View photos

About This Place

Welcome to the charming world of Shady Glen Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor, a beloved gem nestled at 840 Middle Tpke E, Manchester, CT. This American-style diner is more than just a restaurant; it’s a nostalgic experience that captures the essence of comfort food and warm hospitality.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the tantalizing aroma of classic diner fare. The menu tantalizes with a variety of options, from the humble Eggs and Toast to the indulgent Classic Crispy Cheese Cheeseburger, which has left many patrons, including Kyle Blietz, raving about its grilled perfection. The vibrant atmosphere is filled with laughter and engaging conversations, reminiscent of a bygone era where connections were made over shared meals.

One of the highlights not to miss is their decadent array of ice cream sundaes. Whether you're craving the rich Hot Fudge or the refreshing Fresh Fruit Sherbets, every option promises a delightful end to your meal. Customers like James Burns have praised the sundaes as some of the best they’ve ever had, and it’s clear that this tradition of quality continues to impress.

However, not all experiences come without a touch of reality. Seating can become a challenge during peak times, as noted by Adam Phelps, and the restaurant operates on a cash-only policy. But for many, this simply adds to the authentic charm of Shady Glen. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital age and enjoy a slice of community.

In addition to the comforting cheeseburgers, guests delight in the homey touches such as their perfectly cooked coleslaw, which has even won over skeptics like John Doe. The ambiance here is a stark contrast to the typical corporatized dining experience, encouraging patrons to savor each bite and engage with one another.

Whether you're passing through or a local seeking a taste of nostalgia, Shady Glen Restaurant and Ice Cream Parlor promises a delightful journey through American diner culture. Come hungry, leave with a smile, and don’t forget to try one of their signature milkshakes—your taste buds will thank you!

Service options

Accessibility
  • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Has wheelchair-accessible seating
  • Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
  • On-site services available
  • Offers takeaway
  • Serves dine-in
  • No delivery
Highlights
  • Has fast service
  • Serves great coffee
  • Serves great dessert
Popular for
  • Popular for breakfast
  • Popular for lunch
  • Popular for dinner
  • Good for solo dining
Offerings
  • Serves coffee
  • Serves comfort food
  • Serves food
  • Quick bite
  • Serves small plates
Dining options
  • Serves breakfast
  • Serves lunch
  • Serves dinner
  • Serves dessert
  • Has seating
Amenities
  • Has toilet
Atmosphere
  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Historic
Crowd
  • Good for groups
  • Popular with tourists
  • Popular with university students
Planning
  • Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
  • Accepts debit cards
Children
  • Good for kids
  • High chairs available
  • Has kids' menu
Parking
  • Free of charge street parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Plenty of parking
Pets
  • Dogs allowed outside

Locations

What Guests Are Saying (3130)

This place is really good. I tried the classic crispy cheese cheeseburger and an incredible ice cream sunday. The cheeseburger was great but the sunday was probably one of the best I've ever had. Highly recommend!

Friend asked me what’s the best burger I ever had & this diner came to my mind. The grill cheese is definitely to die for

Such a great place! Stopped for late lunch on the drive from NYC to Boston, so pleased I did. Great service, perfect cheeseburger, and the ice cream place is now firmly on my map for when I’m next in the area.

People still talk to each other here. I appreciate places like this because they are a treasure compared to America Land. Where everything is the same and corporatized. I hate coleslaw. I did not hate this coleslaw.

I have gone to Shady Glen from time to time. The food is fantastic, but it is often hard to find seating. I wish they had more seats inside and expanded. I love the old-fashioned feel and style, but they could expand and make more room. I have come here at times and left because there's a huge line for seating and no one really directs the line. They only take cash. Price-wise, it is not too expensive. The waiters and waitresses are great, but sometimes the service is a bit on the slower side. Keep in mind they only take cash, and it's mostly fried food. They could add a few more healthier options, I suppose. The milkshakes are great. It's my style for a restaurant, but nothing fancy, which I personally like.

Share Your Dining Experience

We’d love to hear from you! Your email address will remain private. Required fields are marked *

Service Quality
Value for Money
Food & Drink Quality
Location & Ambience

Similar Places

Commerce Country Cafe

216 Steven B Tanger Blvd, Commerce, GA 30529, United States

  • 4.7 1597 Ratings

Sofra Kebab House

910 W Parker Rd, Plano, TX 75023, United States

  • 4.7 1094 Ratings

M&M Diner

165 E Center St, London, OH 43140, United States

  • 4.6 1333 Ratings

Cala la Pasta

Via dei Tribunali, 179/180, 80139 Napoli NA, Italy

  • 4.6 4003 Ratings

Annie 1

20, Jalan SS 21/58, Damansara Utama, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

  • 4.1 1980 Ratings