Niantic, CT, is a town that truly cherishes its local businesses, and the newest addition, Niantic Public House and Brewery, is a testament to that spirit. What started as a passion project in a home kitchen has evolved into a lively community center, offering unique craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere at the heart of downtown. This establishment isn’t just about great brews; it’s a story of dedication, community collaboration, and the pursuit of a dream.
The journey of Niantic Public House and Brewery is a fantastic example of turning a hobby into a thriving enterprise. It all began back in 2002 with Todd Sakowski, who first explored the world of homebrewing with a little help from Paul Zocco. His early experiments, while sometimes a bit… incendiary (leading to a memorable kitchen mishap!), eventually led to a dedicated home brewing system thanks to the supportive nudge from his mom. For over a decade, Todd honed his craft, creating a diverse range of flavorful beers in his own home.
It was the unwavering encouragement from friends, family, and especially Jenny, that spurred Todd to share his creations beyond his immediate circle. This collective push led to the establishment of Niantic Public House in 2015. The following year, the perfect location in downtown Niantic was identified, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Todd and Jenny then began a collaborative effort with local officials, a crucial step that would pave the way for a brewery to establish a downtown home.
The path to opening wasn’t without its challenges, particularly when it came to navigating local regulations. Todd and Jenny worked diligently with town representatives to amend zoning laws. In April 2016, a significant milestone was reached when the East Lyme Zoning Regulations were officially updated to permit breweries producing up to 5,000 barrels annually. This pivotal change opened the door for Niantic Public House and Brewery to move forward with their plans and begin the exciting process of bringing their vision to life.
The actual build-out of the brewery was a labor of love, undertaken by Todd, Jenny, and their network of dedicated family and friends. They poured countless hours into renovating the space in their free time, fitting it in around their existing work schedules. This hands-on approach not only saved resources but also infused the establishment with a genuine sense of personal investment and community involvement. It was a true testament to their grit and determination.
After years of hard work, perseverance, and overcoming a variety of unexpected obstacles, Niantic Public House & Brewery finally opened its doors quietly in the fall of 2018. The official grand opening celebration followed in May 2019, allowing the community to fully embrace and celebrate this remarkable achievement. The brewery stands today as a lively spot, embodying the spirit of local entrepreneurship and offering a warm welcome to all who seek a taste of Niantic’s burgeoning craft beer scene.
Header Image Source: Niantic Public House and Brewery – GBP
