MONROE, N.C. — March 29 is National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day so in celebration, Wake Up Charlotte is featuring a local sandwich shop in Monroe, North Carolina, that has been in business for 87 years.
A true Monroe staple, The Oasis Sandwich Shop dates back to the 1930s but the recipes haven't changed. And they're known for one thing: The hot dogs!
It was started July 4, 1933.
"This place is just known from word of mouth," said owner Tim Ratliff.
There aren’t too many places like Oasis anymore.
"I think that keeping the atmosphere is what keeps people coming back," Ratliff said.
The original store used to be on the corner of Hayne and Franklin but they moved to the current location in 1975.
Tim has owned Oasis Sandwich Shop for 14 years now but his Aunt Patty worked here since the beginning and eventually took it over.
Below is a picture of Aunt Patty and the original building the first shop was in!
This shop keeps people coming back. As we were leaving one woman mentioned that she used to come here with her grandfather. How long has she been coming here?
"About 65 years at least. The hot dogs were 10 cents a piece"
Even though it is a sandwich shop they are better known for…
"The Hot dogs... they have the best hot dogs around... are my favorite... he wants a hot dog... the hot dogs I need to have," tells several customers who were at the shop when we were there. One customer in particular, Latrese Wood said she doesn't really eat hot dogs but she is in love with these. Now, that is saying something.
One is not enough though "one will want you coming back for another one" says the owner.
Their hours are:
Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Sunday: Closed
This place is truly authentic and affordable! But just letting you know its cash only!
This place is truly a local favorite and in the hour we were there, people told us that they drove all the way from Charlotte and Concord, just to get those famous dogs!
The VERDICT: A Must Try!