'The turnout was unbelievable': Chinese takeaway overwhelmed by response to new branch
‘It shows the power of good food and community’
A Chinese takeaway has been overwhelmed by the response from the community after opening a new branch.
Hungry locals packed Finkle Street as Bobby’s Salt & Pepper threw open its doors in Pontefract on August 17, with queues stretching down the road.
The Chinese fusion takeaway, which first made waves in Ossett four years ago, pulled in hundreds of fans eager for a taste of its famous menu. The Pontefract launch marks the fifth branch for the booming chain, which already has shops in Manchester, Leeds and Huddersfield.
To celebrate, the team handed out more than 600 free sample boxes, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
Director Stephen Kafai Cheung said the turnout was "unbelievable" and praised the town’s community spirit.
"With our fifth branch we wanted to continue what we know and open somewhere with a strong sense of community, Pontefract is exactly that," he said.
Bobby’s Salt & Pepper has built a loyal following since opening its first shop on Dale Street, with customers travelling from far and wide.
Their huge social media presence has helped fuel their rapid expansion beyond West Yorkshire.
But for Cheung and the team, bringing Bobby’s closer to Pontefract regulars was a top priority.
"We get lots of customers from Pontefract and surrounding areas visiting our other branches and it’s lovely to be able to give them a Bobby’s more local to them. Never forget your roots."
Cheung added: "We can’t thank Pontefract enough, the amount of support received in just one week has been incredible and we are so grateful. It really showed us the power of good food and community coming together."