NAYA targets 200 locations by 2030 as Mediterranean fast-casual demand surges

Hady Kfoury launched NAYA in Manhattan in 2008 after raising funds from friends and family, eventually turning a difficult start into a chain of 48 restaurants that now employs more than 1,000 people. Each outlet averages roughly $3 million in annual revenue, with same-store sales climbing over 10% year over year. The Mediterranean fast-casual market, which posted just under $2.5 billion in sales last year, is expanding faster than the overall fast-casual segment.

After securing backing from private-equity firm TriSpan in 2020 and weathering the COVID-19 office shutdown, NAYA accelerated its growth, adding dozens of sites and benefiting from a strong rebound in Manhattan office leasing. The brand is adapting its menu for suburban locations, adding kids’ and family meals while maintaining ingredient quality despite rising costs. Kfoury aims for 200 restaurants by 2030 and sees a potential public offering as a future option.