About Cafe Uno
Café Uno is a small coffeehouse-turned-music lounge located at 2627 Waterbury Road in Thomaston, Connecticut (www.restaurant.com ). It occupies a one-story building originally built in 1956 (www.greenwichtime.com ). According to its business listing, Cafe Uno is “a cozy eatery nestled in the heart of Thomaston, CT, offering a variety of freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries” (www.mapquest.com ). In practice, it blends daytime café service (coffee, pastries, light meals) with a lively nightlife vibe. The venue is notably situated on the Thomaston–Waterbury line – the property actually straddles the municipal boundary of the two towns (www.greenwichtime.com ) – giving it a unique character in the community. It is one of only a few local venues for live music and dance events outside of the historic Thomaston Opera House.
Cafe Uno operates primarily on weekends. Its posted hours indicate it is closed Monday through Thursday, and open Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sunday afternoons (www.restaurant.com ). For example, listings show Friday and Saturday hours roughly from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, and Sunday from about noon until 8:00 PM (www.restaurant.com ). This schedule underscores its role as a late-night gathering spot. The venue’s interior maintains a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, and it still serves food and drinks during events – the Universal Language music festival listing even advertised a “Full Food Menu” and drink specials (www.ticketfairy.com ). With its mix of cafe comfort and live entertainment space, Cafe Uno has become a versatile local hangout.
Events and Programming
Cafe Uno’s programming centers on music and social events. It hosts live performances ranging from club DJ nights to occasional live bands and special community gatherings. A notable recent event is the Universal Language Music Festival (August 11, 2024) – a daytime dance festival featuring over 20 DJs on two stages, with house and techno music (www.ticketfairy.com ). This event highlights the venue’s care for electronic and dance music, complete with vendors, food service and bar specials (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, attendees can expect electronic dance parties (house, techno, EDM) and possibly rock or cover-band shows on stage. The venue has worked with local promoters (like The JUiCED Crew) to bring in touring DJs and producers, so its lineup can include both regional acts and out-of-town performers.
Typical events occur on weekend evenings. The schedule is usually announced via local event listings or social media. While a dedicated public event calendar isn’t readily available, we know at least one major festival was staged in 2024. Other times, Cafe Uno may feature themed party nights or genre showcases (for example, a techno night, 80s dance party, or indie band showcase). Frequency can vary – some months might see weekly events, while quieter periods might only have occasional special concerts. Ticket prices depend on the event: smaller shows and local-DJ nights may have modest cover charges (under $15-20), whereas multi-act festivals or headliner events could range higher (around $20–$30) – though exact prices should be confirmed per event.
Tickets and Booking
Cafe Uno does not sell tickets from a sidewalk box office; most tickets must be bought in advance. For each show, look for online sales through event-promoter sites or social media announcements. In the case of the Universal Language festival, tickets were sold via a ticket platform (the event page itself offered “Get Tickets”) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For smaller performances, organizers may sell tickets on Eventbrite or other local ticketing services. There is no official ticket office at the venue, so buying online (or contacting the promoter) is recommended. If a show isn’t sold out, limited tickets can sometimes be purchased at the door, but booking early is safest for popular events.
When available, buy tickets online early. Watch for announcements on local event pages or social media about presales or discount codes for Cafe Uno events.
For specific shows, you can also call the venue directly at (203) 754-3583 (www.restaurant.com ) to ask about ticket availability or table reservations.
Door sales: Often events allow limited ticket sales at the entrance if not sold out. Arriving early can secure entry if still open door.
Pricing: Adult tickets generally range from about $10 up to $30 for big events. Students or early-bird prices may apply on some nights. Check each event listing for exact pricing.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Cafe Uno is flexible rather than fixed. The main performance area is a large open floor with a stage at one end. Seating is mostly informal; there may be bar stools and small tables along the sides or rear for dining guests, but many events are held general-admission style. Patrons often stand or dance near the stage, while friends can sit at tables with drinks a bit farther back. Because of this open layout, the best spots for viewing are usually near the stage. If you want a good vantage point (for example, as a vocalist or DJ’s collaborator), try the area by the sound booth or speaker stacks where sight lines are clear.
