COMMERCIAL KITCHENS
THE HALAL GUYS
we have opened since our first location opened in 2015 in Chicago. That reception continues to be as strong today as it was then. We are very optimistic that, provided we continue to provide the quality of food and unparalleled hospitality we are so well known for, that we will continue to receive this same reception.
What is your growth plan? What areas are you targeting?
We have sold more than 300 units for development both here in the US as well as in several international markets. The rest of 2022 will see an additional 20-25 stores open throughout the world.
What trends are you seeing?
The restaurant industry lately is focusing on things like “clean menu” items, i.e., no GMOs, removing preservatives and stabilizers, etc., plant-based options and sustainability. Last year we underwent a massive effort to remove preservatives and stabilizers from our menu as well as introduced our first-ever plant-based option, the Meatless Gyro.
The market has gone through a major transformation in the past two years. We had to rethink our thought process and get creative.
What’s the secret to creating a “must visit” restaurant environment in today’s competitive landscape?
Restaurant design and outward appearance can work wonders to create intrigue and attract first-time customers, but wowing the guest every chance you get will keep them coming back.
What’s today’s consumer looking for?
Now more than ever, guests want to feel good about the brands they support. They want to know that the food they eat is sustainably sourced.
Tell us what makes your brand so unique?
Authenticity. Our founders didn’t start The Halal Guys with dreams of grandeur; they started selling halal food on the corner of 53rd & 6th in NYC to help make the lives of the city’s cab drivers easy and make a living as they pursued the American dream. CCR
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COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION — ISSUE 6, 2022