Milford Diner’s Final Weekend: A Historic Farewell Celebration

In a bittersweet moment for Milford, Connecticut, the beloved Bridgeport Flyer Diner is set to close its doors permanently on Sunday, February 23rd, at 9:00 PM.

After serving the community for eight decades, this iconic establishment is stepping aside to make room for new development.

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The closure not only marks the end of a legendary eatery but also brings a wave of nostalgia as residents reflect on the diner’s unparalleled role in the community.

Here’s a deeper dive into the diner’s legacy, the upcoming development, and the sentiments surrounding this transition.

The Bridgeport Flyer: A Landmark of Milford

For 80 years, the Bridgeport Flyer Diner has been more than just a place to grab a bite to eat—it has been a cornerstone of the local community.

First established in 1940 by Antonio Rountos in Bridgeport, the diner eventually found its roots in Milford and Devon, where it became a staple for comfort food and camaraderie.

Antonio’s son, Perry, and his business partner, Anthony Rountos, carried the legacy forward, opening the second location in Devon in 1973.

Today, current owners Dennis and Kiki Kokenos are saying goodbye after managing the diner for the past 25 years.

The Kokenoses’ announcement, shared via a heartfelt Facebook post, spoke volumes about the connections the diner has fostered over the years.

From witnessing staff romances to building lifelong friendships with regular customers, the diner was truly a “home away from home” for many.

As Dennis prepares for retirement, he expressed gratitude for the countless memories and the chance to serve the Milford community.

A Farewell and Final Specials

To honor its final days, the diner is offering specials like a crispy fried chicken sandwich and a classic spaghetti and meatballs—just a small nod to its rich tradition of comfort food.

For nearby communities like Stratford and West Haven, the allure of one last meal is drawing loyal diners who grew up visiting this treasured spot.

The closing week is not just about food; it’s about saying goodbye to a historic institution that has been central to so many lives.

New Beginnings: The Development Plan

The closure of the Bridgeport Flyer is paving the way for significant changes in Milford.

The site will soon host two modern apartment buildings, featuring a total of 80 units. Of these, 24 will be designated as affordable housing, a detail that reflects Connecticut’s ongoing efforts to diversify its housing landscape.

Construction is set to begin in April, following the Planning and Zoning Board’s recent approval.

Notably, a similar proposal had been rejected previously, but the revised plan received the green light, signaling progress for the city’s housing development goals.

The Emotional Weight of Change

While the new apartments represent an exciting opportunity for Milford’s growth, the nostalgia surrounding the diner’s closure cannot be overlooked.

For communities in Orange, New Haven, and beyond, the demolition of the diner represents the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for the town’s landscape.

Change is rarely easy, especially when it involves saying goodbye to a beloved local haunt.

For customers from nearby towns like Trumbull and Shelton, the Bridgeport Flyer was more than a diner—it was a shared experience, a tradition, and a hallmark of local culture.

Residents are grappling with a mix of emotions as they prepare to welcome new development while reminiscing about the past.

A Legacy That Lives On

As the Kokenos family looks forward to retirement and time spent with their grandchildren, they can rest assured that the Bridgeport Flyer Diner’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those it touched.

The diner’s story is one of hard work, family, and community—values that speak to the best of what Connecticut towns like Milford continue to represent.

So, if you find yourself near Milford this week, consider stopping in for one last meal, sharing a memory, or simply saying goodbye to a place that played an unforgettable role in the lives of so many.

While the physical diner may soon be gone, its spirit will undoubtedly remain woven into the fabric of Connecticut’s history.

Here is the source article for this story: Last Call At Historic Milford Diner Closing For Good This Weekend

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