The South’s most iconic slider is finally heading north. Krystal Restaurants LLC, the Atlanta-based brand famous for its small, square burgers and deep Southern roots, has announced it will open its first-ever Northeast location in Union, this spring.
The landmark restaurant, located at 2200 Route 22 East, is scheduled to officially open its doors on March 2.
Leading the charge into the Garden State is none other than New Jersey native and former New York Giants star Victor Cruz. The Super Bowl XLVI champion, who grew up in Paterson, is partnering with the brand to introduce his home state to the 93-year-old slider legacy.
For Cruz, the partnership is more than a business venture—it’s a homecoming. Known for his legendary salsa celebrations in the end zone, Cruz is now bringing that same energy to the quick-service industry.
“Bringing Krystal to New Jersey isn’t just a business milestone, it’s personal for me,” Cruz said. “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.”
The Union location is expected to feature Cruz’s personal touch, with plans for limited-time menu offerings inspired by the football great and memorabilia from his career with the Giants.
In preparation for the March debut, Krystal is launching a major recruitment drive to fill positions for all shifts. The brand will host two series of in-person hiring events at the Union site:
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Feb. 11–12: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
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Feb. 17–20: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Applicants are asked to bring a valid ID and Social Security number. The brand is looking for team members ready to grow as Krystal continues its expansion across the Northeast.
The Union restaurant will feature the full Krystal menu that has made the chain a staple in 13 states across the South. Guests can expect:
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The Original Krystal: The signature small, square burger grilled with onions, mustard, and a pickle on a steamed bun.
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Cheese Krystals and Pups: Cheesy variations of the slider and the brand’s signature small hot dogs.
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Southern Classics: Side items like grits and “Kryspers” (crispy fries).
“Bringing Krystal to New Jersey reflects the momentum we’ve built and our confidence that Krystal’s food resonates well beyond the South,” Kaitlin Kees, senior director of marketing at Krystal said.
