Growing up in Melrose, Ryan Dion spent time traveling to Route 1, where he enjoyed steaks at the Hilltop—memories he still treasures today.
“Route 1 is my old stomping ground,” Dion remarked. A 1999 graduate of Melrose High and a UNH alumnus with a degree in Business and Hospitality, “The old
Hilltop was family dinner most Saturday nights. I remember waiting two hours for
seating in Sioux City, Kansas City, and Dodge City. I use to run around the old
phone booths with my brothers.”
Today, Dion serves as chief operating officer of 110 Grill. The restaurant group recently marked the grand opening of its newest location on Route 1 in Saugus with a ribbon-cutting celebration.
This Saugus location represents the 18th restaurant for the 110 Grill chain and occupies the storied former home of the Hilltop Steakhouse. The ribbon-cutting event included the lighting of the iconic Hilltop cactus.
When asked what defines 110 Grill, Dion offered this description: “110 Grill is upscale, casual, American cuisine in a
trendy, casual atmosphere.”
The menu showcases steaks, seafood, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers alongside monthly rotating specials developed by the culinary team.
Appetizers are priced between $7 and $15, while entrees range from $14 to $30.
The 110 Grill restaurants have expanded across three states—Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York—and continue to draw diners. What accounts for their success?
“I believe it’s three
things – great food, great service, and the great ambiance,” Dion explained. “What I
love about our concept is being upscale casual, you can come in here in a
business suit and have a $32 ribeye and a bottle of Duckhorn Cabernet, or you
come in shorts and sandals from the beach, sit at the bar and have a burger and
a beer. Either way, you fit in.”
The Saugus location accommodates 155 diners and includes a private function room suited for lunch, dinner, and cocktail events.
“We’re absolutely excited
to get to know the local folks,” Dion noted. “We have a great crew working here
from Saugus, Melrose, Revere, Lynn, and other area communities.”
110 Grill appears positioned to become a significant presence in the local dining landscape.