On Feb. 11, the Lubbock, Texas-based United Family held a ribbon-cutting event for its new restaurant, “Rave On,” in the Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences.
The United Family joined with the Lubbock Entertainment Performing Arts Association to create a unique experience where fine dining and world-class performing arts will meet. Not only will the United Family be responsible for Rave On, but the company also will be in charge of all concessions and banquet service inside Buddy Holly Hall.
The restaurant is named after the song “Rave On,” which was written by Sonny West and made popular by Buddy Holly in 1958.
Robert Taylor, CEO of the United Family, said the company has launched a national search to secure talent to work on this project. When people step through the door, he said he hopes they see all of the time and energy the company has put into making this a special place for Lubbock.
“We are so excited to finally share the Rave On experience with the rest of Lubbock,” Taylor said. “The facilities in this building are world-class, and it is just the cherry on top for us to be able to put together this restaurant in this facility. We know it is something people are going to rave about.”
Thomas Wicinski, the head of food and beverage for the United Family, is the culinary expert brought in by the company to spearhead this project. On top of years of experience, a list of his credentials includes a degree in culinary arts and hospitality business management, being a Certified Executive Chef by the American Culinary Foundation and having a wine designation from the Culinary Institute of America.
“This incredible performing arts center requires food to match,” Wicinski said. “At Rave On we hope to offer the people of West Texas a menu full of options that will help them explore new flavors while also keeping some that West Texas flair. It is our goal to create a memorable experience for every guest who walks through our doors.”
Rave On is located at 1300 Mac Davis Lane inside Buddy Holly Hall with its entrance on the east side of the building. Restaurant hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday through Saturday. Sunday hours are dependent on performance schedules.
