After 25 Years, West Hartford Eatery Will Close

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The post-pandemic economic challenges that have ravaged the restaurant industry have claimed another in West Hartford.

Ted Vetter, owner of The Corner Pug on 1046 New Britain Ave., West Hartford, announced Thursday afternoon he is shuttering his 25-year-old eatery located in the Elmwood section of town.

The last day, he said, will be Aug. 17.

Known for "quirkiness along with our honest food and hearty portions," the restaurant, Vetter wrote in a statement, simply fell victim to what has felled many eateries in recent years.

"There are several reasons we are not renewing our lease," he wrote. "Since the pandemic, our business plan has changed. Prices have skyrocketed, from chicken wings to insurance coverage and dramatic labor costs."

Vetter said, at the age of 75, it is time to retire.

"It's been a good run," he wrote. "I can't say enough about our staff over the years. Top notch. It's been a pleasure watching them make our customers their first priority."

Meanwhile, Hearst Media's CT Insider is reporting that the executive chef at a well-known Simsbury restaurant is expected to open up an eatery there in 2025.

For the full CT Insider report, click on this link.