The incoming Salad House store will soon open at 404 Marlton Pike East Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, according to CEO Joey Cioffi. It will take over the space that once housed Salad Works.
While Founder Joey Cioffi debuted The Salad House in Millburn, New Jersey in 2011, its real beginnings trace back to Cioffi’s childhood in Springfield where he “did everything from washing dishes to fulfilling large catering orders” in his family’s deli. These early experiences coupled with his father’s inspiring tenacity (Joey’s father immigrated to America from Italy with only $20 to his name) helped Joey turn his vision into a reality: “to provide a fresh fast-casual experience that was both healthy and family-friendly.”
In 2017, in partnership with friend/customer/entrepreneur Jerry Eicke, The Salad House began franchising. Today, “the Salad House continues to focus on growing its business through franchise locations throughout the Northeast.”
In addition to deliciously fresh salads, The Salad House offers wraps, sandwiches, soups, small plates, grain bowls, and smoothies.
The Salad House will join Han Dynasty — a restaurant offering spicy Sichuan dishes, Kuzina — a Greek restaurant, and Dolsot — a Japanese establishment.
Updated to include an interview with CEO Joey Cioffi.
WNP: When exactly will the incoming Salad House debut?
Cioffi: I’d say we’re looking at six to eight months or so from now.
WNP: Who will head-up the operation?
Cioffi: [Our franchisees are] Milos Rizuc and Fabiana Perugorria.
Jarrod Bravo — our head of operations — has been with The Salad House since the beginning and has been absolutely instrumental. Since then, he’s also become a franchise owner. Milos and Fabiana who are friends of Jarrod’s saw what he was doing and that he was doing well and were just curious, like, “What’s this all about?” I met with them, had lunch, and we just jived — that’s such a big deal for me; there are a lot of people who approach us who have a lot of money and a lot of willingness, but it takes more than that.
At the time, we didn’t really have any more territories in North Jersey, but Milos and Fabiana were really interested in Cherry Hill and loved the area, so they situated themselves there and immersed themselves in the community. We’re really confident in their dedication. They also have aspirations to open multiple locations in that area
WNP: What sets The Salad House apart from other establishments like it?
Cioffi: Healthier eating is becoming more mainstream and we’re definitely behind the movement, but we differ from other salad stores in that we have a great kids menu and also serve sandwiches and French fries. Health is all about balance.
What also sets us apart is that we’re approachable. Salads and eating healthy can be intimidating to some people, especially when you have to Google the ingredients. We do regular things really well.
WNP: What is your favorite non-salad menu item?
Cioffi: Probably the crispy shrimp sandwich, or the Buffalo poppers (crispy wontons stuffed with grilled buffalo chicken & pepper jack cheese with a side of bleu cheese).
WNP: Where else will you be expanding?
Cioffi: We want to grow organically on the east coast and expand strategically. We have some interest in out-of-state locations also, most notably Virginia, and we’re working on details for our Brooklyn location. Ultimately, in due time, we’d love to hit all the states.
WNP: Anything else you’d like to add?
Cioffi: I’m just really proud of our operation. There’s always been this misconception that if you eat salads you’re a rabbit or you’re on a diet, but it doesn’t have to be like that. You know, you can have a big, delicious salad, feel full for a long time, and get a ton of nutritional value.
