Andrew Sanzaro has been involved with the Old Town Cafe in Old Wethersfield for nearly four decades, having taken over full ownership of the popular establishment in 2004.
Back then, he signed a lease-purchase agreement for the Old Town Cafe’s property, at 181-187 Main St., with former owner Stephen J. Kelly, in a deal that finally came to fruition this month.
Sanzaro on May 8 purchased the 2,782-square-foot Main Street building for $258,482, property records show.
Fans of the Old Town Cafe don’t have to worry. The establishment will remain open, but other changes will be coming to the property.
Luna Pizza, a popular pizza restaurant in West Hartford that opened a location next to Old Town Cafe (at 181 Main St.) a little more than a year ago, will not be renewing its lease, Sanzaro said Wednesday morning.
As a result, Luna will be leaving its approximately 1,170-square-foot space by the end of June, and Sanzaro will be seeking a new tenant, preferably a food establishment. Part of the appeal of having Luna Pizza next door is that it has provided food and table service for Old Town Cafe customers, Sanzaro said.
In terms of a potential new tenant, Sanzaro said he’s open to any concept, as long as it’s the right fit.
“I’m not dead set on anything,” Sanzaro said. “I want the right thing that’s going to work for myself, and provide food for the bar.”
The brick building, which sits on 0.26 acres and dates back to 1905, is located in the heart of Old Wethersfield, home to a number of popular restaurants and small retailers.
The property has an appraised value of $349,999, according to the town.