A restaurant promising a little help for your muscles and overall health has taken over a small space opposite Walt Whitman Shops.
It's having its grand opening Saturday and though the building at 195 Walt Whitman Road, may feel small, it's hard to miss. Just watch for the giant muscleman balloon in front.
And the large owner, too. Paul Riedel, who has the Suffolk franchise for the chain Muscle Maker Grill, is a former college linebacker who at 45 retains his large frame. And a friendly demeanor. He also owns Big Al's Family Fitness center in Amityville.
Making the leap from a gym to isn't a big deal, Riedel says. "It took me 15 years to get the gym industry right," he said. "In a gym, you get to affect people's lives every day. I enjoy that part of my work."
The restaurant specializes in protein-rich but low-calorie dishes.
While it opened its doors Sept. 23, Saturday's grand opening will offer free food from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Special prices are in effect until 9 p.m.
Items on the menu include such the Mona Lisa wrap, the turkey taco salad, the lean and mean cheeseburger salad and the Rocky Balboa wrap. The restaurant is eat-in and offers delivery and takeout service.
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