Young people in Tupelo and all small towns like it know this problem. Smaller cities in Mississippi sometimes have a lack of variety of food or entertainment choices for most teens. McDonald’s, Wendy’s and Burger King get old after awhile: people want more. Five Guys and Firehouse Subs have already set up shop and Krispy Kreme and Brooks Grocery are soon to grace Tupelo with their services.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries had its grand opening on Aug. 11 and business has been booming ever since.

“We are always busy, from open to close,” said Five Guys employee Jacarah Martin. The 2,400-square foot store is located at the Kings Crossing retail center, near Newk’s and across the street from Barnes Crossing Hyundai. Tupelo is the sixth city to secure a store in Mississippi for the burger joint, the other five being Hattiesburg, Ridgeland, D’Iberville, Flowood and Gulfport.

Firehouse Subs has also decided to put down roots in Tupelo. Located on West Main Street, the restaurant has been an answer to many hungry prayers. While it’s only been open for a short time, the well-anticipated sub shop has already gained popularity with Tupeloans. The store can seat about 60 people and employs 20 full- and part-time workers. Firehouse is located on West Main next to the AT&T store.

Krispy Kreme coming to Tupelo would please the fans of the household doughnut name that have had to settle with the pre-boxed versions sold in convenience stores. It would also possibly incite a Krispy Kreme-Shipley’s war. Although it isn’t final, there has been a proposal by a Columbus developer to open one near the corner of West Main Street and Lakeview Drive. The famous flashing “Hot Now” sign would be a welcome sight in the front window of the proposed store.

The new stores that have come to Tupelo and the ones that are soon coming are welcomed with open arms. In addition to Five Guys, Krispy Kreme and Firehouse, Tupelo is also getting a Brooks Grocery, a Mugshots and a newly re-opened Wingstop.

The wave of new businesses coming could entice others to follow suit, helping the already fast-growing city even more.

Despite the growth, the question remains: When in Tupelo getting a Target?