A popular frozen yogurt shop in Westfield Downtown Plaza is expanding to Midtown, occupying a space that formerly housed Jamba Juice.

“We’re really excited to be expanding,” said Yummy Yogurt Cafe owner Jason Yee. “Most businesses are cutting back or locking their doors.”

Yee, a Sacramento native who comes from a long line of Sacramentans, said the 1901 J St. location will be ideal for his business, as he wanted to expand locally. He opened the first Yummy Yogurt Cafe in July, 2009.

“We’re going to be right there in the mix,” he said. “The timing is right, and we’re moving forward.”

Despite there being other frozen yogurt shops in Sacramento, Yee said he is confident that his yogurt will draw in patrons.

“It’s drier, firmer and colder,” he said of his yogurt.

The new store will offer six flavors initially. The tried-and-true strawberry, chocolate and vanilla will be available as well as a non-dairy (probably mango sorbet), a classic tart and a special flavor – possibly New York cheesecake, Yee said.

The current store is similar, and flavors rotate from time to time.

Mike Matsumura said he comes into the Downtown Plaza store frequently and thinks the shop will succeed in its second location as well.

“It’s great customer service and good value for the money,” he said. “They do a good job at this place.”

K’maron Markson visited the Downtown Plaza location for the first time Friday afternoon and said she will likely go to the Midtown location as well.

“I really like it,” she said. “The prices are good.”

Cups of frozen yogurt are dished up by patrons, and toppings are also self-serve. Pricing is done by the weight of the cup when they go to the cash register.

“Most yogurts range about $1.50 - $6, depending on what they want” Yee said. A stamp card allows returning customers to buy seven yogurts and get an eighth one free.

Yee’s business partner for the Midtown location, Rod Avery, said they are planning to open in the first part of April.

“All of our vendors are excited, sometimes more than we are,” he said, adding that they praise the location.

“Our plan is to do the yogurt, do the smoothies, and (we’re) looking at probably doing some cheesecakes and a hot dog griddle, nachos, chili and maybe some soup,” he added.

Seating will be available outside in a common seating area as well as a few tables directly outside the shop, Yee said. Parking is available in the rear.

Being a block away from the intersection of 20th and J streets, one of the major hubs of Second Saturday Art Walks, Yee said he plans to take part in the monthly event, likely incorporating music.

Initially, Yee said he plans to have the store open from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., but hours might be adjusted after opening.

Sacramento Press Editorial Intern Zephyr McIntyre contributed to this article. Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.