Bank & Bridge Brew Pub in Mystic: You Can Bank on Quenching Thirst and Hunger

Labor Day might be over, but grilling is still very much in the daily DNA over at Bank & Bridge. Their signature “Get’Cha Face Dirty” burgers created by Chef Josh Ulmer who has trained in places like Madison Square Garden and Nolo in New Haven, are worth the mess they make. Seriously, you need a napkin for every bite, but it’s a noble mess if ever there was one! These beefy mounds are no joke.

Photo Credit: Lisa Nichols/ Bread And Beast Photographer

Bank & Bridge celebrated one year on the map in June and (in my book) have added to the magical scene that has recently made Mystic a culinary darling. Maybe it is something in the water, but this small but mighty seaport just knows food. And, although many may land in the pub for their tremendous line up of brews, nurtured by Head Brewer Jason Riggs, there is hardly a better match (even coming from a self-professed “beer sipper”) than a good juicy burger and brew.

But even before you sidle up to the bar, I promise you will be sucked in by the setting, not typical for a pub, which is often so cavernous and dark. First of all, it is in a beautiful, dare I say majestic, old bank building, complete with sky high columns and windows. Then, notice the palm trees bookending the exterior, which will be your first clue to the vibe owner Walt Bansley has so perfectly created. Next you’ll instantly start bobbing your head as you take in the Cali-Reggae music being pumped throughout the  space. Finally, the piece de resistance: one glance at Bansley in his floral shirt and flip flops, and you just get it. The San Diego native, former Marine-turned criminal defense lawyer-has cultivated the ultimate “chill” vibe and EVERYONE is here for it.

And so, by the time your burger is ready, you have sunken into a much needed relaxed state, something that in our day and age–think politics to pandemic–just might fall under “doctors orders”. But which tasty, messy mound have you chosen? Even after a few visits, I can’t seem to rip myself away from the classic Bank Burger with Maple Porter bacon jam, vermont cheddar, their special Bank Sauce, lettuce and pickles. Washed down with the Pollination Station using orange zest and local honey. You’ll be full for days (okay, maybe you skip one meal), but every bite is note-worthy. However, I was also encouraged to try the ever so popular PB&J Burger which seems wrong but is oh so right; it is a single smash patty with peanut butter, strawberry jam, Maple Porter bacon Jam (again with this magic!), and goat cheese, served on Texas Toast.

And even if burgers aren’t your jam, there are plenty of dynamite chicken and—this just in–vegan and gluten free options. The Truffle Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich is another standout with its sweet, spicy, crunchy, juicy mouth play, not to mention it is just as satisfyingly messy, hence still falling under the “Get’Cha Face Dirty” reign of signature fare. Additionally, you can’t be a New England eatery without a little nod to the sea, so add the Old Bay Wings, Fries, or Hummus to your plate and you’ve checked off that essential geographic accoutrement.

Speaking of essential, creating a particular relaxed Cali vibe was not the only element Bansley knew his establishment would need. It was also very personal, and deeply important to him to honor his fellow Marines, including his father Walter Bansley III, who served for twenty years. He worked with Riggs to create a line up of brews which pay homage to those he served in the military with, for example: The Joker - The flagship pilsner is named after Marine Corps mate and Mystic native, Kevin Keating. When Keating was deployed in Iraq, he received a “battlefield promotion” to the rank of Major. We call Kevin, The Joker. Shock-Hop-Alyse - Named after Greg Szepe, aka Shock. The can art is a picture of him fighting through hops with the standard issue Marine Corps K-bar (knife) in his mouth.  Grenade Wade -  Named after Leaf Wade. The can art of this Pale Ale is a silhouette of Leaf’s face inside a grenade.  Sonny G - Named after Jason Grancagnolo, a CH-53 helicopter pilot.  The can art is him in a helicopter.  Major B  -Named after Walt’s father, Walter Bansley III.

In Bank & Bridge, Bansley has created his second successful brew pub (he also owns Snow Republic in West Dover, Vermont). But he is first to admit the success is a team effort. With manager Maggie Jacksin, whom Bansley refers to as “the glue” that keeps the operations humming, and the “artist/craftsmen” he has in Head Brewer Riggs and Chef Ulmer, Bank & Bridge has become a popular community staple.

Over the last two years, I’ve been pretty vocal about proclaiming Mystic as my second home for more reasons than I can count, and B&B certainly adds to the list. With its relaxed vibe, delicious food, and landmark spot at the end of the main thoroughfare and drawbridge—which turns 100 this year– everything about it feels extra….in the best way.

Bank & Bridge Brew Pub

54 West Main Street
Mystic, CT

Bankandbridge.com

@bankandbridge