Newk's Eatery Expands Presence with Franchise in Columbus, Mississippi

New Expansion in Columbus, Mississippi

Newk's Eatery, a well-regarded fast-casual restaurant chain known for its made-from-scratch meals, is set to open a new location in Columbus, Mississippi, thanks to the experienced franchise operators Vikas and Jaimin Patel. The restaurant is anticipated to begin service in the Fall of 2026, adding to the existing offerings in the area. The site, located at 2400 Highway 45 N., Suite 2, is positioned in a bustling trade area where the Patels currently run a Beef 'O' Brady's, a popular sports-themed restaurant, further boosting the visibility and accessibility of Newk's Eatery to local diners.

Experienced Operators Leading the Way

Vikas and Jaimin Patel are seasoned multi-unit restaurant operators with a solid background in the food service industry. Their journey in the culinary world began with managing operations at Dairy Queen, where they laid the groundwork for their future ventures. The couple recognized a significant demand for a family-oriented dining experience that combined great food with a fun atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, leading them to successfully establish their first Beef 'O' Brady's in Mississippi.

With their deep ties to the community and insight into local preferences, the Patels are excited to introduce Newk's Eatery to Columbus, seeing it as a natural progression in their restaurant portfolio. Jaimin Patel expressed enthusiasm about the chosen location, stating that Columbus feels like home and that the site meets all their operational needs for a swift launch, aiming to replicate successful dining experiences for their guests. Furthermore, Jaimin noted that Newk's offers an inviting atmosphere where families can enjoy fresh, quality meals, making it a place he would personally dine at weekly.

Modern Amenities to Enhance Guest Experience

The new Newk's Eatery will also feature a drive-thru, an addition aimed at increasing convenience for customers. This service enhancement is part of Newk's strategy to cater to modern dining preferences, providing options for quick meals without sacrificing the quality the brand is known for. The Patel family's experience and dedication to the restaurant industry align perfectly with Newk's values, creating a promising outlook for this new venture.

With the support of the FSC Franchise Co., which encompasses both Newk's Eatery and Beef 'O' Brady's, the Patels anticipate a streamlined operation that maximizes their capabilities. This multi-brand approach allows them to enhance supply chain efficiency and effectively manage multiple service times, including lunch, dinner, catering, and off-premise dining.

Additionally, the upcoming opening in Columbus coincides with plans for another Beef 'O' Brady's restaurant in Flowood, Mississippi, projected to launch in December 2025. This expansion underlines the Patels' commitment to enriching their community with diverse dining options.

Company Support and Future Outlook

The entry of the Patels into the Newk's Eatery system represents a significant milestone not only for the franchise but also for the FSC platform. Frank Paci, the CEO of Newk's Eatery, expressed excitement about the partnership, praising the Patels for their operational discipline and market knowledge. Their ability to revamp existing locations while benefiting from shared resources within the franchise structure promises to be a favorable development for customers and the company's growth in Mississippi.

This expansion is not merely about opening new doors; it emphasizes Newk's commitment to adapting to current dining trends and technology, focusing on operational excellence and customer engagement. Emphasizing loyalty programs and off-premise retail channels, Newk's Eatery aims to cultivate a community of loyal customers who appreciate quality dining. As the brand continues to grow, it invites customers to join the Newk's Rewards program, enhancing overall guest experience and satisfaction.

About Newk's Eatery

Established in 2004 and headquartered in Jackson, Mississippi, Newk's Eatery has consistently garnered recognition for its fresh, flavorful, and scratch-made menu offerings. With nearly 100 locations across 12 states, it serves a wide array of hand-crafted salads, gourmet sandwiches, hearty soups, and pizzas—all made in-house using high-quality ingredients. Guests can also take advantage of grab-and-go options or mobile ordering through the Newk's app, which is available on both Google Play and the App Store for convenience in pickup or delivery. Newk's has been celebrated nationally, receiving accolades from notable publications for its dedication to quality and customer loyalty. To learn about their franchise opportunities or explore their menu, visit Newks.com.