Gaia Masala & Burger is gearing up to open its fifth location at 649 S. College Ave. in Fort Collins, according to The Coloradoan. The new eatery is in the process of taking over the former Half Fast Subs space, which closed last October.
A rapidly growing chain blending Indian, Mediterranean, and American cuisines, the restaurant features an array of dishes like Tikka Masala Cheesesteak, Masala Pizza, gyros, shawarma, burgers, and biryani. Owner Hira Kunwar told What Now Denver that the For Collins location is a more fine dining version of the concept.
Kunwar and his business partner, Nandalal Neupane, started the company in 2019. Kunwar immigrated from Nepal and started in the food industry as a dishwasher at the University of Colorado, working his way up to head chef. Neupane was a chef for over 15 years at an Indian restaurant in Boulder.
Known for its late-night hours, Gaia Masala & Burger has become a favorite for night owls in Boulder and Denver, with some of its locations staying open until 3 a.m. In Fort Collins, the restaurant will close slightly earlier, at 2 a.m.