Perkins Griddle & Go opens first U.S. location in New Jersey

Perkins Griddle & Go will open its first U.S. location Oct. 19 in Flemington, New Jersey, marking the fast-casual concept’s debut in the market and Perkins’ return to the state. The launch is the first of 16 New Jersey locations planned by local franchisees Giuseppe and Nicole Lahara.

Why it matters: - Perkins is testing a faster, more compact format that could broaden the brand’s reach beyond traditional family dining. - The Flemington opening puts Perkins back in New Jersey and gives the company a flagship for its next-generation concept. - The Laharas’ 16-unit development plan signals that Perkins sees room for expansion across the state.

What happened: - Perkins Griddle & Go opens Oct. 19 in Flemington, New Jersey. - The location is the first U.S. Perkins Griddle & Go restaurant. - Local franchisees Giuseppe and Nicole Lahara are leading the opening. - Perkins Restaurant and Bakery President Matt Carpenter called the opening an important milestone for the company.

The details: - Perkins Griddle & Go blends more than 65 years of Perkins heritage with a fast-casual model built for convenience. - Guests can order at the counter or at self-service kiosks. - The café includes a dining room for guests who want a longer sit-down visit. - The menu includes a Pork Roll sandwich and breakfast burrito made for the fast-casual format. - The concept also serves breakfast favorites, Griddle Greats, made-to-order breakfast sandwiches, lighter fare, burgers and sandwiches. - Bakery items include Mammoth Muffins, cinnamon rolls, cookies, brownies and signature pies. - Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available throughout the day. - The design uses a modern format with a compact footprint and flexible service model. - The Flemington café is the first of 16 Perkins Griddle & Go locations the Laharas have committed to develop across New Jersey. - The expansion follows their original 10-unit franchise agreement and adds locations in Monmouth and Ocean counties. - The Laharas said the project is also a family legacy effort for their four children. - More information is available at Perkins Griddle & Go.

Between the lines: - Perkins is pairing nostalgia with convenience, aiming to keep familiar menu items while meeting demand for quicker service. - The rollout suggests the company wants to use the new format to reach more communities with a smaller real estate and operating footprint. - The New Jersey launch gives Perkins a way to refresh the brand without abandoning its core breakfast-and-bakery identity.

What's next: - The Flemington opening is likely the first step in a broader New Jersey expansion. - The success of the first location may shape how quickly Perkins Griddle & Go scales in the market. - Additional locations in Monmouth and Ocean counties are part of the planned buildout.

The bottom line: - Perkins is betting that a faster, more flexible version of its classic diner model can win new customers while bringing longtime fans back.