America's healthiest fast-food chain is challenging McDonald's

Hollis Johnson

When McDonald's announced its improvement plan last year, one fast-food CEO was not impressed.  

Freshii's Matthew Corrin sent an open letter to McDonald's offering to partner up with the struggling fast-food giant.

After Corrin founded the chain in 2005, Freshii expanded in the midst of a crippling recession to more than 100 locations worldwide.

Such growth is impressive for a chain focusing on fresh produce and antibiotic- and hormone-free meats, as well as a wide range of vegetarian options.

While on a trip to Boston, I decided to swing into the nearest Freshii to see for myself whether this chain had what it would take to turn around the health of the fast-food industry.

Freshii hasn't broken into the New York City market just yet, but it has stores in several major US cities, including Los Angeles, Miami, and Minneapolis. I visited one of its three Boston locations — this one is at 185 Dartmouth Street next to Copley Square.

The interior is bright and clean, with solid wood tables. You can see the entire food area behind the sneeze guards — no hidden kitchen.

The decor isn't whimsy, but it's not sterile. The whole restaurant feels clean and young — targeting the millennial demographic.