In 2020, Wendy’s restaurant at 1009 Fulton Avenue in Gardendale closed its doors. Many fast-food restaurants found staying open during that first year of the pandemic, so full of changes, difficult.

But new businesses have started to look towards Gardendale as a perfect place to start up and build clientele.

Coffee Anyone?

Santos coffee, a family business that started in 1956, is currently updating and redesigning the old Wendy’s restaurant with exciting plans to open their 3rd coffee shop in Jefferson County. 2022 finds the Santos coffee shops, currently with establishments in Hoover and even Birmingham; Gardendale is next on the list for the delicious coffee house. The family business is now operated by sisters Wendy and Kate. The establishments are widely known for their friendly service, signature coffee, amazing food menu, comfortable seating, fast internet, and kiosks that limit wait time. 

Blended and Roasted in Australia

The coffeehouse daily serves up freshly roasted Guatemalan coffee, using only Arabica beans cured in the latest precision equipment. The beans start out in Australia, where they are blended and roasted to perfection. Their menu items also include a large variety of breakfast sandwiches, crepes, specialty drinks, hot chocolate bombs, and pastries served up in a dog-friendly space.

The Gardendale location will offer dine-in, drive-thru, and perhaps even some local delivery.

Approved by the City

In reaching out to the city, confirmation was given that the owners of Santos recently met with the required members of the council to move forward with the coffee shop. Their designs for the shop were approved, and the go-ahead was given. 

So far, no timeline has been provided for an opening date, but we can all look forward to another place to enjoy the ever-popular cup of Joe.

The many new and varied businesses plus restaurants in the city signal a new wave of growth and prosperity for Gardendale.

We at the NJP hope to see you there!