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Polar Treat’s Story

The Polar Treat has been a beloved part of the Perry, Maine community for more than 70 years. Since opening its doors in the early 1950s, it has become a place where generations of families have gathered to enjoy great food, homemade treats, and lasting memories. What began as a small seasonal ice cream stand quickly earned a reputation for friendly service, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere that kept customers returning year after year.

The original owners, John and Mary MacDonald, built the Polar Treat on the values of quality, hard work, and community. Their dedication established the foundation that continues to define the business today. The second owners, Jack and Bernadette Maloney, proudly carried on that tradition for more than 20 years, preserving the Polar Treat’s reputation while creating cherished memories for countless local families and visitors to Down East Maine.

Waffle Cones, Washington County Restaurant, Perry ME restaurant
Polar Treat Perry Maine, Downeast restaurant, Washington County Restaurant

A Family Tradition Continues

In 2019, the Polar Treat entered its next chapter when it was purchased by Michelle and Judson Curtis, becoming only the third family to own this iconic seasonal destination. As lifelong supporters of the Polar Treat, the Curtis family understood just how much the business means to the Perry community and the many visitors who make it a summer tradition.

Today, Michelle, Judson, and their family remain committed to honoring the legacy established by the MacDonalds and Maloneys while introducing exciting new menu items, creative weekly specials, and fun seasonal treats. Guests will still find the friendly service, delicious food, and quality ice cream that have made the Polar Treat a local favorite for generations, along with fresh ideas that keep every visit exciting. Their goal is simple: preserve the traditions people love while creating new memories for families who return year after year. Whether you’re stopping by for a classic soft serve cone, fresh seafood, a famous Milkshake Mania creation, or one of the many weekly specials, you’ll always be welcomed like family at the Polar Treat.

Something to Offer for Everyone

No matter what you’re craving, there’s something for everyone at Polar Treat! Whether you’re stopping by for a quick ice cream cone, a family meal, or one of our famous weekly specials, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices to enjoy.

Our ice cream menu features classic chocolate, vanilla, and twist soft serve, along with a rotating special flavor of the week that keeps guests coming back to try something new. We also offer a wide selection of hard-serve ice cream, including traditional favorites, seasonal flavors, dairy-free options, no-sugar-added selections, and frozen yogurt. From creamy milkshakes and loaded flurries to sundaes, floats, dipped waffle cones, parfaits, and our over-the-top Milkshake Mania creations, there’s a sweet treat for every taste.

Looking for more than dessert? Polar Treat has become a local favorite for its expanding food menu. Enjoy juicy burgers, hot dogs, crispy fries, onion rings, chicken baskets, lobster rolls, crabmeat rolls, shrimp, haddock, seafood baskets, wraps, sandwiches, and a variety of appetizers. Our kitchen is always introducing exciting new menu items and homemade specialties throughout the season.

Be sure to visit our Facebook page each week to see our latest food specials, limited-time desserts, and seasonal creations. We love bringing fresh, fun, and unique menu items to Down East Maine! If you’re on the go, call ahead to place your order—we’re always happy to have it ready when you arrive. We can’t wait to serve you!

New Look

Growth & Expansion

🎉 Welcome back to another sweet season at Polar Treat! We’re so excited to kick off another summer filled with ice cream, great food, smiling faces, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a longtime customer or visiting us for the very first time, we’re thrilled to have you here!

Our exciting 2024 remodel and expansion gave Polar Treat a fresh new look while preserving the hometown charm you’ve loved for generations. The improvements allow us to better serve our amazing customers and help ensure Polar Treat remains a Perry tradition for many years to come. Grab your favorite cone, sundae, burger, or seafood basket, then kick back and enjoy it in our spacious outdoor seating area. Here’s to sunshine, laughter, and another season of making sweet memories together. Thanks for being part of the Polar Treat family—we can’t wait to serve you all summer long! 🍦☀️

Perry ME Restaurant, Polar Treat, Take-out restaurant, fresh seafood, fried seafood
Dining room seating, Perry ME restaurant, Downeast restaurant