Guida’s Restaurant

Middlefield, CT

Guida’s Restaurant

• Address: 484 Meriden Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455
• State: Connecticut
• Website: www.newguidasrestaurant.com

Overview:
Guida’s has been serving footlong hot dogs on Route 66 since 1946, when it was just a tiny seasonal stand with a grill and a dream. By the time Bill Guida bought it in 1953, the hot dogs had developed a loyal following, and in 1957, he built the restaurant that still stands today. It’s grown since then, but the heart of it hasn’t changed—you still order a 10-inch hot dog on a toasted bun, maybe with their famous all-meat chili and mustard relish, and pair it with fries and a thick shake. The vibe is simple, friendly, and refreshingly low-key.

Why It’s Worth a Stop:
Hot dogs are the star here—especially their footlongs, which come grilled, split, and stacked with your choice of toppings. The burgers are solid, the daily specials cover everything from BBQ beef to chicken Mancini, and the fries are the kind that make you reach for just one more. And don’t forget the ice cream—Guida’s serves Gifford’s premium flavors by the scoop, sundae, float, or thick-as-you-want-it milkshake.

What to Know Before You Go:
• Seasonal hours (April–October): Tues–Sun, 11am–8pm; reduced hours in November
• All food is made to order—plan for a short wait during busy times
• Takeout only—no dine-in available
• Kid-friendly, with plenty of parking
• Footlong hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, and ice cream all in one stop
• Premium products: Boar’s Head, Land O’Lakes, Martin Rosol’s, Gifford’s Ice Cream

Fun Fact:
Guida’s chili dogs are so beloved, they were voted “Best Hot Dog in Connecticut”—and they’ve been serving them the same way for nearly 80 years.