Exciting New Family-Friendly Restaurant Set to Open in Laurens, Promising Delicious Eats and Community Engagement

Exciting Developments in Laurens: A New Family-Friendly Restaurant on the Horizon

Hey there, Laurens! It’s a beautiful day in our charming city today with mainly sunny skies and a pleasant high of 84°F. With light and variable winds, it’s hard not to feel good about the day ahead. And speaking of feeling good, we have some exciting news coming out of the City Council meeting held on Monday afternoon that you won’t want to miss!

The Council’s Special Meeting

In an exclusive special meeting, Mayor Nathan Senn and three other councilors gathered to discuss just one key item on the agenda: the potential negotiation of a lease with the owners of Arnold’s, a beloved local restaurant. Councilors Alicia Sullivan, Martin Lowry, and Johnnie Bolt also played a part in this important discussion, which aimed to bring a touch of culinary flair back to our downtown area.

A Culinary Comeback

Here’s the scoop! The main focus was the first reading of an ordinance that would allow Mayor Senn to negotiate with Gary and Zachary Durkee, who are the friendly faces behind Arnold’s. This family-run restaurant is not new to the area, boasting four other locations in places like Anderson, Liberty, Belton, and Powdersville. However, the exciting part is their interest in the spot at 104 E. Main St., which has been vacant for a while.

Mayor Senn explained the vision for this space, emphasizing what the community wants: a cozy café atmosphere, reminiscent of what locals experienced when Ron and Debbie Campbell ran the place. Senn noted that residents are looking for a welcoming spot to grab a delicious smashburger or other tasty meals at a price that is friendly to everyone’s budget. To get this rolling, a request for proposals was issued, and the Durkee’s enthusiasm was piqued during their recent visit to Laurens.

Benefits for the Community

The implications of this potential lease are significant. Mayor Senn pointed out that the interplay between the city using the theater space for various programs while also having a dining option could make a huge difference. Not only would this generate reliable income for the city, but it could also create a vibrant hub of activity that draws patrons to local events and businesses. It’s truly a win-win situation!

Delicious Menu Preview

For those wondering what delicious offerings to expect, Arnold’s is famed for its homemade hamburgers and a variety of mouth-watering sandwiches including turkey melts, chicken, and fried flounder. And if you’re in the mood for something heartier, their menu also features smothered chicken, an 8oz. sirloin, and even grilled salmon. Yum!

Renovations on the Way

As these negotiations continue, there’s hope that some planned renovations for the Capitol Theatre could align nicely with the new restaurant’s setup. Mayor Senn mentioned that they aim to save costs by coordinating this work, making sure everything is up to modern code. The theatre, built in the 1920s, could use some updates, including improved lighting and sound. A cooperative effort would not only save on expenses but also enrich the community space.

Next Steps

The City Council is set to revisit this ordinance in their regular meeting next week, and fingers are crossed that by then, the terms of the lease will be negotiated and ready for sharing. Mayor Senn concluded his remarks with optimism, highlighting Arnold’s intention to create a family-friendly environment and to support the community with occasional donations from their proceeds. They’re clearly gearing up to be a good community partner.

One last tidbit: the first reading of the ordinance passed with a vote of 3-1. While Councilor Sullivan opposed it, the excitement surrounding the prospect of a new eatery in our city is palpable!

So, Laurens, stay tuned for more updates as we watch this exciting development unfold. Who knows? We could soon have a fantastic new spot for good eats and community fun right in our own backyard!