PHOTOS: 'Refined' Steakhouse & Pub Open In Former Donovan's Reef Site

BRANFORD, CT — Shuttered since 2022, 1212 Main St., in the Branford Lock Works Square, has been reborn as Saltbrick Prime Steakhouse and Lockworks Tavern. Opening Friday at 3 p.m., it's the site of the closed Donovan's Reef Restaurant, since redeveloped into a "high-end, “refined” 120-seat steak house and pub. An official ribbon cutting is set for 2:45 p.m.

Restaurateur and CEO of Lockworks Hospitality Group, Stephen Goglia, also owns restaurants at Foxwoods and across the country.

Situated in Branford Lock Works Square – which was once the town’s largest employer and lock producer – Saltbrick Prime and Lockworks Tavern "honor the space's pastime through thoughtful interior design. Unique artifacts that speak to the building’s history are also on display in the tavern for patrons to view," according to Lockworks Hospitality Group.

“I’m honored to be able to offer my neighbors a taste of our signature dining experiences right here in Branford,” Goglia said. “Both Saltbrick Prime and Lockworks Tavern are bringing new, innovative dining experiences to town sure to satisfy the tastebuds of all those who step inside. I look forward to the conversations, celebrations and experiences that will take place at this exceptionally historic staple in town.”

Saltbrick Prime is a high-end, 120-seat steakhouse with a commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and unparalleled attention to detail with a menu that showcases the best in prime steaks and seafood. Their patented dry-aged beef undergoes meticulous aging in a controlled room with pink Himalayan salt bricks and UV lights, resulting in exceptionally tender cuts with complex flavors and an irresistible umami taste. The elegant ambiance, impeccable service, and expertly crafted cocktails add to the overall experience, making Saltbrick Prime the go-to choice for any special occasion or night out. Private event booking is also available for brunch, lunch or dinner.

Next door, step inside the inviting and vibrant Lockworks Tavern, which will also seat 120 guests and showcase the history of the building. Combining a relaxed atmosphere with a menu of innovative comfort food, Lockworks Tavern isn’t just your neighborhood tavern, but an experience unto itself. Offering a wide range of creative dishes, brunch, happy hour and late-night menus, Lockworks is a destination for those seeking something beyond the ordinary. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by the warm and friendly staff, creating a welcoming environment where you can unwind with friends or enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones surrounded by rustic charm and modern flair.

Read more about both venues' executive chef Alex Cabrera here.

Both restaurants will provide offsite and drop-off catering services through Craveable Catering – offering menus from Lockworks Tavern, Saltbrick Prime, as well as Goglia’s restaurants at Foxwoods: Caputo Trattoria and Prime Steakhouse.

About Lockworks Hospitality Group

This powerhouse restaurant group blends hospitality and culinary innovation to create awe inspiring dining experiences. Each individual establishment and brand works to push the limits of refined sophisticated cuisine through creative presentations, dynamic menu offerings, dramatic design features, hospitality and guest centric style of service, as well as uniquely designed beverage programming and culinary techniques. With many decades of collective experience, LHG leverages their resources and experience in full-service hospitality and restaurant consulting to assist clients through innovative and strategic counsel.