Jim Fair
Abbott's signage on East Poinsett Street marks the first franchise in the Carolinas and Georgia of the frozen custard shop.
Jim Fair
About two weeks of work remains inside.
Jim Fair
A lighting display features the interior of Abbott's.
Jim Fair
The alley will be transformed into a gathering place for outdoor dining.
Owner Mark Khoury has renovated the former Dixie Shoe Shop into the custard store with a contemporary design. Windows have replaced the side brick wall to create a view into the alley that will serve as a common area with outside seating and tables with umbrellas.
“The ally will be open in the spring. It will also be a place where groups and families can rent the space,” Khoury said.
Orange cones will prohibit walking traffic until the alley is completed, Khoury said.
Jason Cole is the general manager. He was handing out candy in Abbott’s covered cup during Halloween on Trade. People who saved the cups get a free custard when the store opens.
Abbott’s, a Rochester, N.Y., headquartered company, will open at 11 a.m. next Friday and close at 10 p.m. Khoury said he will set seasonal hours when Abbott’s opens.
Read more on Abbott’s.