Purcellville has an apparent lack of breakfast options, how will Woodgrove react to the addition of an IHOP? The breakfast chain has started construction of a new building next to 7-Eleven in Purcellville’s Catoctin Corner. With the closest IHOP thirteen miles away in Leesburg, the new restaurant will dominate the breakfast scene as one of few options in town.
Student feedback varies from excitement to confusion, Senior Sophia Van De Geer states, “I am very excited for it to open. There are not too many restaurants in the Purcellville area, and I think that it will be a good addition.” While on the other hand, senior Xander Barrus remarked, “There’s a new IHOP?”
When surveying a sample size of the student body it was found that 72 percent knew of the new IHOP and 66 percent plan to eat there in the future.
Students were asked what they thought of the new restaurant as well as how its addition to Purcellville would affect traffic. Flash poll results were varied however most agreed that the addition of a new restaurant would worsen traffic. Among those showing excitement are the swim team and Theater. Senior and varsity swimmer Camilla Swanson explains her team’s post-meet ritual. “Our post-meet ritual at IHOP is a fun experience after the meets to socialize with teammates and eat pancakes.” Swanson explains, “I think It’s a great addition to Purcellville.” Senior and Theater performer, Rett Dean, also stated, “I’m sure the new establishment will be welcomed with open arms and hungry people.”
Although feedback has been somewhat mixed, the restaurant adds to Purcellville’s food options and continues our town’s growth. Van De Geer continues, “I think some people may not like that there is a new chain coming to Purcellville. I think Woodgrove students will still love a new restaurant.” While the building seems to be nearing completion, there is still no date set for the restaurant’s opening. The restaurant is estimated to begin seating customers sometime during 2024.
