe & Wine Bar open this spring nearby at 9 River St. in the former Strega space.

Related: Downtown Milford Restaurant, Wine Bar Sets Opening Target

Bistro Basque and El Barrio had an outdoor patio approved by the city in 2017.

The restaurant received a 4.7-star rating on 223 Google reviews.

Read more: Stew Leonard Jr. Speaks Out On Future Plans; Milford Possible Home Of Next Store: Report

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