Krystal Restaurant to Open in Union, NJ in 2026

Former NFL star Victor Cruz brings beloved Southern burger chain to his home state

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Krystal Restaurants, the iconic Southern fast-food chain known for its square hamburgers, is opening its first-ever location in New Jersey in 2026. The new restaurant will be located in Union and is being led by brand partner Victor Cruz, a former New York Giants wide receiver and Super Bowl champion. Cruz is excited to bring his favorite sliders to his home state, with plans for a grand opening on March 2, 2026.

Why it matters

The arrival of Krystal in New Jersey represents the continued expansion of the Southern fast-food chain beyond its traditional footprint. For Union residents, it will provide a new dining option and introduce them to Krystal's signature menu items. The involvement of local hero Victor Cruz also adds an exciting personal connection to the new restaurant opening.

The details

The new Krystal restaurant will be located at 2200 Route 22 East in Union, New Jersey. It is scheduled to open on March 2, 2026 and will be led by brand partner Victor Cruz, a former New York Giants wide receiver. Krystal is known for its iconic square hamburgers, which are served hot off the grill on a signature square bun. The chain, headquartered in Atlanta, currently has nearly 300 locations across 13 states, with plans for further expansion.

  • Krystal Restaurants will open its first New Jersey location on March 2, 2026.
  • Hiring events for the new Union restaurant will take place from February 11-12 and February 17-20, 2026.

The players

Krystal Restaurants

A Southern fast-food chain known for its square hamburgers, with nearly 300 locations across 13 states.

Victor Cruz

A former New York Giants wide receiver and Super Bowl champion who is serving as a brand partner for the new Krystal restaurant in his home state of New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“This is home. I have always believed in showing up, working hard, and giving back to the community that shaped me, and I can't wait to share it with friends, neighbors, and a whole generation of fans.”

— Victor Cruz, Brand Partner, Krystal Restaurants (palivingnews.com)

What’s next

Hiring events for the new Krystal restaurant in Union will take place throughout February, with positions available for the grand opening on March 2, 2026.

The takeaway

The arrival of the iconic Krystal burger chain in New Jersey, led by local hero Victor Cruz, represents an exciting new dining option for Union residents and a continued expansion of the Southern fast-food brand beyond its traditional footprint.