Gov. Lamont was present to officially open the doors at the 1 Civic Center Plaza in Hartford. It’s open 7 days a week, opening at 11am, and closing time fluctuating depending on when the games end.

With 13 machines and 86 screens, it can accommodate around 300 people.

Those with the Connecticut Lottery said that when sports betting came to CT having a location in Hartford was important.

“Being focused in the downtown area and being a wonderful addition to this property really is a special moment for us,” said Greg Smith, President of CT Lottery Corporation.

“This is the best sports bar in Hartford, it has to stand on its own and be a great place where people can watch games,” said Andrew Walter, Director of Legal Business Affairs for Sports Betting. “Any game they want to, grab something to eat or drink and if they want to play the retail sports bet through us, we can do that.”

Cory Clahar grew up in Hartford and he helped turn the bar into what it is today.

“It feels good growing up in Hartford, how I had a part of building this nice bar, bringing my family down and show my kids something that I did and to help out in Hartford,” said Clahar.

Story by: Eliza Kruczynski

XL Sports Bar and Sportsbrook creates excitement during grand opening in Hartford

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XL Sports Bar and Sportsbrook creates excitement during grand opening in Hartford© Provided by WFSB Hartford

SOURCE: WFSB Hartford.