Location: Glen Allen, VA
Scope of Work: Foodservice Design, Equipment Procurement & Installation
Date of Completion: June 2026
When Roots Natural Kitchen set out to transform a former Noodles & Company location into a new restaurant concept, the goal was clear: maximize the existing infrastructure while creating an efficient, scalable operation aligned with the Roots brand experience.
To support this vision, Boelter partnered closely with the Roots team and their long-standing project collaborators, including HLA, Power-Up Electrical Design Services, LLC, and P&M Engineering. Together, the team developed a strategic approach that allowed the restaurant to reuse much of the existing building infrastructure, helping reduce overall buildout costs while maintaining operational functionality.
Unlike a typical Roots project that starts with an empty shell, this location required careful coordination to adapt existing electrical, plumbing, hood, and walk-in cooler systems to the Roots operating model. Boelter worked alongside the engineer of record to verify that the existing MEP systems could support the new kitchen layout and equipment package. Through detailed collaboration and on-site verification, the team successfully repurposed key infrastructure components, creating significant cost savings for the customer.
One of the most notable operational enhancements involved the cooking platform. Rather than following the standard Roots specification of a single 72-inch Southbend griddle, the operations team wanted to test a new approach using two 36-inch griddles. This configuration gave staff greater flexibility and control when preparing proteins and vegetables, improving efficiency across the line.
Another standout feature of the project was the evolution of Roots’ digital production line. The team transitioned from a traditional “buyout” serving line to a fully custom fabricated serving line designed to mirror the main service line. As digital ordering, catering, and app-based takeout continue to grow, the new setup provides a more streamlined and efficient workflow for off-premise production. After being tested in several locations, this updated design is now becoming the standard specification for future Roots projects.
The Glen Allen location reflects the value of close collaboration, operationally focused design, and strategic reuse of existing infrastructure. By balancing innovation with cost-conscious execution, Boelter helped deliver a space designed to support Roots Natural Kitchen’s continued growth and evolving service model.
