The Riviera was built in 1928 by businessman James Girot. It is not just one building but rather the result of buildings being slapped together from Gardner and Wilmington being moved to the present location.
As prohibition loomed on, the Riviera catered to those looking for alcohol and gambling. Slot machines and booze were both located in the basement which featured an iron door to hide the goodies in case of a raid.
The Riviera still offered food to Route 66 travellers until recently. Patrons would eat in the basement and food was delivered by dumbwaiter weighed down by a WW1 artillery shell. Due to frequent flooding of the Mazon River nearby, diners would dine on plastic furniture. The toilets were even on an elevated platform and required a step to reach them; truly giving a meaning to the word "throne." The flooding and damp conditions even led to stalactites being created in the basement area.
In 2008, The owners Bob and Peggy Kraft retired from running the restaurant. It had remained closed for a while. But the restaurant had opened and re-opened many times in late 2009 and 2010. Though due to disputes between the Riv's current manager and the city of Gardner, it is unclear if it ever will open again.The future of the Riviera remains in the balance. As of the posting, the Riviera has signs posting "No Trespassing" and yellow tape blocking off the property.
