Cuisine
Glam Halal | May-June . 2022
Accelerating global expansion
Russo ‘ s looking at multi-unit franchise deal in Qatar
Burrata Pomodoro Pizza by Russo ' s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen .
AWARD-WINNING , Texasbased fast-casual brand Russo ’ s New York Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen has signed a five-unit franchise deal in Qatar , fulfilling a critical geographic goal in the franchisor ’ s international expansion strategy .
In partnership with the new franchisee , Russo ’ s Founder and CEO , Chef Anthony Russo , will introduce Qataris to a trove of original family recipes from Naples and Sicily . They will utilise fresh , seasonal ingredients and premium , hand-tossed New York-style pizzas , including a giant , signature pie measuring 71 centimetres .
Authentic Italian dishes range from gourmet pasta to calzones , and the menu also features salads , deli sandwiches , soups and desserts . Standouts include homemade lasagna , baked ziti , truffle mushroom pasta , gluten-free pasta and halal pizza options .
Set to open as soon as November 2022 – just in time for the country ’ s FIFA World Cup hosting debut - the inaugural restaurant will be located in the remarkable Doha Oasis mixed-use district . It will join an array of premier global food and beverage concepts in addition to a world-class hotel , theme park ,
We ’ re thrilled to grow our international footprint and showcase our elevated fastcasual dining experience in Qatar , a fascinating global market that I have become very fond of .” — Russo department store and Vox Cinema , where Russo ’ s pizza options will also be spotlighted .
“ We ’ re thrilled to grow our international footprint and showcase our elevated fast-casual dining experience in Qatar , a fascinating global market that I have become very fond of ,” said Russo .
“ We are honoured to have the support of our new Qatari franchisee . And opening just ahead of the World Cup is the perfect opportunity to grow brand awareness among an influential , global audience .”
Russo , the son of first-generation Italian immigrants who initially emigrated to New Jersey before settling in the Houston , Texas area , launched Russo ’ s in 1992 and has since expanded the brand in partnership with 27 franchisees . More than 50 locations across the United States and eight restaurants are situated throughout Dubai and Saudi Arabia .
He is seeking global franchise partners - specifically entrepreneurs interested in proven brands that are entirely chef created and chef-driven . Several floorplan options provide flexible designs and layout choices , spanning from pizza and delivery only to fast-casual , full-service dining and full-service with coal oven and elevated interiors .
The Halal Guys celebrates 100th store
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WITH THE opening of a new Pittsburgh location , The Halal Guys , the fast-casual American halal restaurant famous for pioneering halal fare in America , marks its milestone 100th restaurant by celebrating its success and continuing its solid global expansion .
The Halal Guys was discovered by Dan Rowe , CEO of Fransmart , when it was just a single food cart in midtown Manhattan . With Fransmart ’ s guidance , the brand began franchising in 2014 and has grown into an international sensation with restaurants in the United States , Canada , the UK , Indonesia and South Korea .
Upcoming store openings in North Carolina , Missouri and Ohio will bring the brand ’ s domestic presence to 20 States .
“ We are so grateful to reach this historic milestone as a business . From a food cart on the streets of New York City to an international franchise , we would not be here without the support of our first fans and customers . We thrive off growth and innovation and are excited to see what comes next ,” said Ahmed Abouelenein , CEO of The Halal Guys .
The Halal Guys are the most significant halal restaurant concept in the world . Foodies around the world love the brand ’ s delicious platters and gyros . The Halal Guys was named one of the top 10 fast-casual restaurants by USA Today , and Business Insider deemed its chicken and gyro platter the best street food in New York .
“ It ’ s been a dream to be part of growing the largest Middle Eastern chain in the world ,” said Rowe .
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America ' s top halal food restaurant eyes continued domestic and international expansion . |
“ The food and the story of The Halal Guys are both amazing . It ’ s truly the American Dream story brought to life , and I ’ m lucky to be a part of it . The Halal Guys is and will continue to be the largest , fastest and most dominant halal restaurant brand glob- |
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ally , all thanks to our amazing teams and customers .”
The Halal Guys is continuing its domination of the halal restaurant market worldwide as it is actively eyeing development in the Middle East , Europe and the UK .
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