Golden Corral announced its first iteration of a fast-casual concept, Homeward Kitchen in Southern Pines, will close its doors on Feb. 24 at 9 p.m. and will transition into the first-ever Golden Corral Favorites location.
“This 4,200-square-foot restaurant will retain the quality and flavors that Golden Corral guests have come to know and love while offering a faster, more modern dining experience,” said Golden Corral, parent company of Homeward Kitchen, in a press release.
The restaurant is expected to reopen in April at the same location on Highway 15-501 and Murray Hill Road.
“Golden Corral has always been about delivering an unmatched variety of high-quality food at an incredible value, and through the rebranding of this concept, we’re staying laser-focused on what we do best,” said CEO Lance Trenary. “We’ve learned just how much our guests love the Golden Corral brand and want the wholesome food that we serve, so we’re bringing those favorites to a fast-casual setting. This new concept leverages the brand equity in the Golden Corral name and blends the best of both worlds — offering our signature comfort foods they crave with the convenience today’s consumers expect.”
Golden Corral Favorites will feature a curated selection of the most popular Golden Corral menu items, served in a streamlined, quick-service format. Whether guests are dining in or taking advantage of the restaurant’s enhanced digital ordering, drive-thru, and pickup options, this new concept is designed for today’s fast-paced lifestyles, said the release.
“Golden Corral also remains committed to the loyal restaurant team in Southern Pines, the majority of whom have worked at the restaurant since it first opened,” said the release. “With the objective of retaining the entire crew, Golden Corral will fairly compensate all team members and take advantage of downtime for additional training. All employees were notified in early January that they will be paid a temporary closure payment. A return-to-work incentive was also offered to those who return for the opening of Golden Corral Favorites.”
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Contributed article/photo.
