Alright ale enthusiasts, pull up a bar stool and hold onto your beer caps! If you've been following our earlier coverage on the NEBCO-West Haven frothy fracas, you know the saga was left fermenting on a cliffhanger. We previously dove into the nitty-gritty of NEBCO’s initial plans and their sudden evaporation in our article Why New England Brewing Co. Backed Out of the 'Lifetime Move' to West Haven: The Inside Scoop on Lawsuits, Lost Money, and Last-Minute Brewery Drama. Now, as if someone waved a magic brewer's wand, there's a potential $900,000 state funding potion that might just re-carbonate the dream. Refill your mugs, because this ale tale is getting a sequel!

In the face of a global pandemic, Connecticut's alcoholic hospitality sector has proven resilient, adapting to new consumer trends and regulations. One of the most notable shifts has been the introduction of to-go cocktails, initially a temporary measure, now made permanent by a new state law. This unprecedented move marks Connecticut as the 22nd state to enable this alcoholic service permanently, paving the way for a new era in the industry.

II. Background: The Evolution of Alcoholic To-Go Cocktails

Initially introduced as a means to boost revenue for restaurants and bars during lockdown restrictions,

Hey there, fellow explorers! It's your food-loving friend, Bistro Buddy. Fresh from our adventures at the New England Taco Fest, we're geared up and ready for the next exciting event!

Made in Connecticut Expo 2023: An Event Not to Miss

Together with The Hometown Explorer, we're thrilled to be attending the Made in Connecticut Expo 2023. This fun-packed fiesta, courtesy of the dynamic team at CT Specialty Events, promises to be an exhilarating experience. If you loved our chat with Jill during the New England Taco Fest – and if you missed it, check it out here

After nearly two years of plans, public hearings, and high hopes, New England Brewing Co. (NEBCO), a stalwart in the Connecticut craft brewery scene since 2001, has stunned the community by abandoning its much-anticipated plans to relocate from Woodbridge to West Haven. Originally intended as a "lifetime move," this departure leaves many asking: what happened? In this comprehensive breakdown, we dig deep into the various factors that led to the dramatic fallout of this ambitious project, which had promised not just a brewery but a

Commissary Kitchens: A Complete Guide for Food Entrepreneurs

History of Commissary Kitchens

The concept of shared spaces for culinary ventures is not entirely new. Historically, community kitchens were common in many cultures where communal cooking and eating played a pivotal role. These shared spaces strengthened social ties and allowed for resource pooling. The modern-day commissary kitchen evolved with urbanization and the rise of food entrepreneurship. With real estate prices soaring and the growing demand for varied food services, commissary kitchens have become a beacon for aspiring chefs and food businesses.

Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Renting a space in a commissary kitchen can be far cheaper than leasing or buying commercial property.
• Flexibility: These kitchens offer varied schedules, allowing businesses to choose their preferred time slots.
• Amenities: Commissary kitchens often come equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and spacious storage.
• Delivery: Centralized delivery options offered by commissary kitchens significantly enhance operational efficiency.

Disadvantages:

• Shared Space: Peak hours can be congested, leading to potential conflicts over space or equipment.
• Fixed Locations: Some kitchens might not be ideally located for all businesses, affecting logistics.

Benefits of Using Commissary Kitchens for Food Businesses in Detail

The food industry is vast, and one size doesn't fit all. Commissary kitchens, with their shared kitchen facilities, have revolutionized how small to medium food businesses operate. The primary advantage lies in the reduced