Taprock in Unionville closing; Latin fusion eatery slated for spot

Taprock Beer Bar & Refuge, a restaurant at 81 S. Main St. in the Unionville section of Farmington, announced on Facebook it would close on May 21.

Taprock is the second restaurant in Unionville to announce its closure this week. Pomona Pete’s, at 55 Mill St., also has shut its doors permanently, as a result of financial hardship brought on by the pandemic, its owner, Joe Sweeney, said.

The location will be the site of a new restaurant. On March 25, Luis Vazquez appeared before the Farmington planning and zoning commission to get authorization for a change in ownership from Taprock to Puente American Latino Pub. His request was unanimously approved.

Taprock’s Facebook post read: “Sometimes even the best things must come to an end. As many people have already heard Taprock Beer Bar & Refuge will be closing its doors on May 21st. Our Taprock family has grown so much over the last 5+ years and we are so thankful for all of the support we have received from the community especially through these last two years. Aside from having the opportunity to serve great food, cocktails and the best beer lineup, we will never forget the friends made and laughs shared with so many. We will have our doors open for the last time on May 21st and want to welcome everyone for one last fun night with your favorite family. So until then, come in, use those gift cards, use those points, and show your support one more time for this amazing staff that we will be forever grateful for. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for everything Unionville! Cheers.”

Contacted on Tuesday, Taprock owner Ankit Harpaldas, who is also owner of Sherkaan Indian Street Food in New Haven, would not elaborate on the reasons for the closure. “Nothing lasts forever,” he said. He expressed his respect for Vazquez. “I wish him nothing but success,” he said.

Fans of Taprock gathered on Facebook to mourn its imminent closing.

“So sorry to hear this! While we weren’t ‘regulars,’ you were always our stop on the way from Boston to Litchfield. Thanks for the fabulous food, beer, and service,” said one commenter.