This Green Restaurant Chain Is Coming to “Every Major City in the U.S.,” Says New Owner

Known as the "greenest restaurant in Texas," one up-and-coming fast-casual is now looking to take its mission of eco-friendly eating beyond the Lone Star State. And thanks to a recent acquisition by a restaurant company on a shopping spree, it could soon become the "greenest restaurant in America."

Bellagreen, a bistro chain with eight locations, has just been acquired by Ampex Brands, a major franchisee of Pizza Hut, KFC, Taco Bell, Long John Silver's, and 7-Eleven. While the chain seems like a relatively small brand compared to Ampex's other ventures, the company plans to grow Bellagreen significantly. CEO Tabbassum Mumtaz says the eco-chain could soon make its way "to every major city in the U.S," according to Restaurant News.

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As a green American bistro concept, Bellagreen features vibrant, seasonal dishes with internal practices that reduce its ecological footprint. Its menu includes a wide variety of locally sourced ingredients, used in classics like burgers, pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. Outside of sourcing a sustainable menu, the chain uses water-saving devices, alternate power sources, and eco-friendly furnishings to reduce waste.

"We designed Bellagreen to make life and Earth more beautiful with every meal we served," said the chain's CEO Jason Morgan. "We are passing the baton to a powerful organization that can grow the brand while retaining that authenticity."

Ampex acquired Bellagreen from Bellagreen Holdings and finalized the deal on July 18. Currently, the fast-casual can only be found in the Houston and Dallas areas. However, Ampex is known for growing the brands under its umbrella and currently operates more than 500 restaurants, as well as over 100 7-Eleven convenience stores.

Last year, the company acquired Au Bon Pain, which had been struggling after losing almost half its restaurants under the ownership of JAB Holding Company, parent company of Panera Bread. Ampex jumpstarted the struggling chain's growth with a new location in New York City, which opened just last month.