Features open West Hartford Chef Talk Chef Ashley Flagg Set To Open The Laurel in West Hartford Stephanie Webster August 21, 2024 Photography c/o Mike Chiovitti @growth.media.mgmtIf you live in CT, you likely have heard the name, Chef Ashley Flagg. She has been the executive Chef at the iconic Millwright's in Simsbury for five years, and has worked in the industry for over fourteen. Flagg is now getting ready to head out on her own, and has signed a lease for a new spot at 1046 New Britain Ave in West Hartford. The restaurant will be called The Laurel and it is slated to open its doors in early 2025. Are we excited? Heck yeah we are. The name, The Laurel, is an ode to Flagg’s grandmother who inspired her love of cooking. It is also a nod to the Connecticut state flower, an appropriate choice, as Flagg is a strong supporter of sourcing close to home. The concept is centered around globally inspired shareable plates utilizing the best local purveyors, farmers, and artisans. Flagg’s goal in our renovations process is to preserve the integrity of the historic building (formerly The Corner Pug) , highlighting key features like the exposed brick and the original tin ceiling. Are you interested in supporting a talented female chef and getting into the restaurant business?? They have raised some funding from initial investors but they are seeking a few smaller investors to help them complete the project. The changes they are making are minimal but necessary to breathe new life into the space for this next chapter. They are asking the community to help us locate these investors. If anyone is interested or knows someone who is interested, contact Ashley Flagg directly at ashleyaflagg@gmail.com.
