A local restaurant chain billing itself as a healthy alternative to fast food is making its way across the Western states.

Post Falls-based Konala LLC, which does business as Konala Protein Bowls & Salads, signed two multi-deal franchise agreements that will deliver the brand to Montana and Utah, says co-owner Trace Miller.

Konala currently has three corporate-owned restaurants, two in North Idaho and one in Spokane. The franchise agreements will bring three restaurants to Montana, including Kalispell, Bozeman, and Missoula, and five locations to the Salt Lake City area in Utah, says Miller.

The Montana franchise agreement was signed by Eric Garside, a 10-year franchisee with Snap-on Tools, says Miller.

Tyson Adams, a former district manager for Jersey Mikes's Subs, signed the five-unit deal in Utah.

Founded by Miller, and his wife, Jammie, Konala is designed to offer diners a healthy fast-food option.

"Food served quickly doesn't need to be unhealthy," Miller says. "There's not many healthy options out there, and only a few with a drive-thru, and none of them, that I'm aware of, are franchised."

The Millers opened their first Konala in Post Falls, at 107 E. Seventh, in May of 2023. A Coeur d'Alene location, at 106 E. Appleway, followed in August 2024. Konala's Spokane location opened at a former Carl's Jr. location, at at 6740 N. Division, in January.

Miller says the three combined locations operate with approximately 70 employees and are expected to generate $6 million in sales this year.

The company plans to open two more corporate-owned Spokane locations in the near future, one on the South Hill and one in Spokane Valley.

"It's been crazy opening," Miller says. "It has not slowed down a bit. It's very busy non-stop."

Shortly after opening its first two locations, Konala started working with Fransmart LLC, a franchise development company that has helped 10 franchises grow to over 100 locations, as previously reported in the journal.

"They are very experienced," says Miller. "Stores include Qdoba, The Halal Guys, and early investors in Cava and Sweetgreen."

Working with Fransmart has helped Miller expand the Konala brand, he says.

"They teach us the things we don't know," Miller says. "As a young company, they are able to take us to the next level and avoid mistakes typical merging brands would make." 

Known for its hight-protein, gluten-free bowls and salads, the most popular menu items are the Burrito Bowl, Teriyaki Chicken, and Steak Greek, Miller says.

Miller highlights the importance of a protein-rich diet with his choice of menu items.

"We want to make healthy as delicious as possible," he says. "Studies show that 90% of Americans are protein deficient. We provide 45 grams of protein, on average, with each of our protein bowls."