Restaurant of the Year celebrates America’s outstanding meals in 2026
USA TODAY’s Restaurant of the Year spotlights the top restaurants across America in 2026, from roadside classics to chef-driven hotspots. Check out the list for February 11th.
- The location will be directed by Victor Cruz, a former New York Giants wide receiver, Super Bowl 46 champion, and sportscaster.
- Krystal, a nearly century-old chain with 300 restaurants in 13 states, will open in New Jersey on Monday, March 2nd.
The Southern burger chain known for its miniature square sliders is teaming up with the Super Bowl champion New York Giants to open its first Northeast location in New Jersey this winter.
Krystal, a nearly 100-year-old chain with 300 restaurants in 13 states, will open at 2200 E. Route 22 in Union Township on Monday, March 2, marking its first location in the area.
The location will be directed by Victor Cruz, a former New York Giants wide receiver, Super Bowl 46 champion, and sportscaster.
“Bringing Crystal to New Jersey is more than just a business milestone, it’s personal to me,” said Cruz, a Paterson native. “This is home. I’ve always believed in being involved, working hard, and giving back to the communities that have shaped me. Now, I can bring the brand I love to the place that raised me, and I can’t wait to share it with my friends, neighbors, and a whole new generation of fans.”
The restaurant will offer a full menu of Crystal’s signature sliders, hot dogs, chicken nuggets and chicken sandwiches, and plans to introduce limited-time menus inspired by Cruise’s personal connection to the brand.
Prior to the co-op’s opening, Crystal will hold a recruitment event from February 11-12 and February 17-20 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Applicants must bring a valid ID and social security number.
go: Opening March 2nd at 2200 Route 22 East, Union, New Jersey. crystal.com.
Staff Reporter Jenna Intersimone: JIntersimone@MyCentralJersey.com
