Anchor Spa

Anchor Spa Iconic Cocktail Bar and Pan-Caribbean Restaurant Scott, Jim Morrison., and Yale alumna Jodie Foster. On January 4, 2015 The Anchor closed its doors.
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Named after the Milford, Connecticut beach where it first opened during Prohibition, in its halcyon days The Anchor became a favorite watering hole for actors, artists, poets, writers, and Yalies, and the after-work boîte for bartenders and staff from other bars. Over decades the cocktail lounge attracted playwright Thornton Wilder, writer Wally Lamb, and an array of celebrities, including Lucille

Ball, Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., George C. The business had been facing many pressures and challenges in preceding years, as it struggled to evolve with the changing times. In its 2016 relaunch, The Anchor will effortlessly align with a revitalized Downtown New Haven, in the vibrant midst of Yale University. The bar and eatery will simultaneously honor, embrace, and reflect the City’s economic, social and intellectual diversity—representing a cultural cocktail of town and gown. The Anchor’s new owner, Yale alumnus Karl Franz Williams’ plan is to preserve the best and most recognizable aspects of the restaurant’s former incarnation: Maintain The Anchor name; refresh and restore its Art Moderne façade; spruce up the original tin ceiling; bring in a new jukebox; and keep its characteristic booth seating largely the same. Williams’ intent for The New Anchor: to create something evocative and timeless.

Finally… New Haven is coming alive again. ✨We’re grateful for a summer we’ll always remember—including celebrating Ancho...
08/24/2026

Finally… New Haven is coming alive again. ✨

We’re grateful for a summer we’ll always remember—including celebrating Anchor’s 10-year anniversary in June—but we love the renewed energy that arrives each fall!

To everyone returning for another semester: Welcome Back. To those discovering New Haven for the first time: Welcome. And to our loyal Anchor guests who stay with us through every season: Thank You. 🖤

Tonight’s Vinyl Night theme is 90s—all genres. Bring a favorite record or settle in and listen to what we’re spinning, with $12 drink and food specials all night. We're loving the selection at GRAILS, so buy a record from them, show us your receipt and get something a little extra special.

There’s plenty more ahead this fall, including Pan-Caribbean food, tried-and-true cocktails, Port Cities-inspired creations, Monday Vinyl Nights and our twice-monthly Late Show with DJ / Dooley-O /Artist, The Hope Dealer and Tea Montgomery (iykyk!)

We look forward to seeing you for all of it, starting tonight!

We’re grateful for a summer we’ll always remember, especially celebrating Anchor’s 10th anniversary in June with the com...
08/24/2026

We’re grateful for a summer we’ll always remember, especially celebrating Anchor’s 10th anniversary in June with the community that helped us reach this milestone.

But there’s always something special about New Haven in the fall. Students return, familiar faces reappear, new neighbors discover the city, and downtown begins to hum with fresh energy again.

Whether you’re new to New Haven, back for another semester, or one of the loyal guests who has supported us year after year, we’re eager to welcome you to Anchor!

This fall, make Anchor part of your rhythm:

• Pan-Caribbean dishes inspired by the flavors of African, Caribbean and Latin American port cities
• Tried-and-true cocktail favorites alongside our Port Cities-inspired creations
• Monday Vinyl Nights, where guests can bring a record or enjoy what we’re spinning (continue reading to see what we're doing tonight)
• The Late Show twice a month (2nd and 4th Thursdays) with your favorite hosts Dooley (https://www.instagram.com/dooleyo/) , Frank Brady (https://www.instagram.com/frankebrady/) and Tea Montgomery (https://www.instagram.com/teamontgomery/)
• An intimate, distinctive setting for department gatherings, faculty mixers, alumni events, celebrations and private receptions

Speaking of Vinyl Night...

Tonight, we’re spinning the sounds of the ’90s and kicking off something special for the new school year: Vinyl Night Food & Drink Specials.

Bring a record, settle in and join us for a night of good music, good food and good drinks.

And if you buy a record from our Vinyl Night partner, Grails on Chapel (https://www.instagram.com/grailsonchapel/) , remember to bring in your receipt for a little something extra special at Anchor.

Click here for an update from The Anchor Spa!

For generations, The Anchor has been a gathering place for New Haven. Somewhere familiar faces return, local talent take...
08/06/2026

For generations, The Anchor has been a gathering place for New Haven. Somewhere familiar faces return, local talent takes the spotlight, and a regular night can turn into one you’ll be talking about tomorrow.

We’re welcoming two New Haven favorites back to the room for two nights of great music, good people, and unmistakable Anchor energy.

This Friday -
The Return of Mr. Ivory Snow!

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7
9PM–2AM

Mr. Ivory Snow (https://www.instagram.com/mrivorysnow/) is back in town for one weekend—and spending Friday night at The Anchor.

A longtime local favorite returns to the city for a night of top-tier sound, familiar faces, and nonstop energy. Come early for elevated cocktails and Caribbean-inspired bites, then stay as the room comes alive.

Event Details below!

The Late Show - With Something a Little Extra!

