Oxford Staple Fritz’s Snack Bar Reopens Weeks After New Year’s Day Fire

OXFORD, CT — Fritz’s Snack Bar, a longtime Oxford staple, is officially back in business.

The restaurant announced it will reopen Thursday, Jan. 29, after temporarily closing due to a New Year’s Day fire in the building.

Firefighters were called to the building around 5:30 a.m. on Jan. 1 after a structure fire was reported. Officials said smoke was coming from a second-floor window, and the fire was contained to an apartment above the restaurant. At least one person was taken to the hospital for medical treatment, police said. No one inside the restaurant was hurt.

After the fire, the owners closed the business to clean up and make repairs. Earlier this month, they said they were hoping to reopen by the end of January — a goal they’ve now met.

Fritz’s Snack Bar has been part of the Oxford community for more than 70 years, first opening in 1954. The diner is known locally as a longtime breakfast-and-lunch spot and a fixture along Oxford Road.

Oxford Fire, Police, and EMS responded to the incident, with help from mutual aid crews.