---
title: "Konala Draws Crowds for First New Jersey Restaurant Opening"
url: https://burnaze.com/article/40bb4d20-8426-470b-90d7-be494a498ca5
source: "Franchising.com"
original_url: https://www.franchising.com/news/20260805_konala_draws_crowds_for_first_new_jersey_restaurant_opening.html
category: "Restaurants"
industry: "Restaurants"
topics: ["Development & multi-unit"]
published: 2026-08-05T12:00:00.000Z
modified: 2026-11-01T22:32:24.972Z
image: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1561758033-d89a9ad46330?w=1600&q=80&auto=format&fit=crop
---

# Konala Draws Crowds for First New Jersey Restaurant Opening

**TL;DR:** Konala has opened its first New Jersey location in Belleville, marking its entry into the East Coast market. The brand, founded by Trace and Jammie Miller in 2023, offers healthier dining options with a streamlined operation and gluten-free menu.

*originally published in Franchising.com on 2026-08-05. [Read the original](https://www.franchising.com/news/20260805_konala_draws_crowds_for_first_new_jersey_restaurant_opening.html).*

## Story

BELLEVILLE, N.J. – Konala recently entered the East Coast market with the opening of its New Jersey location in Belleville. Located at 11 Franklin Avenue.

"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 entrepreneur, has built and operated businesses across the fitness, construction, real estate, and hospitality industries. He recognizes Konala as a concept aimed at offering healthier dining options for busy consumers in New Jersey.

"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."

Konala was founded in 2023 by Trace and Jammie Miller. The brand emphasizes a streamlined operation with meals prepared to order without fryers or grills. The compact footprint and drive-thru model, with an entirely gluten-free menu of customizable bowls and salads, are designed to meet consumer demand for accessible options. Online ordering, third-party delivery, and outdoor seating are available.

## Entities

- Franchising.com (publication)
- QSR (sector)
- new location (topic)
- new jersey (location)
- fast food (topic)
- east coast expansion (topic)
- healthy dining (topic)
- Konala (company)
- Trace Miller (person)
- Belleville (location)
- Jammie Miller (person)

---
Originally reported by Franchising.com (https://www.franchising.com/news/20260805_konala_draws_crowds_for_first_new_jersey_restaurant_opening.html). Summarized by Burnaze (https://burnaze.com/article/40bb4d20-8426-470b-90d7-be494a498ca5).