Longtime Dilworth restaurant to reopen as Fat Cat Burgers + Bakeshop next week

Why it matters: Owner and restauranteur Fran Scibelli has been a part of Charlotte’s restaurant scene since 1995. Her newest venture aims to appeal to the next generation of Charlotteans. “I just want to make it accessible to everybody,” says Scibelli.

Background: If you’re an O.G. Charlottean, you’ll remember Fran from her days running Metropolitan Café in SouthPark, which she sold in 2004 and is now home to Barrington’s. Fran then opened Fran’s Filling Station in 2009, which became a fixture at the Park Square Shopping Center in Dilworth.

What to expect: The renovation included adding a new walk-up window where guests can order artisan donuts and nitro coffee.

• Guests can also expect classic savory menu items like fried chicken sandwiches, salads and burgers.
• For drinks, there will be nine beers on draft and craft cocktails.
• Fran eventually hopes to expand her patio amenities with additions like a stand-up bar, corn hole boards, dartboards and live music performances.

Location: 2410 Park Road.

Timeline: Fran plans to have a soft opening on April 5 and start off by offering donuts and dinner. She hopes to resume lunch service by mid-April.

Here’s a look inside: