Leesburg welcomed not one, but two major restaurant openings Monday morning, and hungry residents wasted no time showing up to celebrate.

At Panda Express, located at 10849 U.S. 441, the line was already wrapped around the building when Style Magazine arrived at 9 a.m. The first customer had been there since 5 a.m., eager to be the first through the doors when they officially opened. Guests were treated to special gifts even a visit from the giant panda mascot.

Inside, city and county officials joined the public for a taste of their famous orange chicken, Beijing beef, honey walnut shrimp, and broccoli beef alongside chow mein and fried rice.

Panda Express, the popular American-Chinese fast-casual chain, is now open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily, joining a growing lineup of restaurants and retail along U.S. 441.

Just an hour later, another line was forming not far down the road as Culver’s celebrated its grand opening at 9423 U.S. 441, directly across from the Leesburg International Airport.

Leesburg Mayor Alan Reisman helped mark both celebrations, first in a red shirt at Panda Express, then switching to blue for Culver’s opening at 10 a.m. The event had plenty of charm, complete with Scoopie the custard mascot, smiling staff and a parking lot full of eager first-day customers.

Culver’s fans finally got a taste of their famous ButterBurgers, Wisconsin cheese curds and fresh-frozen custard. Some customers said they had arrived as early as 8 a.m. to be among the first to order.

Founded in Wisconsin, Culver’s is known for its Midwest hospitality and quality ingredients, and based on the opening-day crowd, Leesburg locals are ready to make it their new go-to stop for burgers and custard.

Both Panda Express and Culver’s are open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.