Shore to Shore: Family matters…but food does too

SNOW HILL, Md. — In the latest edition of Shore to Shore, the story of Oaked 110 proves that in Snow Hill, neighbors aren’t just customers—they’re family. This local gem offers all the signature drinks you’d expect, but with a Maryland twist. Think a Maryland crush, with a dash of Old Bay—just one of many creative cocktails at this business that rose from the ashes of COVID-19.

Jason Welch, owner of Oaked 110, shared the origins of his passion project: “I think everybody’s had that ‘let’s open a bar’ idea, and then one day we just decided, let’s try it. Then COVID came along, and it didn’t really deter us.”

What started as a dream has since grown into a thriving business, thanks in large part to the support from the Snow Hill community.

“Next thing you know, the place was full, and each year things have gotten better. It just turned into something we really love doing now,” said Jason.

For Heather Welch, a Snow Hill native and co-owner, owning a business in her hometown has been a full-circle moment.

“When we were younger, Harvest Moon was the spot. We spent a lot of time there, and it made us realize that this town needed something for people our age, especially those with young kids,” said Heather.

Their customers often feel like family, too. Jason described it as a daily connection with old friends and neighbors: “There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t come in and see someone who was either a friend from growing up, my grandmother’s friend, or someone from my parents’ circle.”

And while interviewing the Welches, I found myself having a full-circle moment, too. Nearly every business owner I’ve met in Snow Hill mentions that family is at the heart of their mission.

For the Welches, family is essential to their vision— “Heather and I always wanted to keep our family close,” Jason explained. “Our daughter works here; she’s the general manager.”

But family isn’t the only thing that keeps people coming to Oaked 110. The food is just as memorable. One of their most creative and popular appetizers is the rumaki—a dish featuring liver wrapped in bacon, deep-fried, and topped with a bourbon whiskey sauce. It’s a unique combination that has quickly become a customer favorite.

For those with local business tips or recommendations, feel free to reach out to me at haley_rae@wmdt.com.