Happy Days at George's Surf N Turf Drive-In in Mendon, Mass.

Article and photo by Eric H.

Put a little Brylcreem in your hair, get in your pink Cadillac, and head down to George's Surf N Turf drive-in in Mendon, Mass.

The first two suggestions, when combined, might land you in some kind of observation facility, but the last suggestion -- George's Surf N Turf Drive-In -- remains wildly popular and surprisingly wholesome and refreshing in an increasingly boxy, assembly-line, vanilla restaurant world.

A classic drive-in with car hops, 50s music blaring out of tinny speakers, picnic tables and groves, burgers, fries, fried chicken, milkshakes and ice cream, George's brings back the "Happy Days" of dining -- a place where "Fonzie" and Richie Cunningham from "Happy Days" would not look out of place. A novelty dining spot like this could have easily turned into a tourist trap by serving up high-priced, anemic portions of average food, but, happily, the focus is on high quality comfort food, most notably the thick, creamy New England clam chowder, tasty toasted lobster roll, and fried clams.

The waitresses don't roller-skate, but walk to and from your car with a friendliness and efficiency that make the overall experience terrific. If you prefer ordering at the walk-up window, the service is just as good. Whatever service mode you choose, George's is sure to please as a nice lunch and dinner spot with a touch of authentic nostalgia -- and the only locally-owned drive-in we know of in the area. We recommend giving George's a try!

George's Surf N Turf
116 Uxbridge Rd
Mendon, MA 01756
Tel. (508) 473-2125