WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – Thursday was the grand opening for a popular fast food franchise in Watertown.
Chick-fil-A, the southern fast-food franchise known for its chicken sandwiches, officially opened its doors at 6:30 a.m.
People were waiting in long lines throughout the day to get a taste of chicken sandwiches and waffle fries.
“I’m from Gouverneur. Funny story: I actually drive to Syracuse Chick-fil-A all the time just to get the food. So here we are opening day,” said Kasey Aldridge.
Merrit Brady is the owner and operator of the restaurant. He says he and his family have ties with the north country and just knew it was time to bring a Chick-fil-A to the area.
He added that being able to serve the Fort Drum community is a plus.
“I love seeing our men and women in the military come in. We’re so fortunate for them and we’re really excited for the opportunity to give back to those who give back so much for us and our country,” Brady said.
Some soldiers, like Carly Inman, say they’re excited to have a Chick-fil-A closer than Syracuse.
“I was, like, I’m hoping Chick-fil-A is open before I leave for Hawaii,” she said, “because I’ve been here four years and that hour drive is not it.”
“Me and my little son here decided to try it out. We have lived in the south for a really long time, so we got used to getting Chick-fil-A a lot. We moved up here and there was no Chick-fil-A, so we’re really excited,” said Kristi Valentine, who lives here because of Fort Drum.
The restaurant had a line out the door before the doors opened.
“I got here at about 3 a.m. because I love Chick-fil-A and I would not otherwise be here out in the cold,” said Mindy High, the first customer in line. “I’m just grateful that they decided to bring one up here so now we don’t have to go to Syracuse.”
The restaurant is at 1290 Arsenal Street, where Ruby Tuesday used to be.
The restaurant will choose 100 local heroes in the Watertown area to get free Chick-fil-A for a year and donate surplus food to nonprofits and food pantries.
If you plan on heading over to Chick-fil-A, let us know how your experience was and feel free to send us a photo using the Send It To 7 link on our website and mobile app.
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