Polar Bear

For more than 75 years, Polar Bear has been a quintessential part of summer in North Riverside, Illinois. This iconic ice cream and fast food stand, which has been family-owned for over two decades, is a cherished local gem that evokes a strong sense of nostalgia for many residents. Since 1948, it has been the go-to spot for everything from a simple soft-serve cone to a full-fledged meal of burgers and fries. Its vintage, mid-century exterior and friendly, casual atmosphere have remained constant through the decades, offering a timeless experience that keeps generations of families returning year after year. The charm of Polar Bear lies in its simplicity and its unwavering commitment to providing delicious, quality food in a welcoming setting. It is not just a place to get a treat; it's a piece of local history and a staple of the community.

The legacy of Polar Bear is a testament to its enduring appeal. While many businesses have come and gone, this little stand has held its ground, building a loyal customer base that spans generations. A customer review beautifully captures this sentiment, saying, "I have been going to this restaurant since I was a child for over 45 years." This kind of long-term patronage speaks volumes about the quality of both the food and the experience. The menu is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving. Patrons can indulge in their favorite frozen treat and also enjoy a meal of classic American fare. The ability to grab a cone with a unique candy crunchy coating or a shake with real fruit, as mentioned in customer reviews, highlights the attention to detail and fresh ingredients that set Polar Bear apart from larger chains.

Polar Bear is conveniently located at 7901 Cermak Road in North Riverside, IL 60546. This location makes it easily accessible for residents of North Riverside, as well as surrounding communities like Riverside, Berwyn, and Brookfield. Situated on a major road, the stand is easy to find, and its distinctive, classic design makes it a recognizable local landmark. While it operates as a walk-up window, its location features a comfortable outdoor seating area. This setup is a key part of the Polar Bear experience, encouraging patrons to enjoy their treats in the fresh air and socialize with neighbors. Parking is typically available in the vicinity, making it a simple stop for those traveling by car. For those on foot, the stand is often a short and pleasant walk from nearby residential areas.

The outdoor, picnic-style seating area is a major draw, creating a social and family-friendly environment. It’s a place where kids can run around while adults relax and enjoy their food. This focus on creating a communal space is what makes Polar Bear feel like such a vital part of the neighborhood. The stand is a short drive from the North Riverside Mall, making it a perfect spot to visit after a day of shopping or a movie. The accessibility and welcoming outdoor space ensure that Polar Bear remains a top choice for a casual, enjoyable outing for locals who appreciate both a great treat and a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere. The location's seasonal operation adds to its special character, making its reopening each spring a highly anticipated event.

Polar Bear offers a delicious and diverse menu of both sweet and savory items, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

• Soft-Serve Ice Cream: The main attraction is the soft-serve ice cream, which can be enjoyed in a cone, dipped in a variety of unique crunchy coatings (such as candy, chocolate, and cherry), or served as a sundae.
• Frozen Treats: The menu includes milkshakes, smoothies, and sundaes, with customers praising the use of fresh ingredients like "real banana and strawberries" in their shakes. The Pineapple Shake and Boston Shake are noted favorites.
• Savory American Fare: The restaurant side of the menu offers classic fast-food items, including burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches.
• Signature Fries: A customer review highlights the delicious, hot, and crispy fries made from real potatoes, which are a highly recommended complement to any meal or ice cream cone.
• Outdoor Seating: The establishment provides an outdoor sitting area, creating a relaxed and informal dining experience perfect for warm weather.

This range of services, from quick snacks to full meals, makes Polar Bear a versatile and reliable choice for the community.

The features and highlights of Polar Bear are what truly cement its status as a local treasure.

• Nostalgic Atmosphere and History: Operating since 1948, the stand has a vintage, retro feel that is cherished by long-time customers and a unique feature that sets it apart from modern chains. Its history as a family-owned business for over 20 years further adds to its community appeal.
• High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients: Customers consistently praise the quality of the food, noting that items like the fries are "hot and crispy made from real potatoes" and that the shakes use "real banana and strawberries."
• Unique Offerings: The candy crunchy coating for ice cream cones is a signature feature that has delighted customers for decades. A review from a customer who has been visiting for 45 years specifically mentions this as a personal favorite.
• Community Hub: The outdoor seating area creates a friendly, casual, and social environment, making it a go-to spot for families, friends, and neighbors to gather during the summer months.
• Versatile Menu: The combination of a wide variety of ice cream treats and classic savory food options means that the Polar Bear can serve as a destination for both a full meal and a delicious dessert.

For more information about Polar Bear or to contact the business, you can use the following details.

Address: 7901 Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546, USA

Phone: (708) 442-8048

As a seasonal establishment, it is best to check for current hours of operation, particularly during the early and late parts of the season.

In conclusion, Polar Bear is an ideal destination for locals in the Illinois region, particularly in and around North Riverside. Its suitability for the community is rooted in its long history, nostalgic charm, and commitment to providing high-quality, delicious food. The combination of its famous soft-serve ice cream, unique candy coatings, and classic American fare like hot and crispy fries, all served in a welcoming outdoor setting, makes it a perfect summer tradition for many families. It is a great neighborhood small business that has earned the loyalty of its customers for over four decades. For anyone in the area looking for a taste of local history and a genuinely great treat, Polar Bear is a must-visit.

Polar Bear

7901 Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546, USA