Herbie’s Drive-In first opened its doors on June 27, 1963. Owner Herbie Weinmann started his business as a small ice cream shoppe in his hometown of Great Meadows, NJ. As a fireman, Herbie was very active in the community and he ran the business with his wife, Pauline, who was also known as “Susie.” Herbie and Susie were very well known in the community and soon discovered that people enjoyed visiting the shoppe and gathering there to eat. Eleven years after opening, Herbie grew his business into a family friendly café that offered breakfast, lunch and dinner with a cozy eat-in dining area.

When Herbie was ready to retire, he sold his business to Pam Rafalko, one of his employees, in December 1986. Pam had worked for Herbie since she was 15 years old, and she bought the business at the age of 20. Not long after she took over Herbie’s, Pam met her now husband Rick. A few years later, they were married and soon thereafter started a family. They had three children, Kalene, Brandi and Josh, who were all involved in Herbie’s at a young age. Over the years, the entire family has become an integral part of the business.

Today, Herbie’s is run by Pam and Rick as well as their children and extended family, including nieces and nephews. They also employ high school and college students, who have become young adults over the years and often come back to visit. Herbie’s is truly a family friendly place and a fun spot for everyone in town to gather and pass the time. At Herbie’s, we love talking to our customers and meeting new people so be sure to stop on by and say hello!

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