Step Inside This North Carolina Restaurant For A Reuben You’ll Never Forget
Word on the street in Davidson is that Soda Shop serves a Reuben sandwich like no other. Locals rave about the perfect balance of tender corned beef, melty cheese, and tangy dressing, and it’s earned a reputation that draws food lovers from all over.
On a sunny Saturday morning, visitors head to 104 S Main St, Davidson, NC 28036, eager to see if the hype is real, and one bite confirms it: this classic sandwich isn’t just good, it’s legendary.
A Living Time Capsule Since 1951
Walking through the door felt like stepping into a movie set from another era. The black and white checkered floor gleamed under the overhead lights.
Chrome edged stools with red vinyl seats lined the counter, polished to perfection.
Wooden booths stretched along the walls, worn smooth from decades of diners sliding in and out. I could practically hear the echoes of conversations from students, families, and couples who had sat there before me.
The vintage soda fountain equipment stood proudly behind the counter, a testament to authenticity.
This wasn’t some modern restaurant trying to look retro. Soda Shop has genuinely been serving the Davidson community since 1951, making it older than most of the buildings around it.
The place carries its history with pride, not as a gimmick.
Every detail spoke to careful preservation and genuine love for the past. I noticed old photographs on the walls showing the shop through different decades.
The atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm blanket, comforting and familiar even though this was my first visit.
The Reuben That Started My Obsession
Let me cut straight to the heart of why you’re reading this: the Reuben sandwich. When my server placed it in front of me, I paused to admire the craftsmanship.
The rye bread was grilled to a perfect golden brown, crispy on the outside.
Melted Swiss cheese oozed slightly from the edges, creating irresistible little crispy bits. I picked up one half and took my first bite.
The flavors hit me all at once: tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, sharp Dijon mustard, and creamy Thousand Island dressing.
Everything was perfectly balanced, not too heavy or too messy. The bread held together beautifully despite being loaded with ingredients.
Each component tasted fresh and high quality, not like something pulled from a package.
I’ve eaten Reubens in fancy restaurants and delis across multiple states. None of them compared to this one.
The sandwich arrived hot, the cheese still bubbling slightly, and I devoured both halves faster than I care to admit. This Reuben isn’t just good; it’s the kind that ruins you for all others.
Location Across From Davidson College
Soda Shop sits in the heart of downtown Davidson, directly across from Davidson College campus. The location couldn’t be more perfect for students grabbing a quick bite between classes.
I watched groups of college kids streaming in and out during my visit.
Main Street has that quintessential small town charm that feels increasingly rare these days. Tree lined sidewalks invite leisurely strolls before or after your meal.
Local shops and boutiques surround the area, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon exploring.
Parking can get tight during peak hours, but I found a spot within a block. The walk gave me a chance to soak in the neighborhood atmosphere.
Davidson feels like a community that genuinely cares about preserving its character and supporting local businesses.
After eating, I wandered across to the college campus for a quick walk. The beautiful grounds complemented my meal perfectly, offering a peaceful way to digest.
Having such an iconic eatery steps away from campus creates memories that students will carry for life.
Milkshakes That Deserve Their Own Fan Club
After polishing off my Reuben, I knew I needed to try one of their famous milkshakes. The menu offered classic flavors and some creative combinations that caught my eye.
I went with a traditional chocolate malt, keeping it simple for my first visit.
The shake arrived in a tall glass, thick enough that the straw stood straight up. Real ice cream, not that soft serve nonsense you get at chain restaurants.
The malt powder added a nostalgic depth that transported me back to childhood summers.
I had to work for each sip, which meant the shake was properly thick and creamy. The chocolate flavor tasted rich and genuine, not artificial or overly sweet.
Ice crystals formed on the outside of the glass, proof of how cold and fresh everything was.
Other diners around me ordered flavors like coffee and cream, peach, and classic vanilla. Everyone seemed equally delighted with their choices.
The milkshakes here aren’t just dessert; they’re an experience worth making room for even when you’re completely full from lunch.
Service With Genuine Southern Warmth
My server greeted me with a smile that felt authentic, not the forced kind you get at corporate chains. She took time to explain menu items when I asked questions.
