Triangle East
Written by Kelly McLaughlin
If a burger and fries represents an all-American meal, Garner just got a bit more patriotic. Char-Grill, home of the hamburger steak sandwich, opened its first franchise location at the White Oak Crossing Shopping Center on June 8.
“It took me about two and a half years to get over here,” said owner Thomassina Boya of her efforts to bring the chain to Garner.
Since there are several non-franchise Char-Grill locations around Wake County, the company wasn’t sure about adding another, but Boya was persistent.
Due to the White Oak Crossing Shopping Center’s proximity to the Johnston County line, she convinced owners to approve this location. However, since it is technically part of Wake County, the restaurant must serve from the same menu as the Raleigh locations.
“Because we’re in Wake County, our tickets are just like the ones in Raleigh,” said Boya. “We had to do everything (the same).”
What is different, though, is the atmosphere. Instead of the traditional walk-up service Char-Grill is known for, the Garner location resembles a full-service sit-down restaurant, complete with a hostess and an outdoor patio. This is one change customers don’t seem to mind.
“Everybody is so glad that (Char-Grill) is in Garner. We’ve had very, very good progress with it,” said Boya of business since the grand opening in June.
Boya celebrated again on July 10 when she opened the doors to her own creation, Waffles and Cream, located right next to Char-Grill.
“It was something I’ve always wanted to do,” said Boya. “I love waffles and I always thought ice cream would be good on them.”
The Waffles and Cream menu includes an array of real waffles topped with ice cream, whipped cream and a cherry. Specialty items include a waffle dog — that is, waffles on a stick — and mini waffle ice cream sandwiches topped with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle. |
