American diner brand Zaks to open fourth site

Zaks, a Norfolk-based group of American diners, is set to open its fourth site.

The company launched in Norfolk almost 40 years ago in the county under its first franchise partnership.

The Zaks brand currently has three restaurants in Norwich: Zaks Waterside Grill and Bar, Zaks Mousehold Diner and Zaks Poringland Diner.

The new restaurant will open in South West Norfolk within the year under the management of husband and wife team, David and Joan Hughes.

Joan said: "We've been fans of the Zaks brand and its fantastic food for many years so the chance to open our own diner under this franchise agreement is incredibly exciting."

Zaks' diners capture the taste of America through the food, experience and the environment by researching and replicating current trends in the US. It imports ingredients and products for authenticity but also uses local suppliers, which is why its meat and other fresh produce are all from neighbourhood producers.

David added: "We'll be sourcing the famous Zaks burger from the company's existing supplier in Norwich, guaranteeing the continuity of quality Zaks customers have come to know and love. However, we are also absolutely committed to building our own local supplier network ensuring the freshness of all the dishes we plan to serve and will be seeking the advice of Zaks' suppliers to make sure this happens."

The franchise management team is being led by chief operating officer, Chris Carr, who also runs the company's existing restaurants.

He said: "Customers at David and Joan's diner will be able to enjoy the same quality burger experience that we've been serving up at Zaks for four decades. Our burgers are made using 100% beef with no additives and can be served in more than 20 different ways - not including how it is cooked."

Zaks introduced a selection of new burgers in November 2013 including the ‘Dairy State' from Wisconsin, finished with smooth cheese and butter; ‘The Hogfather' which is topped with pulled pork and the ‘Heaven or Hell' burger which gives the option of cool sour cream with sweet chilli or hot sauce and jalapenos.

The company also added a ‘Sweet Burger' to the dessert menu with layers of cookies, waffles, confectionery, ice cream and cream.