The Oldest Restaurant In Charlotte Has A Truly Incredible History
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Carolyn Mulvihill
Author
Have you ever wondered what the oldest operating restaurant in Charlotte is? Green’s Lunch Uptown has been a Charlotte staple, feeding residents in the area for more than 90 years. This restaurant is an iconic business in the city, not only because it has become known for serving the best hot dogs in town, but also because it has withstood decades of change in our city while other establishments have faltered. What makes Green’s Lunch Uptown so good? Well, let us tell you!
Owner Robert Green recognized the need for a quick lunch option for workers in Uptown Charlotte, and faithfully opened shop each day just three blocks off of Tryon Street.
Residents and locals began to greatly appreciate this eatery, and it became one of those places where when you walked in to grab your lunch time hot dog, everyone knew your name.
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The "All the Way Dog" is definitely the most popular item on the menu. It's topped with homemade chili, slaw, and onions. Interesting fact: Green's Lunch didn't introduce chili on their dogs until the 1960s, and slaw followed shortly after in the 1970s.
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It will remind you of Mom's grilled cheese growing up and is great with a cup of soup.
Mary quickly became known to regulars as the "Hot Dog Queen" and even appeared in city Christmas Parades as the reigning "Hot Dog Queen." Mary ran the restaurant until 1975, when she sold it to the Sikoitis family who runs it today. Mary continued working at Green's for 16 years after she sold the business and became like a family member to the Sikoitis'.
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A Green's Lunch hot dog cart can often be found at lunchtime in various locations around the city and even up at Lake Norman.
Throughout the week, Green's is always packed with Uptown professionals.
Two eggs any style, breakfast sandwiches, biscuits, and pancakes fill the breakfast menu.
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No matter what you are feeling like, you'll leave satisfied after eating at Green's Lunch!
Yet they manage to stay true to their name as the same, small hot dog stand in Uptown that has been a favorite since 1926.
Not only will you get the best hot dog you've ever had, you'll also experience a little piece of Charlotte history.
Have you eaten at Green’s Lunch? What’s your favorite thing on the menu? Let us know in the comments!
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