Opened in 1962, the Darien complex was an early example of Howard Johnson's modern highway-style layout. Later locations featured connected Motor Lodges and Restaurants providing all-weather protection for guests.

The circa 1960s Restaurant adjacent to the Motor Lodge at Darien was the second and final HoJo's in the area. During its final iteration it was sublet to Ted Demetriades. He and his family successfully operated the location for several years offering traditional Howard Johnson's fare up until the day his lease expired in November of 2000.