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"A California-based vegan restaurant chain is opening in Harvard Square this Sunday, October 13, when Veggie Grill will take over the 57 John F. Kennedy St. space once occupied by Wagamama. With 30 locations across California, Oregon, Washington, and Illinois, Veggie Grill offers a vegan and largely gluten-free menu that includes a Beyond Burger as well as zucchini noodles, falafel, various tofu dishes, various salads, and tempura green beans. The restaurant told Eater in 2018 that market research showed there are “a lot of mindful veggie-centric guests in Boston who are looking for our craveable plant-based food,” and that CEO Steve Heeley lived in Boston for many years and is familiar with the market. The new 2,500-square-foot space will seat up to 40 diners, and the chain is also opening a Flatiron location in New York City this fall; its arrival is presented as part of a broader trend of out-of-town chains moving into Harvard Square amid rising rents and ongoing construction." - Terrence Doyle