By STACEY MARCUS
Fall is a great time to take a ride along Route One to go apple picking or leaf peeping. Whether you are headed north or south, there are new dining options to enjoy as well. In Saugus alone, there are three new restaurants: Oye’s, which opened in June, Muscle Maker Grill, which had a soft opening in August and is planning a grand opening this fall, and Grill House, which is slated to open this month.
The three join an eclectic array of Route One restaurants including such icons as Kowloon, Prince Pizzeria and the Continental. This is what’s cooking.
Ricky Cabrera outside his Muscle Maker Grill. |Photo: Nicole Goodhue Boyd
Owner Richy Cabreja is excited to bring Muscle Maker Grill to Massachusetts. Cabreja said the restaurant, located at the Shops at Saugus mall, is part of a franchise that began in 1995 and has more than 60 locations. Muscle Maker’s menu features an assortment of healthy foods that are low in sodium and carbs and high in protein. Dishes include fresh greens, healthy wraps, fitness bowls, sandwiches, fruit smoothies and protein shakes. A plan program gives diners the option to pre-order meals by phone, online and pick-up at the restaurant.
Muscle Maker Grill | 358 Broadway | musclemakergrill.com
Jeff Floramo, a 22-year veteran of the restaurant business, at his soon-to-be open Grill House. | Photo: Nicole Goodhue Boyd
Located in the former Papagayo spot on Route One south, the Grill House will open this fall and offer a diverse menu featuring barbecue, Italian specials and seafood dishes. Jeff Floramo, a Lynnfield resident, has worked in the food industry for more than three decades and looks forward to creating a casual dining experience for families and friends. His brothers, Ricky and Tony, are part of the team that aims to fill the space (230 seats including bar) with good vibes and great food. There will be space for functions that can accommodate up to 80. Floramo anticipates opening the restaurant in October.
Grill House | 817 Broadway | route1grillhouse.com
Oye’s new route one restaurant. | Photo: Nicole Goodhue Boyd
Oye’s Restaurant, which also has a location in North Reading, has moved into the former Donatello’s space on Route One north. Diners looking for a variety of options in Asian cuisine will find lots to like here. The extensive sushi menu boasts numerous rolled delicacies, including the popular Snow Mountain Maki roll (shrimp tempura topped with king crab meat). Beautifully appointed, this is a great place to enjoy dinner (gluten free menu is available), sushi or a colorful cocktail. Along with fresh food, Oye’s offers catering and has ample space to host an event.
Oye’s Restaurant | 44 Broadway | oyesrestaurant.com
