Yesterday, the Short North neighborhood welcomed a fresh face on the fast-casual dining scene with the grand opening of Ohio's first Sweetgreen outlet at 700 N. High St.,  as reported by Columbus Underground. The Los Angeles-based chain, celebrated for its focus on customizable seasonal salads, bowls, and protein plates, is striking new ground with its midwestern expansion into Columbus.

According to ABC6, the arrival of Sweetgreen, which prides itself on serving crave-able and fresh selections, was marked by a visit from Chef Chad Brauze, who dished up some of the restaurant's favorites; Brauze the appearance coinciding with the restaurant’s opening festivities. The 3,600-square-foot establishment invites up to 46 patrons to its dining space, situated among the vibrant landscape of eateries and art galleries that define the Short North's character.

Nicolas Jammet, one of Sweetgreen's founders, remarked on the significance of the Ohio debut, stating, This is a really important opening for us, in a statement obtained by Columbus Business First. He also conveyed that while there's always an eye on new sites for expansion, learning about a market starts with an opening. If the Short North location thrives, it could catalyze further expansion within Columbus and beyond to other Ohio locales.

As the plant-rich eatery's doors officially opened, Jammet reflected on the chain's journey, acknowledging that Columbus had been the most-requested new market for the company, the sentiment a testament to the brand's growing demand and affiliation with communities trying to make healthier dining choices accessible, and telling Columbus Business First describes the consumer's voice as an essential consideration in their expansion plans. From its genesis in 2007 in Washington, D.C., Sweetgreen has garnered a loyal following, bolstering its portfolio with more than 230 restaurants across the U.S. as it continues to pitch the farm-to-table ethos to a fast-food culture.