Manchester's Shady Glen Burgers to be Featured on TV Show

MANCHESTER, CT — Shady Glen's already famous burgers are set to become even more famous with an appearance scheduled for November on the Travel Channel's "Burger Land" show.

Shady Glen founding family member William "Billy" Hoch said he was contacted by show host George Motz. Motz is the author of the best-selling book, "Hamburger America" and creator of a corresponding documentary, who travels across the nation to highlight iconic and historic burger places.

Hoch said he has forged a good relationship with Motz over the years and said he was eager to participate in the "Travel America" segment. The main restaurant at 840 Middle Turnpike East will be featured. Shady Glen also has a restaurant in the Manchester Parkade district.

Shady Glen's burgers are known for a patty derived from a family recipe and distinctive, crispy, fried cheese that hangs out of the bun.

The dish is no stranger to fame. The James Beard Foundation cited it as an “American classic."

Shady Glen is also known for its throwback décor, old school uniforms and menus on the wall.

Food Network Magazine has recognized Shady Glen’s chocolate chip ice cream as Connecticut’s best frozen dessert.

The ice cream (which uses a "vanilla bourbon" that costs $500 a gallon as a base), was the sole offering when the restaurant first opened in 1948. But, as the warmer months began winding down, the Hochs turned to burgers and, after trying out several different types, the hanging cheese won out.

Photo Credit: Shady Glen; Chris Dehnel

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