Think you can’t enjoy a tasty meal at the drive-in without hopping in a time machine back to the 1950s? Think again. Massachusetts is filled with old-fashioned drive-in restaurants that will absolutely charm you with their quaint atmosphere and tasty grub. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Joe’s Drive-in Restaurant, Leicester
This vintage spot was a Leicester watering hole all the way back in the 1960s. After closing for 50 years, the restaurant is back under original management. It’s your ultimate destination for comfort food like hot-fudge sundaes, juicy hamburgers, fish and chips, and creamy milkshakes. You can enjoy your eats in the outside dining area or take your food to go. Joe’s is open seasonally during the summer. (1673 Main St., Leicester)
2. Conrad’s Drive-in Seafood, Lunenburg
Locals rave that Conrad's Drive-in has the best fried clams in the area. Grab the Captain's Platter for a feast worthy of a king. The prices here are reasonable and the service is fast and friendly. (835 Massachusetts Ave., Lunenberg)
3. Rick's Parkside Drive-in, Palmer
Great food, great service, and a retro vibe that will make you feel right at home. You can dine their legendary hot dogs, cheeseburgers, and fries right outside on picnic tables. (1189 Park St., Palmer)
4. Mountain View Drive-in Restaurant, Hampden
This little drive-in is a local landmark. You can eat inside or outside at the picnic tables. The beer-battered fish sandwich here is to die for, but you can’t go wrong with a classic hot dog or a plate of fried seafood. Don’t miss the creamy soft serve with spectacular toppings. (25 Allen St., Hampden)
5. Wagon Wheel Country Drive-in, Gill
This barn-style restaurant looks like your typical greasy spoon and serves up delicious grub that’s straight out of the 1950s and beyond. You can definitely find standards like hot dogs and burgers at the Wagon Wheel, but you’ll also find items like Mediterranean falafel, unique salad selections, and gyros. This restaurant is child-friendly and will be an instant hit with the whole gang. (39 French King Hwy., Gill)
6. Anne’s Dairy Drive-in, Orange
Are you craving a cup, cone, bowl, or even taco shell of delicious ice cream? Then Anne’s Dairy Drive-in is the place to be. This little spot has a dizzying array of ice cream flavors and savory snacks. You can grab a burger and cone for a decent price, and quality is perfect. You can hunker down under in their outdoor covered seating area and enjoy your treats or just take them to go. Portions are huge, so you and your belly should come prepared. (360 E Main St., Orange)
7. Howard’s Drive-in, West Brookfield
This small drive-in doesn't look like much from the parking lot, but it actually serves some of the best comfort food in town. Stop by for rich ice cream, tasty sausage burgers, and friendly service. There isn't any outdoor seating, but you'll have a hard time resisting the temptation to devour your take-away snacks before you get back to your car. (121 E Main St., West Brookfield)
What are you favorite retro places to eat in Massachusetts? Share and let us know in the comments! For some of the best diners in Massachusetts, click here .
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