Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes — a fresh-never-frozen fast-casual franchise — is opening a new store at 24025 Newhall Ranch Road in Santa Clarita’s Valencia neighborhood.
What Now Los Angeles had the privilege of speaking with the incoming outpost’s owner, Sam Aishoua. Here’s what he had to say about the exciting endeavor:
WNLA: How did you land on Mooyah as a franchising opportunity?
SA: Initially, I loved the image, the coloring, and the design. That spiked my interest and I started learning more about the brand: the kind of meat they use, how they cook their buns in-house, their fresh-cut fries — all of that caught my eye. It was special.
WNLA: What is your background prior to becoming a Mooyah store owner?
SA: I currently operate convenience stores; I’ve done that for the past 24 years. I have two on Hollywood Boulevard.
WNLA: Do you plan to open more Mooyah locations throughout LA?
SA: The thought is definitely there, but the first store is the most important. I have to see how things work out and what the process will be like. More locations are on the table, but it all depends.
WNLA: When will the Valencia store open?
SA: It’s all a projection right now and nothing is set in stone; we haven’t even started construction yet.
In two weeks, we’ll hopefully submit the permitting, so I’m assuming we’ll open in late August or early September.
WNLA: What’s something special that you’ll bring to the Mooyah brand?
SA: I consider myself a good business operator; I care about details and consistency. I intend to follow and rely on the system that’s been set in place – it’s there for a reason – but to also put my own signature on things.
