For a while there, it almost seemed like the old, abandoned Fazoli's on HK Dodgen Loop would be a permanent fixture in our town. I've always thought it was a great location and wondered why no one snatched it up.

Well, someone finally has, and it's a place that you're already familiar with.

McAlister's Deli will move into the property this Sunday, March 14.

For the past 19 years, McAlister's has been at the opposite end of the Temple Towne Center shopping strip. Before the pandemic, a co-worker and I went there at least twice a week for lunch, and I still get them delivered occasionally.

I have to say, I'm actually quite happy to see them moving into their new location for two big reasons.

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The first is that parking was always an issue during the lunch rush. Now, I don't consider myself a lazy person, but it was a little annoying having to park on the far side of the shopping center to get to the lunch counter. I'd rather burn those calories after I eat, not when I'm going to grab something to go.

Second, the new location has a drive-through! I'm stoked about that because I can avoid being in a dense lunch crowd indoors (I'm caretaker of a relative who's vulnerable to the worst effects of COVID-19) and it's just plain convenient.

Mostly, I'm just glad to finally see that location being put to good use. It's been an eyesore for so long, but the new McAlister's looks great.

Again, their first day of service in the new location is this Sunday, March 14. In case you're wondering, I'm told they do plan to be open Saturday, March 13 if you feel like stopping by and saying goodbye to the old location.

Let the sweet tea flow!

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