Mac and cheese-focused restaurant betting on Cleveland to launch chain near CSU, opening in July

CLEVELAND - A new macaroni and cheese-focused restaurant opening new Cleveland State’s campus is betting on Cleveland and the development in the area to kick off its business.

JB Mack plans to open up its shop on Euclid Avenue at East 21th Monday, July 16.

Company owner Jonathan Bellobuono said he’s excited to launch into this growing market.

“We love the idea of being located on a busy street and across from a big college campus. JB Mack's menu appeals to people of all ages (from students to faculty, to local businesses) we will have something for everyone,” said Bellobuono in an email.

He said that while the company’s first location in Manchester, Connecticut, has closed, he’s hopeful the opening of this franchise near CSU will springboard into more business.

“We have a strong development plan to grow more units once this location is up and running,” said Bellobuono.

Franchise owner David Kaufman and his brother also own Brothers Printing and University Lofts, located in the same building where the restaurant will be housed. He said they saw an opportunity for the new business with all of the improvements in the area.

“We’re timing this with development and what's going on with the university. So many positive things going on across the street,” said Kaufman.

Kaufman said the printing business has been open since 1974 and the University Lofts apartments opened three years ago and feature 38 upscale units. Now, he and his brother are getting into their first restaurant business together.

Kaufman said the concept of JB Mack fits in line with what his nearby residents may want.

“What college kid doesn't love macaroni and cheese?” said Kaufman.

The restaurant’s menu features several varieties of mac & cheese, as well as pasta, wraps, grilled cheese and salad.

Check out the menu here: http://www.jbmack.com/menu.html