From Wimpy Burgers to Hot Cheese: Fall River’s Graham’s Reopening on Bedford Street

Some restaurants are more than just a place to grab a bite to eat. They're part of our childhood, our family traditions, and the memories we carry with us. For generations of Fall River residents, Graham's Hot Dogs has been one of those special places.

After closing several years ago, the iconic eatery at 931 Bedford Street is officially getting a second chance. I spoke exclusively with Nick Silvia, the man behind the comeback, along with his partner, Tiffany Larguinho, about their plans to bring a little nostalgia back to the city.

Graham's has been a Fall River staple since 1962, known for its famous Wimpy burgers, Coney Island hot dogs, and hot cheese sandwiches. The restaurant closed during the COVID era after the former owners experienced heartbreaking losses in their family. Now Silvia, who also owns Surfside Creamery in New Bedford, is determined to keep its legacy alive.

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Bringing Back the Graham's We Remember

For Silvia, reopening Graham's isn't simply another business opportunity. It's personal. Growing up in Fall River, he was a regular customer, and even today, he remembers his favorite order: a Wimpy burger with cooked onions and ketchup, followed by two hot dogs with the works.

Fall River’s Graham’s Hot Dogs Reopening on Bedford Street

Silvia spent months trying to contact the former owners before finally connecting with Linda Seidel and reaching an agreement. The plan is to preserve the original menu, the familiar atmosphere, and everything that made Graham's special. Seidel has even been kind enough to help Silvia with the reopening.

Keeping the Nostalgia Alive

The old-school desks, tiger pictures, and even the photograph of President John F. Kennedy will remain. While the kitchen equipment is being replaced, the dining area will be carefully restored rather than completely remodeled. Larguinho said that Silvia has been talking about bringing Graham's back since they first started dating.

Fall River’s Graham’s Hot Dogs Reopening on Bedford Street

"He would always light up when he talked about it," she said. "At the end of the day, it's about more than food. It's about bringing back those warm family memories and giving Fall River something familiar to celebrate again.

When Will Graham's Reopen?

The restaurant will operate under the name Graham's, although its new Facebook page is called "The New Original Graham's." Silvia hopes to reopen within two to three months, provided the remaining licensing and renovations go according to plan.

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He also promised to do his best to keep prices affordable, understanding that Graham's has always been a place where families could enjoy a good meal without spending a fortune. For a city that has watched so many familiar businesses disappear over the years, this is one comeback worth celebrating. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to bring back a little piece of the past.

Welcome back, Graham's, Fall River has missed you.