Cafe Uno also features an outdoor area. For example, the 2024 festival had two stages (one indoor and one outdoor) (www.ticketfairy.com ). This suggests a patio or courtyard space adjacent to the main building serves as a second performance spot. During fair weather, this outdoor stage can be a fun spot to enjoy music and fresh air, often with additional seating or standing space on the patio. When seated outdoors, note that weather can affect comfort (bring layers for cool nights or rain). Overall, there is no obstructed or tiered seating; plan to be on your feet, or grab a table and enjoy from a short distance.
Indoor area: Single-room hall with a stage. Majority standing room; a few tables or bar seats are scattered along walls.Outdoor space: Patio area with a second stage (typically used on festival or big event days (www.ticketfairy.com )). Outdoor events usually have standing area with some limited table arrangements.Acoustics: Cafe Uno is built like a small club. Sound is loud and clear near stage but can be echoey farther back. Ear plugs are recommended if you’re sensitive to sound.View: Early arrivals get front spots. The center-left near the stage often has the best sightline and sound-balance.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 2627 Waterbury Road, Thomaston CT 06787 (www.restaurant.com ). The venue is on the west side of Thomaston, right near the town line with Waterbury.
This is on Route 84 (also called Holyoke Avenue / Watertown Road) just past the intersection with Rockwell Avenue.Driving Directions: If coming from Waterbury or the east, take Exit 32 (Route 323) off I-84 and head north on Route 84 into Thomaston. From the west (Litchfield area), use Exit 30 (US-202/South Main St) into Thomaston and follow signs to Route 84. The venue is easily accessible via these main roads.Parking: Parking is available on-site. Cafe Uno sits on a 1.5-acre lot (www.greenwichtime.com ), so there is a parking lot behind/next to the building. Parking is generally free for customers. If the lot fills, limited street parking is also available on Waterbury Road and nearby side streets. Rideshare drop-offs should be done at the front door on Waterbury Road.Public Transit: There is no direct bus or train service to the cafe’s doorstep. The nearest major transit hub is in Waterbury (CTtransit bus routes and the Waterbury Metro-North station), about 2 miles east. From Waterbury, local cabs or rideshares are recommended. Practically, most visitors drive or turf rideshares, since Thomaston is a small town with limited transit.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Cafe Uno, expect a casual, convivial atmosphere. On show nights the entry area typically has a coat rack or small table for ticketholders to pick up will-call tickets. Staff or security may check IDs at the door for age-restricted events. Inside, the décor mixes diner-style elements (soft lighting, wood accents) with club-like sound equipment. A long bar runs along one side, serving both coffee/tea and alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cocktails).
Seating inside is limited to scattered tables and bar stools; much of the floor is open for mingling or dancing. As mentioned, look for optimal spots near the stage. Restrooms are available (and should be used before arriving at your seat or standing spot on busy nights). The venue advertises a “full food menu,” meaning you can order more than just snacks – expect sandwiches, pizzas, burgers and the like (www.ticketfairy.com ). These are often available during shows (some performers even play through meal breaks). Drink specials are common for bigger events, and bar tables usually stay stocked with water and mixers.
Merchandise tables may pop up for bigger concerts or festivals, where artists sell T-shirts or CDs. There is usually free Wi-Fi during the daytime hours, but on busy event nights connectivity might be spotty. Most people rely on their phones’ data. Overall, Café Uno feels like a neighborhood node: staff and regulars are friendly, and the vibe is more laid-back than a big city club, even on a party night.
Nearby Amenities
As the cafe is in a more suburban-commercial area, dining options right next door are limited, but Thomaston’s town center is a short drive away (about 5 minutes north). In town you’ll find several restaurants and bars on Main Street: Italian eateries, taverns, and sandwich shops (for example, Tony’s Coffee Express and Bistro 10). Just south in Watertown or Waterbury you can choose from chain restaurants and diners for a meal before or after the show (such as Chili’s, Panera, or local pubs).
For accommodation, the closest hotels are found in Waterbury, CT (about 5-8 minutes by car). Options include the Hampton Inn & Suites Waterbury, Best Western Plus, Comfort Inn, and other mid-size hotels near I-84 exit 27–29. Book early if you plan to stay overnight on a show weekend.
