Cincinnati-based fast-casual restaurant Tom+Chee will open thirteen new stores by spring 2015. Over the course of the fourth quarter of 2014 and first quarter of 2015, Tom+Chee stores will open in Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Tennessee, Missouri, Kansas, North Carolina, Louisiana, Georgia, and Nebraska. In addition to the thirteen new locations, Tom+Chee’s first brick and mortar store, on Court Street in Cincinnati, will celebrate a grand re-opening this fall.
“We’re very excited about the momentum we’re seeing going into the fourth quarter,” say co-founders Corey Ward and Trew Quackenbush. “It’s going to lead to continued growth in 2015, and we couldn’t be more excited to continue to bring Tom+Chee into these new markets.”
Specializing in tomato soup and grilled cheese, Tom+Chee is known for its quirky takes on comfort food classics. From the vegetarian Hippy+Chee to the offbeat Grilled Cheese Donut, Tom+Chee offers 20+ grilled cheese sandwiches, plus salads, three versions of tomato soup, and an array of specials. The entire menu is made fresh, with no fryers, freezers, or microwaves, and offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Originally launched as a food tent in Cincinnati, Tom+Chee has enjoyed growth since the founders pitched their business on ABC’s “Shark Tank” in May 2013.
“Since we appeared on Shark Tank we’ve received more than 20,000 inquiries from people interested in operating their own Tom+Chee,” Ward says. “It’s an exciting time for our company and it’s proof that hard work and good food can make your dreams come true.”
The Tom+Chee franchise is rapidly growing and currently has fourteen stores in operation and 150 stores under contract in 20 states, including Tennessee, North Carolina, Michigan, New Jersey, and Georgia.
