By CHRISTINE BOATWRIGHT / Staff Writer

CHELSEA – Chelsea’s newest business was bustling during the noon lunch hour on July 21. Burger King opened its doors for the first time, welcoming customers.

The new restaurant, located off U.S. 280 adjacent to Publix and the Baptist Health Center, had a soft opening on the evening of July 20 for friends and family members, but opened for business on Thursday.

Sterrett resident Faye Poole, an EBSCO employee, said when she drove by and saw that the restaurant was open, she sent out a mass email. The results of that email were apparent, as she showed of a number of drinks and a large bag full of orders for coworkers.

The new restaurant saw familiar Chelsea faces, as a few Chelsea Citizen Observer Patrol officers dined with burgers and fries. City councilmember Juanita Champion also ordered lunch.

“I’ve been waiting for this to open. Burger King has my favorite burger,” Champion said.

Lieutenant Don Williamson of the Chelsea Fire Department had lunch at Burger King on July 21.

“I’m fanatical about their chicken sandwich,” he said.