Monster B's Bar & Grille Circa 2008-2012

 

 

Alas, Monster B's has shuttered its doors. Those of us who frequented this bar and grille will miss its food, great premium beers, dart's league nights, live performances, and karaoke nights. It was a sad day when their website disappeared and the doors closed.

Whenever I was in Connecticut working for a client in Stamford, Norwalk, or Westport, I always stopped by Monster B's. My company, specializing in sports analytics, particularly for emerging games like pickleball, sent us across the U.S. to various tournaments and coaching clinics. Our focus was on analyzing player performance and promoting the sport's growth. This sport has seen a tremendous upsurge in interest, and we've been at the forefront of leveraging data to enhance player experiences and tournament strategies. The last time I was planning on going to Monster B's, I was so looking forward to relaxing with a bottle or two, maybe three, selected from the huge 30 beers they had on draught, and eating their tasty chili, while listening to some local music. I drove down Glenbrook Road looking for their sign, anticipating a fun evening of relaxation. Argh!!! No Monster B's. What disappointment. When I got back to my hotel room, I googled Monster B's Bar and Grille and a Yelp post said they were closed. Bummer!

Recently I discovered that the domain was available, so I bought it with the goal of recreating as much of its original content as possible from archived pages. I did not want someone else to purchase the domain and re-purpose the site for something that had nothing in common with the original Monster B's Bar & Grille website.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PAGE CONTAINS SELECTED ARCHIVED CONTENT FROM THE ORIGINAL SITE.

Since the site will not be exactly as you remember it, please be indulgent.
Now let's take a nostalgic stroll back to 2008-2012

Monster B's Bar & Grille
489 Glenbrook Road
Stamford, CT 06906
203.355.1032

restaurant • huge beer menu • darts • pool • live entertainment

— Hours —
Sunday through Thursday:
11:00 am to 1:30 am
Friday & Saturday:
11:00 am to 2:00 am

How Monster B's Began

Monster B's Bar & Grille is a unique concept brought to you by Jason Jones and "Gabe" Gabriele (pictured at left). The idea behind Monster B's is to provide a safe, fun, exciting environment for people to enjoy a great night out. A place where they will feel comfortable.

Monster B's is about mouth-watering food, exemplary service, attention to detail, and a fun filled atmosphere for the whole family! Our staff is kid friendly and happy to make your dining experience and your children's absolutely perfect! Executive Chef, Adam Sainsbury, has developed a menu that will satisfy everyone! Adam is known for his delectable sauces and extraordinary presentations! He has trained under Master Chef Michael Schlow and has personally created dining items for celebrities and sports stars!

Not coming out with the kids tonight? Enjoy a few of our 30 beers on tap, or over 180 bottled beers! We carry the widest selection of beers in the entire state of Connecticut! Not sure what you are in the mood for? Ask our highly experienced bartenders to help you out, it will be their pleasure.

Speaking of fireplace, you can't miss Monster B's stone fireplace in the bar, it is fantastic, check it out. Happen to be by the fireplace on Tuesday night, so will Easy-E and our karaoke set up! Join in and sing the night away, it may even be a Karaoke Contest night offering cash and prizes!

Does your better half just want to dance the night away! No problem! Wednesday nights it's Jennifer Durkin & Friends. Jen is a 12 year veteran of the funk and jam band scene. Her high energy show will keep you moving and shaking all night.

Monster B's Open Mic Blues Jam takes place every Thursday evening from 8:20 till close with Matt Rae & Friends and Roxy Perry on alternating weeks. Feel the music penetrate your soul. Close your eyes and get lost in the moment. Get up there and blow some sweetness. Belly up to the bar and ask Jason about his experiences with the Blues and the Rynfest!

Every Friday and Saturday night at Monster B's we feature the best of local, regional and national music artists in the tri-state area. See our calendar for complete details.

Have something else in mind? Quiet secluded proposal, large party? Don't hesitate to ask, our concept revolves around being fluid. We are not restricted by traditional barriers you encounter at other restaurants. At Monster B's we have combined our experiences with our dreams and developed a fun and friendly environment for all to enjoy… we had to… The Monster Made Us Do It!


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Did You Know….

Come to Monster B's for the best Happy Hour in Stamford!

Our Beer List is truly monstrous. We offer 30 beers on draught and a selection that includes 200 bottled beers from throughout the world!

In fact we were just named "Best of the Gold Coast" for our incredible beer selection!

