My next stop on our Fall In Love With Greenville tour is the Northgate Soda Shop. How much can one really say about a soda shop?

Thanks for asking…

Allow me to introduce you to the Pimento Cheese Burger. I might have loved this as much, if not more, than I love JP and Preston. To be fair, it’s been almost a year since I’ve eaten a cheeseburger. No, make that two years.

My new friend, Angie, pointed out it’s not a place you order a salad. In other words, go big or go home. There was no chance of me going home, so I went BIG!

I contemplated only ordering the burger. When the waitress asked me if I wanted fries and slaw, it’s like my mouth developed a mind of its own. “Yes, please!” The rest is history.

I inhaled every bite. There were conversations going on all around me. I even participated in a few, but my head and heart were not engaged. In that moment, all I cared about was the food.

(This burger was featured in Southern Living Magazine, so I’m not the only one who lost control).

Nostalgic is the word I would use to describe Northgate. If you’re a native of Greenville with even the slightest bit of gray hair, you understand.

Every wall is filled with paraphernalia showcasing Greenville’s rich history. True story: our group was talking about Shoeless Joe Jackson and his legacy around town. One of the ladies looked up to find an old newspaper article about him hanging on the wall. Read more about Joe here.

Northgate opened in 1947. Current owners, Ren and Iris Bell bought Greenville’s beloved beacon in 2009. Having graduated from Parker High School, Bell hosts monthly gatherings for alumni. “Ren and his staff never disappoint,” says Carol Kinney, class of 1970.

Ren spoke with our media group. His love for customers is evident. “We learn their names, what they order, and their drink.” That’s almost as refreshing as the sweet tea!

Thank you, City of Greenville, for introducing me to Northgate Soda Shop! I can’t wait to take the kids! And my mom, PHS Class of ‘70.