“We have seen an outpouring of support from the Columbia community since initially announcing our intentions to open in Dobbin Center,” explains Scott Black, Garbanzo director of operations. “I feel our made-from-scratch Mediterranean menu sets us apart and intrigues the many families and business professionals in the area looking for a fast yet fresh and healthy lunch or dinner option. We are looking forward to establishing ourselves in the Columbia area and serving its residents for years to come.”

 

On the eve of the grand opening, the new location is holding a fundraiser dinner to benefit The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults, a locally-based nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the lives of young adults and their loved ones affected by cancer by supporting, educating, and connecting them to resources necessary to thrive. The public is invited to attend the fundraiser Tuesday, March 12, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. for a $5.00 suggested donation.

 

On grand opening day Wednesday, March 13, free Garbanzo tote bags will be given away to the first 100 guests, and guests have the opportunity to win other free Garbanzo prizes, including Garbanzo T-shirts, entrée cards, and gift cards.

 

Following the grand opening, Garbanzo Columbia is holding several contests all month long giving away items such as an electronic reader, kid’s bicycle, and The Columbia Mall gift card. 

 

“Establishing a new company-owned market on the East Coast has been a goal of ours for years, and we are thrilled it is finally coming to fruition,” explains Alon Mor, Garbanzo founder, president, and CEO. “We chose to move into the D.C. /Baltimore area not only because of its growth, diversity, and prosperity, but also because we saw a need for fast-casual Mediterranean cuisine like ours. We knew Garbanzo would fit in flawlessly.”

 

The newest Garbanzo joins existing company- and franchisee-owned locations throughout the country. Garbanzo corporate has 15 locations in Colorado and now one in Maryland, with a second to open this month. Current franchise locations include one in San Antonio and one in Oklahoma City. With many new store openings on the horizon, Garbanzo is on track to double in size by the end of 2013.

 

Garbanzo offers guests a variety of authentic Mediterranean items with an emphasis on flavor, freshness, and quality, as well as a healthy trans-fat free menu. Guests have the ability to customize every meal with items such as pita, laffa, falafel, shwarma, hummus, seasoned rice, sauces, and dressings. All Garbanzo salads and sauces are prepared on-site daily, and the pita are made from scratch throughout the day in every restaurant. Additionally, several ingredients are bought locally and some are imported directly from the Mediterranean region.