A Maryland restaurant chain best known for its beachfront origins is hoping to make a big splash in the Portland-Vancouver area. Boardwalk Fresh Burgers & Fries has inked a master franchise deal to bring its first 30 outlets to the region, including 10 in Southwest Washington, over the next several years.
Its plans here are part of a major growth push as the company aims to expand from eight U.S. locations to more than 200 within the next five years, according to the Baltimore Business Journal. The company will open 20 to 30 locations nationwide this year, then accelerate its expansion through 2016. Currently, the chain has seven outlets on the East Coast and one in California.
Exact sites of the chain’s local restaurants have not yet been announced.
Its arrival in Clark County will introduce the signature thick-cut, vinegar-soaked French fries that its sister company, Boardwalk Fries, brought from Maryland beach towns to inland food courts and sports stadiums starting in 1981. Boardwalk Fresh Burgers & Fries built on the original chain’s concept, adding sit-down dining and an expanded menu.
Portland-based restaurant developer Lucky Patel said the Columbia, Md., chain is “quick-casual,” not quite fast food, but not full-service, with a beach-themed atmosphere. In addition to its signature peanut oil-cooked fries, menu specialties include burgers and hot dogs.
