News

Burger 21 opens 1st unit in North Carolina

August 6, 2013

Burger 21 has debuted in North Carolina, opening in Ballantyne Village at 14825 Ballantyne Village Way in Charlotte. The better-burger chain has nine restaurants open and 16 franchised locations in development along the East Coast.

"We are extremely excited to bring the first Burger 21 to North Carolina," said franchisee Todd Dennis. "We know the Charlotte community, which has supported us for so many years, will love our incredibly diverse menu and exceptional customer service."

Highlights of Burger 21 Charlotte include:

• More than 50 new team members hired in Charlotte;
• 2,600 square feet inside, plus a 500-square-foot patio; and
• Seating for 110 customers.

In addition to offering guests a variety of burgers like the Tex-Mex Haystack, Spicy Thai Shrimp, Black Bean and Chicken Marsala, the Charlotte location will have craft beer and wine by the glass. The location is focused on being green and environmentally conscious with its LED lighting and hand washing station.

"We are confident that Charlotte residents truly will be impressed with our innovative 21 crafted burgers and hand-dipped shakes offered at Burger 21's first North Carolina location," said Mark Johnston, Burger 21 president and chief concept officer of Front Burner Brands, management company for Burger 21. "Our young brand has made great strides in expanding to numerous new markets over the past two years and this is just the beginning for Burger 21's development throughout North Carolina. We plan to develop approximately 10 units in the Charlotte and Research Triangle markets, and continue to seek dedicated franchisees to help us build a presence in the region."

Burger 21 recently was named one of Fast Casual's Top 100 "Movers and Shakers" of 2013. The concept ranked No. 22 based on its variety of innovative recipes and recent expansion. In addition, the franchise's latest gluten-free menu received the No. 1 ranking for the "Top 10 Menu Innovations" and Mark Johnston was recognized as one of the "Top 20 People" for his strategic leadership in the growth and development of the brand.

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