New BBQ Joint on Tap For Main Street

Another empty store front will soon be filled on Main Street when Hilltop BBQ moves in. 

The barbecue restaurant, which has a location in Moodus, plans to move into the space at 631 Main St. The space was formally occupied by Rock House BBQ & Wings, which closed last fall after only several months in business. There were signs advertising the business for sale in the window until this week, when they were replaced by a sign for Hilltop BBQ, bearing the number of its Moodus restaurant. 

Staff at the town's Building Department said they did not have an application on file for a new restaurant at the location, but staff at Hilltop BBQ's Moodus location did confirm plans to open a Manchester location to Patch Monday. A call to Hilltop BBQ Owner Ernie Piatti was not returned Monday, and there was no further information about the new Manchester location available. 

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This news comes just days after El Mariachi Loco closed up shop on Main Street after six years in business. Another new restaurant, which will serve breakfast and lunch, will soon be opening next door to Hilltop BBQ at 639 Main St. Owners of that restaurant say it will be called Center Perk and plan to open in May.