Traveler Restaurant in Union closed in April after more than three decades in business. The community favorite restaurant was known for serving classic American meals with free books. The restaurant team announced the closure on social media.
Landmark Traveler Restaurant Closed
A long-running Buckley Highway establishment, Traveler Restaurant, was for its distinctive concept combining dining with a free book selection. It served as a gathering place for families, friends, and book lovers for decades.
In a Facebook post, owners Art and Karen Murdock announced the closure. They wrote, “34 years ago, we decided to take a chance and buy a restaurant. Day by day, year by year, we grew this chance into what it has become today. A place to stop for a while, eat, and discover a new adventure on the shelves.”
The owner thanked the community and staff for their support, adding, “From the bottom of our hearts, we are thankful for each and every one of you and for your support in us over the decades.”
On April 27, the team shared, “Today at 10 am we will unlock our doors for the very last time as Travelers Food & Books after 33+ years!”
The restaurant had built its reputation with its classic American comfort food menu served in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. It featured a large in-house library for customers to browse.
Fans took to social media to share their disappointment following the closure. One of the fans shared, “I remember getting a book here with my grandmother when I was first learning how to read. I was happy to stop and have a burger and get a hardcover today as an adult.”
New Chapter Begins as Blondie’s Replaces Traveler’s Spot
A popular breakfast spot, Blondie’s Diner, is preparing to transform the Traveler Restaurant space. The diner currently operates two Connecticut locations in Willimantic and Chaplin. The Buckley Highway location will mark the third location for the diner.
In a recent post, owner Julie Cook said, announced, “Standing here with some of the team who’ve been with me for years, alongside new faces from this next chapter, really hit me. Different paths brought us together, but it already feels like one team, one family.”
“Honoring where this place has been while building something new together,” added the owner.
With the closure of Traveler Restaurant, the Connecticut dining community marks the end of a longtime legacy. While the Traveler’s chapter has closed, the space has opened its doors with a new beginning of Blondie’s Diner.
