Sweet Tomatoes permanently closes all locations

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Covid-19 crisis has caused a long list of problems for many businesses across the country. While some businesses are beginning to open their doors, one restaurant is closing its doors for good. Garden Fresh Restaurants, the parent company of Sweet Tomatoes will be shutting down all 97 locations which include The Woodlands Mall location.

With the FDA’s emphasis on self-serve stations like buffets and salad bars, Garden Fresh CEO John Haywood didn’t see how restaurants like Sweet Tomatoes could operate. “The regulations are understandable, but unfortunately, it makes it very difficult to reopen. And I’m not sure the health departments are ever going to allow it,” said Haywood in an interview with the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Sweet Tomatoes, known for their unlimited salads and baked goods, is the first major chain to close its doors permanently. Over 4,000 employees are expected to lose their jobs.