Her recommendations came from personal experience, not a script she memorized during training.
Throughout my meal, she checked on me at just the right intervals. Not hovering annoyingly, but present when I needed a refill or had a question.
Other staff members smiled and said hello as they passed my booth, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
I noticed the manager chatting with regular customers, sharing stories and laughing like old friends. This level of personal connection seems increasingly rare in modern restaurants.
Everyone working there appeared to genuinely enjoy their jobs and take pride in the establishment.
When I asked about the history of the place, my server lit up with enthusiasm. She shared details about previous owners and how the community rallied to keep traditions alive.
That kind of passion makes all the difference between a good meal and a memorable experience you want to tell everyone about.
Breakfast That Brings Locals Back Weekly
Although I visited for lunch, I overheard multiple conversations about the breakfast menu. Regulars raved about pancakes that one customer called the best they’d ever eaten.
Weekend breakfast hours start at 8 AM, earlier than weekday service.
The menu features classic American breakfast fare without unnecessary complications. Eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches dominate the offerings.
Everything gets made to order, which explains why some reviewers mentioned slightly longer wait times during busy periods.
Breakfast sandwiches come at remarkably affordable prices, around three dollars according to what I read. That kind of value is almost unheard of in today’s economy.
The portions looked generous from what I observed other diners enjoying.
Families filled several booths during my visit, with kids happily munching on pancakes and bacon. Parents sipped coffee and relaxed, not rushing through the meal.
The toy bin near the entrance kept restless children entertained while waiting for food. Planning a breakfast visit shot straight to the top of my return list after witnessing how much everyone enjoyed their morning meals.
Prices That Won’t Empty Your Wallet
One of the most pleasant surprises came when I received my check. My Reuben, side of cottage fries, and that incredible milkshake came to less than twenty dollars.
In an era where casual dining often costs thirty dollars or more per person, this felt refreshing.
The value extends beyond just low prices. Portion sizes were generous without being wasteful.
Quality ingredients showed in every bite, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune for excellent food.
I noticed they charge a small fee for credit card payments, something clearly posted at the register. Bringing cash saves you a few cents and supports the small business model.
Most diners seemed aware of this policy and came prepared.
Breakfast items run even cheaper, with many options under five dollars. Students on tight budgets can afford to eat here regularly.
Families can feed everyone without breaking the bank, making it a practical choice for weekly outings. The affordability combined with quality creates incredible value that keeps customers returning again and again without guilt about the expense.
Cottage Fries Worth Fighting Over
My Reuben came with cottage fries, which I initially thought were just regular potato rounds. Boy, was I wrong.
These thick cut potato slices arrived golden and crispy on the outside, fluffy inside.
Each piece was seasoned perfectly, not drowning in salt like so many restaurants do. I could taste the actual potato, which sounds simple but rarely happens anymore.
They were clearly made from real potatoes, not frozen bags from a supplier.
Some reviewers mentioned wishing their fries were more well done. I found mine perfectly cooked, though preferences obviously vary.
The homemade quality shone through with every bite, making them far superior to standard frozen fries.
I watched other tables receiving orders of sweet potato fries as well. Both options looked equally appealing and freshly prepared.
The kitchen clearly takes pride in their sides, not treating them as afterthoughts. These cottage fries could easily be ordered as their own dish, and I wouldn’t judge anyone who did exactly that for a snack visit.
Old Fashioned Phosphates From Actual Soda Jerks
Behind the counter, I watched the soda jerk craft handmade phosphates using vintage fountain equipment. These fizzy, flavored drinks predate modern sodas and offer a taste of authentic Americana.
The process looked almost theatrical, with syrups and carbonated water mixed precisely.
Phosphates come in various flavors, each one promising a unique taste experience. One reviewer mentioned ordering theirs and being disappointed it came in a foam cup instead of glass.
I made sure to ask for mine in a proper glass to get the full vintage effect.
The carbonation hit my tongue with a pleasant tingle, followed by sweet fruit flavors. These drinks taste nothing like mass produced sodas from a fountain machine.
