Washington and Lee University
New Restaurant Coming to Lexington
Reproduced with permission of the Ring Tum Phi
Story by Jordan McConnel, Staff Writer
Washington and Lee University students and Lexington residents will soon have a new place to dine from early in the morning to late into the night. Better yet, the new restaurant, which is planned to offer a contemporary feel and menu, will also reflect the historic roots and culture of Lexington.
At least that's the hope of Roanoke restaurateur Richard Macher, who plans to open a Macado's restaurant in the former Wilson-Walker House, 30 N. Main St., late this summer.
The space has been empty since Wilson-Walker house closed its doors more than two years ago.
Macher says that this restaurant, like the other 14 Macado's he owns and operates, will offer a modern flair while also drawing on local culture. He calls this unique feel "funky metro."
"We're going for a little bit more of a modern look," Macher said. "We want people to feel the energy of it." Chris Lumpkin, the decorator of the new Macado's said they are going for the "old feel with the new thing."
Macher plans to maintain the integrity of the Wilson-Walker House, which was built in 1820 and is included in the Historic American Buildings Survey.
Macher said he has been approved by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, which grants federal and state tax credits for rehabilitated historical buildings.
"We've hired a historical architect," he said. Macher said he also plans to "eBay anything 'Lexingtonish'" to enhance the local flavor of the restaurant.
So far, Macher has already torn down a wall on the main floor that was added in the 1980s. He said that the wall broke up the space on the first floor.
"One of the challenges was the rooms were too small," Macher said. "I want it to be fun, not chubbyholeish."
In the space where the wall was removed, Macher plans to put an L-shaped bar with a back-lit glass display case. On the main floor, there will also be a retail area, and both high- and low-topped tables. Seating will also be available upstairs and on the two front porches.
Macado's will offer a varied menu that will suit all types of people. Although famous for its sandwiches, Macado's will also serve appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts.
"We cater to everybody," Macher said. "We have kids' night, quick lunch, and localized delivery."
In addition to its assorted menu, Macado's hours are unique. It will open at 8 a.m. all days of the week and close at 12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, providing the perfect place for both early-risers and students with late night munchies.
Despite these competitive hours and varied menu, local business owners and managers don't seem to be concerned about the opening of a new restaurant. Mike Gregg, who owns the Blue Sky Bakery with his wife Brenda, doesn't think the opening of Macado's will affect his business.
"People come here because of the speed," Gregg said. "People that go somewhere like that expect table service."
Kelly Pate, a manger at the Palms, said their business may be affected initially, but in the long run, the Palms will be fine.
"With any new business, in the beginning, everyone's going to go, but we've been here since '75," Pate said.
Macher, who lives in Roanoke, is planning on coming up every couple of weeks to check on the restaurant. He also plans to have a general manager from another Macado's come and look ovr the new restaurant.