SAUGUS — The town will be getting a bit healthier with the arrival of a new juice bar, which has received the green light to open from the Board of Selectmen.
When Yayi’s opens in December, it will become the first juice and smoothie bar to operate in Saugus Center. The shop, which will be located at 306 Central St., will also sell sandwiches, coffee and tea.
“It’s going to be something new; we’re not going to be like any other juice bar,” said Yayi’s Manager Anthony Villalobos.
Villalobos said the shop will be sandwiched between a pizza shop and a gym; he noted his excitement for a mini-market component, which will sell fresh fruits and vegetables.
“Saugus has everything from malls to shopping centers, but one thing they do need is a juice bar,” said his business partner, Yassine Benouardia. “There’s plenty of places to eat greasy foods, but once you go on a healthy diet it makes it harder (to eat that way).”
In last week’s Board of Selectmen meeting, board members expressed excitement over what the juice bar would mean for the town; it would not only bring something new to Saugus, but it would also be a healthier alternative to what’s already there.
“This is a great concept,” said Selectman Michael Serino. “I always said it would be great to have a little cafè in town. I wish you guys a lot of luck.”
Board Chairman Anthony Cogliano was also supportive of the new business.
“I always received my daughter’s credit-card bills when she was in college and was at a juice bar every day,” he said. “It got expensive so I’m sure you guys will do well.”
“I love your passion; I think you are going to do awesome,” Selectman Debra Panetta told the owners during last week’s meeting.
The approval from the Board of Selectmen comes after a number of setbacks for Yayi’s. But wanting to open a business in Saugus was never in doubt for the two owners.
“We want to thank the Town of Saugus for allowing us to open businesses in Saugus; it’s such a big town,” said Benouardia.
