First Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar in Florida Opens its Doors to Wesley Chapel Community

Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar, a leading full-service family sports bar that provides gourmet takes on game day favorites, has announced the opening of its first Florida location at 25372 Sierra Center Blvd., across the street from the Premium Outlets in Wesley Chapel. Opening on July 29, Wesley Chapel residents will have a go-to community restaurant that embodies the go-getter spirit of a walk-on athlete while providing superior service and mouthwatering All-American menu items with a taste of Louisiana.

The new restaurant will be locally owned and operated by Paul Hollabaugh and Jared Burnett. First experiencing Walk-On’s in Baton Rouge on a business trip, Burnett promptly fell in love with the product. After being told Walk-On’s will be franchising, Burnett opened the first location out of Louisiana in Lubbock, Texas where Hollabaugh, who is a second generation restaurant owner and has over 20 years in the industry, first experienced Walk-On’s. The two remained strangers until a mutual friend connected them after learning that both had interest in opening a new Walk-On’s in Florida. Hollabaugh was relocating to Florida to be with family and the two became fast friends and the perfect business partners.

“We both fell in love with Walk-On’s at first bite,” said Burnett. “It has always been my dream to move to Florida and live on the beach. Now that it feels like home, I cannot wait to bring the exciting menu to my new neighbors in Florida.”

Walk-On’s diverse menu has offerings ranging from unique twists on game day staples – such as a Smoked Gouda Turkey Burger, Boom Boom Shrimp Poyboy, and Cajundillas, to upscale takes on Louisiana mainstays – such as Crawfish Etou-Ways, Mardi Gras Mahi, and Duck and Andouille Gumbo. Its innovative menu provides vast and flavorful dishes for every guest.

“I’ve been involved in a few different restaurant franchises, but I’ve never been more ready to say yes and dive into a new location like I have with Walk-On’s,” said Hollabaugh. “Everything from the atmosphere to the food and drinks absolutely hooked me.”

Whether it be for date night, a drink, girl’s night out or a family dinner, Walk-On’s is the place for everyone – because everyone needs a little playing time. Dishes are made from scratch using fresh ingredients to bring its savory cuisine to life. Its game day atmosphere paired with a true southern hospitality makes it a perfect dining destination for everyone. As stated by co-owner and NFL superstar Drew Brees, Walk-On’s is “a great place to bring my family, teammates and business colleagues,” and we’re excited to help “expand the brand across the nation.” Today, with over 100 locations in development across 15 states, the brand is on track for strategic franchise expansion nationwide.

“We’re elated to bring the Wesley Chapel area a Walk-On’s to call their own as people continue to seek out more convenient, casual dining options with a unique ambiance, innovative menu options and unbeatable hospitality,” said Walk-On’s Founder, Brandon Landry. “Our Walk-On’s team could not be more pleased to grow with wonderful franchisees like Jared and Paul as we expand to 29 locations and beyond. I look forward to witnessing how the community reacts to our arrival and hope that everyone enjoys themselves.”

The Wesley Chapel restaurant will employ up to 250 people who will join the Walk-On’s All-American team. For those interested in employment opportunities, please visitwww.walkons.com/careers.

For more information on Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar in Wesley Chapel, please visit www.walk-ons.com or call 813-553-6500.