Former Windsor Restaurant Space Gets A New Purpose

WINDSOR, CT — A former restaurant on Day Hill Road has received zoning approval to become a private event venue for weddings, birthday parties and other celebrations.

The Town Planning and Zoning Commission approved the use at 555 Day Hill Road on Oct. 13, according to the town’s list of commission decisions.

Fitzroy Rowe and Elaine Birthright Rowe, owners of Island Breezes, presented plans for Unit 19. The commission voted 5-0 to grant a one-year approval, pending resolution of outstanding issues with town staff and with no outdoor music, according to the draft meeting minutes.

The application narrative describes a restaurant that closed in 2020. It proposes keeping the commercial kitchen to prepare food for the owners’ food truck, which would not operate on site, and allowing event renters to warm food there.

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At the hearing, Elaine Birthright Rowe said the fire marshal’s occupancy limit was 137. She outlined hours of 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to midnight weekends, with two to four events anticipated weekly, according to the minutes.

Renters could use the owners’ catering, hire another caterer or bring food, she told commissioners.

Commissioner Levine questioned parking capacity and raised concerns about music reaching nearby residents. Rowe said no outdoor music was planned. Town staff recommended approval, and the draft minutes record no public comment.

The records reviewed do not identify an opening date.

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