ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- A long-time staple in Elmira re-opened its doors Tuesday, July 9th, after being closed for about four years. Some customers said they've waited for this day for a long time, and recall their time coming to M&M Red Hots when they were younger.

"It's just great to have them open again... I haven't seen [this much] activity and car traffic on this street in a long time," said Richard Brown.

M&M Red Hots opened in 1919 and celebrated its 101st year of business in 2020. It closed that same year during the pandemic, with community members wondering if the eatery would open again. But, Tuesday was the day, as people flocked for the re-opening on Baldwin St. for some American classics.

Susan and Richard Brown both grew up in Elmira Heights. Richard said he remembers going to M&M Red Hots since he was about six years old.

"[We] always used to come here with my mom and dad on Saturdays. It was a big and special thing to do and just a great memory," said Richard. Susan started going when she was an adult and added, "I'm glad that the young people of the family could pick it up and continue the tradition in Elmira."

Douglas Walborn said his dad used to bring him to M&M Red Hots when he was a kid.

"They'd run a special, hot dogs were 15 cents and soda was 10 cents. He'd round up all the kids in the neighborhood and bring them all to M&M for a quarter. It was a big deal," said Walborn.

Walborn said it was a sad day when the business closed, but he's happy to see it open once again.

"I'm glad to see they're open today because I didn't think I'd ever see the day of the door opening back up... It's great to be back seeing everyone. My son and I will be back," said Walborn.

M&M Red Hots is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and they accept cash, not credit/debit cards.