Brew pub on tap at former Bethel train station

Christopher Sanzeni, 42, and Lisa Tassone, 43, are co-owners of a new brew pub they hope open in the former Bethel train station. Photo Monday, April 25, 2016. Christopher Sanzeni, 42, and Lisa Tassone, 43, are co-owners of a new brew pub they hope open in the former Bethel train station. Photo Monday, April 25, 2016. Photo: Carol Kaliff / Hearst Connecticut Media Buy photo Photo: Carol Kaliff / Hearst Connecticut Media Image 1 of / 3 Caption Close Brew pub on tap at former Bethel train station 1 / 3 Back to Gallery

BETHEL — Several local entrepreneurs hope to open a brew pub in the former train station, which they believe will bring a new demographic to downtown.

A committee organized to review proposals for the station, which is owned by the town, has recommended the Board of Selectman begin lease negotiations with the business.

The brew pub was selected from seven proposals including a church, bicycle shop, performing arts center and existing businesses looking to move.

Bethel’s economic development director, Janice Chrzescijanek, a review committee member, said proposals studied with an eye toward businesses that would lead to area growth.

“A brew pub would bring something different downtown and add to the vibrant and thriving center we hope to create,” she said.

“We spoke with other towns in the area with microbreweries, and the businesses turned out to be a fantastic draw. It could attract people to Bethel from around the state.”

Lisa Tassone, owner of La Zingara on P.T. Barnum Square, and several partners have been discussing a brew pub when space at the station became available. Bethel Cycle closed last fall after operating in the building for about five years.

“As soon as we walked into the space we knew it was a perfect fit,” said Tassone, who opened La Zingara about 13 years ago.

Chris Sanzeni, an experienced brewer, said the historic building and the artistic nature of making beer is a perfect fit — adding Smirnoff vodka was produced for the first time in the building next door.

“We love the intimate feeling of downtown Bethel and the rich history of the area,” Sanzeni said. “Our goal is to add to what the downtown already has. We can’t wait to start collaborating with other businesses in town.”

Tassone said brew pubs can attract a different clientele than bars and restaurants, and a number of breweries already are part of the Connecticut Beer Trail.

“Our hope is that we can attract a new demographic to the downtown that can then visit other businesses in Bethel,” she said. “We really want to work hand-in-hand with the community to help the downtown grow and prosper.”

Other partners in the business include Kevin Arrington, assistant brewer, and Paul Mannion, owner of the Green Grunion food truck in Danbury.

Chrzescijanek said once lease negotiations are complete, the proposal would go before a public hearing before terms can be finalized.

dperrefort@newstimes.com