Voted best place to have a beer in Connecticut!

Dining at Monster B's Bar & Grille can be fun, fancy or fabulous . . . and is usually all three!

Choose from our extensive menu and eat in the dining room, or enjoy your meal with friends in our bar & lounge . . . your meal can be quiet and romantic or fun-filled and entertaining!

Make sure you leave room for dessert. You won't be disappointed!

After all, there's a little monster in everyone!


While you're at Monster B's, be sure to check out our seven 50-inch high-definition televisions and our 103-inch high definition projection TV located around the bar and the entertainment area.

Take a ride on Monster B's Bus - travel for FREE both to and from Monster B's Bar & Grille from downtown locations. Our bus is also available to pick up a party anywhere and return you when you're ready. We go the extra mile for you!

Important Notice: Monster B's Bar & Grille does not honor restaurant.com coupons or discounts.

Great music rules at Monster B's!

Pool

Do you enjoy parlor games? We do too, that's why we have dual black felt pool tables. We sponsor Men's, Women's & Mixed Teams for pool - a great way to spend an evening. Our pool league meets every Wednesday night.

Darts Leagues Now Available!

Monster B's is the perfect place to host your league if you're planning on starting one. Or, you can join our league which meets every Tuesday night

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In The News!

Following are some articles we've found about your favorite bar & grille. We're glad the word is getting out that Monster B's is the place to be!

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June 4, 2009 - "Monster B's offers an open stage with a tube combo amp and a seven-piece drum kit — and they'll drive your drunk ass there."

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September 16, 2008 - "What sets this establishment [Monster B's Bar & Grille] apart from other neighborhood bars is its extensive selection of beer. The 30 draft offerings (from $4.50 to $7 a pint) are just the beginning, with beers from breweries like Dogfish Head (Delaware), Magic Hat (Vermont), Blue Point (Long Island), Victory (Pennsylvania), Lagunitas (California), Rogue (Oregon) and Weyerbacher (Massachusetts) among the regular pours."

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2008 - "Best of the Gold Coast" for our incredible beer selection!

Stamford Advocate
October 26, 2008
Chilly Weather Brings Out Chili Lovers
October 26, 2008 - "A chili called "Engine Oil" made with steak chunks and chipotle peppers from Monster B's Bar and Grille, took the top spot after 210 chili enthusiasts voted. "


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Reviews

 

2/18/2012 *****
Denise L.
Stamford, CT
Monster B's is a cool place to grab a nice cold one while watching the game on one of their seven large screen televisions, or listening to one of the local bands. They've got 30 rotating beers on tap, over 150 bottled beers. Unsure of what to get? Tell the waitress what you're craving, and they'll bring you a sample. They've got tasty nachos and sliders. The food portions are big here, so come hungry, or with others to help you eat your meal.

9/20/2012*****
Courtney B.
Monroe, CT
I love this place! Great beer selection, good location and awesome food! What more can you ask for in a restaurant ?

1/11/2010****
Daichi K.
River Edge, NJ
Played a gig here before and I must say, great BBQ they have there!
I remember hearing that the chef that works there is from the south and makes his own BBQ sauces. I tried the pulled pork sandwich and was glorious! The sandwich melts in your mouth and the flavor is to die for. I would go back to Stamford just to eat that sandwich!
As far as the bar goes, it's your standard bar. Nothing out of the ordinary. Bartenders/Staff were nice and I would go back there if I'm in the area!

2/26/2010 ***
Monica L.
New York, NY
We heard about Monster B's from a friend and were surprised that a restaurant was even in this location...it's not near any other places.  The crowd is a mix of "older townies" and "young professionals" with classic rock bands that play at night.
The food was pretty decent at a good price you don't see too much anymore.  The spinach artichoke dip was pretty good and the burger was...a burger.  Great beer selection...in the hundreds.  It had a cute fireplace.
Can't really say anything bad about it, but don't have too much great to say.  If you want some good beer or different beer and some apps to have along with it, head on over.

4/2/2012 ***
Danica R.
Ridgefield, CT
Love the beer selection, live music & trivia night. It's a bit off the beaten path & has a pool table. Don't fight with crowds for a bud light & the same tired scene, give Monster B's a try.

