Do You Remember the Legendary Hilltop Steak House in Saugus?

By LIZ TAURASI (Patch Staff)

Photo Credits: Brian Cummings Photography

In 2013, the legendary Hilltop Steakhouse on Rte. 1 in Saugus announced that due to a decline in business it would be closing its doors.

For more than half a century the Hilltop drew customers from far and wide and was known for its famous Hilltop cows, the 68-foot tall neon, light up cactus sign seen along the roadway, and of course the steak. And even if you never ate there, you certainly knew what the Hilltop was.

The restaurant was opened in 1961 by owner Frank Giuffrida, who died in 2004. In its heyday the Hilltop would serve more than 3 million customers a year.

The last time the public had a look inside was in October 2013 when hundreds lined up for one last meal before it shuttered its doors forever. Not soon after, items from the restaurant, from plates to menus and more were found on eBay after owners said customers were stealing what was soon to be much wanted restaurant memorabilia. The Hilltop property was sold a year later.

The building, slated to be torn down is still standing until its demolition to make way for a new development which will include a restaurant and a shopping plaza. Construction is expected to begin this month.

Now, North Shore photographer Brian Cummingsgives us one last glimpse inside the iconic venue before the building is demolished. While most of the larger items from inside were sold at auction, his photographs will take you back to the bygone era where many fondly remember waiting for their table to be called, whether you were dining in any of the stagecoach named rooms of Sioux City, Dodge City, Virginia City, and Kansas City.

Take a look at these amazing photos which will surely bring you back to busy nights of yore at the Hilltop and share your memories in the comments section below.

View all the incredible images on Photographer Brian Cummings’ Facebook page >>