Golden Corral is preparing to debut its highly anticipated fast-casual concept Golden Corral Favorites – created to meet modern guests’ dining preferences without compromising on the quality and flavors they know and love.
The new restaurant, located at 10735 US-15 in Southern Pines, North Carolina, is a 4,200-square-foot space that will offer a curated selection of the brand’s beloved classics and guest favorites, all served in a format that prioritizes speed and convenience. Opening day festivities will begin at 10:45 a.m. today, April 22, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in partnership with the Moore County Chamber of Commerce and the Pinecrest Air Force Junior ROTC.
The celebration will include a special blessing from Bishop Timothy R. Newton Sr. of The Flowing Place Church and lead into the restaurant’s official opening at 11 a.m. To mark the occasion, the first 50 dine-in guests will receive free Golden Corral for a year (restrictions apply) — with additional prizes, apparel and promotions offered throughout the day.
“Golden Corral Favorites is all about honoring what our guests continue to return for – delicious, wholesome food at an incredible value – while adapting to how people want to dine today,” said CEO Lance Trenary in a press release. “This new format builds on the strength of our brand and brings our core menu into a more convenient and technology-forward setting.”
Earlier this year, the brand transitioned its previous fast-casual concept, Homeward Kitchen, into the new Golden Corral Favorites identity. The refreshed concept maintains Golden Corral’s pillars of comfort, value and quality while introducing new technology and a streamlined service model. Guests can enjoy their favorite dishes through dine-in, drive-thru, digital ordering and pickup.
“Golden Corral Favorites is a natural progression for our brand,” said VP of Operations Jason Kornosky in a press release. “Through this concept, we’re leaning into what we know works: the Golden Corral name, the food our guests love, and a commitment to quality. It’s not about starting over – it’s about evolving with purpose.”
Golden Corral Favorites will be open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
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
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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
