Windmill Tavern to Reopen Dec. 14

A remodeled Windmill Tavern will reopen under new ownership on Dec. 14.

"You can see from our photos that we are not just 'dusting' off the place," reads a post on the Facebook page of the long-time Stratford establishment. "We are going down to bare walls and floor. The gorgeous bar is taking some time but that's because we want to get it just right."

The hot dogs -- which were awarded Stratford Patch Readers' Choice best in town -- will still be on the menu, along with the burgers, kielbasa and other Windmill favorites, according to John Vazzano, who bought the property about three weeks ago.

"It'll have the same feel," said Vazzano, who owns several area restaurants, including Vazzy's on Broadbridge Avenue in Bridgeport. He said he sold Vazzy's of Stratford about six months ago.

"We are researching this and they say it's one of the oldest taverns in the area," Vazzano said. 

The restauratuer from Trumbull said he wants to "bring back history to Hollister Heights." So he's stripping the paneling and exposing the brick and beams, which "will add to the warmth" of the restaurant.

Other renovations include new floors and bathrooms and 19 additional TVs. Also, a one-size pizza will be added to the menu, Vazzano said.

"Soon, very soon those award-winning hot dogs and ice cold beer will be available to you," read the Facebook post. "Just make sure when you come in you take a look around and notice the love and care we put in to make your visit to the Windmill Tavern a great one."