Iconic southern slider brand enters Northeast with Victor Cruz–led opening and hiring events in Union

Atlanta, GA  (RestaurantNews.com)  After more than nine decades rooted in the South, Krystal is officially expanding north. The brand, known for its small, square Krystals served hot off the grill, will open its first-ever New Jersey restaurant at 2200 Route 22 East in Union. This marks Krystal’s debut in the Northeast and a major milestone in the brand’s 93-year history.

The Union restaurant, opening Monday, March 2, 2026, is led by brand partner Victor Cruz, a former New York Giants wide receiver, Super Bowl XLVI champion and sportscaster, who is bringing the beloved slider brand to his home state.

“Bringing Krystal to New Jersey reflects the momentum we’ve built and our confidence that Krystal’s food and guest experience resonate well beyond the South,” said Kaitlin Kees, Senior Director of Marketing at Krystal. “Partnering with Victor – a football legend with deep New Jersey roots and a genuine love for the brand – makes this opening especially meaningful.”

Ahead of the opening, Krystal will host multiple local hiring events in February, creating new jobs and welcoming team members to help introduce the brand to the Union community.

Now Hiring in Union

As Krystal prepares to open its doors, the brand is actively hiring team members for all shifts at the Union location. In-person hiring events will be held on the following dates:

• February 11–12, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
• February 17–20, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Applicants are encouraged to bring a valid ID and Social Security number. Positions are available across restaurant operations, with opportunities to grow alongside the brand as it expands in the region.

The Union restaurant will serve Krystal’s full menu of signature sliders, craveable sides and value-forward favorites, with plans to introduce limited-time offerings inspired by Victor Cruz and his personal connection to the brand. From day one, guests can also join the brand’s loyalty program, Club Krystal, to unlock exclusive deals, earn points on every visit and enjoy special offers designed to reward loyal fans.

“Bringing Krystal to New Jersey isn’t just a business milestone, it’s personal for me,” said Cruz, who grew up in Paterson, New Jersey, just across the river from New York City. “This is home. I’ve always believed in showing up, working hard and giving back to the community that shaped me. Now I get to bring a brand I love to the place that raised me, and I can’t wait to share it with friends, neighbors and a whole new generation of fans.”

Additional details about the grand opening celebration will be announced closer to opening day. For more information or to find the nearest Krystal, visit Krystal.com. To learn about franchise opportunities, visit KrystalFranchising.com.

© 2026 Krystal Restaurants LLC. All Rights Reserved.

About Krystal Restaurants LLC

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, Krystal Restaurants LLC is the original quick-service restaurant chain in the South. Krystal hamburgers have been served fresh and hot off the grill on the iconic square bun since 1932. The company proudly sticks to the classics, but they’ve never been afraid to innovate. Krystal has expanded to 13 states with nearly 300 restaurants and continues to deliver a one-of-a-kind taste experience through unique menu items offered at a great price. In 2025, QSR Magazine ranked Krystal among its Top 50 Contenders list, Technomic placed the brand on its Top 500 list, and USA Today’s 10Best named Krystal a runner-up for “Best Fast Food Breakfast” after placing in the top ten in 2024.

Contact:
Betsy DeMik
Champion
972-930-9933
bdemik@championmgt.com

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