The restaurant is owned by Congress Ice Cream, LLC – Noah Lewinger, owner.  Lewinger says, “We are very excited to be opening our first Friendly’s restaurant.  We invite all the people in the Delray Beach area to a ribbon cutting ceremony on October 3, 2006 at 1:00 p.m.  Mayor Jeff Perlman will be on hand to cut the ribbon.” 

This will be the southernmost Friendly’s in Florida.  A unique exterior look complements the architecture of the surrounding businesses and community.  The restaurant will feature ice-cream inspired colors, a classic soda fountain counter, and nostalgic artwork.  Guests at the Delray Beach Friendly’s can enjoy some old-time Friendly’s favorites like Big Beefâs or Fribbleâs or try one of the new Chicken Temptations, including, the new Buffalo Grilled Chicken Platter and the returning favorite, Firecracker BBQ Chicken Strips Platter.  Guests can also top off their meal with a sundae from the new ice cream menu, which includes the delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cupä Sundae or the new Forbidden Fudge Brownie Sundae.

The hours of operation will be 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday.  The restaurant will employ approximately 100 full and part-time people.  James Lake, the General Manager of the new restaurant, has over 21 years of experience in the restaurant industry.

John Cutter, CEO and President, for Friendly’s Restaurants said, “Noah and his crew are excited to bring a Friendly’s to Delray Beach. They are very committed to the Friendly’s brand and very committed to providing their guests with a superior dining experience.  Guests will be talking about the great food and ice cream long after they leave the restaurant.“  

Lewinger plans four restaurants in Palm Beach County by the end of November 2009.