DES MOINES, Iowa — Fong’s announced their move to a new location in the East Village on Wednesday, and the community is mostly excited about the change.

Jeff Bruning, Fong’s Co-Owner, says the move is giving them an opportunity to achieve new goals and test new ideas, as well as upgrade the dining experience.

“People that maybe met at Fong’s that now want to take their kids out to Fong’s, but it doesn’t quite meet their needs,” said Bruning. “Now I think it fits, it’s a little bit more family-friendly. It’s not like we weren’t family-friendly, but you can only put so many people into a small space.”

Fong’s has been looking to expand and grow over the past several years and they hope the new space will be inviting for people.

“We get to take the best of what we have always done, you know pick out what didn’t work in the past and provide a new thing,” said Bruning. “A new space for people with all the, still all the same fun stuff.”

Bruning says he’s received mostly positive reactions to the news, and several Fong’s regulars agree with the upcoming changes.

“That’ll be fabulous because it’s always packed in there,” said Jen Rogers, a Fong’s regular. “And that’s probably a little bit more accessible than here. That’ll be exciting. I can’t wait to check it out.”

One person said he’s sad that he won’t have it just around the corner as an easy dinner option.

“It sounds like it’s better for carryout and delivery for them, but it’s going to be sad. I can’t stop by and get some slices on the way home,” said Elias Brehm. “You know, hopefully it works out for them. Still a busy foot traffic spot.”

While some express disappointment in the move, Bruning thinks the new location still provides plenty of foot traffic and options for people looking for a quick bite.

“There’s excitement, and on the east side of the river, there’s excitement in the community as a whole. There are real opportunities,” said Bruning. “We’re right on the edge of the market district that’s coming there, and we’re looking forward to that.”

One customer agreed, saying it’s an opportunity to go toward a growing and popular area in the metro.

“I’m honestly happy that they’re growing and they’re going to be in the new location being the East Village, the village is a nice place as a growing community,” said Gerald Sama. “So, I’m happy that they’ll be exploring the other side of the river.”

For those wondering what will happen with Fong’s soon-to-be former location, Bruning says not to worry. Fong’s still has occupancy of the building for the next three years and they are looking into possible replacement ideas.

“This place here (Fong’s current location) has a really neat location, has a lot going for it,” said Bruning. “We think we have an idea, some ideas we’re going to work on.”

Bruning says they are on track to move into their new location at 317 East Court Avenue at the beginning of April and look forward to people coming out to see it this spring.