With nearly ten locations across the United States, healthy bowl chain Mahana Fresh is currently preparing to make its debut in the Manatee/Sarasota area with a new location at 9626 State Road 64 East in Bradenton.
Carlos Cano, the franchisee behind the upcoming location, spoke with What Now on Thursday about his journey toward becoming a Mahana Fresh franchisee.
“I’m a CPA by trade, so I’m a business guy,” said Cano. “I was visiting some facilities up North, and that’s where I ended up coming across Mahana Fresh. The concept seemed extremely attractive to me, and being a person who has lived twelve years here in Florida, I thought, ‘This would be a good concept for the area.’”
Mahana Fresh’s menu takes a build-your-own approach to its healthy bowls. Guests start with a choice from bases like Coconut Rice, Sesame Noodles, and Kale Crunch Salad, to which they add Veggies like Sesame Ginger Broccoli and Honey Sriracha Brussel Sprouts and Proteins like Teriyaki Chicken, Spicy Ahi Tuna, and Sesame Garlic Tofu. You can top off your choices with add-ons like Roasted Almonds or Feta Cheese and “Sauce it Up” with sauces like Citrus Ginger or Creamy Wasabi.
Throughout the menu, there is a focus on offering gluten-free options, as well as a selection of vegan-friendly ingredients for that growing group of diners who avoid gluten and animal products. Cano says this is one of several factors that differentiates Mahana Fresh from competitors like Fresh Kitchen.
“Also, all our sauces are made from scratch,” said Cano. “Everything is, even our brownies. Everything is made right there in the back of the house.”
The Bradenton location is working toward an opening in early January, and Cano says two more locations are planned for the Manatee/Sarasota area.
You can keep up with Mahana Fresh news by following @mahana.fresh on Instagram.
