Category-defining healthy fast-food franchise Konala enters East Coast with statewide deal from fitness-driven serial entrepreneur
Konala—the healthy fast-food brand known for its macro-friendly, high-protein, entirely gluten-free menu, and streamlined drive-thru—has officially gone coast to coast. Konala has signed an exclusive development deal for the entire state of New Jersey, marking a major leap in its mission to deliver nutritious, crave-worthy meals at drive-thru speed.
The deal was signed by Anthony J. Menicola, a New Jersey-based entrepreneur, fitness center owner, and father of four. Together with his wife Angie, he brings a passion for health, family, and business to this new venture. While his current business is in material handling, Menicola has a 20-year track record in startups ranging from hospitality to fitness. He plans to open at least 10 Konala locations throughout the state over the next five years, starting in Bergen County.
A longtime advocate for health and wellness, Menicola was searching for a business that aligned with his lifestyle and values. He found that in Konala.
“As a father of four and a business owner, we’re constantly on the go—but we’ve struggled to find healthy fast food that actually tastes good and makes you feel good,” said Menicola. “Konala is exactly what families like mine have been waiting for. You know what you’re eating, you can count your macros, and you leave feeling great—not guilty.”
For Menicola, the tipping point wasn’t just the food—it was the operations.
“What really sold me was how thoughtfully Trace designed the kitchen and layout,” he added. “This isn’t your typical open-hood restaurant with heavy staffing and prep. The model is streamlined, clean, and incredibly efficient. It’s built for scale and built for speed. It’s a no-brainer.”
Menicola aims to bring Konala’s fresh, high-protein menu to health-conscious customers across New Jersey—especially those looking for better options near gyms, schools, and busy suburban corridors.
The statewide agreement cements Konala’s status as a national brand, with development now stretching from Washington to New Jersey. Since launching its franchise program less than a year ago, Konala has signed deals across multiple regions and continues to attract experienced operators eager to bring healthy fast food to their communities.
“This deal is a big moment for us,” said Trace Miller, founder of Konala. “Anthony’s background in fitness, his entrepreneurial mindset, and his passion for the mission make him an ideal partner to bring Konala to the East Coast.”
With a strong pipeline of franchisees and impressive early unit economics, Konala is scaling quickly. Its efficient, fryer-free kitchens, modular buildings, and flexible real estate strategy allow operators to open faster, reduce buildout costs, and capitalize on prime second-gen drive-thru spaces.
Ideal franchisees are experienced operators or health-conscious entrepreneurs ready to grow a modern, scalable brand. Franchise inquiries can be submitted online at https://konalafranchise.com.
About Konala
Founded in 2023 by Trace and Jammie Miller, Konala (Pronounced: Koe-Nah-Luh) is redefining fast food with a focus on healthy, flavorful protein bowls served through a convenient drive-thru model. Inspired by their own commitment to a fit lifestyle and named after their two rescue dogs, Kona and Nala, Konala offers a menu packed with nutritious options like Bang Bang Shrimp, Poke, and hearty Burrito Bowls, with some bowls containing up to 73 grams of protein. Guests can choose from bases like white or brown rice, greens, or a mix of both. Entirely gluten-free and free of fryers or high-sugar sodas, Konala stands out in a market saturated with less healthy options. With online ordering, third-party delivery, and outdoor seating, Konala makes healthy eating both delicious and convenient
About Fransmart
As the leading franchise development firm in the country, Fransmart turns emerging restaurant concepts into successful national and global brands. Founded by Dan Rowe, the man who identified and grew brands such as Five Guys Burgers & Fries and QDOBA Mexican Grill from single unit businesses to the powerhouse chains they are today. Fransmart’s current and past franchise development portfolio brands have opened more than 5,000 restaurants worldwide. For more information, visit www.fransmart.com.
