Susan and Raymond Hite will now own Mildred’s Meals at 109 E. Fifth Ave.

The restaurant officially opened under Raymond and Susan’s ownership Monday, July 23.

Raymond said Susan, who has been employed with the restaurant for more than 10 years, worked with outgoing owner Richard “Dickie” Harris, along with Raymond and his father Raymond Hite Sr.

The restaurant held a grand opening Friday.

“We’ve been interested in it for years,” Raymond said.

He said he worked at the restaurant with Mildred’s founder Mildred Carter for a few years. “(Harris) worked with us and gave us the opportunity to purchase it,” Raymond said.

He said all employees will remain at the restaurant, and while small changes may be underway, they won’t begin overnight. He said they will work to buy produce and other items locally as much as possible.

The restaurant was owned by Carter from 1982 until her retirement in 2013. Carter died April 27, 2017.

Raymond said there are some parallels between Carter and Susan. Carter’s husband, Jesse, was the Chief of Police for approximately 45 years while Carter owned the restaurant. Raymond said Susan is the restaurant owner, and he currently serves as the Chief of Police in Kenbridge.

He said he is excited to see what the future holds.

“We’re going to try to keep the tradition on of good quality food,” Hite said.