Old Carolina Barbecue Almost Ready to Open

The long-delayed opening of Old Carolina Barbecue could happen Monday.

The company posted on its Facebook page that its newest location at 14795 Pearl Rd., on the first floor of the Elevated Fitness building, is expected to open on Monday.

"Fingers crossed," the page says.

General Manager Ray Hull said staff is training this weekend and he's hoping for a grand opening on Monday.

"It could be as early as Monday, but no later than Wednesday," he said.

Old Carolina was originally supposed to open last fall, but a major electrical component blew out, causing a fire and interrupting power for other tenants in the building. 

The repairs to the electrical system have stretched out over several months.

Building Commissioner Tony Biondillo said crews were working on the final phase of the project -- protecting the outdoor equipment -- this week.

Inside, the restaurant, which seats about 120, has been finished for weeks.

Old Carolina is a popular participant in Strongsville's Rib Burnoff. This will be the seventh Old Carolina location and the second in Cuyahoga County, following the opening of a store in Lyndhurst in May.