Friendly's Ice Cream Shop

08/23/02

Friendly but Fried

by poodypatch at Citysearch

Good for family dining. Kid menus are helpful, smaller portions and kid-friendly food with a free sundae! I go there with my daughter for lunch or dinner once in a while. The food is good. We have our favorites, I usually opt for the mushroom swiss burger, while she gets chicken fingers or shrimp in a basket. There is not a terrific selection, and may of their foods are fried. If you want a nice quiet dining experience, you are out of luck, lots of local teenagers seem to adore this place. But its a great treat for my daughter....the famous friendly's ice cream is always available in all sorts of concoctions, and of course, in 1/2 gallons to go if you chooose.

• Pros: fast, friendly, kids menu
• Cons: noisy, fried foods abound, limited menu

New England-based chain serves affordable diner food and ice cream treats in a homey, family-friendly atmosphere.

by Eric Grossman at Citysearch

In Short
Friendly's opened its first location in 1935, and thanks to red vinyl booths and an old-time vibe, many of its 500-plus locations still feel rooted in that era. While nobody's ever mistook Friendly's signature ice cream for Ben & Jerry's, the restaurant does deserve acclaim for its Fribbles (extra-thick frappes) and inexpensive sundaes. Straightforward breakfast platters are served in the mornings only, while standard diner fare (tuna melts, beef burgers) is offered day and night.