By Sharon Challenger.
On Thursday, November 14, 2019 Steady Habit Brewing Company (formerly of 95 Bridge Street, Haddam) held a Groundbreaking ceremony at what is to be their new location in Higganum on Saybrook Road/Route 154 (next door to Dunkin’ Donuts).
Before the opening ceremony began, I met with owner Jim Venditti and he was kind enough to take the time to answer some questions. Seeing the massive amount of square footage, the new building offers, I was curious to know how this would impact his business.
One thing he expects is an increase in flow of people due to the excellent location. Being along a major state road and not far from the exit & entrance to CT 9, is an advantage because many people pass by daily. The building is spacious and there are many windows along the front wall giving it a feeling of openness. The new location has 6,000 square feet of space; much larger than the previous one which only had 3,800 square feet. It will house a 15-barrel brewing system allowing them to increase their beer production from 125 barrels per year to 700 per year. Steady Habit’s talented Master Brewer, Scott Cross will surely enjoy the new space, and he will be quite busy I am sure.
An architect’s design of Steady Habit Brewing Company (see photo at left) available for all of us to view, was quite impressive. It depicted an incredible outdoor patio with seating and propane fire pits. It will be 25’ by 80’ in dimension, with enough room for 10 tables for people to sit and enjoy tasty beer and food with friends. There will be a pass-through window on the back wall to serve patrons on the patio. Food trucks will also be on site, and they will be partnering with local restaurants to provide items which will be delivered to hungry patrons via “runners.”
The interior left side of the building will have an office, rest rooms, and a 3,200 square foot taproom with tables for patrons. In the left rear corner, there will be a stage for performers. Double doors along the back wall lead to the outdoor patio area. The far-right side of the building will be home to the brewing system and storage room. In addition, there is a second storage room where supplies can be kept on an upper level.
When asked how he came to the decision to open in the new location, Jim explained, “The plan began with Lizz Milardo and Robin Munster trying to make sure I kept the business in Haddam. Then they began looking all over for just the right location. When I saw this building, I knew it was the place. The location is perfect.”
While we were speaking about the future of the brewery, First Selectman Lizz Milardo, First Selectmen elect Bob McGarry, Selectmen elect Kate Anderson and Sean Moriarty along with the President and members of the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce arrived to share in the celebration.
Despite the cold weather, there was a strong sense of warmth in the space. As we prepared for the ground-breaking ceremonies, one item was missing, the “traditional shovel.” As people scurried around looking for one, Michael Fallon from the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce found a snow shovel. Just when we thought it might have to suffice, a “proper” shovel was located, and the ceremony proceeded.
First Selectman, Lizz Milardo, thanked all the people who were involved in helping to keep Steady Habit in Haddam. She remarked, “It will be a catalyst for the Village, drawing people from around the area into Haddam. It’s been hard work, but I am happy to be sharing in the effort – thanks to all who made it happen, this will be a place where people can have a great time.”
Middlesex Chamber President Larry McHugh commented, “This will be a terrific facility. Thank you Lizz for supporting businesses. This will create new jobs for the community.” Indeed, that is true, the old location employed 9 people, mostly part-time, whereas the new location being much larger, will employ 7-8 full time employees and 10-12 part-time employees. President McHugh thanked Haddam Town Planner, Bill Warner for his dedication and hard work in helping Haddam to move forward. “You are lucky to have him working for Haddam,” he exclaimed. He then stressed the importance of communities having businesses which attract people to the town. “Towns need a destination – it’s why people come to a town. Jim did his research on finding the right site, and this is a good one.”
Steady Habit Brewing Company serves more than just our small town of Haddam; they distribute their beer to 200 bars, stores, and restaurants in Connecticut. They also have plans to begin direct distribution to New York, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Looking forward, Steady Habit Brewing Company is planning to be open for business in the first two weeks in December. The plumbing is in and they are hoping to have the floors poured next week. They plan to have the Tap room open first while the work continues in the remaining space which will hold the equipment for brewing the beer.
Haddam-Killingworth Now/News wants to congratulate Steady Habit Brewing Company and we look forward to the Grand Opening!
Hours of business will be Tues. Wed. & Thur. 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 12:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m. and Sunday 12:00 p.m.– 7:00 p.m.
Photos of floorplan and groundbreaking by Dave Challenger. Photo of storefront from Steady Habit Facebook page.
No question there is wide spread support and an excitement that this is happening. Can’t wait to have my first brew at the new location.