New Italian-Latino fusion restaurant concept planned for downtown Hartford
The Tavern Downtown's former location at 201 Ann Uccello St., in Hartford.
In his youth in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Hector R. Cuadrado used to clean up around his father’s small bar, El Senorial, on Hartford’s Flatbush Avenue.
In return, he could play on the pool tables.
In December, Cuadrado, now 58, retired from the U.S. Postal Service and is ready for his “last phase,” opening a restaurant and bar of his own in a property adjacent to the XL Center arena in downtown Hartford.
Cuadrado has partnered with 20-year-old Giovanni Chiulli, a realtor and close friend of his son, on a plan to open a bar at 201 Ann Uccello St., a first-floor storefront in a mixed-use building that previously hosted The Tavern Downtown.
The Tavern closed its doors last summer.
Cuadrado and Chiulli are seeking a special permit from the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission to serve alcohol in an establishment they are calling The White Rabbit.
The menu will include traditional favorites, like burgers or pizza, but its appetizers will feature a special fusion of Italian and Latino dishes, such as ceviche, meatballs with garlic bread and more, Cuadrado said.
“We want to create an environment for relaxing after work,” Cuadrado said. “We plan on bringing in live performances. This will be a place to wind down and relax, or to network.”
Cuadrado said he hopes to open the doors at 201 Ann Uccello St., at some point in June. He and Chiulli expect to spend about $100,000 in startup costs. Cuadrado acknowledges he’s taking a risk, but he is also outgoing and social.
He said he’s looking forward to the challenge and interacting with patrons.
“Everything in life is a risk,” Cuadrado said. “This is close to my heart. I really think I’m going to enjoy my last phase.”
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