Carolina Diner gains new ownership and name; Captain D's closes after 18 years of business

Carolina Diner now has a new owner and will soon have a new name: West End Diner. Tom McCombs, owner of Silver Creek Restaurant, bought the diner in early June and his son Thomas McCombs Jr. will help oversee work at both Silver Creek and the diner.

Signs outside the diner say “now open,” though the restaurant never closed, the new owner said.

McCombs reopened Silver Creek in February after fully renovating the restaurant following Hurricane Helene flood damage. Regarding the soon-to-be West End Diner, McCombs said they hope to renovate with a fresh coat of paint on the inside and outside by the first week of July. Carolina Diner regulars will recognize the same staff, including Manager Peggy McKinney.

CAPTAIN D’S CLOSURE

Morganton’s Captain D’s location closed in late May after 18 years of business.

The building now sits vacant at 2117 S. Sterling St. The company informed customers of its permanent closure and directed customers to nearby chains in Hickory and Hudson.

“We would like to thank you for your support over the past 18 years,” state signs taped to the doors and drive-through.

Captain D’s Development Supervisor Tracy Paul said there’s no plans for another location in the Morganton area anytime soon, but that the company is “expanding quickly.”

KIMBRELL’S FURNITURE

Kimbrell’s Furniture will be moving back to its 915 W. Union St. location, according to Store Manager Lola Preston. The building is currently undergoing renovations, she said, after being completely gutted. Before the store can open, Preston said, it will need all new elements — from walls to an office.

The store has been temporarily operating out of 111 E. Fleming Drive and Preston said she is thankful to the location’s property team for providing a home for her and her Kimbrell’s staff. She said she will be glad to be back in their original space though, as the current space is much smaller and the store doesn’t have a warehouse.

“We’re just excited,” Preston said. “We want to get back home.”

Preston said there’s not a date in mind yet, but Kimbrell’s will have a grand reopening.

VILLAGE INN PIZZA

Manager for Village Inn Pizza Hunter Hileman posted on social media that the company is hiring for its new Morganton location on Bush Drive near the Cracker Barrel.

Hileman will be managing the new location and said the current restaurant at 1016 Burkemont Ave. will be closing. He said he is still unsure of an estimated time for the new location’s opening.

For those who are interested in working at the new location, Village Inn management encourages applicants to call 828-437-1515 or apply online at villageinnpizza.com.