Shady Glen And Ice Cream Parlor

Ahhh the cheese skirt. When I drove across the country on what I called the burger tour I knew I had to stop at Shady Glen. I 'm from California and we do our burgers a certain way but when George Motz featured this place in his book I knew I had to try this unique New England icon. It did not disappoint. I 'm sure all the locals know and love this joint but if any out of towners who love burgers are reading this, please make an effort to stop by. The atmosphere alone is worth a visit. I hope this place is open for a hundred years.

Great old school diner. Worth the short detour when driving up to Boston.

I had not been to Shady Glen in Manchester for over 2 decades since I had relocated out of state. Shady Glen has not changed one single bit!!! The original dixie cup of water when you arrive, the vast selection of morsels on the menu boards and the HANDMADE ice cream in many different flavors- folks, this is the real deal. I took my time and savored my homemade root beer pop, quickly ordered an original Shady Glen staple- Cheesburger Bernice, oh soooo good with the fried cheese and perfectly done french fries. It didn't end there. I opted for another root beer pop and a portion of, repeat, handmade ice cream. I selected maple walnut. It was smooth and creamy with walnut halves and a tinge of maple syrup. Dynamite delicious! I also have to add the waitstaff and cooks, bussers, etc., are always busy. No chitter chatter, noises, truly professional. The staff is dressed in proper attire reminiscent of the good old days.Waitresses wear nice pressed dresses and the cooks wear a button shirt, bow tie and the paper hat!!! Shady Glen is a must when visiting Ct. Everything was so delicious, I am still thinking about that meal and it's not even a month since I was there!! The handmade ice cream is the best!! My 90 year old aunt, who has been going there for many, many years says the ice cream is bar none. So true. I want to add that Shady Glen only accepts cash, just like it always has since its beginnings in 1948. There is an ATM inside to gather money from your debit card. Please, go check out Shady Glen in Manchester, Ct. They placed 2nd in the 2024 WFSB Best Hamburger in CT. Keep up the great work folks, and when I arrive at Bradley Int. airport next time, I'm making a bee line over to get me that famous Cheesburger Bernice and 2 scoops of ice cream. Thank you for your hospitality, great food and pleasant atmosphere. As always, I did not receive any compensation or fare whatsoever for writing this true and honest review. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

A throw back to the 40's 50'sFrom the service to the atmosphere it's like a time warp! Definitely try the homemade ice cream and malt shakes! DEEEELICIOUS!!

What can I say that hasn't already been said? Cheeseburger was absolutely phenomenal and the service was exceptional! The coffee and the ice cream were fantastic as well. Can't wait to come back.