Southington Eatery Becomes Pandemic Casualty

SOUTHINGTON, CT — A downtown eatery that opened the year prior to the pandemic has now closed, likely due to post-pandemic business challenges.

Sherman's Taphouse, a craft beer and dining hotspot at 25 Center St., closed for good over the July 4 holiday weekend, with Sunday, July 3, its last day.

An announcement of the closing was made just prior to the holiday weekend via the restaurant's Facebook page.

"We regret to inform you that this will be our last weekend in business. We absolutely love this community and will truly miss you all," wrote restaurant management in the post. "Please come on down this weekend and say goodbye."

Following the post, dozens of well wishers expressed sadness at the closing, offering kind words.

According to the Meriden Record-Journal, a combination of staff challenges and a difficult economy collaborated to give the eatery a veritable one-two punch that, ultimately, shut it down.

The decision for owner Sean Sherman, according to the Record-Journal, was difficult, but necessary.

This closure comes as many restaurants, both chains and independent eateries, struggle to find sufficient workers and gain business lost when COVID-19 first closed many sites temporarily, then saw declining business when the doors opened.

For the full Meriden Record-Journal report, click on this link.

For the Sherman's Taphouse Facebook page, click on this link.