Franchising

Krystal makes Northeast debut with 1st New Jersey restaurant in Union

Photo: Krystal

June 17, 2026

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Krystal, the quick-service chain known for its signature square sliders since 1932, opened its first New Jersey restaurant June 4 at 2210 Route 22 East in Union. The opening marks the brand's Northeast debut and brings more than 65 jobs to the local community, according to a press release.

The expansion is a personal milestone for brand partner Victor Cruz, a Paterson, New Jersey, native and former New York professional football player. Cruz collaborated on the project from its inception, helping to design exclusive menu items that reflect North Jersey flavors, including a Taylor Pork Roll Slider, Yuca Fries and Cruz Sauce, which is a sofrito mayo.

"North Jersey raised me, and that means something. People here have high standards for food, for authenticity, for places that actually feel like part of the neighborhood," Cruz said in the press release. "That's why I've been involved from day one, right down to helping craft menu items made exclusively for this location. This community deserves something built with them in mind, and that's exactly what we did."

In addition to the regional exclusives, the Union location features Krystal's full standard menu of sliders, sides and breakfast options. The restaurant is located along the Route 22 retail corridor near Kean University and is accessible from the Garden State Parkway.

Company executives noted that the New Jersey location is a pivotal move for the Southern-based chain, which operates nearly 300 locations across 13 states.

"Opening our first restaurant in New Jersey is a major milestone for Krystal and an important next step for the brand," Amanda Hyde, COO of Krystal, added in the press release. "Krystal has always had fans beyond the South, and now we're proud to introduce the full experience to the Northeastern community. Victor has been an incredible partner throughout this process because he understands this market personally and brings passion and authenticity to this opening."

A grand opening celebration and ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Cruz, local officials, and township high school performance groups is scheduled for today starting at 10 a.m.

The company is currently hiring for various operational roles at the Union restaurant as it plans further regional expansion.