Carolina BBQ & Chicken

A new barbecue restaurant opens its doors today at 1479 Julian R. Allsbrook Highway after a ribbon cutting was held at the location Thursday.Carolina BBQ and Chicken occupies a space previously held by various restaurants including an Asian cuisine buffet. Owner Rhonda Myers did some remodeling to the restaurant before it could be opened. Renovations included removing surplus decorations from the buffet lines and removing a fish pond previous owners had installed.Myers described the cuisine as “country food,” featuring a “down home country buffet.” The restaurant will also feature non-buffet dishes and “real mashed potatoes.”For Myers, the restaurant has been a family affair. Her daughter, Brandie, is a manager and her father-in-law, Buddy, is also an owner. Buddy owns various restaurants around the area. He said Roanoke Rapids customers at his Emporia, Va., store were a big help in getting the new restaurant, adding there was a need for it in town.“There was a lot of demand,” Buddy Myers said. “They needed us.”Operators started preparation for the store about six months ago, saying the city has “been fantastic” in helping it come to fruition. Residents have been supportive of the restaurant, as well.“Everything has fallen into place,” Rhonda Myers said.Brandie Myers said the whole family has been anxious about opening the store and are excited to have it ready for the public. Carolina BBQ and Chicken will be serving up food starting at 11 a.m. and going until 9 p.m. seven days a week.