Sad News: Riviera Roadhouse Destroyed

The Riviera Roadhouse is no more! It was burned down this past June in what is labeled a "suspicious" fire. Such a sad ending to a wonderful and historic place.

More information can be found here:

Route 66 News

Riviera Roadhouse: Gardner, IL

The Riviera Roadhouse is one of those places just dripping in history. Al Capone hid liquor here and film stars such as Tom Mix and Gene Kelly ate at the Roadhouse.

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.

Two Cell Jail: Gardner, IL



The earliest historical site located within Gardner is the Two Cell Jailhouse. Built in 1906 and was in operation until the late 1950s. The white brick structure is probably the most "advertised" attraction in Gardner but the most forgotten thanks to the Riviera roadhouse and streetcar. As you enter the downtown, signs will point you in its direction.



It has been restored by the community and holds a strong presence near Gardner's downtown area.

Vistitors are now encouraged to "go behind bars" and have their own photo taken.

The Christian Christiansen Memorial is alos located on the property. Christiansen was a Norwegian man who was pivotial in preventing the Nazis in WWII  from obtaining atomic weapons. The King of Norway even issued a letter praising his accomplishments.

Historic Streetcar Diner: Gardner, IL

I decided to head to the town of Gardner, IL; home the famous Streetcar Diner.



The current location was not the original one of this relic. In fact, it was a working Pullman streetcar in Kankakee, IL. When electric streetcars became the newest rage, those that could not be converted (such as this one) were sold as scrap. George Kaldem bought the car in 1932 in hopes of opening a roadside diner along Route 66.



During this time, the diner became an "unofficial Greyhound bus stop." The popular spot ran as a business for 7 years. After that time, it was moved in 1937 where it served as cottage and a children's playhouse.



In 1955, the streetcar diner was once again moved, this time to its present location behind the Riviera Roadhouse. Unfortunately, the forgotten little diner was left to deteriorate in the elements of Gardner's weather.



Luckily for us history buffs, the Route 66 Association of Illinois Preservation Committee saw the streetcar as valuable to the story of the old road. It took 5 years for the preservation efforts of the Committee to be realized and the trolley was restored to its former glory. It still remains behind the Riviera, has a working trolley bell and been named the "66 Cafe." So keep on eye on the road and visit the hidden gem; the Historic Streetcar Diner of Gardner, IL.