Benny's Burgers is a fictional diner featured in Netflix's Stranger Things, set in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana. Located at 4819 Randolph Lane, the establishment was a family-owned business since 1956, with Benny Hammond as its last known owner. Tragically, Benny was killed in 1983 by a covert government agent, leading to the diner’s closure and eventual abandonment .
🍔 The Incident at Benny’s Burgers
The diner gained prominence in the series when Eleven, a young girl with telekinetic abilities, fled from Hawkins National Laboratory and sought refuge there. Benny, displaying compassion, fed her and attempted to contact social services, believing she was a victim of abuse. However, undercover agent Connie Frazier, posing as a social worker, arrived instead and fatally shot Benny, leading to his death being staged as a suicide. This event marked a pivotal moment in the series, unveiling the sinister activities of the Hawkins Lab .
🏚️ From Diner to Abandoned Hangout
By 1986, the once-thriving diner had fallen into disrepair. It became a gathering spot for the Hawkins High School basketball team, including Lucas Sinclair, who frequented the location after games. The diner served as a backdrop to several key events, including discussions about the murder of Chrissy Cunningham and the ensuing manhunt for Eddie Munson .
🎬 Real-Life Filming Location
Despite its fictional setting in Indiana, Benny's Burgers was filmed at Tiffany’s Kitchen, an authentic diner located in Lithia Springs, Georgia, a few miles west of Atlanta. The restaurant was closed for filming from October 19 to October 23, 2015 .
🛍️ Benny’s Burgers Merchandise
For fans looking to commemorate the iconic diner, several Stranger Things merchandise items are available: Below this post.
📺 Legacy in Stranger Things
Benny’s Burgers remains a significant location in the Stranger Things universe. It symbolizes the series' blend of 1980s nostalgia with supernatural elements, serving as a backdrop to pivotal moments that propel the storyline forward. The diner’s tragic history underscores the show's themes of government secrecy and the resilience of its characters.
For a visual tour of the filming location, you might find this video insightful:
