Opening Up New Restaurants Food+Drink
NEW SPACE, NEW MENU: Fast Fuel Opening on Water St. in 2023
fast favorite for fresh juice, food is expanding in downtown
author & photos by McKenna Scherer |
Fast Fuel hit its one-year mark last June, and although it’s been non-stop boomin’ with business, it never got to throw a celebratory anniversary party. But it will soon celebrate a second location. Soon to move into the old Burrachos space in downtown Eau Claire on Water Street, Fast Fuel is amping up for the new spot’s expanded menu and lounge space.
Fast Fuel has established itself as the fast go-to in the area. Juices are fresh-pressed at its kitchen in Banbury Place, and sold there as well as through retailers such as Hy-Vee. Its success has only proven Eau Claire is ready for more.
“WE LOVE DOWNTOWN AND DOWNTOWN LOVES Us.”
Dakota Yarrington
CO-OWNER of fast fuel ec
“We love downtown and downtown loves us,” Fast Fuel co-owner Dakota Yarrington said. “We love the people, the community, and just the energy of downtown.”
Yarrington recalled his original business plan for Fast Fuel having envisioned being close to a walking trail, having a drive-thru, and being in a busy area. Now, the new Fast Fuel location will have most of those things – situated next to a trail, on a busy street, and with parking available – and more.
With its new location at 329 Water St., a generous parking lot and some outdoor seating will be available, plus seating inside. It’s already fitted for a line-style system, which is exactly what Yarrington had envisioned for Fast Fuel’s expansion.
“When you come in, there’ll be a line to go to and a menu with different entree options: wraps, bowls, rice, and salads. You can pick what base or type you want, and go down the line (to add toppings),” Yarrington explained.
There will also be a handful of staple options for folks who would prefer to have a pre-designed entree. Plus, there will be an entire section dedicated to avocado toast options and acai bowls. “The acai is a huge, exciting part (because) there’s no place to get it in Eau Claire.”
For those familiar with Fast Fuel’s grab-and-go location in Banbury Place, decorated with pops of greenery, the Water Street location will have a similar vibe. “We’re finally going to have windows! So, tons of (natural) light, more greenery; just a cozy energy,” Yarrington said. “Yarrington spoke with the old Burrachos manager to get a feel for the store location, receiving positive feedback that only affirmed it was the right space for Fast Fuel.
The Fast Fuel team had originally aimed for a Jan. 1 opening, but Yarrington said the date may be closer to mid-January. “We don’t want to rush this, we want to make sure things are right; the food, the staff, the building is right where want it, all of that,” he said. “It’s a new year, new business, new food.”
Visit Fast Fuel’s website for more information and keep up with the biz on Facebook.