Wrapsody, a smart bistro and lounge right across from the ESPN complex in Southington, was once a McDonald’s. It’s plain to see. The drive-through lines are still painted on the parking lot and the configuration of the space is classic Mickey D’s. It is nice to see that local, less homogenous enterprises can thrive where well-funded national chains cannot.
In the case of Wrapsody, it’s no surprise. First of all, the spot seems prime to feed throngs of hungry workerbees holed up at the sports nervecenter all day. But, aside from the location, Wrapsody does what it does well. The beer selection is excellent (I noticed Lagunitas and Dogfish Head, a couple of favorites that are generally not easy to find). And the food is surprisingly ambitious, with a fusion-y edge that incorporates Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Southeast Asian, Cajun, Chinese, Mexican and classic Italian and American fare, without giving the impression that the kitchen is doing the limbo to accommodate every taste.
For years it was the home of Big Macs and Filet-O-Fish sandwiches. Now it's the place for custom wraps at lunch and fine dining offerings at dinner.
Situated in a former McDonald's at 2176 West St., Southington, across from the ESPN complex, the repurposed building with an anything-but-fast-food look is the brainchild of owner Chyloe Lucca, who works at ESPN.
Cooking up our delicious Maple Horseradish Crusted Atlantic Salmon for Lent
SOUTHINGTON — A building that once housed a mass-produced fast-food restaurant has been transformed into a purveyor of fresh, locally handmade food.
The former McDonald’s at 2176 West St., which closed about a year ago, is now Wrapsody Bistro Lounge. Chyloe Lucca, an owner, is committed to a level of quality that the big chains cannot match.
"It’s simply the best food and the best lounge," he said. "Our food has been a huge hit and our prices are lower than the competition."
Chyloe Lucca, who used to work at ESPN, is opening a new restaurant where his former co-workers and others can gather for lunch or dinner.
His new venture, called Wrapsody Bistro, will be housed in the former McDonald's restaurant across the street from the cable sports channel's headquarters on the Southington-Bristol line. The Zoning Board of Appeals approved the application allowing him to apply for a liquor permit Tuesday.
"ESPN is a melting pot," said Lucca. "The restaurant will have cultural influences from all over the world with an extensive lunch menu and exotic dinners."