Tavern in the Square Is Going Up in Littleton

Tavern in the Square has been expanding its empire of food-focused sports bars since its first location went up in Central Square in 2004.

With eight locations, the growing chain hasn't been confined to squares for several outposts, including suburban locales in Burlington, Salem, and Northborough, as well as a busy transit station. Now, a company rep says construction is underway in the smallest town yet: Tavern in the Square will open in Littleton sometime this year.

The 8,377-square foot restaurant is being built at a new mixed-use development, The Point, located at Interstate 495 and Rt. 119 about 45 minutes northwest of Boston. The 90-acre plaza includes a variety of shopping, entertainment, and dining options, WickedLocal.com reported in 2013. It's aiming to be a regional center, attracting people from the surrounding area, including several high-tech businesses that are located nearby. This daytime population is a key consideration for restaurants, a representative of The Point said.

Tavern in the Square has been working to move in since the beginning. Co-owner Stephen DeSousa told the Boston Business Journal the company was close to finalizing a lease there in September 2013.

The company is locally-oriented at each of its diverse locations, he told the news outlet. While the Central and Allston outposts are bars aimed at young singles, Burlington and Northborough are centered more toward families.

"We started the restaurant because we wanted to create more than your typical sports bar," he told the MetroWest Daily News. "Most sports bars focus on just the sports, and we wanted a place that was not only great to watch the game, but also had outstanding food and friendly service as well."

The menu features comfort food, like mozzarella-stuffed risotto fritters; "Big Dig fries," waffle fries topped with a cheese blend, bacon, sour cream, and scallions; fish and chips breaded with Cape Cod potato chips; blackened chicken pasta; burgers; and more.

The Point is also getting an outpost of Stoneham-based Tulip Lounge Hibachi Asian Cuisine, called Lazkaya Asian Hibachi; and Indian restaurant Masala Bay, Menchie's Frozen Yogurt, and Great Road Kitchen, a new seafood concept from Marcus Palmer, a 20-year industry vet who most recently collaborated with Brian Lesser (Sweet Cheeks, Storyville, Alden & Harlow, Tavern Road) to open Vine Brook Tavern in Lexington.

A Courtyard Marriott will have an eatery called The Bistro, and the S Bar, serving evening fare and beverages. So far, Starbucks has opened there, and Moe's Southwest Grill is on its way, too.

UPDATE, 11 P.M.: This article was updated with information from a representative of The Point, including the exact square footage of the forthcoming Tavern in the Square and an updated name for the hibachi restaurant.