Fried chicken, pork chops, green beans and corn on the cob.

There’s a new spot in town for old-fashioned southern cooking, and it’s looking to offer good food and fellowship for Washington residents.

Located on Bridge Street, Open Heart Country Kitchen opened a little more than a week ago and is run by Sharon Little, Tyree Moore and Allan King.

Open Heart started as a catering business in March, but grew to include the new restaurant location, as well, according to Moore.

Little said all three of them have ample restaurant experience and work as a team to get things done.

They came up with the idea to start catering after Golden Corral on Carolina Avenue in Washington closed, as all saw a void for hearty meals in a buffet-style setting. The atmosphere of Open Heart is laid back, and welcomes customers for a come-as-you-are and eat-all-you-can dining experience.

Ornetta Moore came out to support nephew Tyree Moore at a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening celebration on Tuesday.

Moore said she thinks Washington needs a place like Open Heart, especially one that was started right at home.

“I’m very proud of him,” she said of her nephew. “You need some small businesses, too.”

Tyree Moore said the main challenge at this point is getting the restaurant’s name out to the public and earning customers’ trust.

Little said they have been delivering plates to locations, such as businesses and assisted living facilities, to do just that.

According to Moore, the three business partners have big plans for Open Heart. He said they hope to continue growing and eventually purchase a building to hold larger events. Not only that, they want to become involved in community programs, and possibly host afterschool events.

For now, though, all are excited for what the future holds and will continue to establish business roots in Washington.