The Spigot Cafe in Hartford’s West End has changed hands after the passing of its late owner, Dave Taylor Jr.
The bar/restaurant at 468 Prospect Ave. announced Thursday that Joe Grillo, a longtime bartender at nearby Plan B Burger Bar in West Hartford, will carry on the former family run business as the managing member. Ray Rossomando is also a managing member of the ownership group, CAFE468 LLC.
The fate of the eatery became uncertain in late February when Taylor, a Bloomfield resident, died. His family opened the iconic red bar at the intersection of Prospect and Capital avenues in 1963.
“Owning the Spigot has been a dream of mine — it’s the perfect bar,” Grillo said. “The Spigot’s history is rich with visits from famous athletes, governors, musicians and local heroes, too.”
Grillo began bartending 20 years ago at Ace Bar in Manhattan after a career in the music industry.
He plans to reboot the Spigot melding together its tradition with some new ideas, including a new limited “snack” menu. Patrons, however, will still be able to bring their own food.
As customary, the bar will continue selling more than 100 beers, in addition to growlers being sold on-site.
The bar, which is no longer cash-only, is open at 11 a.m. everyday and has brought back happy hour offerings.