Arrival and late-night travel: Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to find parking and a good spot. If you’re leaving late, note that Waterbury and Thomaston have limited late-night transit, so rideshare or designated drivers are wise. The roads near the cafe stay open late, and the area is generally safe, but traffic can be moderately slow right after big events when everyone leaves at once.
What Makes This Venue Special
Cafe Uno has its own character that sets it apart. First, it inhabits a mid-20th-century roadside building that once housed Riders Cafe – a classic Connecticut roadhouse. That history shows in the décor and layout, giving it retro charm. Second, its dual identity (cafe by day, club by night) is unusual for the region. Patrons can enjoy a quiet coffee and pastries in the early day, then return after dark for an electronic music dance party. This blend is not found in standard bars or restaurants.
Another special aspect is the indoor/outdoor performance capability. As seen at the 2024 festival, Cafe Uno can switch from an intimate indoor show to use of its outdoor patio stage (www.ticketfairy.com ). This flexibility allows it to host mini-festivals and multi-stage events that most local venues cannot. Finally, its location straddling two towns gives it an interesting edge – for example, planning rules require that any new business (like a forthcoming cannabis shop on site) cannot coexist with something other than a restaurant/bar (www.greenwichtime.com ), so Cafe Uno benefits from grandfathered status as a drinking establishment at the state line. In short, guests and performers say they love the place because it feels like a community hangout with wider capabilities – you get the energy of a night club with the personal touch of a local diner.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is one level, so wheelchair access can be easier than at multi-story sites. However, because it’s an older structure, check ahead on ramps or doors. The entrance should be flat or ramped. Restrooms are on the ground floor. It’s a good idea to call (203) 754-3583 if you have specific access needs.ID and Age: Most evening events at Cafe Uno require attendees to be 21+ (ID checked at the door) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Daytime café hours (like Sunday brunch) may allow all ages, but always confirm for any show. Underage guests should plan on Sunday or special family-friendly events if any are announced.What to Bring: Bring a valid ID and cash or card (the bar accepts both, but cover charges may be cash-only). A phone and the address are handy since GPS tends to be accurate here. Don’t forget ear protection if you’ll be close to the speakers. As always, drink responsibly.What NOT to Bring: Large backpacks and outside food/drink are not allowed. Cameras or video equipment beyond a phone are usually prohibited. (Phones and compact cameras for personal use are typically fine, but professional cameras require permission.)Dress Code: The atmosphere is casual. Come in jeans and sneakers, or go smart-casual – whatever you feel comfortable dancing or lounging in. There is no formal dress code enforced.Coat Check: There is no formal coat-check room, just A simple rack or bins at the entrance. If it’s winter, wear a light coat or choose easy-to-carry outerwear.Connectivity: Wi-Fi is likely available during café hours, but may be limited during big concerts. Cell phone signal is usually decent, but having offline plans (or using a ride-share app offline) is wise.Arrive Early: Especially for popular shows, get there about 30 minutes before start. Lines can form on the sidewalk, and valid parking spots (or tables near the stage) fill up quickly.COVID Policies: Currently, there are no special restrictions, but vaccine or mask requirements could change. The venue will post any health guidelines on tickets or entry signs if needed.
Where can I purchase tickets for Cafe Uno events?
Tickets for Cafe Uno shows are usually sold online through the event promoter or ticketing websites. For example, past events have been listed on platforms like TicketFairy or Eventbrite. There is no dedicated box office at the venue, so it’s best to buy tickets in advance online. If an event isn't sold out, tickets may also be available at the door when you arrive.
What are the typical ticket prices at Cafe Uno?
Ticket prices vary by event. Local DJs or small bands often have affordable cover charges (around $10–$20). Larger concerts or festival-style events usually cost a bit more (often $20–$30 per ticket). Special events or well-known headliners may charge higher fees. Any specific price will be listed with the event details. Early-bird or student discounts may also be offered on some shows.
What is Cafe Uno's address and phone number?
Cafe Uno is located at 2627 Waterbury Road, Thomaston, CT 06787 (www.restaurant.com ). The phone number, for general inquiries or reservations, is (203) 754-3583 (www.restaurant.com ). This puts it just off Route 84 (toward Waterbury town line) on the Waterbury Road (also called Watertown Avenue).
