Restoring a legacy: The Tamarack Drive-In’s bold new chapter

The landmark Tamarack Drive-In Restaurant has recently been sold, according to Carol Raffle of Roche Realty Group in Meredith, who represented the seller, James Clayton. This iconic drive-in, located north of the Weirs near the Route 3 and Watson Road intersection, has been a Lakes Region landmark for more than half a century, having originally been established in 1960 by Joseph L. Gilbert. Over the past 66 years, ownership has included Paul and Norman Laflamme, Steven and Regina Furnald, and Ed and Nancy El-Far. James Clayton, along with his two brothers who were early employees of the restaurant, purchased the popular drive-in in 2007.

In later years, the bright yellow drive-in expanded to include a detached dining building in a matching color scheme. Throughout the decades, this iconic destination has attracted thousands of patrons. The seasonal restaurant, situated on approximately an acre, has built a reputation for fresh seafood, lobster rolls, burgers, ice cream, and many other favorites. The large detached dining area features multiple tables and expansive windows, while picnic tables throughout the property offer additional outdoor dining space.

The new owners, Cliff and Heather Grenon, who were represented by Mike Gagnon and Laurie Garden of The Dow Group and Keller Williams Realty, also own Clifford Air HVAC & Refrigeration in Laconia. According to Carol Raffle of Roche Realty Group, Clifford’s brother, Spike, will manage the business, fulfilling a lifelong dream of operating his own restaurant. Spike brings more than 30 years of restaurant industry experience, having operated numerous restaurants throughout New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Cliff, along with his father Ernie and brother Spike, is currently undertaking an aggressive and comprehensive renovation of the drive-in. Improvements include all new stainless-steel equipment, refrigeration systems, grills, fryolators, new epoxy flooring, fresh paving of the parking lot, painting, and many other major upgrades. Their goal is to continue serving high-quality food at a fair price while preserving the longtime favorites customers have come to love, including the famous lobster rolls, foot-long hot dogs, cheeseburgers, fried clams, onion rings, ice cream, and many other menu staples.

The Grenon family has deep roots in the Lakes Region, having vacationed here since Cliff and Spike were children before eventually relocating to the area when Cliff was in the eighth grade.

For many years, Cliff has been actively involved in the local community, school system, and youth sports activities. His philosophy has always been that when you give back to the community, the community gives back to you.

The target opening is early June, with a grand opening announcement expected soon.

The name Roche has been a leader in the marketing and sales of commercial properties throughout the Lakes Region for 49 years.

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This article was written by Frank Roche. Frank is the president of Roche Realty Group, located in Meredith, and can be reached at 603-279-7046. Data was compiled from PrimeMLS and is subject to change. Visit rocherealty.com to learn more about the Lakes Region and its real estate market.