Saugus Fuddruckers Closing on Rt. 1 After 35 Years
The news of the Saugus Fuddruckers closing has me, a kid who grew up on Rt. 1, feeling some big feelings today.
As I’ve mentioned before, I grew up in Greenwood, the “backwoods” area of Wakefield. At least that’s what it was like back in the ’80s and ’90s. In those days, in that neck of the woods, going out to eat meant going to Rt. 1 in Saugus. My dad’s side of the family always seemed to gravitate toward The Kowloon. My mom’s side of the family always seemed to prefer the Hilltop Steak House.
When I got my license in high school and had free range of Rt. 1 in my 1985 Chevy Monte Carlo with the sliding bench seat, I ventured beyond The Kowloon and the Hilltop. If my girlfriend and I were feeling fancy, we’d gussy up and hit The Continental. Years later, my fiancee and I would hit Weylu’s for higher-end Chinese food or Fuddruckers if we were fixing to build our own burgers.
Saugus Fuddruckers Closing on Rt. 1 After 35 Years
And now the news is that Fuddruckers on Rt. 1 in Saugus will be no more. WBZ News is reporting that Saugus franchise owner Adrienne LeBlanc tried to negotiate a fair lease with the landlord, but could not come to an agreement. Now, Fuddruckers is set to close before the end of the year. So if you’re craving a fresh burg topped the way you want it, you’d best get there soon.
And if you’re noticing this alarming trend of Rt. 1 favorites like Fuddruckers, Friendly’s, and others disappearing due to the skyrocketing real estate market, you’re not alone. Our old friends are being priced out in favor of cookie cutter condo complexes and the like. I don’t like it. And if you don’t either, I suggest you use your vote and your voice. Hit the ballot box in November, attend your city or town’s next City Council or Town Meeting. Be a voice for change! And pass the BBQ sauce. And nacho cheese, please.
