By Jodi Schwan

It’s not your grandpa’s Wendy’s anymore.

That becomes apparent just driving up to the newly renovated restaurant at 12th Street and Lyons Avenue.

A contemporary design with large windows and natural-looking material leads into a dining room that has been transformed.

In addition to more traditional dining areas, there’s lounge seating, a wi-fi bar, a flat-screen television and a fireplace.

Customer reaction has been “very positive,” said Tim Boyle, who has been a franchisee for 35 years. “They really like the modern colors, the Sioux Falls welcome wall and a lot of the new-style chairs. You can come in with a Frosty and sit by the fire.”

Boyle and his family have seven locations – the three in Sioux Falls, three in Sioux City and one in South Sioux City, Neb. They are slated for the updates in the next three years.

“Sioux Falls is just such a vibrant market. It’s fun to be in,” Boyle said. “The growth is tremendous, and our customers are very loyal.”

He said he could see adding locations but doesn’t have anything planned yet.

In the meantime, the menu continues to evolve. Wendy’s recently added a Mediterranean chicken salad that includes hummus “and some flavors you don’t typically associate with fast-food,” Boyle said. “They’re very innovative.”

Another new addition, a bacon queso burger, includes a smoky chipotle and poblano cheese sauce and also can be made with chicken.

“I just tried it, and it’s really good,” Boyle said. “It’s always fun to give people good food they enjoy and appreciate. It’s very rewarding.”