First Newk's eatery in state coming to Battlefield Mall

Newk’s Express Café is making its Springfield and Missouri debut with the opening of a restaurant on the northeast lot of Battlefield Mall. The fast, casual eatery is slated to open spring 2012.

The restaurant will open in space at 2639 S. Glenstone Ave. formerly occupied by an El Chico restaurant, which closed in early 2010, said Erik Fjeseth, Battlefield Mall manager.

Daniel Garrett of DancoCafe LLC is bringing the Newk's franchise to town, with plans to open another in early 2012.

The restaurant's offerings will include oven-baked sandwiches, California-style pizza, soups, homemade cakes and a variety of salads, according to a news release.

“We are thrilled to welcome Newk’s Express Café to our property, especially because it is the first in the state,” said Tarasina Schneller, director of marketing and business development at Battlefield Mall, in the release. “This restaurant is a perfect addition for our diverse restaurant and retail mix.”

Jackson, Miss.-based Newk’s Express Café was created by Don Newcomb, Chris Newcomb and Debra Bryson, founders of the Mississippi-based McAlister’s Deli franchise. Newk's recorded systemwide revenues of more than $55 million in 2010, according to Springfield Business Journal archives.

Garrett's father, Mark, co-owns the five Springfield McAlister's restaurants through JME LLC.

DancoCafe LLC owns Newk's locations in Memphis, Tenn., and is planning five Missouri sites within five years.


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