MARLBOROUGH – Dinnertime on a late Saturday afternoon.
At the Wildwood steakhouse restaurant on Boston Post Road East, about 40 customers waited for the doors to open.
For many of them, the Wildwood’s been part of their lives.
“We’ve been coming here for our anniversary for 34 years,” said Wayne McFarland, who was there with his wife, Donna.
For all of them, it was a chance to say goodbye.
After nearly a century in business, the Wildwood closed its doors this weekend.
According to a Facebook post on Thursday, Feb. 16, the steakhouse shut down because owner Gerry Seymour is retiring.
Diners past and present were quick to post their memories on social media. For many, the Wildwood was the setting for celebrations from weddings to graduations.
“Since my first campaign volunteering for Bob Durand for State Senate, spending more time in Marlborough, I have always enjoyed the Wildwood for a great dinner,” said state Sen. Jamie Eldridge. “As someone who recently moved to Marlborough, I’m particularly sad to see such a Marlborough institution close.”
On Saturday, Feb. 18, the first batch of final customers began to gather just outside the main entrance.
“We’re really sad to see it go,” said Helen Young of Sudbury, who was there with her husband, Scott. “It’s going to be a loss for sure.”
“I just love the restaurant,” said Hilda.
“It’s the end of an era,” said Henry Pacific, a lifelong Marlborough resident who used to go pheasant hunting with Seymour.
The restaurant will reopen under new ownership, according to a staff member.
