Top Ten New Bethel Businesses From the Past Year

While the economy has continued to be a challenge this year, Bethel saw several new businesses and business opportunities open in 2011. 

In order of when they set up shop, here is a list of 10 new businesses that will hopefully continue to thrive in Bethel for many years to come:

1.  January 2011
Location: 281 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: As described by owner Keith Burke, Wah-Lah is "perfect for the commuter" as they feature prepared original signature soups, salads and paninis, or “presses.” As a healthier option to fast food, Wah-Lah offers fresh ingredients for on the go or a pick up dinner for the family after work.

2. , March 2011
Location: 7 P.T. Barnum Square
Article: Summary: Located right next to , owners Phillip and Amy Martin wanted to bring something different to the town they had just moved to. With no prior bakery experience, the couple opened the sweet shop that offers a variety of cupcakes and milkshake flavors. 

3. , April 2011
Location: 120 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: After the original location , the gym reopened the heart of Downtown Bethel with new features. Owner Dan Gaita said, "My job is to provide an environment that makes my clients want to be healthier, fitter and stronger than they may have believed possible.”

4.  April 2011
Location: 9 Durant Avenue 
Article: Summary: Snap Fitness was another gym that opened in Downtown Bethel, as the growing local franchise owned by Hector and Lisa Rosado. Open 24 hours, Snap's motto is "Fast. Convenient. Affordable."

5. , June 2011
Location: 211 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: After more than 30 years as a single location in Danbury, Sal'z opened its second location in Bethel. Owner Sal Sproveiro said his success comes from selling "authentic Italian, New York style thin-crust pizza."

6. , July 2011
Location: 's front lawn
Article: Summary: Though not really a business on its own, the new Downtown Farmers Market, created by the Office of the First Selectman, was a big hit this year. Happening every Thursday during the warmer months, the farmers market brought local businesses, farms and entertainment together to promote Bethel's economy. 

7. , July 2011
Location: 213 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: The Clifford family, who also own Bethel's , opened the frozen yogurt shop in the same plaza this past summer. At Peachwave, guests can choose from an assortment of tasty frozen yogurt flavors, including the most popular flavor, which is chocolate peanut butter. There are also more than 50 different toppings. 

8. , September 2011
Location: 30 Grassy Plain Street
Article: Summary: Two Bethel businesses became one this year. “We felt being at one location gives customers a one-stop-shopping experience. When people purchase flowers, they tend to include other items with them. Instead of having to shop elsewhere, we thought it would be easier if everything was in one location,” said Co-owner Kathleen Menichelli.

9. , October 2011
Location: 213 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: Also new to the Dolan Plaza, Stella offers home-made, fresh, modern Italian specialties. “I take classic Italian food and bring it to age," Chef and manager Michael Pedicini said. "I use a lot of French and Asian inspired techniques in my dishes." 

10. , December 2011
Location: 213 Greenwood Avenue 
Article: Summary: With news of Bethel's favorite coffee shop, , residents also get a new bookstore. Byrd's Books, owned by former First Selectman Alice Hutchinson, will be above the new location and will offer books by local authors, greeting cards and mugs.