Ray Allen, the 41-year-old Miami Heat player, two-time champion of the NBA and Olympic gold medalist, along with spouse Shannon, aims to open Grown, a fast food concept in South Miami. They will be opening in March.
"Grown was born out of frustration," shared Shannon. Further talking about how the idea started originally, she said, "At home, I do my best to prepare delicious, nutrient-dense meals for our five children, including our son Walker, who is living with type 1 diabetes. Like most busy families, we juggle homework, after-school sports, and everyday commitments - we live in our cars. I had an aha moment where I realized I couldn't sit around helpless waiting for someone else to create a fast-food option that met our family's dietary needs."
Once the couple got the idea about the fast food concept, they went through the groundwork for the creation of Grown. They met a team of experts to collect as much info and ideas as possible for the lay down of the foundation.
The team of experts included Michael Rose of Rose Capital Advisors, Tara Madigan, of Fruit street Health and former team nutritionist for the Boston Red Sox, Asha Loring, executive director of Health in the Hood.
Additionally, it also included Faheem Mujahid, a trainer and holistic lifestyle coach, Sally Simpson, founder of chopchop, a family-oriented cooking magazine, and Gabriele Marewski, founder of Paradise Farms Organic in Homestead, according to Miami New Times.
The fast-food concept will work on the farm-to-table concept, meaning the dishes will be made of organic and nutritious ingredients from the local markets.
The dishes on the menu include small-batch soups, salads, sandwiches, and wraps; gluten-free baked goods; juices and smoothies. All the food on the menu is available for dine-in and take away. The cost ranges from $4-$18.
They have spaces for private events and also a roof-top organic terrace growing up the fruits and veggies used for the menu. Miami can expect a healthy and yummy dine in at the Grown soon.
