Restaurant opens regardless of weather

(WTNH) -- A March snowstorm isn't stopping an outdoor eatery in Colchester from cooking up hot dogs and hamburgers and customers couldn't be happier that the grill is already open for business.

It's usually a sure sign of spring. This year temperatures have been below freezing for much of March and more snow is expected.

"Register it's just the same temperature out here but when you're on the grill or the fryolater it's a little bit warmer," said manager Wayne Morgan.

That's where you find Wayne Morgan, a coveted position these days.

"I think we tend to open up earlier than other seasonal businesses but I think we have less to guard us from the elements but they're used to it and you know what our staff is hearty," said Suzanne Caruso, Harry's Place.

And they dress for the weather. Some customers on the other hand...

"They like to pretend it's gonna be spring or at least to know it's coming soon," said Caruso.

"We were actually surprised they were open so early because it's still so chilly out," said Amy Markovitz.

"Hot dog! Two hot dogs, two hot dogs," said Chance Markovitz.

Surprised and happy. It's not just the grills that are going. People are also ordering ice cream shakes and sundaes. They have the crock pot going for the hot fudge.

Mother nature is not putting a damper on this spring time tradition.

"It's New England. We're New Englanders what do we care," said Caruso.

If you're wondering if Tuesday's snowstorm will close down Harry's Place, News 8 was told no. One worker says she and her brother will plow the lot and then she'll come in to work.