Strats Drive-in in Villa Park closes after 38 years – NBC Chicago

Strat Matsas, the restaurant’s owner, said in the lengthy post that he was “grateful for the loyalty and support of our guests and the memories that have inspired us.”

“All I can say is that it was a great trip,” he said. “In the 38.5 years I had, there was a lot of laughter, a lot of crying, a lot of sweating and a lot of bleeding. I’ll miss this trip, but I know when it’s time.”

Matsas said he was “very concerned” about his decision to close the restaurant when a customer who became a very good friend came to see him.

“When I confided in him my decision and said to myself, ‘Enjoy it and don’t worry about everyone who loves Strats,’ that resonated in my head,” the owner said. “Come in and enjoy your last favorite meal at Strat’s with your family and friends!!!!”