Southern Burger Company opened its storefront in Warehouse Row on Thursday after operating out of a food truck since summertime.
About 40 people, such as TVA employees Abigail Bowen and Jodie Branum, waited in line for burgers and fries Thursday at the start of the grand opening, which was from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Both women said they are happy that Southern Burger Company is now in Warehouse Row. It's closer to their workplace, and they won't have to wait in the cold for an order.
"They are great (burgers), and the buns are really good," Bowen said. "They’ve got great flavor. They are just the best burger around, I think."
Another pair of women decided not to wait in the line—which winded through the dining area—because they expected it would take at least 30 minutes.
Chattanooga native Christian Siler is the owner of the business and had plans to expand from the beginning, he said recently.
Last month, when Siler announced the expansion, he said he would probably hire three or four new people and add items to the menu.
He also said the concept is "quick walk-up service," and the goal is to get customers their orders within five to nine minutes.
