Mason’s is on the Move
If you’ve ever been in downtown Aberdeen on a weekend morning, you’ve likely seen a line out the door for Mason’s Restaurant & Grocery. The restaurant defeated the odds after opening in 2020 and has expanded its offerings, most recently adding a dinner menu. Now, owners Brian and Alison Hainley are on to their next move. They were recently approached about building a new space that could be customized to their liking.
While it was a tough decision, the couple ultimately agreed it made sense, especially for the catering side of the business. “That space, for where we were at that time, was great but we feel like we’ve literally and figuratively outgrown it,” says Alison. The new space will take them from 1,800 square feet to 4,300. “Now all things we get asked to do, we’ll be able to do,” says Brian.
The new space will be able to seat around 160-200 people and offer a temperature-controlled patio. It’ll be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and have a full bar. They plan to incorporate elements from the OG Mason’s but you can expect to see new branding and a new slogan to go with it: “Southern Comfort Served with Style.” There will also be an espresso bar and some grab-n-go options like sandwiches and salads.
The couple doesn’t want people to think they’re abandoning Aberdeen. Which, um, hello? Their other restaurant, Pizzeria Grazia, will stay downtown and is not cooking up any changes. They hope to see someone else’s dreams realized by moving into the current Mason’s. “I want Aberdeen to thrive. We love Aberdeen,” says Alison.
“We know that change is hard and we know that people care deeply about that space but the space isn’t what makes Mason’s, it’s the people,” she says. “And they’re coming with us,” adds Brian.
- So where are they going? The new spot will be in front of Provision Ace Hardware in Whispering Pines, where they are preparing to break ground any day now. The current spot will remain open until the new spot is ready to serve. They are aiming for a January opening. Follow along on IG.
