lifestyleliberal
A Century of Food on Ghent Road
Fairlawn, USASunday, May 17, 2026
The spot on Ghent Road in Fairlawn has been a culinary landmark for almost 100 years, switching hands and names more times than most people can count.
1930–1947: Ghent Road Inn
- Opened: 1930
- Cuisine: Fried fish, roast pork, ham, chicken, frog legs
- Features: Jukebox and live music
- Challenges: 1931 sheriff’s raid on alcohol; continued police scrutiny post‑Prohibition
- Fire: 1947 destroyed most of the building
1948–1955: Stefano’s Restaurant
- Renamed after reconstruction following the 1947 fire
- Closed: 1955
1955–1970: The Chanticleer
- Opened: 1955 by two partners
- Menu: Lobster, prime rib, upscale fare
- Incidents: 1955 robbery by gunmen in September; hosted Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher
- Closed: 1970 when the building was stripped and rebuilt
1971–1973: Quick Transitions
| Year | Name | Concept |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | The Grate | Sandwich shop & cocktail lounge (closed within a year) |
| 1972 | Bread ’n Thread | Hybrid eatery & clothing boutique (crepes, sandwiches, cheesecake, live music, fashion shows) |
| 1973 | Dry Dock | Nautical‑themed restaurant by Continental Restaurant Systems |
1974–1979: Dry Dock’s Final Years
- Operated until: 1979
1980s–2024: A Series of Themes
| Years | Venue |
|---|---|
| 1979–1982 | Old Dock |
| 1982–1995 | Mountain Jack’s |
| 1996–1997 | Natalie’s |
| 1997–2000 | Gamekeeper’s Taverne |
| 2001–2013 | Winking Lizard |
| 2014–2024 | Ray’s Place |
Each incarnation brought its own flavor—from casual diners to themed atmospheres.
Present Day
The building stands empty and available for lease, leaving the future of this storied address open to imagination.
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