Shake Shack arrives in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — A fast-growing national burger chain has expanded into the Cape Fear region with the opening of a new restaurant in Wilmington.

Shake Shack opened its latest location Wednesday on Military Cutoff Road, marking its 10th restaurant in North Carolina. The company, which began as a hot dog cart in New York City in 2001, grew out of a single kiosk in Madison Square Park before expanding into an international fast-casual brand known for its burgers, crinkle-cut fries and milkshakes.

The Wilmington location drew a steady line of customers throughout the day as people turned out to try the menu.

General Manager Robert Plumley said first-time visitors should consider starting with some of the restaurant’s classic offerings.

The restaurant is also giving back to the community. Officials said $1 from every burger sold on opening day will be donated to Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina.

The opening reflects continued growth for the chain across North Carolina and comes as the Wilmington area continues to see new retail and restaurant development tied to population growth.