Another burger joint is opening in the city of Albemarle.

As early as next week holiday shoppers will have the option to dine at a Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries in the Olive Place Shopping Center.

Hwy 55 is a diner with a full menu of American classics served in a fun, 1950s dining atmosphere. It features fresh hand-pattied hamburgers, cheesesteak sandwiches, salads and a wide variety of milkshakes and frozen custards. Each location features a unique open kitchen in which customers can watch their meals being prepared.

The franchise eatery is the latest to join the array of restaurants at the city’s newest shopping center at 750 Leonard Ave.

“A growing population and the big-box stores is driving traffic at the shopping center,” said co-owner Victor Patel. “The timing was right for another burger joint in Albemarle.”

He said burgers remain a customer favorite, especially for its ease and convenience.

“I believe Albemarle is a perfect fit for a Hwy 55 restaurant,” Patel added.

Business partners since 2012, Patel and local attorney Charles Parnell, both of Albemarle, want to draw on the success of Olive Place. In addition to Stanly County, the shopping center is drawing customers from rural areas east of Albemarle.

“All those people have nowhere else to go,” Patel said. “More traffic is coming to Stanly County and Albemarle.”

Albemarle marks the fourth Hwy 55 location for Patel and Parnell. They have other locations in Harrisburg, Weddington and Indian Trail.

Locust is also home to a Hwy 55 restaurant, however, it has different ownership.

Plans include for the Hwy 55 location to host special events, like car shows, and an occasional fundraiser. Patel has already worked with multiple local organizations to plan several fundraisers and theme nights after the restaurant opens.

A final inspection is expected to be completed on the site this week, followed by a certificate of occupancy.

If the restaurant does not open by the end of November, it should open the first week of December, Patel said.

Hwy 55 opened its first restaurant in Goldsboro in 1991.  Albemarle will mark its 92nd location in the state.