Fresh Monkee Opens First New Jersey Location as Chain Reaches 31 Stores Nationwide

Fresh Monkee opened its first New Jersey spot on Dec. 15 at 17 Godwin Ave. in Ridgewood. The protein shake company now operates 31 shops across the U.S., with 30 more in the works.

The new shop serves customers on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Judy Flynn started the business in 2014. She was an athlete and a working mother.

The menu has shakes made to order from whole fruits and vegetables, natural nut butters, protein and minimal added sugar. Vegan options? Yes. Gluten-free and low-FODMAP choices are there too.

Flynn launched a franchise program in 2022. She called the move from "one small shop to a national powerhouse" as "growth beyond anything we imagined" and a "remarkable moment for our entire Fresh Monkee family."

Actor and television host Mario Lopez signed on as an investor in August. He's leading the push into California.

Mario Lopez played A.C. Slater on the 1990s teen series "Saved by the Bell." He speaks out for health and wellness.

"I've had a lot of protein shakes in my life — and most don't make the cut," said Mario Lopez, according to NJBIZ. "Fresh Monkee is clean, delicious, and actually filling. I'm excited to help bring it to California and support a brand that puts health first."

The married father of three announced his involvement with the brand shortly after signing on in August. His partnership marks the first celebrity investor for the company.

The chain launched a new mobile app earlier this month. Customers can order ahead, earn points and redeem rewards through the app.