Friendly's Ice Cream Shop

Eric Grossman

Contributor

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.