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Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain

4.8(1,034 reviews)
Restaurant$Open now
Directions Call
(256) 574-2140
Dine-inParkingSandwich ShopSoda FountainScottsboro DiningNostalgic Diner

What to try at Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain

Rueben

Rueben

Banana Split with Whipped Cream

Banana Split with Whipped Cream

Sundaes

Sundaes

Coffee Chocolate Chip Cherry Vanilla Cotton Candy

Coffee Chocolate Chip Cherry Vanilla Cotton Candy

Red Slaw Dog

Red Slaw Dog

Dagwood Sandwich

Dagwood Sandwich

Hot Dog

Hot Dog

Broad Street Dagwood

Broad Street Dagwood

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible parking lot
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible restroom

Service options

In-store shopping

Amenities

Restroom
Parking

Payments

Credit cards
Debit cards
Cash

Located in downtown Scottsboro, Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain brings a charming piece of history to the local food scene. The restaurant has a vintage soda fountain style that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families, travelers, and longtime customers. Many visitors enjoy the retro design, friendly service, and relaxed setting that makes each visit feel special.

The restaurant is recognized for its traditional sandwich selection and classic American comfort food. Popular menu choices include the Reuben sandwich, chicken salad croissant, BLT, Dagwood sandwich, pimento cheese sandwich, Philly style sandwiches, and grilled cheese options. Guests often mention the fresh ingredients, generous portions, and homemade taste of the sandwiches.

Beyond sandwiches, Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain is famous for its soda fountain treats. The menu includes ice cream scoops, milkshakes, malts, floats, sundaes, and banana splits. These desserts add to the nostalgic charm of the restaurant, giving guests a chance to enjoy classic sweets that match the old fashioned theme.

The restaurant also offers hot dogs, salads, sides, and other lunch favorites. Signature options such as red slaw hot dogs, potato salad, pasta salad, and specialty sandwiches provide plenty of variety for different tastes. The combination of savory meals and sweet treats makes Payne's a popular choice for lunch visits and casual dining.

One of the most memorable parts of Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain is its historic character. The restaurant has roots dating back more than a century and is often recognized as one of Alabama’s long running soda fountain establishments. Its connection to local history gives visitors more than a meal; it offers a glimpse of traditional American diner culture.

The atmosphere at Payne's is casual, friendly, and family oriented. Customers frequently praise the welcoming staff, comfortable seating, and small town hospitality. The restaurant also provides options such as takeout, outdoor seating, and accessibility features, making it convenient for many guests.

For anyone visiting Scottsboro, Payne's Sandwich Shop and Soda Fountain offers a mix of classic sandwiches, refreshing fountain drinks, creamy desserts, and historic charm at 101 E Laurel St.

sandwich shopsoda fountainScottsboro diningnostalgic diner

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Reviews

J

James High

Jul 2026

I was truly charmed by this beautiful spot, which clearly boasts a rich history. The food we enjoyed was consistently good, with every dish tasting delightful, and the service was absolutely impeccable. I have to say, the ice cream was a definite highlight and truly the best. I highly recommend visiting for a meal, especially to experience dining outside on their patio, where you can enjoy a wonderful view of the square.

D

Duane Kennedy

Jul 2026

This local gem truly shines, proving that independent shops can offer an experience far superior to national chains. The menu boasts a fantastic variety, and the quality of the food is consistently excellent, especially with their enticing daily specials. For instance, on Thursdays, you can indulge in a scoop of ice cream for an unbelievable nickel!

C

Cesar Bravo

Jul 2026

I had a wonderful experience visiting this fantastic little sandwich and ice cream spot with my family last weekend. Our server was incredibly friendly and helpful, and the entire staff was highly attentive to us throughout our meal. We are already planning on returning in the near future, and I am especially looking forward to ordering their Shrimp Croissant sandwich again on our next visit.

K

Kay Hammock

Jul 2026

What a great place! I had the chicken salad sandwich. Two scoops of ice cream for dessert (rocky road and turtle tracks). Yum!

K

Karl Sodergren

Jul 2026

This is a step back in time yet not outdated. Service was excellent. Place is spotless and clean restrooms. Most importantly food was excellent with reasonable prices. I had the Reuben. I’ve enjoyed many a Reuben but this was spectacular. The corned beef was tender and thick. Kraut was generous as well and it was served steaming on perfectly toasted Rye. The better half had the Grilled Chicken Melt with a side of potato salad and was quite pleased. I had a few bites of the potato salad. It was tasty and I generally don’t like potato salad. Lastly, the server advised because I asked that the red slaw Dog was their biggest seller so I also ordered one. It was okay but not great. I’ll definitely have another Reuben when I next find myself in Scottsboro AL. If you read this far please hit the like. Thank you and enjoy Payne’s.

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