Veggie Grill
Veggie Grill, the California plant based fast food chain is expanding to the Beaver State (seriously guys that's Oregon's actual nickname....)

Veggie Grill's expansion will happen with the partnership of long-time restaurant developer Ed Casey. Based in Portland and an Oregon resident for over 20 years, when Casey discovered Veggie Grill, he found the perfect fit for the adventurous Portland consumer: a concept at once healthful, food-centric and fun.

Casey has developed, owned and operated over 25 Baja Fresh Mexican Grill franchises in the Pacific Northwest. He also introduced Oregon to Applebees in 1993 and TGI Fridays in 1980. Casey also served as President/CEO of the Counter, a 2008 National Restaurant Association’s Hot Concept winner (and who's first location was in lovely lovely Santa Monica).

As a joint venture partner, Casey will develop Veggie Grill restaurants in Oregon, opening the first location in January of 2012 followed by a second in May. The first location will open in Beaverton (home to Nike) and the second in the downtown financial district of Portland. Casey is also currently in negotiations on two other locations in Portland and the surrounding communities, including in and around Washington State.

So for every Portlandia-er who is dying for chicken-free chicken soup (which is positively Auh-Mazing!) get ready!