Our Story

A Taste of History Since the 1800s

A Building with a Past

Our building is nearly 150 years old. Originally, it housed two businesses under one roof, divided by a wall that once ran through what is now our dining room. The west side operated as a saloon and café, while the east side served as a dry goods store.

Hart’s Drug Store

For generations, this building was best known as Hart’s Drug Store. Before moving here, Hart’s operated across the street where Lee’s Landing stands today. In the 1920s, Hart’s purchased this building and moved in. The original shelving along our east wall dates back to that era, and a few authentic prescription bottles remain on display.

The Soda Fountain

Our soda fountain is a Bastian-Blessing, installed in the 1930s and still operating today. For nearly a century, it has served old-fashioned sodas, phosphates, egg creams, and timeless memories.

From Drug Store to Soda Grill

In 1985, Hart’s Drug Store was purchased by Higgins Drug Store, which remained until 2000. In 2001, Main Street Soda Grill opened, founded by Mike Tomshack Jr., Mike Tomshack Sr. (known as Big Ed), and Sharon Tomshack.

Why “Big Ed’s”?

After the passing of Mike Tomshack Sr. (“Big Ed”) in 2006, the Soda Grill was later renamed Big Ed’s Soda Grill in his honor, celebrating family, tradition, and community.

A Family Tradition Continues

In July of 2021, ownership transitioned to John and Monroe Austin. John is Big Ed’s grandson and the nephew of Mike Tomshack Jr., continuing a proud family legacy.

What We’re Known For Today

Fresh, hand-pattied burgers, hand-spun milkshakes, nostalgic soda fountain classics, friendly faces, and small-town charm.

Thank you for being part of our story, and we’re glad you’re here!