Hidden Gems of Connecticut

UNION, CT — This week's edition of Hidden Gems takes us to a unique place near the Massachusetts state line which is actually easy to spot, but somewhat difficult to find: the Traveler Restaurant on Buckley Highway in Union, the least populous town in Connecticut with just over 850 residents.

Owned and operated since 1993 by Art and Karen Murdock, the Traveler is more than just another place to eat. Each diner may take home up to three free books; the Murdocks estimate they average about 2,000 used books per week. Literary titles dominate the menu, with food selections including "The Great Gatsby," "The Raven" and "David Copperfield."

The downstairs section of the building contains a huge selection of all types of books for sale, all reasonably priced. Hence, the huge sign outside the restaurant reads "Traveler Food and Books."

Thousands of people pass by the Traveler every day on Interstate 84, as it is en route to Boston, Cape Cod and all points in northern New England, but getting there is a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with the area. From I-84 westbound, take exit 74, go left at the stop sign, then turn left, go over the highway, and take another left. From the eastbound side of the highway, take exit 74, go right then immediately left. The facility is on the right.