Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe plans mid-September opening at Oak Place

In addition to Pizza 51, Subway, Sahara and Kin Lin, students will have a new Oak Street restaurant to choose from when Pickleman’s Gourmet Cafe opens, offering toasted sandwiches, pizza and soups.

Pickleman’s will occupy the first level of Oak Place next to the Oak Nails salon, previously occupied by Red Mango.

Construction began in late July. Pickleman’s originated in 2005 in Columbia, Mo. Pickleman’s has expanded to 10 locations throughout Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska and Oklahoma with several new locations opening soon.  Currently, the nearest Pickleman’s to UMKC is at 135th Street and Metcalf Avenue in Overland Park.

“Pickleman’s does really well in college towns,” franchise owner Jordan Starke said.  “Students seem to really like the food a lot.”

Pickleman’s menu items range in price from $3.49 to $11.99, suitable for the average college student.

The restaurant emphasizes its environmentally sustainable practices, using items that are biodegradable in 180 days, such as eating utensils, cups, lids and salad containers.

The UMKC location will be open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.  Students who wish to apply for a job can visit www.picklemans.com and fill out an online application.

mshea@unews.com