Sneak preview inside the Lone Star restaurant set to open this week

Packed with heritage items from the old Myer building, including the former basement staircase, a glass walking area to look down to the old underground storage area and pressed-metal sheeting on a wall, the diner is one of the last Orange City Centre stores to open.

Retaining the heritage items was a condition of the development approval.

Franchisee Leigh Davy said about 20 full and part-time staff, all from the Orange region, had been employed to work at the Texan ribs, burger, brews and peanuts-themed eatery.

"It's got seating for 150 people in the inside and outdoor areas," he said.

The outdoor undercover seating is alongside Post Office Lane.

Mr Davy said he had worked in hospitality before but this was his first Lone Star franchise.

"I think it is perfectly suited to the demographic in a country area," he said.

"Our Texan theme is very similar to Australian country styling. I was looking for a business that could be significant. The position we have here is absolutely centre of town."

VIDEO: INSIDE THE NEW LONE STAR

He said they had received positive feedback before even opening.

"We've had an incredible reaction from people who are dropping by asking 'when are you going to be open'," he said.

Lone Star will open from 11.30am-9.30pm daily, possibly till 10pm on weekends.

In keeping with the franchise's traditions, customers will receive a bucket of peanuts to shell at their table.

Mr Davy said the liquor licence would also allow people to just come in for a drink similar to a pub.