Popular Restaurant Closes In Wallingford, New Eatery Planned In Its Place

WALLINGFORD, CT — The Chuckwagon, a popular “comfort food” restaurant, has closed after three years in business and a new eatery will soon be opening in its place, the owners announced this week.

Owner Chris Nakis, who also owned the popular The Greek Guy restaurant, opened The Chuckwagon in 2019 at 20 Ives Road in Wallingford. The restaurant served American comfort food and featured a Western theme.

“Hi Wallingford, we have decided to step back after 36 years in the restaurant business,” the owners wrote in a post on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “It’s time for the next chapter for our family. ‘That’s a Wrap’ will be opening its doors soon. Please welcome John and Theresa with open arms, as you did with us, as they start a new chapter in their lives! We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support over the years. We truly made a lot of good friends who became family to us! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Chris, Joanne & Tony Nakis.”

Fans of the restaurant, and the family, were saddened by the news.

“I'm so sad,” one person wrote in the comments under the Facebook post. “You guys had the best food and fantastic service. I wish you well wherever your future leads. Blessings and best wishes.”

Another person wrote, “As one of your new family members you will be missed immensely- we will see you soon! Good luck to you both!! We love you lots and thank you from the bottom of our heart for all you have done with the town!”

The owners had announced earlier this month that the restaurant was temporarily closing while they were “revamping our kitchen as well as all new menu with a ton of new cool stuff.”