It’s been part of the community for 100 years.
Now, Jimmies of Savin Rock will be closing its doors on December 7.
The iconic restaurant on West Haven’s shoreline posted the news on Facebook, as have so many eateries across Connecticut when the grill goes dark and the ovens grow cold.
“It’s time for us to retire,” the restaurant owners said in a video, noting that it has been five generations of the family that have “served generations of yours.”
Andrew Gagliardi, part of the fifth generation of the family at the restaurant, said Saturday that the family is thankful for all of the support it received for 100 years from customers.
“We could not have done it without everyone coming down,” he said. “It’s a bittersweet moment.”
Gagliardi said it was not uncommon for the restaurant to draw customers from across the state as well as multiple other states. “It’s really cool that we have had such a presence,” he said, noting people can still get their favorites through Dec. 7.
Jimmie’s “has been a part of this community’s story. From summer nights on the shoreline to family traditions passed down through generations,” the Facebook post says. “Today, we’re sharing the bittersweet news that Jimmies will be closing our doors on December 7th, officially bringing this 100 year chapter to a close as we prepare to retire.”
“Words can’t fully express how grateful we are for your loyalty, your laughter, your stories, and the memories you’ve made here with us over the decades,” the post says. “To every family that made us part of their weekends, celebrations, and everyday moments, thank you for making Jimmies more than just a restaurant.
“As we prepare to say goodbye, we invite you to come out and dine with us one last time,” the post says. “Join us for one more meal, one more memory, and one last bite at Jimmies of Savin Rock. Thank you all for 100 years of Jimmies!”
The news drew hundreds of comments, as is so often the case, from customers lamenting the news and many sharing memories, some that date back many decades.
“Haven’t been there in a couple of years. My wife and I used to go there often and we love it. Every time we drove down to the coast, we’d go there. We’ll Miss it,” one customer wrote.
“Congratulations and best of luck in retirement, although I’m devastated to hear that Jimmie’s is closing!,” wrote another. “My family has been going to Jimmie’s since my dad was a ‘Milford summers kid’ in the 1950s. My parents have now retired to the area and Jimmie’s was always a special treat. (Mentioning Jimmie’s for dinner always further enticed us to come up to visit!) We will miss Jimmie’s so much — thank you all for 100 years of so many great memories and delicious food!”
Another noted, “I have been going there for 40 years or more. Moved from Hamden to Greenwich 25 years ago, drive down 7-8 times a year… I will miss that tartar sauce like no one else’s along with everything else.”
Others recalled times all the way back to the 1960s and 50s.
“Nooooooooo! Thanks for many great meals and memories. Back in the 60s the lovely ladies WITH THE BEEHIVE HAIR. THAT WERE ALWAYS SO KIND TO THIS (then) little girl making me feel all grown up! I had my first pony ride next door on a white horse named Tony. My mother went into labor with me in the then hot dog stand parking lot,” was one memory shared.
“Back in the 1950s, my father brought us to Savin Rock almost every summer Sunday night. We were from Waterbury. Jimmie’s was always part of our visit. My father loved the hot dogs and french fries. I think the last time I was there as an adult was in the 1970s. Great memories. Thank you,” was another memory posted.
“Used to go there for a hot dog and hang out as a kid. Then my husband and I had our first date in 1980 and we go back every year. Sometimes I get the same meal. So sad to see Jimmies close. Really gonna miss it but Happy Retirement!” wrote another fan.
“I have a picture when I was a child my brother and I sitting on top of my dad Volkswagen Beetle eating clam strips at the original opened stand,” said another
Another person who noted he had not been there for years, “I remember going to Jimmies as a small child with my grandparents. The garage doors and the flat griddle with all those dogs cooking on it. Savin park was still there put had been closed for quite some time.”
Many congratulated the family on retirement.
“Wow! Four generations of my family loved Jimmy’s. My grandparents were good friends with them. Sad to see you go, but happy well deserved retirement.”
Other shared memories of working there.
“My first job and I worked there through my college years. Great times and memories for me… Sad to see it go,” one said.
Some folks are just sad.
“Im SICK ABOUT THIS!!! Im coming in next week for sure. Jimmies has been a staple of my whole life. We used to go to the one in Hamden when it was there! Now my Mom and I frequent West Haven regularly and this is for sure a shock,” a customer wrote. “We went during the pandemic, through thick and thin Jimmies was always there for us. U guys have my fave house salad and lobster roll! Where am I gonna go now?! Im devastated but happy that u r retiring and going on to relax and enjoy life.”