Iconic Connecticut Restaurant That Combined Meals And Books Closes With Heartfelt Farewell

UNION, CT — An iconic presence at the extreme eastern end of Interstate 84 in Union that not only fed customers, but gave them books, has officially closed its doors.

It will become the third location of another household name in Eastern Connecticut — Blondie's Diner — which has restaurants in Willimantic and Chaplin.

The Traveler Restaurant had been owned and operated since 1993 by Art and Karen Murdock. It was more than just another place to eat. Each customer was able to take home up to three free books and the Murdocks have estimated they average about 2,000 used books per week.

Literary titles also dominated the menu, with food selections including "The Great Gatsby," "The Raven" and "David Copperfield."

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

The Today Show even filmed a segment at the eatery back in 2019. The video can be viewed here.

The restaurant had about 10,000 followers on Facebook.

The Murdocks on Monday sent out a heartfelt farewell.

They said:

"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. A place for families to bring their children...and overtime their grandchildren. A place where people have made so many memories along the way. We have made so many memories. Those memories are thanks to our staff and customers who have become our family along that way. 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. As we go onto our next adventure, we will think of it all and remember how that place with the bright yellow roof changed our lives forever.

"Thank you Art & Karen Murdock"

Blondie's on Tuesday was having fun with the transition on Facebook:

"Big things are happening over here… Closing week is officially here, and I’m about to take on a new adventure. You all know Blondie’s Diner … but this next chapter comes with a little history of its own. Do we keep a piece of the original name? Do we go full Blondie’s? Or do we find the perfect mix of both?What would YOU call it?"

Suggestions will be taken here.