The SNAPPY LUNCH was mentioned on The Andy Griffith Show, and Andy ate there as a young boy growing up in Mount Airy. Students went there for lunch because the local schools did not have cafeterias. SNAPPY LUNCH is Mount Airy’s oldest eating establishment.

The restaurant is famous for the pork chop sandwich, which was created by restaurant owner, Charles Dowell, who has been at SNAPPY LUNCH for more than 50 years.

In an early episode of The Andy Griffith Show entitled "Andy the Matchmaker," Andy suggested to Barney that they go to the SNAPPY LUNCH to get a bite to eat. Andy also mentioned the SNAPPY LUNCH in his version of the song "Silhouettes." More recently in a television news interview, Andy talked about getting a hot dog and a bottle of pop for 15 cents at the SNAPPY LUNCH when he was a boy.

George Roberson and Deuce Hodge opened the SNAPPY LUNCH in 1923. After a few months, Mr. Hodge sold his interest to Ben Edwards. In 1943, Charles Dowell began working for then-owners, George Roberson and Raymond Hemrick. In 1951, he bought Mr. Roberson’s half of the business. In those days, a person could buy a bologna sandwich for a nickel and a hot dog for a dime at the SNAPPY LUNCH. In 1960, Charles Dowell bought Mr. Hemrick’s half of the café, making him the sole owner.

Since the 1960s, the SNAPPY LUNCH has been the subject of numerous news articles and publications, as well as television news stories both locally and nationally. Thousands of visitors come to the SNAPPY LUNCH to get a "taste" of Mayberry. Several of these visitors have been celebrities, such as television talk show host, Oprah Winfrey; “The Incredible Hulk,” Lou Ferrigno; and country music singer, Donna Fargo who is originally from Mount Airy.

Hours of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday, 5:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and Thursday and Saturday 5:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Sunday Closed. Open for tours and breakfast and lunch. Call 336-786-4931.