The Founders’ Story – behind the seats.
Wood-n-Tap is a true Connecticut original — built the old-fashioned way, with hard work, a lot of learning, and families growing right alongside the business.
When Phil Barnett and Mike Hamlin opened the first Wood-n-Tap on Sisson Avenue in Hartford in 2002, life was moving fast both inside and outside the restaurant. Mike already had a young child, nearly one year old. Phil’s oldest son, Owen, arrived just five weeks before opening day. Between newborns, late nights, and early mornings, Wood-n-Tap was born.
As the restaurant grew, so did the families. Mike welcomed his son Connor, while Phil and his wife grew their family with Olivia in 2003, Tate in 2005, and Jillian in 2006. Through it all, their wives were the constant — the rocks, the support systems, and the quiet strength behind the scenes that made everything possible.
From the very beginning, Wood-n-Tap has been a family affair. All of the kids grew up in the business, learning firsthand what hospitality really means — showing up, working hard, treating people right, and having a little fun along the way. Today, all four of Phil’s children currently work in the business, along with Mike’s son Connor. Taylor is taking some time away for now, but once you’re part of the Wood-n-Tap family, you’re always part of the story.
The hospitality business has a way of shaping people. It builds confidence, connection, and character. Watching the next generation grow into great, personable humans has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
What started as one location in Hartford has grown into 11 locations across Connecticut and Massachusetts — more seats, more tables, and more stories being created every day. But the foundation has never changed.
Humility and authenticity are what we bring every day. We look out for one another, because every seat has a story — and every story matters.
Now you’ve learned a little about ours. What’s yours? Contact Us
Pull up a chair and share it with us at any of our 11 locations.
Phil & Mike — Founders, partners, still tapping away since 2002. Built with family, fueled by hospitality (and still debating paint colors).
Would you like to learn more or ask more questions with Phil and Mike?
Press / In The Media