The parking lot at Columbia’s Golden Corral was busy all day Thursday, when the restaurant finally reopened after being closed for a year-and-a-half due to fire damage.
Columbia firefighters say the New Year’s Eve 2022 blaze caused $250,000 in damages, including heavy roof damage. There were no injuries. Construction crews have essentially rebuilt the entire restaurant, and they have a newly-remodeled dining room.
Golden Corral is popular for its food, including its breakfast offerings. It’s also a very popular spot for Thanksgiving lunch for families. The restaurant held a three-day hiring event in May, and is still hiring employees.