Is there parking available at Cafe Uno?
Yes. Cafe Uno has a parking lot on-site. The property covers about 1.5 acres (www.greenwichtime.com ), so there is ample free parking for customers. In case the lot is full, some street parking is available along Waterbury Road and nearby side streets. During busy events, it’s wise to arrive early to grab a good spot.
How can I get to Cafe Uno by public transportation?
Cafe Uno is in a suburban area with limited transit service. There is no direct bus stop at the door. The nearest public transit center is in Waterbury, CT (several miles away). From Waterbury’s bus or train hub, you would need a taxi or rideshare to reach Cafe Uno. Practically speaking, driving yourself or catching an Uber/Lyft to the venue is the most reliable way to get there.
Does Cafe Uno have both indoor and outdoor event spaces?
Yes. In addition to its indoor hall, Cafe Uno includes an outdoor patio/stage area. Events like the Universal Language Music Festival featured two stages – one indoors and one outdoors (www.ticketfairy.com ). The outdoor space is used for concerts or festivals, weather permitting. So during nice weather, audiences can enjoy performances outside on the patio as well as inside.
Is seating reserved or general admission at Cafe Uno?
Seating is generally unassigned. Cafe Uno’s performance area is mostly open floor for standing or dancing. A few tables and bar stools along the sides function on a first-come basis. For the best view, arrive early and find a spot near the stage. Large events like festivals are treated as general admission. In short, plan on it feeling more like a club than a seated theatre.
What is the age restriction at Cafe Uno?
Most events at Cafe Uno are 21 and over. The venue is a full bar and many shows are geared toward adults. For example, the 2024 festival explicitly required attendees to be 21+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some daytime café hours or special all-ages events (if any) might allow younger guests, but always check each event’s rules. If you plan to attend a night event, bring a photo ID to prove your age.
Are bags or cameras allowed at Cafe Uno?
You should carry only a small personal bag. Backpacks or large gear will likely be discouraged or searched. Professional photography or video equipment is generally not permitted unless you have a media pass. Personal cameras and smartphones are usually fine for casual photos, as long as flash is used sparingly and it doesn’t disrupt other guests.
What is the dress code for Cafe Uno?
The dress code is casual. Patrons typically wear comfortable clothes for dancing or lounging – think jeans, t-shirts, casual jackets, and sneakers. There is no formal requirement. If you’re attending a music event, you might choose club attire (smart casual) but nothing too fancy is needed. Dress to stay warm if you plan to use the outdoor patio during concerts in colder weather.
Does Cafe Uno serve food and drinks?
Yes. Cafe Uno has a full food menu and a bar. During events you can order meals like sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, and desserts (www.ticketfairy.com ), as well as alcoholic beverages. The Universal Language festival info mentioned a “Full Food Menu” and drink specials (www.ticketfairy.com ). In non-event hours, the venue functions like a regular café with coffee, pastries, and light lunch items.
Is Wi-Fi available at Cafe Uno?
Free Wi-Fi is usually offered during regular café hours. However, during concert events, the network may be overloaded or turned off. It's safest to assume mobile coverage or a personal hotspot is your best bet for reliable internet at the venue. Indoor cell reception is generally okay, but if you have trouble, step outside for a stronger signal.
Is Cafe Uno wheelchair accessible?
Cafe Uno is a single-level building, which makes many areas wheelchair accessible. The entrance should be flat or have a small ramp. Restrooms are on the ground floor. However, because it’s an older structure, it’s best to call ahead at (203) 754-3583 to confirm any specific accessibility needs. Staff are usually accommodating if given notice.
What time should I arrive before an event?
It’s wise to get to Cafe Uno at least 30–45 minutes before the show starts. This gives you time to park and find a good spot inside. Doors often open about 30 minutes ahead of the advertised start time. For popular shows or festival nights, arriving even earlier can help you avoid crowds and score a front-row view.
Are there nearby hotels or accommodations?
Thomaston itself is small, so hotel options are limited. The nearest full-service hotels are in Waterbury (5–10 minutes away), such as Hampton Inn, Best Western, and Fairfield Inn. These offer mid-priced lodging. Booking a hotel in Waterbury is convenient for attending late-night events, as it’s very close by and has more choices than Thomaston.
