A Connecticut brewery is turning to bankruptcy court for financial breathing room, but its owner says customers can keep coming for beer. Alvarium Beer Company in New Britain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on October 10, 2026.
Owner Brian Bugnacki told customers that taproom service, brewing, coffee roasting and employees’ roles would continue during the restructuring, according to CT Insider. He also asked the community to keep supporting the business.
A reorganization, not a farewell announcement
The case was filed by Alvarium Beer Company, LLC, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut. The public docket identifies it as a small-business case under Subchapter V of Chapter 11.
That process allows eligible businesses to pursue a streamlined reorganization. Filing a case does not, by itself, mean that a taproom has closed or that the company has successfully worked out a repayment plan.
Bugnacki’s message focused on continuing the business while addressing its finances. The brewery, which opened in 2017, described the filing to customers as a strategic step, rather than announcing a last call or a closing date.
For regulars, the immediate message is straightforward: the owner wants people to keep visiting while the restructuring moves through court.
A New Britain gathering place with an industrial feel
Alvarium operates at 365 John Downey Drive, Suite B, in New Britain. Its taproom website describes a space built around a 10-ton bar made from reclaimed bridge beams, with handmade honeycomb lighting overhead.
The industrial details fit a brewery that has made its local roots part of its identity. Its website also says the company distributes its beer across Connecticut itself.
The posted beer selection ranges from Crispy Roll, a Japanese-style rice lager, to Phresh, a New England-style IPA, and Honey Shot, a double IPA. Customers can also find beer to take home through the brewery’s online shop.
Food is part of the visit, too. The taproom lists rotating food trucks and snacks such as kielbasa dogs, pretzels and nuts, and says guests may bring outside food. Seating is first come, first served, while private events can be booked separately.
Beer and coffee remain part of the plan
Alvarium’s business is not limited to beer. Coffee roasting was specifically included in the operations Bugnacki said would continue, and the taproom lists cold brew options alongside its other drinks.
The brewery’s website continues to advertise taproom hours and to-go sales. For customers planning a visit during the reorganization, the current taproom page is the place to check hours, food offerings and what is pouring.
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