Windmill Tavern

- 400 Hollister St, Stratford, CT 06615

For Connecticut locals in search of a true neighborhood staple, the Windmill Tavern in Stratford represents a piece of local history and a consistent go-to destination for quality American comfort food. This establishment is not merely an "American restaurant"; it is a beloved pub and dining institution with roots stretching back to 1934, earning it the reputation of being "one of the oldest neighborhood taverns in the country." Named after the water pumping windmill once located across the street, the tavern has maintained a casual, cozy, and historic atmosphere that has made it Stratford's answer to a community gathering spot, frequently described by long-time customers as the local 'Cheers.'

The Windmill Tavern has built a loyal following across generations, evidenced by the local accounts of patrons who rode their bikes here as children for a hot dog and now bring their families for the expanded, yet equally cherished, menu. It successfully blends the classic American diner experience with an extensive pub offering. While famous for its hot dogs—reportedly once named the "#1 hot dog in the country" by the Boston Globe—the menu features a tremendous variety of comfort meals, tavern fare, and unique specials that cater to every craving.

The culinary selections are deeply rooted in comforting American and pub traditions, with European twists reflecting the restaurant’s storied history. Patrons can indulge in the core offerings of Burgers, featuring options from the straightforward $4.00 Burger and the $7.00 Steak Burger to the unique Tavern Turkey Burger and Veggie Burger. The Hot Dogs section is a pilgrimage for enthusiasts, with local favorites like the Hummel Hot Dog, the Classic Works, and the Windmill Works, alongside more adventurous choices like the Chicago Dog and the "Red Hot" Windmiller. Beyond these classics, the "Mill Favs" section is a testament to the menu's versatility, including items like Irish Nachos, Loaded Tater Tots, Potato Pancakes, and the regional inclusion of Pierogi and Poutine. The kitchen also offers full Tavern Fare, such as Fish & Chips, House Made Meatloaf, and German-inspired dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Sauerbraten, ensuring a diverse and satisfying dining experience for lunch and dinner.

Location and Accessibility

The Windmill Tavern is centrally situated at 400 Hollister St, Stratford, CT 06615, USA. Its location is easily reachable for Connecticut residents throughout Stratford and the surrounding towns.

Accessibility is a key priority for the establishment, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons. The tavern offers:

• Free parking lot for convenient access, along with the availability of Free street parking nearby.
• Full Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, and Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Wheelchair accessible seating options, ensuring comfortable dining for every visitor.

Its position makes it an excellent meeting place for groups and families looking for a spot that is both historic and modernly accommodating.

Services Offered

Windmill Tavern provides comprehensive dining and bar services to meet various customer preferences:

• Dine-in and Table Service: Guests can enjoy the casual, cozy, and historic atmosphere with full table service.
• Outdoor Seating: Available for those who prefer to dine in the open air, weather permitting.
• Takeout: Efficient service for patrons who wish to enjoy their meals at home or on the go.
• Delivery and No-contact Delivery: Offers convenient food delivery options throughout the local area.
• Catering: Provides special event and large-order catering services.
• Accepts Reservations: Patrons can plan their visit in advance by securing a table, especially during peak hours or for groups.
• Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert: A full range of dining options is available throughout the day and into the evening.

Features / Highlights

What makes the Windmill Tavern a distinguished destination for locals is its unique combination of classic pub elements, culinary excellence, and community focus:

• Historic and Cozy Atmosphere: Recognized as a historic neighborhood tavern with a casual and cozy setting that encourages groups and families to gather.
• Award-Winning Hot Dogs: The reputation for having some of the best hot dogs in the country is a major draw for both locals and tourists alike.
• Extensive Beverage Program: Known for its Great beer selection and Great cocktails, including a full bar onsite with Alcohol, Hard liquor, and Wine.
• Live Music and Sports: Regularly features Live music events and provides a great setting to watch Sports, enhancing the pub experience.
• Happy Hour Specials: Offers both Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food, making it an excellent spot for after-work socializing.
• Serves Local Specialty: Highlights local culinary heritage, most notably with its famous hot dogs and multiple varieties of chili, including Conty’s Chili Bowl and three different Chili To Go options.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Welcoming to all ages, with Good for kids designation and availability of High chairs and a Kids' menu.
• Modern Payment Convenience: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Contact Information

For bookings, reservations, or to place an order, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 400 Hollister St, Stratford, CT 06615, USA
• Phone: (203) 378-6886

What is Worth Choosing

The Windmill Tavern is unequivocally worth choosing for any Connecticut resident seeking an authentic, high-quality, and community-focused American dining experience. The tavern’s longevity—operating since 1934—is a testament to its enduring commitment to great food and welcoming service. It’s the perfect place to experience a slice of Stratford’s history while enjoying phenomenal modern pub fare.

The sheer breadth and quality of the menu are significant selling points. Where else can you find a simple yet perfect $4.00 hot dog, a Twin Lobster Roll, authentic Wiener Schnitzel, and the legendary Famous Hot Oil Pizza all in one place? The atmosphere, which effortlessly blends the ‘Historic’ with the ‘Casual’ and ‘Cozy,’ ensures that whether you are coming for a quick lunch, a solo dinner, or a night out with a large group, you will feel right at home. The combination of strong culinary offerings, a dynamic event schedule including Live music and sports viewing, and exceptional service (as praised in customer reviews for being "welcoming" and "always good") solidify Windmill Tavern’s status as one of the best neighborhood bars and American restaurants in the Connecticut region.

Windmill Tavern

400 Hollister St, Stratford, CT 06615, USA