Our Story
A Southie Landmark
First opened in 1951, Sullivan’s on Castle Island in South Boston has been an iconic destination for locals and visitors for generations.
Founder Dan Sullivan, Sr. opened the doors with the plan to provide quality food at reasonable prices in a family friendly atmosphere to those enjoying leisure time on the 22-acre recreation site, now operated as a state park.
Our History
1851
Where It All Started
Fort Independence, completed in 1851, is the 8th military fort on the island. Castle Island is the oldest continuously fortified location in British North America.
1951
Up & Running
June of 1951, Dan Sullivan, Sr. opened the concession stand for the first time offering quality food at reasonable prices and our commitment to that philosophy remains the same 60+ years later.
1950s
A Rite of Passage
Since our opening, generations of Bostonians have enjoyed making Sullivan’s a go-to destination.
1963
Sully’s Gets a Face Lift
Sullivan’s second building erected. The cinderblock building stood for over 25 years.
1970s
A Family Affair
Four generations of the Sullivan family have continuously worked at the ‘stand’. In this photo, Dan Sullivan, Sr. working in the 1970’s.
1976
A Local Favorite
Fads may have changed—but our hot dogs and french fries will always remain in style.
1986
Look Familiar?
Current brick building is constructed in 1986. The façade is a replica of the officer’s quarters that once lined the walk facing the bay, circa 1807.
2011
60th Anniversary
Sullivan’s celebrates its 60th year in Southie!
2023
Restaurant & Bar
Sullivan's Restaurant & Bar opens in Hanover Crossing, serving Sully's classics in an exciting new atmosphere!
2025
James Beard Foundation America’s Classics 2025 Award
NORTHEAST
Sullivan’s Castle Island
South Boston & Hanover, MA
Sullivan’s Castle Island, lovingly referred to as ‘Sully’s’, is a Boston institution that has served working-class Bostonians for generations. Established in 1951 by Dan Sullivan, Sr. as a hot dog stand, for over 70 years the seasonal restaurant has been operated continuously by four generations of the Sullivan family.
Every Bostonian has a story about Sully’s — whether from working there after school as teenagers, having their sports team or fundraiser supported by Sully’s, taking their children for some crinkle cuts like their grandparents took them, or simply enjoying it as a nostalgic seaside gathering place for locals. For transplants and visitors to Boston, going there has become a rite of passage.
Now a seasonal spot on Castle Island with a year-round outpost in suburban Hanover, Sully’s is known for their double smash burgers with copious amounts of cheese, hot dogs, thick crinkle cut fries, lobster rolls, and locally sourced fresh seafood.
