If there seems to be an increase of pitas, laffas, and kabobs in the Valley over the next few months, look to the northeast -- they're coming from Denver, kind of.
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Last week, Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill, a Denver-based fast-casual restaurant concept "offering fresh, healthy, and authentic Mediterranean cuisine," announced it would be expanding into Arizona. The company has awarded franchise development rights to GMG Arizona, LLC for 20 restaurants in the Phoenix and Tucson areas.
So which city gets a Garbanzo's first?
According to the Denver Post, Garbanzo's will open its first location in the East Valley and is also considering locations in Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, and Tempe.
Steve Morris, owner of Garbanzo Mediterranean Grill, tells the Denver Post that "between the warm weather culture of Arizona and Arizona residents' interest in ethnic foods, Garbanzo should be popular."