Denny’s on Congress Street in Portland Permanently Closes

Oh no, now where to get my Moons Over My Hammy?

I don't know why it's closed, but the Denny's on Outer Congress Street in Portland is definitely closed. It comes as a shock to those wanting to grab a bite to eat. The last post on their Facebook page is about hiring. The post is dated September 10, 2021. One year ago. But as you look closer. You'll see that even their Facebook page says that they are permanently closed.

When I heard about this news I was so bummed. Then I realized that I hadn't actually been to that Denny's in a good 25 years. But that Denny's, open 24 hours a day was a savior to a new 20-something in Maine over 30 years ago. I remember being in a state where I didn't know a soul and driving around. I would stop at this Denny's at all sorts of weird times to grab a quick, cheap bite to eat and read a book. Yeah, it was before cell phones.

This leaves just 3 Denny's left in Maine: Auburn, Augusta, and Bangor. The Bangor Denny's closes early at 3 pm. Maine is such a foodie state and Portland is the epicenter. Do you think of Denny's when thinking of a great night out? Probably not. You may not even think of it for breakfast anymore because of all the amazing little places that have a fantastic menu.

But as a young person, broke and hungry - nothing beat Denny's and their Grand Slam. I don't know if you remember this, but I remember when they would run a deal for a Grand Slam for only $2.99. That's 2 pancakes, 2 eggs, 2 strips of bacon, 2 sausage links, hashbrowns, bread,, and a drink. Can you imagine that for three bucks? I'm sure something fabulous will replace Denny's. Or it will be condos.