Early Thursday morning, eager customers lined up outside the new Chick-fil-A in Lebanon, ready for its grand opening. The restaurant opened its doors at 6:30 a.m., quickly filling up with guests, while others waited outside to avoid overcrowding.
This opening comes less than a year after the demolition of the former Golden Corral building at 1147 Quentin Road. Chick-fil-A began hiring employees about six weeks ago.
The restaurant is owned by franchisees Marty and Madison Windisch. Marty, who transitioned from a career in accounting and finance to Chick-fil-A, expressed his excitement about opening in Lebanon. He previously worked in Gambrills, Maryland, under franchise owner Brian Smith, who he said positively impacted his community.
“It’s been amazing; Lebanon is what we consider home, and we’ve received incredible support from the community,” Marty stated. He added, “Our vision is to be the light — a place for the community to come and know they’re loved and cared for.”
The Windisches reported strong interest in job applications, employing around 130 local residents in various roles. Both Marty and Madison, a former third-grade teacher, are passionate about education. To honor this, they selected 100 local teachers to receive Chick-fil-A’s Community Heroes award, providing them with free meals for a year.
In celebration of the grand opening, Chick-fil-A donated $25,000 to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. The restaurant will also participate in a program that redirects surplus food to local nonprofits.
Chick-fil-A Lebanon will be open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., offering dine-in, drive-thru, and carry-out services.