A popular Filipino restaurant in Fayetteville is preparing to expand, with plans underway for a second location closer to Fort Bragg. 

Owner of Kusinera Filipino Cuisine Nanette Thomas recently shared with GFBJ that she has signed a letter of an intent to open up a second location in a new dining space currently under construction just outside the gates of Fort Bragg. 

The new spot will be designed differently from the original location. It will be open seven days a week with an environment more centered around take out orders than dine in. 

The current location, opened a year ago, has seen steady business and a loyal customer base since opening its doors. People drive from Raleigh, Charlotte and Goldsboro to come enjoy Thomas’s authentic Filipino food. 

Thomas credits the restaurant’s success to her hands-on approach and dedicated staff. Thomas herself is at the restaurant around 12 to 14 hours a day. 

“I’m cooking, I’m preparing, I'm cutting the meat, I'm working the cash register, I'm cleaning up tables. I'm doing everything there, but I do love it. I do love talking to people. I love to be at the cash register, because I get to meet the customers, talk to them and give them my suggestions of what they should order. It is fun,” remarked Thomas.

Thomas has 22 employees at her current restaurant and looks forward to expanding her staff and creating new jobs with the second location. 

Looking ahead, Thomas is optimistic about the second location and its potential. With proximity to Fort Bragg, the Amazon Fulfillment Center and new residential units, this additional location will grant a greater number of customers convenient access to Kusinera Filipino Restaurant’s popular menu. 

Once construction is complete and the lease is signed, Thomas will share further details about the new location. She assures guests that the new spot will guarantee the same quality and hospitality that has made the original location a local favorite.