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Strat's in Villa Park closes after 38 years
A popular food joint in the western suburbs is serving its last patrons on Sunday.
VILLA PARK, Ill. - A popular food joint in the western suburbs served its final patrons on Sunday after more than three decades in business.
Strat’s Drive-Thru, a staple for Chicago-area car lovers, is saying ‘farewell.’ The restaurant, located on North Avenue in Villa Park, was packed with loyal customers all weekend long.
"I have three generations coming here and it brings a tear to my eye," said Strat's owner, Strat Matsas.
After 38 years under the neon lights, where memories of countless nights were had, Sunday marked Strat’s final day in business.
"We're relieved. Bittersweet, of course. It's time. I'm 61 years old right now. I opened when I was 23 years old. I said, ‘you know what? We’re at the top of the game. Let's get out and go now,'" Matsas said.
The owner announced last week that he received an offer from a national tire company to purchase the property — a deal he said he couldn’t refuse.
On Sunday, customers who have become friends placed one final order.
"For probably 15 years, I used to come on my motorcycle with guys, then we started coming with cars," said Johnny Escobar, a patron.
"I’m Strat’s originally DJ from all these car shows, Franklin Park to today," said Rudy Kay.
"I did live out of state for 20 years, so coming back and finding out they were closing really hurt," added Barb Humerickhouse. "It’s like a taste of home."
The man behind it all says he was inspired to start the business after watching an old film.
"I watched the movie ‘American Graffiti’ when I was in high school, and that’s about Americana with the love of cars. I said, baseball, apple pie, and Strat’s," Matsas said. "I don’t do it for the business. I love cars, I love food, and I love people."
Before the grill was turned off for good, Matsas enjoyed the weekend celebrating with customers—one that came with twists and turns.
The closure drew larger-than-expected crowds, prompting Villa Park police to issue a statement on Sunday, warning of unsafe behavior by drivers and vehicle takeovers in the area.
"As a police department, we will do all we can to keep the public safe but with such large crowds and a few bad actors it will be a challenge. We do not feel it is a safe environment for passersby, pedestrians, and youths being dropped off in the area. We would ask you proceed with caution in the area, or even avoid the area much as possible (Sunday) evening," police said, in part.
Police added that the crowds led to a high-speed crash on Friday. They warned that dangerous behavior would not be tolerated, adding that officers were prepared to issue citations, tow vehicles, and use spike strips to stop vehicles fleeing from police if things got out of hand Sunday.
Matsas said the weekend was so busy that they sold out of food! The restaurant closed around 8:30 p.m. Sunday—turning in earlier than its typical midnight closing time.
"To me, this is a very emotional day. Just wishing the owners the best," said Humerickhouse.
Matsas shares that he is moving to the Sunshine State.
As for Strat’s iconic sign, Matsas says he is working to give it a good home.