Penny's Diner In Fairfield Closes After 40 Years

FAIRFIELD, CT — Penny's Diner, an institution in Fairfield for 40 years, abruptly closed this week, according to a sign left by owners on the door of the Black Rock Turnpike eatery.

No word on what led to the closing, but when Patch went to the site on Friday, the windows were covered with construction paper, and vacuums or other power equipment could be heard inside.

The Fairfield location, which was called Penny's II, was one of two Penny's diners, the other is in Norwalk on East Avenue.

Mark Barnhart, Fairfield's Director of Community and Economic Development, said that despite the sadness of the business closing, operating for 40 years is impressive.

"It’s always sad when a business closes, especially one that has been part of the community for 40 years, but it’s part of the business cycle," Barnhart told Patch. "But, I am reminded that when one door closes, it often opens the door for someone else to realize their dream of owning a business. So, time will tell as to what comes next for the diner, but I do wish them well. It is not easy running a small business, and to have done so for so long is really quite an accomplishment."

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Below is the text of the sign on the door of the Fairfield diner:

"To our valued customers, employees and friends,

It brings us great sadness that after 40 years of service, this location is permanently closed.

We want to thank all of our loyal customers, and dedicated staff for all their support throughout the years.

Our Norwalk location will remain open to serve you."

The Penny's closure is the second restaurant to close on Black Rock Turnpike this month, following fried chicken site Lovebird, which closed its only Connecticut location last week.