Five Guys Opens Second Location in Pensacola: A Culinary Celebration
On January 10, Five Guys officially opened its second location in Pensacola, situated at 450 E. Nine Mile Road. The moment the open sign flickered to life, eager customers rushed in, braving the rain to indulge in the beloved burger chain’s offerings. This new establishment marks a significant addition to the local dining scene, especially for fans who have long awaited its arrival.
A Long-Awaited Addition
The anticipation for Five Guys in this part of Pensacola has been palpable. As Claudette Miller, a longtime fan, expressed while enjoying her “all the way” burger and sharing fries with a friend, “This was something that was badly needed in this part of Pensacola.” The new location not only satisfies the cravings of burger enthusiasts but also signals a growing interest in diverse dining options along Nine Mile Road.
Unique Features of the New Location
What sets the East Nine Mile restaurant apart is its innovative pick-up window. This feature allows customers to place and pay for their orders online, ensuring that meals are hot and ready upon arrival. Unlike traditional drive-thrus, the pick-up window minimizes wait times, as orders are staggered based on customer arrival, enhancing the overall experience.
Transforming the former Wendy’s building into the vibrant, red-and-white checkered Five Guys required significant renovations. However, the effort was well worth it, as the new location embodies the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Commitment to Customer Experience
Bill Gellert, a seasoned franchisee who oversees over 80 Five Guys locations nationwide, emphasized that the grand opening’s success hinges on customer experience. “Today means nothing if they don’t enjoy their experience,” he stated, highlighting the importance of creating memorable moments for patrons. Gellert took it upon himself to engage with customers, even offering samples of milkshakes crafted by Director of Operations Kirk Yackel.
One of the standout offerings is the caramel bacon milkshake, a unique flavor combination that Gellert describes as a hidden gem. Convincing customers to try this unconventional treat often requires a bit of persuasion, reminiscent of a Dr. Seuss moment where diners are hesitant to embrace something new. However, those who take the plunge are rewarded with a delightful experience, as the bacon bits soak in the creamy sweetness, creating a decadent treat.
Freshness and Quality at the Core
Five Guys prides itself on a simple yet effective menu that includes burgers, hand-cut fries, hot dogs, and shakes. The open-concept kitchen allows customers to witness the meticulous preparation of their meals, from hand-pulling lettuce to cutting fresh strawberries and bananas. Gellert points out that the absence of a fry timer is a testament to their commitment to quality; employees are trained to judge the perfect fry based on visual cues, ensuring a consistently delicious product.
To maintain high standards, experienced employees from other locations, like Joevar James from Daphne, Alabama, have been brought in to train new hires. James, who has been with Five Guys since 2017, is dedicated to instilling a culture of excellence, ensuring that every burger is crafted to perfection.
A Community-Focused Approach
Beyond serving delicious food, Five Guys is committed to fostering a positive work environment and giving back to the community. Gellert emphasizes the importance of employee growth, offering leadership opportunities and financial support for education. The company also engages in various fundraisers to support local neighborhoods and schools, reinforcing their commitment to the community.
Future Prospects
With the successful opening of the second Pensacola location, Gellert hinted at the possibility of more Five Guys restaurants in the area. As they continue to seek out prime locations, the local dining scene may soon see even more of the beloved burger chain.
The new Five Guys at 540 E. Nine Mile Road is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, customers can call the restaurant at 850-202-9813 or visit the official website at fiveguys.com.
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As Five Guys continues to make its mark in Pensacola, the community can look forward to enjoying quality food and a welcoming atmosphere at this exciting new location.