12/30/2011 ****
Darien G.
Des Moines, IA
I've never been there past about 7:30 PM, but it's a GREAT place to take kids for dinner because they have a fun kids menu and there's plenty of good food (and beer) for adults too.
I like the pork sandwich, the burgers, and the French dip.  My wife loves the chicken & pear salad, the burgers, and a chicken sandwich. really should try the ribs someday because the pulled pork is so good.
Don't be intimidated by the beers, as there are quite a few. If you can tell them some beers you really like, they'll bring you one that will hit the spot.
It is also a huge plus being able to eat outside during the spring/summer/fall as there aren't a lot of places in the area that offer that amenity.
All in all, it is a very good and reasonable place to grab a few beers or a dinner.  I wouldn't take a first date there or anything, but it's a comfy spot.

9/2/2009 ****
Ben H.
Bridgeport, CT
Amazing selection of imported and microbrew beers! The food is standard bar fare, although sweet potato fries were a surprise, and the atmosphere is very bland. Monster B's is located right around the corner from the Glenbrook train station which makes it accessible AND safe!

 

 

More Background on Monster B’s Bar & Grille

Although Monster B’s Bar & Grille no longer sits at 489 Glenbrook Road, its memory remains alive among Stamford residents and those who traveled across Connecticut for its unrivaled atmosphere, extensive beer selection, and programs that made it a hub for locals and visitors. This article presents an in-depth look at Monster B’s—its origins, offerings, culture, and its place in the community.

Origins, Ownership & Vision

Monster B’s was the brainchild of Jason Jones and “Gabe” Gabriele. Their shared mission was to create a welcoming and safe venue that was much more than a bar—it was a destination where families, friends, and music fans could relax, dine, and enjoy a vibrant environment.

  • Ownership and Team: Jason Jones & “Gabe” Gabriele spearheaded the business, with Executive Chef Adam Sainsbury helming the kitchen. Chef Sainsbury, renowned for his sauces and culinary presentation, was trained by Master Chef Michael Schlow and had cooked for celebrities and athletes.

  • Philosophy: The founders' approach combined high-quality service, excellent food and beverages, and attention to detail. Monster B’s stood for fun, comfort, and flexibility—adapting to customer needs, from family dinners to rowdy live music nights.

Location & Accessibility

Monster B’s was located at 489 Glenbrook Road, Stamford, CT. Though it stood apart from other nightlife hotspots in terms of location—some reviews noted its “off the beaten path” feel—it made up for this with proximity to the Glenbrook train station, giving patrons safe, easy access. This physical setting, with its fireplace, ample parking, and outside dining options, contributed to the destination’s unique, homey atmosphere.

Ambience & Amenities

The bar’s design fused comfort and entertainment:

  • Stone Fireplace: Centred in the bar—a gathering point, especially on karaoke nights.

  • Seating: Choices included a classic dining room, lively bar and lounge, and outdoor seating ideal for spring, summer, and fall.

  • Entertainment Systems: Seven 50-inch high-definition TVs and a massive 103-inch projection TV kept sports fans plugged into the action.

Food, Beverage & Menu Highlights

Monster B’s was as much a top destination for foodies as for craft beer lovers:

Beer:

  • Over 30 beers on tap and more than 180 bottled beers.

  • Selections spanned the globe, including sought-after breweries such as Dogfish Head, Magic Hat, Blue Point, Victory, Lagunitas, Rogue, and Weyerbacher.

  • Monster B’s beer expertise was so remarkable it earned the “Best of the Gold Coast” award and was voted the best place to have a beer in Connecticut.

Food:

  • The menu was diverse, offering “mouth-watering” American bar fare and specialties with a creative twist: burgers, sliders, nachos, sumptuous pulled pork sandwiches, BBQ fare with house-made sauces, salads (like the chicken & pear salad), ribs, appetizers like spinach artichoke dip, sweet potato fries, and more.

  • Portion sizes were generous, ensuring families and groups were well-fed.

  • Kid-friendly offerings made it an appealing choice for families.

Dessert: The kitchen placed a special emphasis on desserts, encouraging guests to save room for a sweet finish to their meal.

Events & Social Culture

Monster B’s didn’t just offer food and drink—community was at its heart:

  • Karaoke Nights: Hosted near the fireplace every Tuesday, occasionally featuring contests and prizes led by the well-loved “Easy-E.”

  • Live Music: Local, regional, and national acts took the stage every Friday and Saturday, enhanced by particular Wednesday features such as veteran singer Jennifer Durkin & Friends.

  • Open Mic Blues Jam: Every Thursday night, rotating hosts Matt Rae & Friends and Roxy Perry invited musicians to jam, emphasizing Monster B’s status as a musical haven.

