Social media used to be for college students, but now, there are kids under the age of 10 making millions of dollars. During the pandemic, it was a source of entertainment and connection at a time when people had nothing but time on their hands. Facebook is still one of the most popular and downloaded social media apps.
Groups are a growing trend on the platform, connecting people in a community with the same interests. One of those growing groups is Foodie Mob Fayetteville, a subgroup of FayToday Community News, a local online news outlet serving the community since 2009 and owned by Fayetteville native and Fayetteville State University graduate, Kres Thomas. The group boasts over 12 thousand members who are very active and vocal community members, all passionate about one thing, food. Group discussions include new and upcoming restaurants, reviews (the good, the bad, and the ugly), and calls for recommendations.
Restaurant owners are encouraged to join the group and be active with the patrons they serve. Foodie Mob Fayetteville is a great resource for anyone who has just moved to the area or anyone looking for something in particular. A simple search within the group will produce a range of recommendations and reviews.
Born out of the pandemic, the group was something Thomas felt was necessary saying, “Foodie Mob Fayetteville began during the pandemic when I noticed people finding comfort and excitement in food. With limited activities, folks started taking what I like to call ‘food-cations’—trips around Fayetteville or to nearby counties to discover new dishes and flavors. I wanted to create a space where everyone could share their food adventures, highlight their favorite spots, and support our local food scene together.”
While there are a few other food-related groups in the area, FMF has solidified itself as the go-to for all things food in Fayetteville.
“Foodie Mob has grown into a hub for everything food-related in Fayetteville. We spotlight grand openings, provide honest reviews, and promote local food trucks, hidden gems, and global cuisine. It’s a place for discovering new spots to eat, celebrating local flavors, and enjoying good food together,” Thomas said.
As for the future of the group and food in Fayetteville, “Looking to the future, I see Foodie Mob becoming the go-to guide for everything delicious in Fayetteville. We aim to help locals and visitors find their next favorite meal, whether it’s at one of the many family dining spots near Cross Creek Mall, savoring international dishes along Yadkin Road, grabbing quick bites from top food trucks at the Haymount Truck Stop, enjoying unique outdoor dining downtown, or uncovering hidden gems in Spring Lake and Hope Mills. Every corner of Fayetteville has something special to offer … To truly put Fayetteville on the map as a food destination, we need to keep sharing our stories and celebrating the unique aspects of our local food scene. Our community is a vibrant mix of military families, longtime residents, and people from all backgrounds, bringing together flavors and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. By highlighting our local treasures, we can draw more food lovers to explore and appreciate what Fayetteville has to offer,” Thomas explained.
With Foodie Mob Fayetteville and FayToday Community News, Thomas has his hands full but is passionate about the work that goes into both. Fayetteville residents can look forward to seeing more of Thomas and his continued investment in the community.
"Through Foodie Mob and FayToday News, my goal is to provide uplifting content that supports local businesses and helps everyone make the most of life here in Fayetteville—one great meal at a time. Join us in sharing tips on where the Foodie Mob should visit next! " - Kres Thomas

(Photo courtesy of Foodie Mob Fayetteville Facebook Page)