Experienced entrepreneur Anthony J. Menicola launches Konala’s first New Jersey restaurant, with plans to expand the high-protein franchise statewide over the next five years.
Belleville, NJ (Restaurant News Release) Konala, the healthy fast-food franchise known for its high-protein, 100% gluten-free bowls, recently entered the East Coast market with the opening of its first New Jersey location in Belleville. Located at 11 Franklin Avenue, the opening is the first of multiple locations planned across the state.
“Watching our first New Jersey location come to life, and seeing it packed with guests from day one, has been incredible,” said Menicola. “Belleville really showed up for us, and not just on opening day. People continue to visit day after day, and it’s clear there’s a real appetite out there for something fast, healthy, and high protein that doesn’t feel like a compromise.”
Menicola, a Fair Lawn-based serial entrepreneur, has built and operated businesses across the fitness, construction, real estate, and hospitality industries. As the owner of a luxury gym and longtime fitness enthusiast, he recognized Konala as an opportunity to bring a differentiated restaurant concept to New Jersey while making healthier dining more accessible for busy consumers.
“Opening our first East Coast location is an exciting milestone for Konala and another step in proving that our model resonates in markets across the country,” said Trace Miller, founder and CEO of Konala. “Anthony’s background gave him a strong grasp of what we’re building: high-protein, healthier food without sacrificing speed or flavor. We’re glad to have him on board as we grow the brand throughout New Jersey.”
Founded in 2023 by Trace and Jammie Miller, Konala was designed to challenge the traditional fast-food model with a streamlined, operationally efficient concept that delivers fresh, made-to-order meals without fryers, grills, or grease-filled kitchens. Its compact footprint, drive-thru convenience, and entirely gluten-free menu of customizable bowls and salads position the brand to capitalize on increasing consumer demand for accessible and healthy meal options.
Anthony plans to open multiple Konala locations throughout New Jersey over the next five years. Menicola’s agreement underscores the brand’s continued franchise momentum and confidence in the concept’s long-term growth potential. The Belleville opening serves as the foundation for Konala’s broader expansion throughout the Garden State as it continues building its national footprint.
To learn more about Konala, visit Konala.com. For more information about franchise opportunities with Konala, visit KonalaFranchise.com.
About Konala
Konala (pronounced Koe-Nah-Luh) was founded in 2023 by Trace and Jammie Miller. Named after their two rescue dogs, Kona and Nala, the brand is redefining fast food with flavorful, high-protein bowls served through a convenient drive-thru model. The menu features signature bowls including Teriyaki Chicken, Greek Steak, and Chicken Burrito, with some bowls containing up to 80 grams of protein. Guests can customize their meals with white rice, brown rice, greens, or a combination of both. Entirely gluten-free and designed without fryers, grills, or a traditional grease-filled kitchen, Konala offers a healthier alternative to traditional fast food. Online ordering, third-party delivery, and outdoor seating make healthy eating both convenient and accessible.
Contact:
Emily Eastin
Interdependence
217-840-7455
fransmart@interdependence.com