Tryon Restaurant Guide

Since Pop, there have been a number of owners. Pop started the Beer Garden in 1934. He later sold it to Whitey Barton, who worked for Pop, and he renamed it "Whitey's". Sam Summey bought it from Whitey in the 1960's, and "Sam's Place" was born. Sam's Place was so successful that Sam opened another one and named it "Sam's #2". Then Horace "Doc" Swain took over and ran it as "Doc's" in the latter part of the 1970's until his demise. It was then sold to Curt Barnette around 1979, who ran it as Doc's. He also saw an untimely end. Then in 1981, Tim Ballew and Phillip "Fat Packy" Pack bought the place and left the name as Doc's. Along came Preston Kirby in 1985 and not only changed the name to "Preston's of Tryon", but moved it next door (one building south) where it stands today. Tommy Southard bought the business in 1987 and changed the name to "Preston's Pub & Grill". A kitchen was installed in 1998. Full ABC permits were acquired in 1999. It's the first time that liquor has been "legally" sold since it's founding.

In 2004, the current owners, Elliott and Pam Johnson purchased the business and have left the name "Preston's Pub & Grill". Pam was the manager for Tommy for ten years. In August of 2004, Elliott was killed in a tragic accident. To honor his memory, Pam and Wesley Johnson, his son, have changed the name to Elmo's. We are excited to announce the new addition to Elmo's family. "Elmo's Too Bar & Grill" in Columbus, NC.

Whether you're a native or a visitor to the Tryon area, we hope you decide to spend a part of the day with us.