'Fancy' McDonald's reopens in Biltmore Village after Helene
ASHEVILLE - Reopening day has come to "fancy" McDonald's, a franchised location in the historic Biltmore Village that was destroyed during Tropical Storm Helene in the fall of 2024.
On Dec. 12, customers returned to dine at the restaurant at 35 Hendersonville Road, after more than a year of demolition and rebuilding following its submersion by an estimated 10 to 11 feet of floodwaters from the Swannanoa River, which crested at a record 27.33 feet.
"We're thrilled to be back open in Biltmore Village and grateful to our crew for all of their hard work. We also want to thank Asheville GreenWorks for their help in recovery and our fellow local Owner/Operators for their support in serving the community as Asheville recovers from the hurricane," Franchise owner Sherman Fan told the Citizen Times in an email on Dec. 15.
Fan also owns McDonald's locations on Tunnel Road, Patton Avenue, Merrimon Avenue, Hendersonville Road, as well as in Arden, Fletcher and Waynesville.
"Fancy" McDonald's earned its moniker for its design, which complements the historic cottages in Biltmore Village, built around the turn of the 20th century at the entrance of Biltmore Estate.
The restaurant opened in March 1971. The Citizen Times reported that the previous structure was built in 2000, which weathered the floods from Tropical Storms Ivan and Frances in 2004.
According to Fan, after Helene, everything in the restaurant was unsalvageable, calling for a complete rebuild and equipment replacement .
More: Asheville's 'fancy McDonald's' submits plans to rebuild after being destroyed by Helene
"However, we've brought back the beloved grand piano and a player piano to honor the charm and tradition guests have loved for years. Customers will continue to enjoy a uniquely Biltmore Village experience — an inviting atmosphere, exceptional service, and those special touches you won't find at other McDonald's locations," Fan stated.
The new piano is a Yamaha Disklavier, which plays and includes speakers and sound for ensemble music and lyrics.
Biltmore Village McDonald's reopens, grand opening celebration set
McDonald's in Biltmore Village's hours are 5 a.m.-midnight daily.
On Jan. 8, a ribbon-cutting will be held, featuring a ceremony to thank the dedicated crew members and those who had a hand in the restaurant's rebuild.
On Jan. 10, a grand reopening event is planned for customers and the community, featuring prizes, face painting, giveaways, games and specials. McDonald's iconic purple character, Grimace, will attend the Jan. 10 event.
Working at McDonald's in Biltmore Village
The Biltmore Village McDonald's reportedly employed about 50 staff members until Helene. According to Fan, the workers were provided support through the company's employee assistance program, GoFundMe efforts and donations by fellow local owners and operators. Fan said the individuals were offered the opportunity to relocate to work at one of his other restaurant locations during the renovation.
Nearly 25 employees were said to have returned to the Biltmore Village restaurant. Job opportunities are available. Interested candidates may apply by texting NC50 to 38000 or visiting jobs.mchire.com .
McDonald's
Where:35 Hendersonville Road, Biltmore Village, Asheville.
Hours:5 a.m.-midnight, daily.
Info:For more, visit mcdonalds.com .
Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Tips, comments, questions? Email tkennell@citizentimes.com or follow @PrincessOfPage on Instagram. Sign up for AVL Bites and Brews, our weekly food and drink newsletter here.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: 'Fancy' McDonald's, closed by Helene, reopens in Biltmore Village
