Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh is bringing its “Eat Better – Feel Brighter” movement to Boston. This will be the fast-growing brand’s first location in New England.
The restaurant is opening this winter at 134 Boylston St. and will be followed by several other locations in the market. The demand for good-for-you food is at an all-time high in Boston, and local residents will soon get to experience GARBANZO’s authentic Mediterranean cuisine that meets that standard.
“I’m so excited to open our first location and share our fresh cuisine with Bostonians,” says Derek St. George, co-owner of the new Boston locations who will be opening the restaurants with brother and sister duo Karl and Leigha Schmidt. “Today’s consumer is very much aware of what they put in their bodies, and GARBANZO’s preservative and MSG-free menu provides that clean-eating offering. We pride ourselves on the delicious yet healthy options GARBANZO offers. Food that makes people feel good, not guilty.”
St. George is a seasoned restaurant industry veteran, having been in the business since he was 15 years old. Prior to signing his multi-unit franchise agreement with GARBANZO, he worked in several high-level management roles for notable fast-casual restaurant chains in the Boston area, through which he developed the skills necessary to own and operate his GARBANZO restaurants. Karl and Leigha are partners in a medical imaging company based in the region. It was through the development of this rapidly growing company that the duo gained the business management skills necessary to enter the fast-casual restaurant industry with a multi-unit franchise agreement.
The new Boston locations signify meaningful growth for the brand. GARBANZO currently has more than 30 restaurants open across nine states with 30 more locations in development. Aligned with consumer preferences for healthier, fresh meal options that are free from preservatives or MSG, GARBANZO is well on its way to making Mediterranean cuisine a staple across the United States.
“We have the perfect team in place to grow the Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh footprint in Boston,” adds Larry Sidoti, Chief Development officer at Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh. “Derek, Leigha and Karl all have a strong understanding and appreciation for our brand and are committed to carrying out our mission in Boston. Their operational, industry and regional experience perfectly position Garbanzo Mediterranean Fresh for success.”