Burger 21, a new fast casual concept founded by the owners of The Melting Pot Restaurants, Inc., announced today that it has signed a two-unit franchise deal in Atlanta, as it targets Atlanta as a growth market and opens additional territories for development in the area.

Corley and Meg Steward have signed an agreement to open two Burger 21 locations in the North Alpharetta and Buford/Mall of Georgia areas. This deal comes on the heels of two signed deals for a total of three franchised units in Orlando, Florida, inked earlier this year.

“We are thrilled to have signed our first franchise deal in Atlanta just in time for our brand’s latest growth initiative in the region,” says Mark Johnston, Burger 21 president and chief concept officer and president of Front Burner Brands, management company for Burger 21.

“With consumer demand for fast casual experiences on the rise, we are confident that Burger 21 will be a perfect match for Atlanta residents and impress them with an extensive menu that includes 10 beef and 10 non-beef burger options, as well as a variety of salads, hot dogs, fries, shakes, and more.”

Last fall, the company launched an aggressive growth strategy to bring its crafted burger creations and hand-dipped signature shakes to more cities across the U.S. Burger 21 stands apart from the competition by offering quality, premium ingredients, innovative recipes, and a gourmet experience without the gourmet price.

“We are extremely excited to bring the Burger 21 concept to Atlanta,” Corley Steward says. “With chef-inspired burgers, shakes, hot dogs, and salads, there is something for everyone to love. Even the gluten-free community will find Burger 21 irresistible with the recent launch of its gluten-free menu.”