Two Dads Planning Carryout and Drive-Through Location in Celina

CELINA — Two Dads Chicken & Fries is preparing to expand from its popular food truck operation into a permanent retail location in Celina.

Co-owner Mitch Long told WCSM that the business plans to operate from the former Bob Evans and Schwieterman Pharmacy property at 510 East Market Street. The property was recently purchased by Bruns Holding Group.

Long said Two Dads began as a small food truck, but strong support from customers throughout Celina and Mercer County gave the owners the confidence to consider a permanent location.

“We started as a little food truck, and the city rallied around us,” Long said. “That incredible community support allowed us to make the decision to get into more of a retail space.”

Long said the East Market Street location offers Two Dads an opportunity to help revitalize a highly visible commercial property.

Because of a deed restriction connected to the former Bob Evans restaurant, Two Dads will not operate as a traditional sit-down, family-style restaurant. Instead, the business is developing a carryout and drive-through model.

Customers could be able to enter the building and order at a kiosk or use the drive-through. Long said the owners are also considering other possibilities, including service to customers in their vehicles, although the final layout and operating model have not been determined.

Long credited the Bruns family and RCS Construction for working with Two Dads on the project.

The current timeline calls for construction planning, renovations and equipment installation to be completed in early 2027.

Long said the expansion would not have been possible without the customers who supported Two Dads at festivals, community events and other food truck stops.

“This is not a decision that we take lightly,” Long said. “We loved being in the food truck space, but the community support was truly the reason that we did this.”

Two Dads was founded by Mitch Long and Bill Ray and is known for its hand-battered chicken sandwiches, tenders and fresh-cut fries.