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13
10PM–1AM

The Late Show returns, but this time with special guest and another New Haven Favorite, DJ Handsome Jay (https://www.instagram.com/djhandsomejay/) joining hosts Frank E. Brady (https://www.instagram.com/frankebrady/) and Tea Montgomery.

It’s everything you’ve come to expect from The Late Show: live music, good people, and the kind of late-night energy that feels right at home at The Anchor.

The music gets louder. The room fills up. The night takes on a life of its own. But The Anchor never loses the vibe you can count on: thoughtfully made cocktails, Caribbean-inspired food, warm hospitality, and a room that has always felt like home.

Come for dinner. Stay for the music. Find your people at The Anchor.

Click here for an update from The Anchor Spa!

Come Hungry!We all know The Anchor Spa is famous for our cocktails, but the food deserves a place at the table! There’s ...
07/21/2026

Come Hungry!

We all know The Anchor Spa is famous for our cocktails, but the food deserves a place at the table! There’s fresh energy in the Anchor kitchen and a refreshed summer menu waiting for you.

Our newest entrée, Grilled Creole Fish, celebrates a dish deeply rooted in Caribbean food culture. A whole, seasonally selected fish is butterflied, grilled and served with Puerto Rican-style criollo sauce and your choice of two sides.

The featured fish changes periodically based on what’s fresh and currently, we’re serving a Red Snapper that has been stealing the show!

Alongside the fish, you’ll find new and returning favorites throughout the menu, from Saltfish Fritters and Trini Chickpea Doubles to Rasta Pasta, Jerk Chicken and our Chimmi Burger.

If it’s been a little while since you’ve joined us for dinner, consider this your invitation to come back, settle into a booth and discover what’s cooking.

Prefer Anchor at Home?

We know, the weather this summer has been unpredictable to say the least. Sometimes, staying in just sounds better.

But don't worry, you can still enjoy Anchor from your own table through Uber Eats!

Order your favorite Caribbean-inspired dishes for delivery or pickup from The Anchor (https://l.instagram.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ubereats.com%2Fstore%2Fthe-anchor-spa-272-college-street%2Ft6nYmOoOUKmovt32FcPZiA%3Futm_source%3Dig%26utm_medium%3Dsocial%26utm_content%3Dlink_in_bio%26fbclid%3DPAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnur1cIRysTnKBcs5qXEeAf0VGWpseUxT-lIe1Mgy5VAqndFZHqjNCPbiYftk_aem_DCK5LFfGAal6PYNpy9Q7cg&e=AUBlYvtucrdp8yViJXYqG6za-ZYMCvd0YXruG0TebYsp_wlbN-yU3RyttGe4nLlbAROu-v31mq55aMaDuQrX2TO89b0NO--KkFUkKwaZ_pWzTKeQSHdFfJW20NdCnAHF3G9QGkg) in the Uber Eats app. It’s an easy way to enjoy the menu when you’re craving Anchor but staying in.

And to make it extra enticing, take advantage of our promotion while it lasts - Free order of our incredibly popular Jerk Fries with your purchase of $30 or more.

As we're just getting started on UberEats, we'd greatly appreciate your honest feedback. Your ratings and reviews help more people discover Anchor on the platform and as always, helps us improve!

Click here for an update from The Anchor Spa!

Flights of Fancy—with a Vinyl TwistThursday, July 16 | 4:30–8:30 PMFlights of Fancy (https://www.downtownnewhaven.com/fo...
07/15/2026

Flights of Fancy—with a Vinyl Twist

Thursday, July 16 | 4:30–8:30 PM

Flights of Fancy (https://www.downtownnewhaven.com/fof) is taking over Downtown New Haven for an evening of wine, food, shopping and special offers. And once again, Anchor is joining the fun, this time with our friends at Grails on Chapel (https://www.instagram.com/grailsonchapel/) .

Start your evening exploring downtown, stop by Grails to find a record you love, and then bring your purchase (and receipt) to Anchor. When you purchase a cocktail, we’ll treat you to a complimentary side (your choice of our Jerk Fries or Plantain Chips).

This special Grails x Anchor offer is available Thursday night only, so make us part of your Flights of Fancy itinerary!

Tickets are running out fast and include curated summer wine selections, bites from local restaurants and exclusive offers at participating downtown businesses.

When Flights End, The Late Show Begins

Thursday, July 16 | 10 PM–1 AM

The night doesn’t end with Flights of Fancy — at least, not at Anchor.

Stay downtown and join us for the ever-popular Late Show, a high-energy gathering where music, food, drinks, community and culture come together for a vibe all its own.

With our favorite hosts DJ Dooley-O (https://www.instagram.com/dooleyo/) , Frank E. Brady (https://www.instagram.com/frankebrady/) and Tea Montgomery (https://www.instagram.com/teamontgomery/) leading the night, you already know it’s one you won’t want to miss.

Come early for Flights of Fancy, settle in for dinner and cocktails, and stay as Anchor carries the energy into the night.

Click here for an update from The Anchor Spa!

A Caribbean Classic, now at Anchor!Across the Caribbean, the whole fish isn't just a dish, it's a tradition. Shared at f...
07/09/2026

A Caribbean Classic, now at Anchor!

