Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill, a fast-casual Mexican franchise known for its authentic flavor profile and expansive menu, is coming to Poughkeepsie. Expected to open by the end of the year, the new eatery will be located in the Mid Hudson Center on U.S. Route 9 (3434 North Road), adjacent to Home Depot in the former Quizno’s space across from Marist College.

The local expansion comes on the heels of the brand’s recent announcement to open as many as 100 corporate and franchisee-owned stores nationally over the next five years.

Today, the company operates restaurants in Lagrangeville, Carmel, Yorktown, Bedford Hills, Cross River, Peekskill and Mamaroneck in New York, and Danbury and New Haven in Connecticut.

“We’re excited to continue expanding in New York and offer another conveniently located destination for individuals and families to enjoy our uniquely fresh approach to fast-casual Mexican,” says Seth Hirschel, co-founder of Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill. “Our flavorful and customizable dining experience has always been popular in every one of our locations, and we’re looking forward to bringing this new concept to Poughkeepsie.”

Founded in 2008, Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill is similar to Chipotle, in that they offer burritos, bowls and tacos, but the menu is a little more expansive. The menu is comprised of various “signature” items, but also allows customers to “build their own” with top-quality ingredients that are prepared fresh, onsite, every day. Customers can fill their burritos, tacos, quesadillas, nachos, salads or bowls with chicken, shredded beef, ground beef, pork, roasted veggies or rajas (peppers and onions), and can add-in rice, black beans, cheese, guacamole and more. Additionally, the menu features vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free and nut free options.

“With all food prepared onsite in our open-format kitchen, we serve fresh food you can trust,” adds co-founder Marc Miles. “Small towns, college communities, suburban and urban centers all crave our fresh take on Mexican fare. There’s no doubt the people of Poughkeepsie will welcome us with open arms as well.”

Salsa Fresca Mexican Grill is also strongly committed to the environment. Eco-friendly building materials will be used in constructing the restaurant, along with energy-efficient HVAC systems and lighting. In addition, the restaurant will recycle all of its cooking oil and everything from the plates and bowls to the utensils and straws will be made from compostable plant materials. Freezers are intentionally not part of the design, reinforcing the always-fresh concept.

Emerging Concepts, Fast Casual, News