A local couple in Concord, North Carolina, is set to transform an old gas station into a vibrant dining destination. AJ and Rachael Donner will open their new restaurant, Pump Social, later this summer at 24 Church St. NE. This innovative venture promises to capture the nostalgia of the past while offering a modern dining experience.
With a combined experience of over 30 years in the hospitality industry, the Donners are well-equipped to bring their vision to life. AJ currently serves as the executive chef at Best Impressions Caterers, a premium catering company based in Charlotte. His culinary expertise, paired with Rachael’s background, is expected to create an exciting menu that reflects their passion for community and food.
AJ expressed their motivation to open Pump Social as a way to contribute to the growing Concord community. “Seeing Concord grow and wanting to be part of that community is a driving factor,” he stated. “My wife and I met in hospitality years ago, so it’s always been a dream for us. Now that we’ve settled in downtown Concord, we definitely want to be part of the community and put our part into it to make it what we want it to be.”
A Unique Dining Experience
The restaurant will feature a menu that highlights fresh, chef-driven sandwiches, salads, and bowls. Customers can enjoy their meals in the 1,100-square-foot interior or outside on a spacious 1,500-square-foot covered patio. Signature offerings will include classic sandwiches such as Italian, chicken salad, and BLTs, all infused with global flavors and cultural influences.
In addition to the food, Pump Social will offer a carefully curated beer and wine menu, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or a casual drink. AJ envisions the restaurant as a gathering place: “It’s going to be a gathering place for lunch and dinners as well as to hang out and have a drink under the old awning at the gas station.”
As the summer opening approaches, the couple is eager to share their culinary creations with the community and provide a welcoming environment for all. Their commitment to enhancing the local dining scene reflects a broader trend of revitalizing historic spaces for modern use, contributing to Concord’s evolving landscape.
With a focus on quality food and community engagement, Pump Social is poised to become a cherished destination in downtown Concord.
