The Southern Pines community will cure their comfort food cravings when the new fast-casual concept, Homeward Kitchen opens its doors for the very first time this December.
The first Homeward Kitchen is located at 10735 US 15-501 in Southern Pines, NC. The completely renovated restaurant will feature dine-in, take-out and drive-thru options for ordering. Homeward Kitchen’s “slow cooked, served fast” family-favorites and convenient ordering options are perfect for families navigating today’s busy world.
The restaurant is spacious with two dining areas for dine-in, a designated area for online and third-party takeout orders and drive-thru for guests on the go. Those looking to feed large groups will have the choice of family-style servings for take-home feasts.
“We see an opportunity to provide wholesome, craveable food for families on the go. We’re excited to launch a concept that combines high quality, freshly-prepared, classic comfort foods, with the convenience of being able to enjoy them in the restaurant, on the go, through the drive-thru, or at home.” Golden Corral Corporation President & CEO, Lance Trenary said in a press release. “Homeward Kitchen is the perfect way to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that fits in with the busy pace of everyday life.”
While its first location is scheduled to open in December, the company plans to expand to other areas soon.
“We think Homeward Kitchen can be a staple in every community,” Trenary added in a press release. “We’ve put together an outstanding team to lead the opening of the first Homeward Kitchen, and once we have successfully launched in Southern Pines, we will quickly pursue growth opportunities nationwide.”
Homeward Kitchen’s menu will feature homestyle favorites such as a 12-hour Slow-Cooked Pot Roast with Homestyle Vegetables, Fried Chicken, a half-pound Meatloaf Sandwich, made-from-scratch, Cajun Mac & Cheese Balls, Fried Green Tomatoes, Nashville and Hot Honey Dipped Chicken Sandwiches, and decadent desserts and sides like Mac & Cheese, Coleslaw, Mashed Potatoes and Banana Pudding. For breakfast, Homeward Kitchen will serve oversized Breakfast Sandwiches and Bowls along with Overnight Oats and Breakfast Bakes paired with various Costa Coffee offerings.
This new franchise is an expansion of the Golden Corral brand. The first Golden Corral restaurant opened in Fayetteville, N.C., in 1973.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
