ROTTERDAM — Wagon Train BBQ, the popular restaurant that caught fire this past weekend, is set to reopen on Wednesday, the establishment announced on social media.
“We have been cleared from The Code Enforcement and the Department of Environmental Services to reopen on Wednesday, June 7th,” the Facebook post reads. “We cant wait to get back to work! Please pardon our appearance while we clean up and rebuild.”
News of the reopening comes just days after the popular Mariaville Road restaurant caught fire early Sunday morning. The fire led to power outages to approximately 20,000 customers throughout Schenectady County after the flames spread to a nearby National Grid structure, the utility company said.
No injuries were reported.
Details on what caused the fire remain unclear. Schenectady County Fire Coordinator Scott Pike did not immediately respond to a request seeking comment.
Richard Frederick, owner of Wagon Train BBQ, declined a request for an interview Tuesday, but said in an email that he is planning to restart the rebuilding process as soon as his insurance completes an investigation. The restaurant was closed Sunday and does not operate on Mondays and Tuesdays.
“I would like to thank everyone who has reached out in this terrible time of this tragic event,” he wrote on Facebook. “I appreciate all the love, support and offers to help in whatever we needed. I truly appreciate your positive thoughts, prayers and the overwhelming support!”
Frederick went on to thank first responders and the restaurant’s customers and staff.
“Without all of you we are nothing and I can’t thank you all enough for the support,” he wrote.
News of the reopening garnered hundreds of social media reactions, with many leaving comments that the restaurant is moving forward. expressing joy.
“Wonderful news!!!” wrote one person.
“I might not make it Wednesday, but I’ll be there before the week ends!!!” said another.
Wagon Train BBQ has been a popular destination for more than a decade. The establishment started as a takeout joint by Frederick and his later business partner, Frank DelGallo, before expanding to a sit-down establishment.
The restaurant is known for its sizeable portions, including its massive Graveyard Burger — a 5 ½ pound colossal that includes pulled pork, brisket, crispy onion tangler, a pound of fries and a spot on the Wagon Train’s Wall of Fame to anyone who can slay the beast in under 30 minutes.
The burger appeared on the popular Travel Channel show, “Man v. Food” when then-host Adam Richman traveled to Rotterdam to take on the challenge.
Contact reporter Chad Arnold at: [email protected] or by calling 518-395-3120.
Categories: -News-, Email Newsletter, News, Rotterdam, Schenectady County
