Seasoned Restaurateurs Bring MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes to Ascension Parish

After debuting the concept in Louisiana earlier this year, MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes*, a Dallas-based fast-casual “better burger” chain, is continuing its expansion in the state with a multi-unit development deal in Ascension Parish. Local entrepreneurs Chad Calongne and Ryan Brach will be spearheading the operation and plan on opening at least two MOOYAH restaurants in the area over the next two years. “Ryan and I were looking for new and unique concepts to grow, and MOOYAH really stood out as a brand that Louisianans would embrace,” Calongne said. “We really liked the brand and the quality of the food that MOOYAH offered. We are confident that MOOYAH will be a welcome addition to Ascension Parish, and that community members will enjoy MOOYAH as much as we do.” Prior to entering the world of hospitality, Calongne worked in commercial real estate before deciding to become a business owner. Calongne met Brach while Brach worked in the corporate office of Planet Beach Franchising, and the two decided to combine their strengths to open a restaurant together. They now operate five Rotolo’s Pizza restaurants across Ascension and Livingston Parishes near Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and are heavily involved in both communities. Since opening their restaurants five years ago, the business partners have donated around $50,000 to local organizations. They plan to use their MOOYAH restaurants as a similar platform for giving. “Chad and Ryan are the perfect candidates to ensure that MOOYAH continues to impress Guests with our food and service as our brand continues to grow,” said Michael Mabry, Chief Operating Officer for MOOYAH. “Louisiana is known for its great food, and with the incredible success that we’ve already seen with our existing restaurants in the Bayou, we’re confident that MOOYAH will continue to tantalize the discerning taste buds of our Guests in the state of Louisiana. MOOYAH’s commitment to freshness, an excellent experience, superb Guest service and better-for-you options make it a wonderful fit for Ascension Parish.” MOOYAH has plans to continue its sustained expansion and predicts the brand will add more than 1,000 jobs to local communities through its restaurant openings in 2014. In 2015, MOOYAH aims to continue expanding their presence across the country, with a focus on Atlanta, Phoenix, Minneapolis, Tampa-St. Petersburg, and Cincinnati.