The long awaited opening of Red Lobster in Palm Desert has finally happened.
About 60 people were in line for the 11:00 a.m. opening at the corner of Fred Waring and Highway 111.
The lunchtime crowds were joyous over the opening, which has been years in the making.
"We've been waiting months for today," said diner Richard Allen of Rancho Mirage, who was part of the crowed waiting outside. "We've been looking forwrd to this for so long."
One diner, Hilary Sterling of Palm Desert, is a self-procamied Red Lobster fan. She says she and her retired husband had been driving to the Red lobster in Ontario at least once a month for the past year. Her advice for Red Lobster newbies is simple.
"If you looking for just a good salad, there's better places. But for seafood, they're the best, and I'm so glad they're here."
At least one person has had the seemingly impossible feat of already having two meals at Palm Desert Red Lobster.
"It was so good," said Kristin Sherman of Indio. "We were here for Friends & Family on Saturday, and we had to come back today with friends."
[editor's note: 'Friends & Family' was a final dress rehearsal-type training session for staff held on Saturday night with customers by invitation only]
The new restaurant employs over 160 people, with seating space for approximately 200 in its dining area.
