A new fast-casual dining option is headed to Owensboro, offering globally inspired bowls, salads, and smoothies aimed at health-conscious diners. Currito, a Cincinnati-based restaurant chain known for its “greens and grains” concept, is officially bringing a franchise to the east side of town with a projected opening in mid-to-late 2026.
The restaurant will be located on Calumet Trace in Gateway Commons. The site is across from the locally owned complex that includes a gas station, liquor store, and Little Caesars — businesses affiliated with the franchise owner, Jesal Patel.
“We’re really excited to be coming to Owensboro,” said Scotty Geiger, Vice President of Franchise Development for Currito. “This location is part of a larger push to double our footprint over the next three years. Owensboro is one of 10 new restaurants scheduled to open in 2026.”
Currito currently has 23 locations open and 23 more in development nationwide. Patel is already involved with Currito franchises in Bowling Green, Evansville, and Murfreesboro, Tennessee, but Owensboro marks his first as the majority owner.
“He’s really one of our key franchise partners,” Geiger said. “He’s passionate about bringing fresh, flavor-forward food to the communities he’s invested in.”
Founded nearly 20 years ago, Currito began as a burrito-focused chain but has since evolved into a bowl-centric concept with an emphasis on international flavors.
“We’re not Mexican. That’s something we’re very clear about,” Geiger said. “We consider ourselves a global menu — Asian, Mediterranean, American, you name it.”
Currito offers customizable grain bowls and salads using ingredients like arugula, kale, quinoa, couscous, and antibiotic-free proteins. Popular menu items include the Mediterranean-style bowl, Bangkok bowl with peanut sauce, and a buffalo chicken-inspired “Hello Bowl.” Vegetarian options like curry chickpeas and tofu are also available.
“Our mission is flavor first,” Geiger said. “We focus on fresh, whole ingredients, and while we lean healthy, we don’t make claims. If someone wants a 2,000-calorie burrito loaded with sour cream and guac, we can do that, too.”
Smoothies round out the menu, making Currito a versatile choice for both light lunches and satisfying dinners. The average meal ticket runs around $14.
While exact construction timelines are still being finalized, Geiger estimates a Q2 or Q3 2026 opening.
“We all know restaurants are rarely on time,” he added with a laugh. “But that’s the target. And with a strong local partner like Jesal, we’re confident it’ll be worth the wait.”
