The Restaurant Scene on Monday

Mondays have a way of slipping up on me, showing me something that might surprise or really reinforce an idea that had been cooking along over the weekend. Today was no different as we entered the month of August.

At lunch, I was feeling a bit under the weather and decided on Ginger Chicken at Joe's Place. That has an almost medicinal impact on me, and usually it makes me feel better right away. It worked well, again, but I would have felt better anyway at the solid business for lunch at Joe's. Some folks might not want to wait a few extra minutes, but when I'm in an Uptown restaurantI'm glad to see strong business that might challenge the kitchen and slow me down just a bit.

Then at 5:30 I passed the corner of Washington and Warren to see that Chris & Nancy Canoutas, along with a good team of servers and cooks, had completed their work and the OPEN banner was hanging aloft. Ah, another interesting eatery in Uptown Shelby. I drove on to the Post Office and came back to the Square at about 6:15.

Within just 45 minutes the new NEWT'S (A modern burger joint) had completely filled and there was a wait. Chris had told me he hoped to open informally on Monday if all went well, but I think the whole crew was pleasantly surprised at the strong crowd and the obviouis good feelings. Service was courteous and prompt, especially for an opening night. The tables were comfortable and customers ranged over about 70 years, extended families to friends, from the Royster family who have redeveloped the corner shop, City Manager Rick Howell and Finance Director Ted Phillips after a City Council meeting, and plentyof folks who seemed to instantly feel at home.

Just two years ago we were down to just over half the number of restaurants and cafes we have today. I remember two or three people saying something along the lines of "Uptown might have about all the restaurants we can handle." I didn't believe it then and I'm even more convinced now that Uptown Shelby has a host of opportunities for quality food, good service and a friendly atmosphere. Sure, there would be a point where the market is full. But we're nowhere near that. Customers are coming from all around Cleveland County as well as Shelby's own neighborhoods. We also know that neighbors are coming in from Rutherford and Lincoln Counties, from Gaffney and other spots to the south of the state line.

One of the great side benefits of a strong restaurant trade in Uptown Shelby is that our city now has a nice night life in it's central business district. Restaurants have begun to offer live musical entertainment on a regular basis. Special menu items and value-priced specials also attract families, after-work groups, Ladies Night, Shag Night dancers, and all sorts of patrons who might have had few options just a few months ago.

Well, full restaurants on Mondays, visitors and locals alike smiling and clamoring for tables, along with more cars parked in Uptown Shelby. It's the sound and aroma of progress, and it's all approachable and easy to enjoy. Come out and join in the excitement.