DOWNTOWN - After a falling out with the Pita Pit corporate offices, Andrew Turek, the former owner of the SoHo location sold the property to Shula Burger and decided to open a new eatery and market called Franklin on Twiggs in the former downtown Pita Pit location.
According to Turek, they lost confidence in the brand which lacked input and marketing so once it was time to renew the lease, it was clear it was time to start something new.
"You're really controlled and restricted [in a franchise]," he said. "We wanted to try new things, but the brand didn't like us changing from the set norm. So it's really awesome, and probably the best thing we decided to do because it's our own creation now."
The new eatery is best known for its popular tacos, which sources its tortillas from local Red Mesa Cantina in St. Petersburg, and its poke bowls that come in tuna, krab mix, salmon, or spicy tuna. In addition it serves custom-made hot bowls where guests can choose either chicken, pork or steak and a white or brown rice base with black beans, cabbage and spring mix.
The market caters to the average take-out individual and offers easy-to-cook grab and go meals including macaroni and cheese, macaroni salads, chicken salad and more, and a variety of salads as well.
"The idea was to open up a deli market, but instead of doing your regular deli style with cold cut sandwiches and burgers, we decided to go the other route," said Turek.-"It's really cool just being able to offer the downtown residents and a younger crowd something unique- a market to buy your sides, and build your own dinner. Instead of having just one pre-packaged meal you have choices."
Aside from the eatery and market, the restaurant aims to cultivate an artistic experience featuring local artwork and invites guests to draw art on its black chalkboard tables. Brothers Andrew, James and Tom Turek, and Nate Chetelat opened Franklin on Twiggs Sept. 1 at 514 N Franklin St., Suite 105. The concept operates Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and possible plans to only open the market on Sunday.
For more information visit its Facebook page: facebook.com/franklinontwiggs.
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