It’s still not finished, but the finish line is at hand – even if a timeline for a grand opening isn’t yet established. One of the developer of the first TGI Fridays in North Central West Virginia said he can say for sure that the eatery that many have waited for will definitely be open before the end of the year.

 

“I really hate to speculate on a time frame and don’t want to give one and be wrong about it,” said John “Mo” Mosesso of the White Oaks eatery. “I can tell you that we’re in September and we know the doors should be open well before the end of the year.”

 

Mosesso and his partner, Jerry Hamerski are responsible for the project under the banner of the Bridgeport Restaurant Group. The pair have been involved successfully on other developments in the region as well. Mosesso is also known for his “Lil’ Moe’s” Restaurant in Philippi.

 

“Things are actually moving along nicely and are going in the right direction,” said Mosesso. “We’re pleased with all the people inquiring about when we’re going to be open and pretty soon you’ll see a billboard going up near our location that will eventually include when we’re opening. We’re at the point now where we’re hiring staff.”

 

For those interested in working locally, Mosesso is encouraging individuals to apply. Those that would like to work can do so by going to the Web site www.bistrogroup.com.

 

“When this is finished, it’s going to look good. Not only is it something new to the area, this type of Friday’s is something that most haven’t seen before,” he said.

 

The reason for that is that the new location in Bridgeport is one of among only a handful of stand-alone restaurants in the chain nationwide that falls under a new prototype. The biggest difference is that this Fridays will feature garage doors that open up to allow for a unique dining experience.

 

“The doors that open will allow you to overlook on to the interstate,” said Mosesso. “We’ll have our regular dining area and a 30-seat bar with 24 beers on tap. There will also be outside seating available.”

 

Work can be seen taking place not only from Jerry Dove Drive, but along Interstate 79. The restaurant is situated along the frontage of White Oaks to I-79 and is the building that is going up along the southbound off ramp that gets you to State Route 279.

 

The building is being constructed by George Pastor & Sons. The contractor, out of Livonia in Michigan, specializes in restaurant construction.