THE VIBES
The grand-looking limestone and granite building that’s home to Willimantic Brewing Company (affectionately known as Willibrew) started life in 1909 as a post office, handling mail until the federal government abandoned it in the late 1960s. Much of the original early 20th century architecture and wood working, along with the original white and red marble floor of the former customer lobby, and several postal artifacts have been lovingly preserved in this bustling and friendly OG brew pub. While indulging in their award-winning beers and food, check out the mural in the main dining room depicting a 1920s Main Street scene, created by local artist Gordon MacDonald who has painted many murals around Willimantic celebrating the city’s industrial past as a major thread manufacturer. Or, just belly up to the 60-foot-long polished mahogany bar and order some great grub and a few of its award-winning beers. Patio seating available.
THE STORY
Making food, not beer, is how Willimantic Brewing Company started. The Main Street Café originally opened down the street as a small deli in 1991. Three years later it moved into the post office building, which had been vacant for nearly 30 years prior, expanding into a full service restaurant that featured American craft-brewed beers while adding its own brewing operation that became the beloved Willibrew.