Squashing Rumors: Ballou’s Is NOT Closing

After six months in business here in Branford, Ballou’s Wine Bar owner Steve Kaye said he’s run into a little problem, though it’s not with the success of his business. “I guess there are a lot of rumors floating about Ballou's in Branford that we are looking to sell,” said Kaye, who also has Ballou’s Wine Bar in Guilford. “This is certainly FALSE; we do not have the business up for sale,” he said in an e-mail.

“We are open six days a week (see hours below),” said Kaye, “and continue to grow.”

Kaye opened his wine bar at 2 Sybil Avenue in May, but signed the lease last March. Ballou’s is located in Indian Neck in the 3,100-sqaure-foot restaurant that was most recently the Blue Cottage before becoming the wine bar. The property is owned by Hal Beckley who owns Bud’s Fish Market. Beckley has another other property at 3 Linden Avenue, where Indian Neck Tavern is now and Costa Grill and Bar was prior. 

Ballou’s participated in Branford’s first-ever Restaurant Week back in June and offered live music and patio dining during the summer months. Unlike past businesses in this space, Ballou’s will not close for the winter season. Current specials include: 16-ounce boneless prime rib for $25; three-course dinner for two, $35 (Sunday and Tuesday); and $10 wine flights on Wednesday.

Ballou’s Wine Bar Hours:
Monday: Closed (Guilford open)
Tuesday-Thursday: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday & Saturday: 11:30 a.m. to  11 p.m.
Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.