I Heart Mac & Cheese, a fast-casual concept specializing in customizable, made-to-order macaroni and cheese bowls and grilled cheese sandwiches, announced it has signed a new franchise agreement with Mita Patel to open two new locations, one in Columbia, South Carolina and another within Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport by mid/late fall 2020
“I Heart Mac & Cheese is a unique and attractive franchise concept that sells itself and stands out among other franchise models,” says Stephen Giordanella, I Heart Mac & Cheese CEO and Chairman. “People are constantly impressed by the company’s innovative business model and menu, and we’re excited to continue expanding in Georgia and launch our first location in South Carolina!”
“My husband and I have 10+ years’ experience in the food service industry and currently own several restaurants in Columbia,” says Mita Patel. “We’re always on the lookout for new and fresh food ideas and immediately fell in love with the I Heart Mac and Cheese concept and diverse menu as soon as we came across it. We’re excited about introducing a quality new brand like this to Columbia and Atlanta!”
In addition to these two new locations, several other locations have recently been announced, with upcoming openings in Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Georgia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey, New York and Texas.
I Heart Mac & Cheese is well-known for chef-inspired, custom, build-your-own macaroni and cheese bowls and grilled cheese sandwiches. Guests select a pasta, bread, quinoa, broccoli or cauliflower base along with seven different proteins, vegetables, and cheeses. Most recently, the brand unveiled a new vegan menu featuring plant-based options through an official partnership with Beyond Meat. A variety of gluten-free options are also available. In addition to customized options, the menu includes specialty chef special items like Baked Chicken Parmesan, Baked Meatball Parmesan, The Cuban, Pepperoni Pizza, and Lobster & White Truffle Mac, among others. Sesame ginger, mango habanero, buffalo, BBQ, and pesto are a few of the delicious dressings and sauces available to mix in or top off each creation. Guests can pair their meal with the perfect side of Tomato Soup and finish it with a selection of desserts such as Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies and Marshmallow Treats.
A unique franchise concept in the restaurant industry with no fryers, grease trap systems or hood systems, I Heart Mac & Cheese requires a low investment and can be opened in a small space, such as a mall kiosk or food court. Shopping malls, sports venues, areas close to colleges and universities, and high-traffic pedestrian areas are also ideal locations. With a home office in South Florida, I Heart Mac & Cheese offers franchise owner training, marketing support and ongoing development opportunities to ensure each location’s success.
