Connecticut has lost several longtime dining institutions, including a waterfront restaurant that closed after nearly 50 years. In Stratford, one historic roadside location is getting a more hopeful second act: burgers and hot dogs are returning to the former Danny’s Drive-In.
Great American Street Food Company, commonly called GASFCO, plans to open at 940 Ferry Boulevard in early August. It will be the fast-casual concept’s third location, joining restaurants in Southington and North Branford.
The building served burgers for generations
The small roadside building dates to 1935 and became famous as the home of Danny’s Drive-In. Danny’s closed in 2022 after 87 years, ending a tradition that stretched across generations of Stratford families.
Bagel Boutique later occupied the property but closed in February. Restaurateur Richard McLain told CT Insider that seeing the historic burger stand operating as something else inspired him to return the building to its earlier identity.
GASFCO is not a reopening of Danny’s and will not be the same business. Its menu and positioning, however, deliberately echo the building’s past by emphasizing affordable burgers, hot dogs and other casual street food.
The new restaurant will be takeout only
Customers will order online or at an exterior kiosk rather than sit down for traditional table service. McLain said the takeout model helps control labor and overhead, allowing the restaurant to keep prices comparatively low.
The planned menu includes burgers made from a custom Black Angus beef blend, Chicago-style hot dogs, chili dogs, tacos, seafood sandwiches, shawarma and salads. Early examples included two burgers or two hot dogs for $6.50, although customers should confirm pricing after the restaurant opens.
Stratford officials have welcomed the project, describing it as an appropriate reuse of the well-known property. Its location on Ferry Boulevard also makes it accessible to customers from across Fairfield County.
An exact opening day has not been announced, and the early-August target could shift as renovations conclude. If the schedule holds, though, Stratford will soon see burgers served from the old Danny’s building again—not by the original restaurant, but by a new operator that understands why the location still matters.
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