WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — After 34 years, Mike’s Hot Dogs and Hamburgers has closed its doors.
Mike Wellon, the chef the restaurant is named after, is retiring according to comments under a Facebook post of the closing announcement that was posted on June 21. Wellon, also known as also known as “Mister Mike,” owned the restaurant with his wife Rita Wellon.
“It has been such a wonderful experience getting to know each and every one of you," cashier Haley Flynn said on Facebook. “I look forward to our regulars who come in and give us updates on your lives. The community at Mike’s has become one big family that I am proud to have been a part of. I truly wish we had our chance to say our goodbyes. Thank you to everyone who have shown up for us! We are thankful for all of you!”
The restaurant at 823 Russell Parkway in Warner Robins, had many supporters. Several Central Georgia adults had been eating at the restaurant since they were kids and eventually brought their own kids into the restaurant.
Kellierae Dover, who posted several social media posts for the restaurant in the past, made the initial announcement on Friday, June 21 of the restaurant shutting its doors. The initial post received over 140 comments, over 160 shares and over 400 reactions.
“I was really, truly looking forward to these last few days serving and seeing all my regulars! I’m so sorry that we don’t have this one last week, but I have loved being the server for Mike’s for this last year,” Dover said on Facebook. “I have made so many friends from the customers and couldn’t thank y'all enough for everything! all the silly conversations to helping me out in my personal life!! Thank you all so much!!! I hope to cross paths with y'all again!!”
The eatery near the Gold Cup Bowling alley initially planned for a final week sendoff, with plans to be open on June 26-28. However, according to the post, due to insurance policy conditions, they were unable to have guests.
The restaurant always noted its "never frozen, hand-pressed, flame-grilled patties that were always made to order." Its most recognizable burger was a 12-ounce Gorilla Burger with the customers choice of toppings.
The restaurant also offered a “Mike’s Dog” — a Carolina dog loaded with homemade coleslaw and chili — and gyros with choices of chicken steak or lamb.
Commenters raved about the eatery’s burgers, hot dogs and fries. Randy Russell said on Facebook that they are “going to miss getting the best burgers and fries in Middle Georgia."
Several commenters noted how much they loved the Gorilla Burgers and slaw dogs, with others noting how good their polish dog and hamburg steaks were.
The commenters wished “Mister Mike” best in his retirement and a new locally owned restaurant will pick up where Mike’s Hot Dogs and Hamburgers left off.