USA, CT: Better Half Brewing announces permanent closure

Better Half Brewing, which opened in 2019, has announced its permanent closure, The Bristol Press reported on January 3.

The downtown brewery, located at 59 N. Main St., was opened in Aug. 2019 by owners Michael and Rachel Haseltine. In addition to providing food, drinks and fellowship, Better Half Brewing also hosted live music, comedy nights, trivia and craft activities for the community.

The closure was announced via the brewery’s Facebook page on Jan. 2.

“In 2019 Rachel and I opened Better Half Brewing to pursue a dream we had designed together and to provide a common space for our community to join together,” Michael Haseltine wrote. “Since opening our doors (and even before) we have endured many challenges many of which we were able to overcome. Like all small businesses around the world we tirelessly worked to keep our doors open during the pandemic and received much support from our community. Unfortunately we have not been able to make it completely on the other side and are announcing we have closed our doors effective Dec. 31. We thank all our mug club members and our community for the opportunity to live out our passion and hope to continue many of the incredible friendships we’ve built over our time.”

By Monday, Jan. 3, more than 500 residents reacted to the announcement, with more than 180 people leaving comments expressing their sympathies and sharing memories.

“I am so lost for words,” City Councilor Cheryl Thibeault wrote. “I have enjoyed visiting the brewery and enjoyed the new friends that I made there. I admire your effort and heart in making a dream come true only for this to happen. Wishing you the best and I hope another adventure is in the future.”

Brian Avery, commander of American Legion Post 209, said he loved coming to Better Half Brewery. He said he wished the city and state could provide financial aid to businesses that were struggling.

“I'm so sorry and disappointed that this happened,” he wrote. “It’s small businesses like yours that keep the community going and it's a shame that another quality business has to shut its doors because covid killed it. This makes me very sad. You should be very proud of what you accomplished.”

David Haberfeld also expressed his condolences.

“So sorry to hear,” he wrote. “I know how this feels. You will recover and land on your feet and I hope to hear about some new adventure from you two soon."

April Tibbetts, manager of Family Roots Produce Market, said she was very sorry to see Better Half closing.

"You both worked so hard and did such an amazing job," she said. "You truly should be proud of all the hard work and dedication you have to your business. Best wishes moving forward. We will miss one of our favorite places in Bristol."

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