Checkers lands on new square

WINCHESTER — Checkers, “the little place with the big taste,” will hold a grand opening today for its newest location at 535 Patsy Cline Blvd.

The 1950s-style fast-food chain, with its double drive-thru lanes, serves up hand-seasoned burgers, fries and shakes. The franchise, which was founded in 1986 in Mobile, Ala., and later merged with Rally’s, now has more than 800 locations nationwide, including at Riverton Commons north of Front Royal, near the Interstate 66 interchange.

Both area restaurants are owned by Mar-Chek, based in Glen Burnie, Md., which owns 10 other locations in Maryland and Virginia.

“We’ve been quite successful,” said Janet Wildman, a community relations specialist with Mar-Chek. “People love our food.”

In March, Mar-Chek closed its Manassas Park restaurant, dismantled the 700-square-foot building and transported the pieces to Winchester, where they were reassembled on a half-acre lot north of Lowe’s.

Wildman said the finished location features outdoor seating and a covered area with a walk-up window for ordering.

Eventually, the regional franchise owner would like to expand further down the Interstate 81 corridor, she said.

The grand opening festivities will feature activities for both adults and children, including a clown, fire engines and a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

“We love kids,” Wildman said.

— Daily Staff Report