Fayetteville food lovers will soon have exciting new dining options, as two unique restaurants prepare to open their doors and offer diverse culinary experiences. Dank Burrito, known for its fusion-style dishes, is set to launch at 5508 Raeford Road, the former site of Hardee’s, which has been vacant for years. Meanwhile, Windsor's Likkle Patty Shop has just completed its move to 296 Broad Street, where it promises to serve its popular plant-based Jamaican favorites.
Dank Burrito is scheduled to open its Fayetteville location by mid-to-late February 2024. Owners Brittany and Josh Allen, both U.S. Army veterans, have been thrilled about their entrepreneurial venture since they decided to bring the flavors they discovered at a Dank Burrito restaurant in Raleigh back to their hometown. “We’re excited to bring something unique to Fayetteville,” said Brittany Allen, explaining the restaurant's motto and mission to offer what they call 'flavor bombs'. This philosophy translates to bold dishes merging influences from various cuisines, particularly Asian, Cajun, and Caribbean.
The Allens explained their menu is not just another Tex-Mex offering; instead, it emphasizes chef-designed options with pre-selected flavor combinations. Ingenious creations like pork belly burritos featuring Vietnamese banh mi vegetables and carne asada tacos enhanced with Asian chili sauce and kimchi stand out for their blend of tastes. Joel Sullivan, of the Dank Burrito Franchise Group, reinforces the establishment's mission stating, “Our menu is anything but typical.”
Adding to the dining experience, Dank Burrito’s location will feature vibrant graffiti art and military-themed elements, incorporating local culture and symbols. Sullivan noted, “Every building we open features custom graffiti art… it's our way of connecting with the community.” Plans for a drive-thru and flexible dine-in options are also part of their vision, inviting locals to enjoy their food with convenience.
Things have been buzzing at the Likkle Patty Shop, as owner Chantal Tafari reflects on the recent move from 80 Poquonock Avenue to their new location. Tafari, who previously dealt with the hassle of preparing food at off-site kitchens, expressed relief and excitement at being able to streamline her operations. “I’m happy to be here,” she said, satisfied with the space and efficiency her new kitchen offers.
Just before their soft opening last Thursday, Tafari worked tirelessly late at night to have everything ready. The shift to this larger place means she no longer has to transport food across town. Customers are already expressing satisfaction with dishes like ackee patties and black chocolate cherry cookies, adding, “It celebrates the diversity of Windsor and you can't get abetter taste from these Jamaican patties and these baked goods, and they're vegan,” as highlighted by one of her first customers, Jen Fields.
Tafari’s goals don’t only stop at operating efficiently; she aims to get approval for seating at the new location, which would allow customers to enjoy their meals on-site. The shop is currently open from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 AM to 7 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 3 PM, remaining closed on Mondays.
With the addition of these restaurants, both Dank Burrito and Likkle Patty Shop are poised to enrich the local food scene, providing diverse offerings with cultural influences. Each establishment promises to introduce locals to unique culinary experiences and flavors, distinguishing themselves from standard fast-food options. Community members are eagerly awaiting the chance to experience these new dining concepts.