Across the Caribbean, the whole fish isn't just a dish, it's a tradition. Shared at family gatherings, enjoyed by the sea, and celebrated for its freshness and flavor.

Our Whole Grilled Fish features a seasonally selected fish, grilled to perfection, then served with Puerto Rican-style Criollo sauce and your choice of two sides.

Have you tried it yet?

Closing out an amazing 10th Anniversary Week with a special BBQ for the Fathers today in collaboration with the brothers...
06/21/2026

Closing out an amazing 10th Anniversary Week with a special BBQ for the Fathers today in collaboration with the brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha, Eta Alpha Lambda Chapter!

We want to thank everyone who showed up and showed out for us this week. Your support means everything and we're looking forward to continuing preserving this iconic space under Karl Franz Williams's stewardship.

We're still celebrating this incredible milestone, we're still celebrating Juneteenth, and we're still celebrating the culture.

Happy Hour LeGrand's Old Fashioned or Anchor Rum Punch with purchase of a sandwich or Entree! Come enjoy the beautiful weather and Vinyl Vibes and guest bartender Breez with us.

And just a reminder, a portion of the proceeds from sales during our anniversary activities this week will be donated to Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen to support all the important work they are doing to address food insecurity in New Haven.

06/18/2026

What if celebrating a restaurant’s anniversary could help feed your community?

As Anchor Spa celebrates 10 years in New Haven, they’re also giving back to the city that has supported them every step of the way.

Throughout anniversary week, a portion of proceeds will benefit Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK) Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen, an organization dedicated to providing food, shelter, and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness and food insecurity.

During my visit, I saw firsthand the care, compassion, and hard work that goes into serving our neighbors every day. It’s a reminder that community isn’t just about gathering around a table—it’s about making sure everyone has a seat at one.

So when you stop by Anchor Spa this week, you’re not just celebrating 10 years of food, drinks, music, and memories.

You’re helping support an organization that’s making a real difference right here in New Haven.

❤️ Support local.
🍽️ Feed community.
🎉 Celebrate 10 years.

📍 Anchor Spa
🎉 Official Anniversary Celebration: June 19

Tag someone who believes in showing up for their community.

Two nights. Two legacies. One Anchor.As we continue celebrating 10 years at Anchor Spa, we're bringing back some of the ...
06/17/2026

Two nights. Two legacies. One Anchor.

As we continue celebrating 10 years at Anchor Spa, we're bringing back some of the people who helped shape our story behind the bar.

TOMORROW, Thursday, June 18 | 7PM–9PM

Marcio Ramos - Former Head Bartender of 67 Orange Street (Karl Franz Williams 's first cocktail bar) and now part of the team at Sip&Guzzle, recently named North America's #1 Bar.

For one night only, Marcio will bring two exclusive Sip & Guzzle-inspired cocktails to Anchor, giving New Haven a rare chance to experience the creativity and hospitality that helped make Sip & Guzzle a top cocktail destination.

Then stay after for a special edition of The Late Show (with some punch specials to help keep the night going)!

Friday, June 19 (Juneteenth) | 8PM–10PM

Greg "Bootleg" Bendelius - One of Anchor's most beloved former Head Bartenders returns to the place where so many great nights began.

Bootleg will be stepping back behind the bar to serve some of the cocktails that continues to make Anchor so special, and may even bring back a favorite or two from the early days! For one night, it'll feel like he never left.

Come raise a glass with us, reconnect with familiar faces, and celebrate a decade of community, cocktails, and Caribbean hospitality.

And in the spirit of giving back, a portion of sales during both guest bartender shifts will be donated to Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen.

And Ten Years Later, it Matters More than EverOn June 16, 2016, renowned Bartender and Entrepreneur Karl Franz Williams ...
06/15/2026

And Ten Years Later,
it Matters More than Ever

On June 16, 2016, renowned Bartender and Entrepreneur Karl Franz Williams (https://www.instagram.com/mrkarlfranz/) reopened Anchor Spa's doors and began a new chapter for one of New Haven's most beloved gathering places.

Originally founded in 1933, the Anchor has long been part of the fabric of downtown New Haven. When it closed in 2015, the community rallied to save it. Ten years later, we're honored to continue that legacy by preserving the room, the stories, and the spirit that generations of New Haveners have called their own.

To celebrate this milestone, we've put together a week of special events and we hope to see you there!

TUESDAY, JUNE 16

10TH ANNIVERSARY AND DESK FUNDRAISER

Help us kick off Anniversary Week with a special fundraiser for Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK) to support its critical work addressing food insecurity and homelessness in Greater New Haven.

While the celebration goes all night, guests who RSVP will enjoy a complimentary welcome cocktail and light bites from 6pm to 8pm as we raise a glass to ten years of Anchor and the community that made it possible.

SPECIAL GUEST BARTENDER SERIES

FRIDAY, JUNE 19

SUNDAY, JUNE 21

Address

New Haven, CT
06510

Opening Hours

Tuesday 5pm - 12am
Wednesday 5pm - 12am
Thursday 5pm - 1am
Friday 5pm - 2am
Saturday 5pm - 2am
Sunday 5pm - 12am

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