New development proposed on Hilltop Steakhouse property in Saugus

SAUGUS (MyFoxBoston,com) -- The iconic Hilltop Steakhouse, which closed in October 2013, has been sold and a new development which includes a restaurant and shopping plaza, has been proposed for the space.

Last week, Peter Rossetti Jr., Hilltop's lawyer, went before the Saugus board of selectmen and announced the property, owned by High County Investors, had been sold, according to Wicked Local Saugus.

Ross Hamlin, a developer, was also at the meeting and said he plans to demolish the now-vacant restaurant and rebuild with a shopping center and a restaurant with more than 200 seats. The restaurant will stand alone from the shopping plaza, Hamlin said.

Open for business for 52 years, Hilltop Steakhouse, was a landmark on Route 1, known for its big steaks, giant cactus sign and plastic cow statues. At the time of its closing, management said the restaurant could no longer stay in business because of changes in the demographics of its customer base, increased competition and costs.

According to a 1988 article by the New York Times, the Hilltop once served 2.4 million guests annually, making it the nation's biggest restaurant.

Construction on the new development could start as early as April, 2015, and finish in October of next year.

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New development proposed on Hilltop Steakhouse property in Saugus