My perspective about Quaker Steak & Lube is beginning to change. I'm starting to think the new restaurant at Legends Crossing, which has September 5 tentatively circled as its opening date, could be Waco's new party central.
I spoke with general manager Shawn Dunham, who told me excitedly and at length about the atmosphere Quaker Steak & Lube hopes to create. The skinny — lots of special events to go along with the wings and sports on huge TVs. Dunham said they could have as many as six 80-inch screens and more than 30 total TVs in the restaurant.
My friend Craig was recently speculating about where he might try to watch RG3 Redskins games this fall. This might suit you just fine, Craig.
Before speaking with Dunham this week, I'll be honest, I was thinking "ok, wings and sports on TV, I've heard of that before." See also: Buffalo Wild Wings and Hooters.
However, Dunham spoke of festivities, beginning with pre-opening parties coming up in August, and giveaways. Apparently, Quaker Steak & Lube has a habit of giving away motorcycles and cash prizes at some of its events. I think I'm going to have to see one of these things for myself before I attempt to fully describe it to you, WacoFork friends, but it sounds promising coming from Dunham.
One factor that should heighten our expectations for Quaker Steak & Lube is that it will be the first one in Texas. It seems as if the chain is planning to make a statement with this restaurant. And they have a good place to make it right in the middle of the Dallas/Fort Worth to Austin I-35 corridor.
While Dunham heartily promoted the events Quaker Steak & Lube plans to offer — he sincerely believes The Lube, as he calls it, will bring something to town that we don't currently have — he was most adamant about the quality of the food. I believe him, but I also know he's going to get the chance to prove it.
I'm kind of pumped about Dunham's hopes for The Lube's beer selection. He asked, so I gave him the names of a few Texas breweries that might earn his bar some street cred among our local beer aficionados. The Fork is always willing to help.
So I have to say I'm growing more intrigued about Quaker Steak & Lube as their opening approaches.
One more bite: Quaker Steak & Lube will be hosting a job fair August 7 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Homewood Suites, which is the hotel adjacent to the restaurant's location and Hillcrest Hospital. Dunham also told me anyone especially interested in working at The Lube can stop by their small trailer office next to the construction site. ... Quaker Steak & Lube plans to employ about 150 people.
