[UPDATE] Bolay to Make Georgia Debut in August: Host Opening Week of Freebies

It's now been a little over three years since we first reported that Florida-based bowl concept Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen had Atlanta on its expansion map and just over one year since we broke news that they would make their debut in Alpharetta.  We are pleased to be able to share now that the company plans to open in Alpharetta August 11.  The new restaurant, located at 10920 Haynes Bridge Road, has hired industry veteran Mitch Rubin as Operating Partner of the Alpharetta outpost.  Bolay Alpharetta replaces Corner Bakery which closed in August 2020 after about seven years in business.    

Rubin comes to Bolay after most recently serving as General Manager at Zoes Kitchen and before that serving in a similar role for P.F. Chang's China Bistro.  All told, Rubin has nearly three decades of restaurant experience.  Bolay's new location will be situated between existing outposts of Chipotle Mexican Grill and Cava.   

Bolay was started in early 2016 by Chris Gannon, who owns the concept with his father Tim Gannon, a co-founder of Outback Steakhouse.  As its name suggests, Bolay features a variety of "bol" options where patrons can either build their own or choose from a "chef inspired" bowl.

Greens and grains like Forbidden Black Rice and Asian Sweet Potato noodles can be topped with Veggies like Balsamic Mushrooms or Ginger Broccoli.  Protein options include Lemon Chicken, Havana Pulled Pork, Spicy Thai Shrimp, Teriyaki Chicken and vegan miso tofu, which we particularly enjoyed on our south Florida visit this past December.  Add-ons and sauces include Chimichurri Tomatoes and Creamy Garlic & Herb Sauce.

According to the Bolay website, there are currently twenty-two locations open in Florida, with five more "coming soon."  The company's Atlanta entry marks the first of two new markets the brand is entering, with locations in Falls Church and Gainesville, Virginia, in greater metropolitan Washington, D.C., also slated to open later this summer.     

The Alpharetta outpost will welcome their first guests with a Grand Opening VIP Week between August 11 and August 15, where patrons can enjoy a free Regular Bol with an RSVP here.  The first 100 guests in line on August 11 will be rewarded with free Bolay Bols for a year (one per month) through the BolayGo App. "Guests can also expect gift card giveaways, free swag and, of course, tons of delicious food throughout the course of the week."  

Have you ever been to Bolay?  What is your favorite fast casual restaurant either here currently or that you would like to see expand to metro Atlanta?  Where else would you like to see Bolay open? 

Please share your thoughts below.