Ma Glockner's in Bellingham, MA, is Home of the Legendary and Delicious "Berched Chicken"

Oh, no! Ma Glockner's has closed! Read the details here in The Weekly New England Travel and Vacation Gazette.

But wait, there's some great news -- the Ma Glockner's "berched chicken dish has returned at a Woonsocket, R.I., restaurant!

Article and photo by Eric H.

Some New England dining traditions like Ma Glockner's in Bellingham, Mass., joyously cross the generations as younger crowds currently enjoy the family style selections just as much as your grandmother who might have discovered this instant landmark not too long after the Depression.

Since 1937 (they opened on Thanksgiving Day), Ma Glockner's in Bellingham, MA, has been a local favorite restaurant in this
southwest, rural Boston suburb, serving a unique, succulent berched 1/2 chicken -- incredibly moist and crispy from parboiling in seasonings and then finished on a flatop grill. Add homemade cinnamon buns, a fresh crisp, mixed greens salad (heavier on iceberg, but nonetheless tasty), a side sweet potato, homemade dessert, and you have a wholesome, most satisfying dining experience.

The name Ma Glockner's isn't some corporately concocted "rural, down home" name. "Ma" Glockner actually originated berched chicken in 1937. She died in 1968, but the legendary berched chicken and family-style dining continued to its expanded dining rooms seating 400 (the restaurant started with seating for only 25). Currently owned by the Ballarino family, Ma Glockner's not only offers berched chicken, but a full service lunch and dinner menu including baked stuffed shrimp, black angus steak, fish and chips, char-grilled pizza, sandwiches, and some delicious pasta selections.

Service is very pleasant, as are the dining rooms with plenty of wood paneling, booths, tables, dim lighting and nice carpeting. The bar is spacious, casual and relaxing, almost in a country club way -- the perfect place to catch a football or baseball game on the wide screen television (or play Keno).

If you're looking for a historical, family dining experience with a great signature dish, the Ma Glockner's is worth a drive. The berched chicken is that special, as proven by the long lines waiting for a terrific dining experience.

Ma Glockner's, 151 Maple St., Bellingham, MA, Tel. (508) 966-1085