Long queues formed in York today for the opening of the city’s newest fast food restaurant.
US burger chain Wendys opened on St Sampsons Square in the building last home to menswear shop TM Lewin.
The company promised each customer in line before the 10.30am opening a free Wendy’s beef burger.
Crowds queued down St Sampson’s Square to claim their freebie, with the line stretching past Davygate and down Feasegate.
Staff also handed out free cups of Wendy’s signature ‘Frosty’ dessert to those waiting in the summer sunshine.
Some people joined the queue as they passed by and noticed the commotion, while others had it all planned out.
Gary Sullivan, a Nestlé employee, arrived especially early, but got his timing a bit wrong.
“I finished my shift this morning at seven o’clock this morning, thinking it would be open from eight o’clock, only to find it was actually 10.30.
“Thankfully it’s been a nice morning, so it’s brought the tan on lovely. Once I’ve had this juicy burger, I’m off to bed!” he told YorkMix.
Arron Morley, head of operations for Wendy’s, said that the location was perfect for them.
“What I’ve found in York is actually all the food is spread out a bit. There’s obviously, lots of footfall down this road and from what I’ve heard, a lot of events too, it’s a really good place to be.”
At 10.30am, staff and the Frosty mascot gathered outside to officially open the store by cutting the red ribbon. One of the first customers was also awarded with a special limited edition Wendys varsity jacket.
As the doors opened, crowds streamed in to collect their burgers, and YorkMix got a first look at the brand-new refurb.
Wendy’s opening hours will be Monday to Saturday: 7am–11pm, Sunday: 8am–10pm.
The new restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Prices
- The Baconator – £8.69
- Wendy’s Single Beef Burger – £4.99
- The Spicy Chicken Sandwich – £5.99
- Beef Chilli Cheese Fries – £4.59
- Frosty Dessert – £1.29 – £2.99
- Jr Cheeseburger and Small Fries – £3.49
- 4 Pc Nuggets Kids Meal – £3.99
- Sour Cream & Chive Potato – £2.99
Breakfast is served until 10.30 am, with options like English muffins and egg & cheese sandwiches available.
More pix below!
