Davidson is a town with an abundance of character built on the history that engulfs it. We see history through the architecture of Davidson College, the streets and buildings of the town, and the thing we love most, the restaurants! I mean who doesn't love a good, authentic, historic place to enjoy the company of loved ones while you buy into the experience of some tasty eats? Here, we highlight some of the favorite historical restaurants in Davidson!
Brickhouse Tavern
"The Cobb salad was the bomb! Service was awesome! I will return. If you want a great place to go with great food and great service, this is the place to go!" - Kristie
Upon arrival of this beautiful brick building located in the heart of Davidson, you will run into a historical gem. Brickhouse Tavern used to be the location of the 120-year-old Davidson Cotton Mill which was built way back in the 1890's. With whatever dining experience you're searching for, you will find it here as they offer multiple different dining spaces. With the large layout of the restaurant (thank you for that, Cotton Mill), you can enjoy your meal in the dining room, tap room, or outside on the patio! The extensive food and drink menu goes hand in hand with the vibe of this space they hold so dear. The offer everything from salads and sandwiches to seafood and pizzas. They also have over 70 beer selections in which many are Carolina Crafted brews. Yum!
Davidson Ice House
"The food was delicious from first bite to last. Lots of choices. Friendly, helpful staff. Cute environment with seating inside and out. Definitely family friendly." - Kathi
This restaurant hold history near and dear to it's core. Way back before the original icehouse opened in 1922, the town of Davidson got it's ice from plants in Mooresville and Charlotte, but because they had difficulty keeping up the local demand of ice, they opened up The Davidson Ice Company. Thanks to what used to be a six-ton making ice making plant, we now have the amazing, Davidson Ice House. It is as charming on the outside as it is on the inside with exposed brick walls, steel beams, and the original wide pine floors. Regardless of dietary needs, you will be able to find something tasteful and filling here as they have gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options.
The Soda Shop
"We enjoyed the selection of sweet treats and the menu options. Our service was friendly and the food was delicious!" - Roxan
Picture this: It is the 1900's and Davidson Main Street is a busy part of town crowded with houses, storefronts, and people. There a post office which is ran by a local family who lived right next door and the location of that post office is now the delicious, Soda Shop. Coming to life in the 1900's, this was Davidson's first real café serving a lot of the same things they serve today. The wooden bar and booths that create the family experience this restaurant is known for are all original features in addition to the original cash register on display over the front door. If you crave a little nostalgia or love the vibe an original shop has to offer, The Soda Shop is your sweet spot! This restaurant has been a favorite for Davidson students and townspeople for decades offering house-made egg salad, chicken salad, tuna salad, pimento cheese, and cream cheese. Is your mouth watering too? The happiness doesn't have to end after devouring your juicy, tasteful homemade salads! You can take a walk along side Main Street and enjoy the views the college has to offer.
To stay in the know of current operations for these restaurants, please visit our Lakeside Curbside page for the most up-to-date information. If you visit any of these historic locations to enjoy the atmosphere and eats, make sure to take a picture of your food and tag us on Instagram and Facebook @VisitLakeNorman!
