Demolition on the Nu-Way Weiners Restaurant began early Friday morning after a fire destroyed the 120-year-old building on Cotton Avenue back in March.
"Today is a tough day. It's a turning point in our hundred year history," said Jim Cacavias, a co-owner of Nu-Way wieners, "Memories will be with us forever, but just the physical aspect of not being able to walk into the building and enjoy it, it's pretty emotional."
This building housed the original Nu-Way Wieners, starting when it was founded in 1916.
"There is some emotion, but we are very optimistic, we've been very grateful for our loyal customers and our fan base," said Spyros Dermatas, also co-owner of Nu-Way.
Blair Sperry, the project's manager, says it will take at least another two weeks to clear up the rubble and maybe another three months before they can lay down a new foundation.
Cacavias and Dermatas say they want the new building to carry the same memories as the original.
"I want the walls to bleed with nostalgia. To where everybody can come and enjoy and feel the nostalgia with us," said Cacavias, "And of course, get their filling of hot dogs."
"We'll be back stronger than ever," said Dermatas,"We're looking forward to next hundred years."
According to Macon-Bibb fire officials, the blaze started at the back of the building March 13 around 3 a.m. A fire chief told WMAZ it may have been started due to an electrical issue.
