West Hartford Business Buzz for Oct. 6: Openings, Closings and Other News

Ever see that movie “Four Weddings and a Funeral”?

Consider this edition of Business Buzz to be “Four Openings and a Closing.”

Fuji Sushi, located at 1144 New Britain Ave., is closing its doors. While no official date is set, a restaurant employee confirmed the news on Friday. The original article stated that a Shish Kebab House was opening in that location. That information was not correct; Patch regrets the error.

Bishops Corner has two exciting openings coming this week.

Qdoba Mexican Grill is slated to open its location at 345 N. Main St. (in the Marshall’s Plaza) on Monday, Oct. 7. According to a press release, the restaurant offers a fast-casual dining experience. To celebrate the grand opening, Qdoba is giving the first 50 customers in line on grand-opening day a Rewards Card preloaded with one free entrée (valid on their next visit). Following Monday’s opening, Qdoba will host a fundraiser that benefits the West Hartford Food Pantry. On Saturday, Oct. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m., any guest who visits the new restaurant will receive a free entrée and drink with a suggested $5 donation, with all funds raised donated to the West Hartford Food Pantry.

Right next door, Pet Valu is loosely expected to open on Sunday, Oct. 6. The store specializes in holistic pet nutrition, and also features toys, treats, litter and other accessories. In addition, for $10, people can wash their dogs at a station where the store provides everything except the brush (for sanitary reasons) and the pooch.

Not to be outdone, Blue Back Square welcomes the opening of Potbelly Sandwich Shop on Oct. 9. It’s the first location in Connecticut for the Chicago-based eatery. Here’s what Ronni Newton had to say about Potbelly over the summer:

“As the name implies, sandwiches are a staple of the Potbelly menu, and include ‘Originals’ and ‘Bigs; of traditional favorites, prepared ‘toasty warm’ with high-quality meats, cheeses, and vegetables, with everything cut to order on site. For those who want a smaller portion, ‘Skinnys’ – sandwiches on thin-cut bread that are all under 350 calories, are also available.

Salads, soups, and chilis are also offered for lunch and dinner. Sweets include shakes, malts, and smoothies, which are all hand-dipped, as well as fresh-made baked goods.”

Also coming soon to Blue Back Square is Muse Paintbar at 69 Raymond Road. According to its website, Muse “combines painting instruction with a restaurant and bar.” There are also weekly painting sessions that anyone can sign up for and attend. The website also states that Muse donates 5 percent of its profits to local organizations. The target date for opening hasn’t been determined, though a calendar of events is being put together, so it is likely soon.

Finally, several Patch readers asked about the status of the West Hartford Puppy Center & Aquarium, which went dark about a week ago. A handwritten note says “Closed” on the door, and one longtime customer told me that, when he went to get dog food on Sept. 28, the doors were closed. Efforts to reach Puppy Center representatives were unsuccessful, and calls during business hours were not picked up.

Check back with Patch during the week for further updates.