In the heart of Park Road Shopping Center, the Park Road Soda Shoppe takes customers back in time. The 1950’s style diner is reminiscent of retro Charlotte. Although the Soda Shoppe opened in 1999, the restaurant captures the 1950’s like a time capsule. The black and white tile, with wall to wall mirrors, and the sit-down bar make the restaurant one of a kind.
By the beginning of the twentieth century, Coca-Cola had gained its popularity. Soda was advertised for health and well-being, therefore pharmacies across the United States implemented soda fountains. Decorative countertops with wall-to-wall mirrors became the soda shoppe standard. During the time of the prohibition, Soda Shoppes were crucial alcohol-free locations that targeted both adults and children. With the introduction of Soda, American diner food soon followed and became very popular. During the 1950’s soda shops popularity had reached its peak. For all kinds of people, soda shops were a keen source of entertainment.
Sadly, many of these diners haven’t stood the test of time. Many were forced to shut down with new buildings and restaurants taking their place. Defying the norm, Park Road Soda Shoppe has stayed all these years. The simplistic yet delicious menu has all the classics of American diner food. The food service is quick and efficient. Tables open up quickly due to the pay ticket system. Customers walk in and admire the sleek yet spacious seating area. Faces of all ages are seen; families, elderly, and high school students visit regularly to dine.
Myers Park senior and employee of Park Road Soda Shoppe Laurie Hannan shared the ins and outs from being behind the counter. As an employee for over two years, Hannan has gotten to know the “regulars.” These people keep coming back because “You can’t find food like this anywhere that’s good, affordable, and close by, as well as the staff too,” Hannan explained. She added that as you work more, the better you know your customers and what they want to order, and that, “When you know familiar faces are coming back every week, business is good.” The busiest day of the week is Saturday, with a line out the door with everyone waiting to find a booth. “The busier, the more stressful,” Hannan stated. “The more people, the more responsibility,” as an employee. For many, a trip to the shopping center ends up with a stop at the Soda Shoppe.
Some special delights include their hand pressed orangeade and lemonade. The soda shop’s dairy is delicious. The ice cream, milk shakes, and floats are a delicacy. The delights are a perfect pair with a hot dog. The Carolina dog is a North Carolina staple with chili, cole slaw, and mustard. Other staples include the burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, and the grilled cheese. The Soda Shoppe’s customers love the delicious menu. In connection with the good environment, the good food fills the restaurant on the weekend.
For most of the 20th century, soda shops were a big part of American culture. The Park Road Soda Shoppe for the past twenty-five years has revived what once was. Located right in the Myers Park area, it is easy to take a break and grab lunch at the Soda Shoppe.
