Big crowd welcomes return of Moe's to Pullman

HUNTINGTON -- Hundreds turned out Friday evening for the grand reopening of Moe's Southwest Grill in Pullman Square after a leasing dispute left the space empty for a year.

Situated between Starbucks and Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries on 3rd Avenue, Moe's features a variety of Mexican dishes including burritos, quesadillas and nachos. Owner and operator Barbara Woods of Barboursville said more than 400 people were served Friday. So many people came in, she said, that all of the prepared food was finished in a matter of hours.

The restaurant also had lines out the door at times during its first full day Saturday.

Depending on the success of flagship store, Woods said, seven more stores could be opening up around the state. With plans of possible expansion in the future, Woods said she is now focusing on making great, affordable food for Moe's customers.

"I wanted to make an attractive place for people to eat in at a reasonable price," she said. "My objective is to put a burrito in the hands of every man, woman and child."

With 28 staff members employed at the restaurant, Woods said she hopes to add to the city's economic infrastructure. While turning a profit is important, Woods said the main objective is to contribute to the progression of downtown Huntington's business environment.

The reopening marks the end of property leasing negotiations that left the space unused since 2006. As the owner of several Huntington properties, Woods said she is happy to finally open the doors to the public.

Moe's is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.