Disheartened hot dog fans and nostalgic root beer sippers are facing an unfortunate pause. A beloved Grayslake institution, Dog n Suds drive-in, has shuttered its doors after an early morning fire wreaked havoc, causing significant damage to the establishment. The fire broke out at the spot known for slinging coney dogs and its signature creamy root beer around 3:49 a.m. Saturday, as reported by NBC Chicago.

Early birds out for their morning fixes were greeted by smoke-stained windows instead of steamy buns. The Grayslake Fire District, alongside Gurnee and Round Lake fire departments, jumped into action, putting a stop to the flames that had started in the rear of the eatery. As per officials, the damage is estimated at a steep $120,000. No injuries were reported in the unfortunate incident, and the fire is not considered to be suspicious. In a heartening message relayed through Facebook, the restaurant assured the community they're down but not out, declaring a return is on the horizon.

WGN TV conveyed the locals' dismay at the temporary loss of their cherished hangout. Regular, Chuck Ryan conveyed his disappointment to the outlet, saying, “Well we drove up here and we just got on the road and they were like uh oh something happened here.” The restaurant, a fixture since the 60s, has become more than just a place to eat; it's a site of communal memory, a repository of simpler times when families and friends could pull up for a bite in the comfort and anonymity of their own cars.