Blake Gray loves wings.
And sports. And fried vegetables. And burgers. And beers. And…you get the picture.
So when his parents decided to open the doors to Shooters Wings and Things, the Sacramento State graduate had no problem jumping into family business as the manager of what would become a small, Central Valley chain that prides itself in quality and customer service.
It’s that family-owned moniker, Gray says, that sets Shooter’s apart from other restaurants that might serve up the same fare. And starting today, customers that order up that plate of calamari strips or those trademark wings will get entered into a raffle for a 42-inch television.
It’s just a way, Gray says, to say thank you in advance.
“I just love working with the people and getting to see those that come in and start to become regulars,” he said. “Our goal is always to build a customer base and relationships and we’re hoping that people will come in this weekend so we can start doing that.”
Since opening their doors several weeks ago, the number of customers – with little advertising – has been surprisingly high. Those that sample the food, Gray says, have told him that they enjoy it. Several have said they’ll be back.
It’s those exchanges, he said, that make his job worthwhile and lets him know that both he and his staff are doing what they’re supposed to. It’s pivotal for a restaurant that’s just getting off of the ground.
“It’s been a good start for us,” Gray said. “I’ve been happy with the first couple of weeks. We’ve had some good results and things appear to be on the right track. I’m happy with where we are.”
The Manteca site represents the third Shooters location that the family has opened – initially starting off in Patterson before opening a site in Turlock. By having multiple televisions set up along the walls showcasing sports, those wanting to enjoy some food and the game can kill two birds with one stone.
And the fact that it’s family-owned is something that people at every one of their establishments seems to enjoy.
“We don’t have that corporate thing going on here,” he said. “We take every order seriously and want to show our customers that there is appreciation there. We take pride in what we do, and we want to pass that along to those that eat here.”
Through Sunday customers who place an order will be given a raffle ticket for a drawing of a 42-inch flat-screen television. The draw will be conducted on Sunday. Shooters is located at 1464 W. Yosemite Ave. and is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information call (209) 825-8787.
