SKAL Restaurant Group, the parent company of The Ginger Man and The Cask Republic, proudly celebrates the restaurant group’s 10-year anniversary in South Norwalk. Ten years ago, when South Norwalk was at the beginning of its current transformation, Burns opened the doors of The Ginger Man in the heart of Washington Street. Burns joined a group of landmark restaurants, including Match, Pasta Nostra and Barcelona, that began SoNo’s restaurant scene transformation over the previous decade. The addition of The Ginger Man made a notable mark on the community by offering guests a beer-forward menu and elevated fare. Upon the success of its sister restaurants in New Haven and Stamford, Burns continued to grow the brand by upgrading and transitioning The Ginger Man space and concept into today’s Cask Republic. The globally inspired chef-crafted upscale American fare, premium beverage program, outdoor patio and sidewalk café has resulted into a thriving hot-spot for both locals and tourists. The SKAL Restaurant Group employs 140 people today and is an avid and ongoing contributor to a variety of community causes and nonprofits.
“To have the opportunity to celebrate 10 years in the restaurant business is in itself a unique and remarkable feat,” said Christian Burns. “However, I believe our 10-year anniversary is more reflective of SoNo’s growth and the success our community has achieved in attracting and supporting innovation and redevelopment. We are so proud of the roots and patronage we have developed in SoNo and look forward to another 10 years of continued growth and success.”
The “innovation” Burns is referencing is not only SoNo’s exponential residential and commercial growth, but also SoNo’s food evolution as it has become destination for those seeking unique, high quality food experiences. While tourist dollars are an important part of the restaurant group’s success, it’s the local support of the restaurants that has been the most exciting. “Without local support, we would not be celebrating our tenth year and the subsequent successes of SKAL Restaurant Group’s sister restaurants and bars,” said Burns.