By mid-afternoon, dozens of people lined up to receive the first of what will become many Dick’s Drive-In burgers served in Federal Way.

On April 28, the iconic restaurant revealed its ninth location will open in Federal Way in 2023. The drive-in will sit along Pacific Highway South on the west side of The Commons mall lot.

“We hope to serve so many burgers and make so many memories together with out new community here in Federal Way,” said Jasmine Donovan, president of Dick’s Drive-In and granddaughter of co-founder Dick Spady.

Kenai Penelerick, 17, and Vonnie Penelerick, 50, were first in line on Thursday. Driving from Roslyn to the ocean, they were following Dick’s announcement on Facebook Live. Realizing they were only about 10 minutes away, they decided to stop by.

“We found it was here and just went, ‘we have to go get a burger,’” said Vonnie, who grew up in Federal Way. As a kid, she said, “It was a special occasion to go get Dick’s burgers.”

Second in line was Chaun Hollins, a Federal Way resident, on his way home from work. He said he spotted the Dick’s food truck and turned around to get confirmation.

“Unusually when I get off work, I’m always thinking of getting something to eat. Around here, we’ve tried everything so something new is always good,” he said.

For Hollins, the secret is in the sauce.

“I’m from the South, so that’s all its’ really about,” he said. “The secret sauce. That’s what drew me over here today.”

As customers weaved through the line, some joked this would become their new go-to lunch spot.

For The Commons mall, new businesses breathe fresh life where departures of anchor stores like Sears and Macy’s left the 17 acre property aired out.

“We are excited to have Dick’s Drive-In become part of the new and exciting changes that are going on here at The Commons,” said Charles Sullivan, general manager of Merlone Geier, the company which owns the mall. “… This is going to be a fantastic addition to the shopping center.”

Dick’s Drive-In stickers. Olivia Sullivan/the Mirror

Dick’s Drive-In President Jasmine Donovan, center, speaks to the crowd during the location reveal celebration on April 28. She is joined by several local officials and business leaders. Olivia Sullivan/the Mirror