Every day, millions walk into one of the 348 restaurant locations across the country. The clanging of bowls and spoons and the sizzle of boiling noodles fill the amicable atmosphere. From healthy to indulgent and spicy to comforting, Noodles and Company has a bowl for everyone. The newest Twins Cites location is in Oak Park Heights, next to another popular chain restaurant Jimmy Johns. Comparing to their aroma of sandwiches, what will happen to their business once Noodles and Co. opens their doors?

Assistant Manager Thaber Peterson has been working at multiple Jimmy Johns and enjoys the Oak Park Heights location. He said, “We have great equipment, a lot of ovens and an expensive slicer, which help bring in more money.” However, he is concerned that Jimmy Johns might lose business to their new neighbors.

Noodles and Co., being one of the top growing chain businesses, raising 18.2 percent in financial growth this year, might raise a threat to the successful Jimmy Johns.

“I think the new Noodles will bring in new business,” said Peterson, “but it will also slow us down a little during the night.”

Manager Khan Sengmaung of the Woodbury Noodles and Co. said their main rush hours are, “Noon- 2 p.m. for lunch and 5- 8 p.m. for dinner” while Peterson said their only main rush hour is between 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. Since Jimmy John’s is lunch oriented, this could decrease their business in the evening.

“There is always going to be competition,” Sengmaung said “Other restaurants bring in new people to our area, but they’re always going to choose where they want to eat. They’ll eat where its convenient for them. Sometimes they’ll want this certain meal and sometimes they’ll want a change. If they get a good experience here then they’ll want to come more often.”

Peterson and Sengmaung both agree Noodles and Co. will be successful in Oak Park Heights’ growing community, market, and traffic flow on Highway 36.

Junior Shelby Kadlec, a frequent Noodles and Co. customer, claims it will be convenient on Highway 36 because, “You can see Noodles when you drive by. It’ll open a door to a different variety of food.”

Noodles and Co. are often built near a busy road because the more traffic, the more bowls are sold. However Kadlec travels there to enjoy the top selling dish, the classic Mac N’ Cheese.

“Noodles and Co. has a lot of variety in its food choices, like vegetarian, fish, meat options, soups and salads.” said Kadlec.

Opening their doors this Nov., Noodles and Co. will successfully share it is Asian, Mediterranean and American style dishes with the Oak Park Heights’ community.