When people think of chain restaurants, their minds typically go to global corporations that have thousands of individual branches: McDonald’s, Burger King, Taco Bell, and the like. However, there are plenty of smaller, regional chain restaurants in Connecticut that don’t have quite that much scope, but are just as recognized by those who live here. Whether you’re talking about Chip’s Family Restaurant or Duchess, there’s no shortage of Connecticut-based regional chain restaurants that are beloved by area residents. One of the most popular is the iconic Friendly’s, which got its start decades ago and is still quite popular today. Check it out:

When Friendly's opened in 1935, it was actually just known as "Friendly" and only sold ice cream. The first restaurant was in Massachusetts, but it was soon to spread throughout all of New England.
Joey DeSana/Google Reviews
Today, this long-standing restaurant has nearly a dozen locations in Connecticut, and is also located in 10 other states, mostly in the northeast.
William Scott/Google Reviews
One thing that hasn't changed is the legendary ice cream. There's nothing like a Friendly's banana split to bring a smile to your face!
Friendly's
The menu has expanded greatly over the years, and you can now get hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, and more here.
Friendly's/Google Reviews

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This local chain in Connecticut brings back memories for so many long-time residents who remember going here as children.
Friendly's
Whether you're craving a big juicy burger...
Kevin Clancy/Google Reviews
...Or a candy-covered ice cream scoop, Friendly's is the place to go.
Bwob/Google Reviews
This all-American classic spot is such a wonderfully nostalgic spot for us here in Connecticut.
waffledoctor87/Google Reviews

Friendly’s currently has 11 Connecticut locations. You can find the addresses of each restaurant on the Friendly’s website’s Locations page.

For more information about Friendly’s, check out the restaurant’s website or Friendly’s Facebook page.

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