Listen to this articleA Connecticut-based healthy protein shake concept has made its New Jersey debut.
Following its Dec. 15 grand opening at 17 Godwin Ave. in Ridgewood, Fresh Monkee serves customers weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Founded in 2014 by former athlete and working mother Judy Flynn, the chain offers fresh, high-protein shakes made to order from whole fruits and vegetables, natural nut butters, high-quality protein and minimal added sugar. There are also vegan, gluten-free and low-FODMAP options on the menu.
Since launching a franchise program in 2022, Fresh Monkee has 31 locations open across the U.S. and an additional 30 stores in development. Alongside the growth, Fresh Monkee launched a new mobile app earlier this month that allows customers to order ahead, bank points and redeem rewards.
Flynn described the journey from “one small shop to a national powerhouse” as a “growth beyond anything we imagined” and a “remarkable moment for our entire Fresh Monkee family.”
The chain is also celebrating its first celebrity partnership.
In August, actor and television host Mario Lopez signed on as an investor and is spearheading expansion in California. Besides being known for his role as A.C. Slater on the hit 1990s teen series “Saved by the Bell,” Lopez is an advocate for health and wellness.
Shortly after announcing his involvement with the chain, the married father of three said, “I’ve had a lot of protein shakes in my life — and most don’t make the cut. Fresh Monkee is clean, delicious, and actually filling. I’m excited to help bring it to California and support a brand that puts health first.”
