Ready your forks and stomachs for Abilene’s new eateries.

Panda Express was first in line to expand the restaurant horizons, opening last month.

The restaurant located off Hwy. 351 has drawn in huge crowds from Abilene’s student population.

“It’s fast, quick and easy,” said Brandy Rains, senior art education major from Fort Worth. “After eating Sharky’s so many times, it’s nice that there is some variety.”

McAlister’s Deli on South Clack is in the construction process, scheduled to open towards the end of September.

Whenever a new restaurant comes to Abilene the news is big, Rains said.

“Everyone starts guessing what’s coming,” Rains said. “I guessed Abilene would eventually get a Chipotle, but there’s still no sign that I’ll graduate before one makes its way here.”

Last December, KTXS, an Abilene news station, reported the build-your-own burrito restaurant, Freebirds, was working on a restaurant in Abilene. However, no sites have been set.

Employees in Abilene’s Planning and Development Services Department said no new restaurant openings can be announced until site developers contact their office for a permit.

These new diners on the block are offering more than food for Abilene’s college students.

McAclister’s Deli has utilized their Facebook page to raise the grand opening hype and advertise for wanted help.

Kaitlin Winegeart, senior family studies major from Amarillo, said she is excited for Abilene’s new restaurants because they will provide new opportunities for jobs.

“When I heard about the new restaurants I started looking to apply, because restaurants specifically target college students looking to make some money,” she said. “Plus, once it gets to the middle of the semester, food to-go is the way to go.”