Star Drive-In Owner and Landlord Are Back at the Table

The owner of the Star Drive-In restaurant and her landlord are back at the negotiating table.

In a Facebook post from the historic East Taunton business, owner Erika Madden said she was involved in talks “literally all day” Thursday in hopes of striking a deal that benefits both parties.

READ MORE:  Star Drive-In Announces Closure in East Taunton

“This is a good thing,” Madden said. “The property owner and I were in discussions literally all day. We are trying to find a win-win for both of us, all while keeping the community in mind and keeping the Star going strong for years to come.”

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Star Drive-In Was Set to Close in 2026

It’s been a roller coaster of emotions over the past week for fans of the Star Drive-In. News first broke last Friday that the beloved local spot had plans to close when its lease expires in March 2026.

READ MORE: Star Drive-In in East Taunton Announces Emotional Closure

“Many within the city government and various departments know what has transpired over the last 4 years,” she wrote. “They know what is going on and they have not offered any help or assistance, even after my repeated pleas for help.”

READ MORE:  East Taunton Restaurant Owner Blasts "Hearsay" as Closure Looms

Madden described the decision to close as “difficult.”

Madden Calls Out Misinformation

On Tuesday, Madden returned to social media to shut down what she called “hearsay” surrounding the situation.

“I would greatly appreciate it if people who know nothing about the situation stop posting conjecture and hearsay! I decided everything will be made public soon,” she wrote. “I wanted to stay above the fray, but several statements and letters have been submitted that are 100 percent untrue.”

A Glimmer of Hope for the Future

Now that negotiations are happening, fans are cautiously optimistic the Star Drive-In may survive.

“I may need your help as we move forward, but more details to come,” Madden said.