'The Office'-themed Chili's to open restaurant near Scranton
What's the story
A new Chili's restaurant is slated to open in Dickson City, Pennsylvania, about six miles away from Scranton.
However, the establishment is not just any restaurant, it's a tribute to the popular mockumentary series, The Office, which was set in Scranton.
The show had previously featured a Chili's location in an episode where Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell, tries to impress a client with an "awesome blossom"—a dish making a comeback exclusively at this new restaurant.
Themed decor
Restaurant design and show references
The new Chili's will include a mid-2000s design, complete with vintage signs and chalkboard art. It will also include nods to the show's fictional paper company, Dunder Mifflin.
The restaurant will open on April 7 and serve the "Scranton marg" nationwide for the day.
The establishment is sure to draw fans of the show and tourists alike.
Star appearances
'The Office' cast members promote new restaurant
Brian Baumgartner (Kevin Malone) and Kate Flannery (Meredith Palmer) appear in commercials for the new restaurant. Other cast members like Melora Hardin, Andy Buckley, and Amy Pietz also star in a promotional video.
According to WDSU News, Baumgartner was thrilled about the new location and said, "It seems like a wrong was righted here at around the 20th anniversary of the show to finally have a Scranton branch of Chili's."
Show impact
'The Office' helped boost local pride in Scranton
The Office has greatly amplified local pride in Scranton. The city has even held massive Office-themed parties, including one that drew some 10,000 people in 2013.
Streaming services have also contributed to the show's popularity.
Flannery, who hails from Philadelphia, expressed her delight at how The Office reinforced local pride in the city, saying, "There's beauty in ordinary things. And Scranton can feel ordinary to some people. But it's really special. It is."
Business decision
Chili's chief marketing officer on new restaurant
According to AP, George Felix, Chili's chief marketing officer, said opening a themed restaurant isn't the chain's usual business strategy. But because of the show's connection to Scranton, this location is special.
The nearest Chili's from Scranton was once 31km away but has since shut down.
The restaurant will attract tourists and The Office fans, making it a special addition to the area's dining scene.