South Norwalk, CT: AGW SONO Partners' flourishing South Norwalk, CT portfolio recently announced the opening of one of the most unique venues to present itself since South Norwalk first made its mark (circa 1990) as a vibrant destination for all things dining, entertainment, retail and lifestyle. Music & Industry, an original concept by restauranteur Jody Pennette, opened at 136 Washington St. on November 15. Music & Industry is an edgy homage to the great live music venues found in NYC’s Village neighborhoods, where up-and-coming musicians jammed their way through any music club that would have them in the hopes of being noticed by record label talent reps.
This version of those great live music venues is combined with what one can only explain as a dive bar meets a French brasserie. In true Jody Pennette fashion, this fearless restaurateur surprises his guests with a mismatch, of sorts, of a food service concept to go along with its entertainment value. The kitchen is led by the uber-talented Chef Jacob Rait II, whose kitchen cred includes The Chelsea in Fairfield, Cask Republic in Stamford, and Mezon Tapas Bar & Restaurant in Danbury. The menu runs the gamut from fanciful (osetra caviar, moules frites, Provencal onion tart, and duck cassoulet) to more current versions of Haute French cuisine (French onion dip with chips, disco poutine, and a Maison smash burger). Creative cocktails are named in the spirit of rock classics, including Love Me Tender, Smoke on the Water, Hemingway’s Death in the Afternoon, and Kiss and Fly.
The Music & Industry design aesthetic is that of a French bistro that does not take itself too seriously. Dark wood furnishings fill the dining room. Globe light fixtures hang over the zinc countertop bar. The walls are adorned with rock royalty pics and vintage music venue flyers.
“Music & Industry is where our fellow music and hospitality industry friends can come jam, end their shift or their gig with a cocktail and bite to eat, unwind from the night, and feel that they have a place that speaks to them, “says Pennette, a musician himself, “This is a place that will resonate with anyone who craves great food and entertainment with a social ethos that creates a community.”
136 Washington Street, South Norwalk, CT 06854
https://musicandindustry.com/ (under construction)
Wednesday-Sunday, 7:30 PM – 12:00 AM (Kitchen is OPEN all night)
Sunday Brunch Begins in January