Frates Drive-In
Not Just Great Ice Cream · Taunton, MA · Est. 1930s
Not Just Great Ice Cream · Taunton, MA · Est. 1930s
Our Story
Frates began in the late 1930's and was originally known as the PX — a gas station and small convenience store. People from the area would go there for their gas, cigarettes, and some dry goods. In the early 1950's it was owned and operated as Frates Drive-In by Charlie "Red" Berry.
Charlie hired a number of local youths to work at Frates, among them Dennis De Silva, who grew up in Dighton. Dennis worked at Frates while in high school and went on to Bryant College pursuing a degree in hotel management. Charlie was a man of great distinction — an honest, hard working restaurant owner who instilled pride in all his employees. He had a tremendous influence on many of their lives.
In 1977, Charlie sold Frates to Glen Cambra, who owned and operated it for 28 years. Glen eventually sold the property to a local restaurateur who changed its name, ran it for just one season, and then shut the doors. The building began to decay and fell into a state of disrepair.
In 2008, Dennis De Silva purchased Frates and completed an extensive renovation over an 8-month period. It re-opened as Frates Drive-In on April 14, 2009. Dennis brought back the family atmosphere, good old-fashioned food, and ice cream. Quality, service, and cleanliness are never compromised. Fifties music plays in the background — and occasionally the staff joins in a tune or two.
On December 15, 2014, Dennis sold Frates Drive-In to Greg Klisiaris, the current owner. We are proud to bring Frates back to the community and promise to continue to make it the most fun drive-in around. Welcome to Frates!
Plan Your Visit
Open seven days a week during the season. Call ahead orders accepted. Free parking lot on-site.
What People Are Saying
"The food here is consistently fresh and delicious, with standout options like the beef and salmon burgers, crispy onion rings, and phenomenal soft serve ice cream with endless topping choices."
Ally R. — August 2025"The food here is always delicious, especially the burgers and ice cream. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family."
Cherise A. — June 2024"Our family loves Frates. We visit several times during the season. We love the burgers, chicken bacon ranch, mac and cheese bites, and the ice cream is delicious for a sweet treat."
TripAdvisor Visitor"First time at Frates and the experience was outstanding. The seafood platter was excellent. I will be back. Definitely worth the stop in Taunton."
TripAdvisor Visitor"Amazing lobster roll — generous and fresh. Exactly what you want from a New England drive-in. The soft serve is a must. Highly recommend to anyone passing through."
TripAdvisor Visitor"They have a ton of stuff on their menu, which was great to see. Lots of fun vibes. Service is always friendly. A great local spot with real character."
Sirved Reviewer90% recommend on Facebook · 4.7 stars on DoorDash · 4 stars on TripAdvisor
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