How a small Irish tavern became a Connecticut pizza institution serving its signature "hot oil" bar pies for 90 years

From Irish Tavern to Pizza Legend

Colony Grill's story begins in 1935, when it opened as a small tavern in Milford's Devon section, catering primarily to workers from the nearby Sikorsky Aircraft plant. The original establishment was more focused on beer and conversation than food, but that would soon change.

"The pizza started as bar food – something to keep people drinking," explains [current owner/manager name], whose [relationship to business] has kept Colony a family operation. "But it became the main attraction pretty quickly."

The signature thin crust developed out of practicality. With limited oven space and a crowd of hungry factory workers, the kitchen needed to produce pizzas quickly. The solution? Roll the dough paper-thin so it would cook in minutes, creating the distinctively crispy crust that Colony is famous for today.

The Hot Oil Difference

What truly sets Colony apart is its "hot oil" – a spicy oil blend that has achieved legendary status among Connecticut pizza enthusiasts. The exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, though regulars swear they can taste a combination of pepper flakes, herbs, and other spices.

"People try to recreate it at home, but it's never quite right," says longtime customer [name], who's been coming to Colony since the 1970s. "There's something about how they do it here."

The traditional order at Colony is a "hot oil pie" – just the thin crust, sauce, mozzarella, and a generous drizzle of the spicy oil. Purists insist this is the only way to experience Colony, though the menu has expanded over the decades to include various toppings.

A Milford Institution

While Colony Grill now has locations in Norwalk, Fairfield, Port Chester, and Arlington, Virginia, the Milford original remains special. The Broad Street location, which moved from its original Devon spot in [year], maintains the no-frills atmosphere that has defined Colony for generations.

"This isn't fancy dining," notes [regular customer name]. "It's bar pizza at its best. Paper plates, cold beer, and the best thin crust you'll ever have."

The Milford location has become a gathering spot for locals, particularly during football season. The walls are lined with sports memorabilia, and on any given Sunday, you'll find families, friends, and solo diners all united in their appreciation for Colony's unique pizza.

The Colony Experience

Walking into Colony Grill Milford, visitors are greeted by a straightforward bar-and-tables setup that hasn't changed much over the years. The menu is simple – pizzas come in one size (12 inches), and while toppings are available, most orders stick to the classics: plain, hot oil, or the "stinger" (hot oil with pepperoni).

The pizza arrives on paper plates, cut into small squares rather than traditional triangular slices – a style known as "tavern cut" or "party cut" that makes the pies perfect for sharing. The crust is so thin and crispy that locals have perfected the "Colony fold," bending each square slightly to prevent toppings from sliding off.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Arrive early or late: Peak dinner hours, especially on weekends, can mean significant waits
• Order multiple pies: They're thin and cook quickly – most tables order several
• Try the hot oil: Even if you're spice-sensitive, it's worth experiencing the signature flavor
• Cash preferred: While cards are accepted, Colony maintains its tavern roots
• Take some to go: Pies reheat surprisingly well in a hot oven

Beyond Pizza

While pizza is the undisputed star, Colony's bar heritage means they also pour a respectable pint. The beer selection focuses on straightforward options – nothing fancy, just cold beer that pairs perfectly with the spicy, crispy pies.

Location and Hours

Colony Grill Milford
36 Broad Street
Milford, CT 06460
Phone: (203) 876-8326

Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday-Saturday: 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

The Verdict

In a state famous for pizza, Colony Grill has carved out its own niche with a style that's completely different from New Haven's famous apizza. The ultra-thin crust, unique hot oil, and unpretentious atmosphere make Colony a must-visit for pizza lovers and a beloved institution for Milford residents.

Whether you're a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Colony Grill offers something increasingly rare: a dining experience that hasn't changed much in 90 years, and doesn't need to. Sometimes, perfection comes on a paper plate.

Have you tried Colony Grill? Share your favorite order in the comments below or tag us on social media @TheMilfordTimes with your Colony pizza photos.