Each one gets individually crafted with care and attention to ratios.
Watching the soda jerk work reminded me of old movies and photographs from the 1950s. This isn’t someone pushing buttons on a machine.
Real skill and knowledge go into creating these beverages. If you’ve never tried a phosphate, Soda Shop offers the perfect opportunity to experience this nearly lost piece of American food culture.
Decor That Tells Davidson’s Story
Every wall surface held something interesting to examine while waiting for food. Old photographs showed Main Street through different decades, documenting how Davidson evolved.
Vintage advertisements for products long discontinued added colorful pops against the walls.
Memorabilia from Davidson College covered one section, celebrating the relationship between school and shop. Sports pennants, team photos, and newspaper clippings created a timeline of local athletics.
I could have spent an hour just reading everything displayed.
The attention to authentic detail impressed me throughout. Nothing felt like cheap reproduction decor bought from a restaurant supply catalog.
These were genuine artifacts collected and preserved over seven decades of operation.
Other diners pointed out favorite pieces to their companions, sharing memories triggered by specific items. The decor serves as a community scrapbook, preserving shared history in a way that resonates with multiple generations.
Even first time visitors like me felt connected to something larger than just a meal. The environment encourages lingering and conversation, not rushing through and leaving.
Limited Seating That Creates Intimacy
Soda Shop is not a large establishment, which actually enhances its charm. The limited seating creates an intimate atmosphere where you feel part of something special.
Counter stools accommodate solo diners and couples perfectly.
Booths line the walls, comfortable for groups up to four people. Larger parties might face challenges finding seating, as several reviews mentioned.
The tight quarters mean you might brush past other diners heading to the restroom.
During peak times, expect to wait for a table. A full parking lot serves as a reliable indicator that you’ll be queuing.
Most customers seemed happy to wait, chatting with others in line or browsing the memorabilia.
The cozy space encourages interaction between strangers in a way modern restaurants rarely achieve. I overheard multiple conversations starting between neighboring tables.
Outdoor seating provides additional options during pleasant weather, expanding capacity while maintaining the neighborhood feel. The size limitations force the restaurant to focus on quality over quantity, which benefits every customer who manages to snag a seat.
Menu Variety Beyond The Famous Reuben
While the Reuben rightfully steals the spotlight, the menu offers plenty of other tempting options. Burgers, melts, wraps, and various sandwiches provide choices for different tastes.
I spotted a Carolina dog on someone’s plate that looked fantastic despite one reviewer’s minor quibbles about red onions.
Vegetarian options ensure everyone can find something satisfying. The veggie burrito earned praise from multiple diners I observed.
Egg salad sandwiches appeared on several tables, looking fresh and generously filled.
Hot dogs come plain or loaded with chili and cheese. Classic American comfort food dominates without apology or trendy fusion attempts.
Everything on the menu feels like something your grandmother might have made, in the best possible way.
Dessert options extend beyond milkshakes to include sundaes, floats, and banana splits. I watched someone receive Bill’s banana split, which looked absolutely massive and Instagram worthy.
The menu keeps things simple and focused, doing classic dishes exceptionally well rather than attempting to be everything to everyone with an overwhelming list of mediocre choices.
A Destination Restaurant Worth The Drive
As I finished my meal and reluctantly prepared to leave, I understood why people drive from surrounding areas specifically to eat here. Soda Shop isn’t just convenient for locals; it’s worth making a special trip.
The complete experience justifies going out of your way.
Multiple reviewers mentioned bringing visiting friends and family to showcase what makes Davidson special. That speaks volumes about how residents view this establishment.
It represents their community’s values and history in a tangible, delicious way.
I left with a full stomach, a lighter wallet, and genuine happiness about the entire experience. The Reuben exceeded every expectation my roommate had built up.
The atmosphere transported me to a simpler time without feeling forced or artificial.
My only regret was not discovering Soda Shop sooner. I’m already planning my next visit to try those legendary pancakes everyone raved about.
Some restaurants serve food; others create memories and connections that last for decades. Soda Shop clearly belongs in the second category, which explains why it’s thrived for over seventy years in an industry where most businesses fail within five.