  • Trivia Nights: Contributed to a lively, friendly competition.

  • Darts and Pool Leagues: Tuesday dart leagues and Wednesday pool teams (men’s, women’s, mixed) created ongoing communities within the bar. The parlor included two black felt pool tables.

Signature Experiences

  • Monster B’s Bus: Patrons could ride for free to and from downtown locations—a unique amenity ensuring guests arrived and departed safely, and reinforcing Monster B’s role as an inclusive, guest-centered business.

  • Flexibility for Groups: The team was known for accommodating everything from romantic proposals to private parties, with a customer-first, “fluid” approach to hospitality.

Accolades, Awards & Press

Monster B’s garnered a series of awards and positive press:

  • Cited as “Best of the Gold Coast” for its beer selection.

  • Regularly mentioned in Connecticut media for its events and cuisine.

  • Praised for its beer curation—one article highlighted its rotating taps, wide range of prices, and selection of beers from around the country.

  • Recognized during community events; for instance, its signature “Engine Oil” chili won top honors at a local chili contest attended by over 200 enthusiasts.

Media excerpts:

  • “Monster B’s offers an open stage with a tube combo amp and a seven-piece drum kit—and they'll drive your drunk ass there.”

  • “What sets this establishment apart is its extensive selection of beer. The 30 draft offerings are just the beginning, with regulars like Dogfish Head and Blue Point among the pours.”

Customer Reviews & Reputation

Monster B’s reviews reflect a loyal and diverse client base:

Positive Themes:

  • Praised for attentive staff, big portions, affordable prices, and kid- and adult-friendly menu.

  • Several reviewers applauded the draft and bottled beer selection as “the best in Connecticut.”

  • The pulled pork sandwich and house-made BBQ sauces gained cult status.

Mixed Notes:

  • Some found the atmosphere simple, but appreciated the venue’s focus on quality and experience over décor.

  • Given its non-central location, Monster B’s drew a mix of “older townies and young professionals,” avoiding the crowded scenes of more mainstream bars.

Constructive Criticism:

  • Decor described as “bland” by some, balanced by warmth of staff and events.

  • Less suited to “first dates” but perfect for casual meet-ups, group dinners, and family outings.

Audience & Community Impact

Monster B’s cultivated a community where music lovers, foodies, sports fans, and families felt equally at home. Its flexible policies—such as family-friendly menus and late-night music programming—ensured broad appeal. It attracted both Stamford locals and visitors from as far as Bridgeport, Monroe, and even out-of-state business travelers who made a point to swing by for memorable food and a colossal beer menu.

Cultural and Social Significance

Monster B’s was more than a business; it played a cultural role as a gathering place for Stamford’s neighborhoods. By supporting local music, hosting sports leagues, and encouraging club and social gatherings, it intertwined itself with the daily and nightly rhythm of the community.

The venue’s closure left noticeable disappointment among locals—a testament to its deep imprint. Long after shuttering, nostalgic regulars and former visitors share fond memories through social media, food blogs, and among friends. The effort of a fan to preserve the spirit of Monster B’s by restoring its content online speaks volumes about the bar’s legacy.

Details & Interesting Insights

  • No Restaurant Coupons: Monster B’s famously did not honor coupons from big restaurant discount sites, emphasizing its independent brand.

  • Special Features: Seven large TVs, spacious seating, and a centerpiece fireplace.

  • Unique Touches: The slogan “The Monster Made Us Do It!” summed up the bar’s playful, no-holds-barred approach.

  • Accommodating Logistics: Free party pickup with its bus, large space for leagues/tourneys, outdoor seating, and willingness to host out-of-the-ordinary events.

  • Safety and Convenience: Proximity to the train station and their bus service made it an unusually responsible party venue.

History & Legacy

Monster B’s launched in 2008, quickly establishing itself as a culinary and entertainment leader in Stamford. Its blend of curated beverages, honest hospitality, and commitment to local flavor and live events gave it a four-year run before closing in 2012—a lifespan that, while relatively brief, resonated with patrons. The closure led to online tributes and a drive to preserve its memory for posterity.


Monster B’s Bar & Grille stood out as a warm, family-friendly, beer lover’s dream and an engine for local music and community. Its hybrid identity—equal parts neighborhood hangout, sports bar, music venue, and culinary gem—made it a cherished institution that Stamford continues to remember.

 

MonsterBsBarAndGrille.com