Oliveira family takes over Colchester bar

After 22 years of ownership, Debra LeBlanc has sold the B.U. Pub to the Oliveira family. The bar, located at 164 Porters Point Road in Colchester, has operated since the 1970s as a local gathering spot for regulars seeking affordable drinks. Rodney, Tracie, and Jake Oliveira completed the purchase last week, marking the end of LeBlanc’s long tenure at the establishment.

The new owners have renovated the space to refresh its character. Work focused on updating the bathrooms, flooring, and lighting systems. The bar closed briefly during these repairs. A grand reopening event is scheduled for Saturday, November 7. The interior now features a layout that better supports pub-style activities, including additional games and space for live music, trivia, and other entertainment.

Rodney Oliveira has lived in Colchester for 15 years, where he and his wife Tracie raised six children. The family frequently visited the B.U. Pub, where their son Jake, who has autism, enjoyed listening to the jukebox. Rodney began working as a part-time bartender at the venue about a year ago, balancing two nights a week there with his full-time job at Edlund in Burlington. He described the acquisition as a method to give back to the community that has supported his family.

The original staff will remain in their positions under the new management. Tracie Oliveira, previously a stay-at-home parent, will handle day-to-day operations. Jake will oversee cleaning and upkeep tasks. The owners intend to preserve the neighborhood feel of the bar, noting that regulars often perform wellness checks and assist patrons who need rides.

The menu will evolve slowly with the introduction of homestyle dishes and bar food. These items will first appear on the menu on weekends. The drink list will see a slight expansion but will continue to focus on draft beer and basic mixed drinks. Rodney Oliveira, who plans to continue working at the bar, noted his ability to prepare specific cocktails while questioning the volume he will serve.