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Mason's opening 20 locations in Middle East

Photo: Mason's

February 6, 2026

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Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls, the largest brick-and-mortar lobster roll chain in the United States, is expanding into the Middle East, marking the first major U.S. brand of its kind to enter the region.

The expansion follows the company's recent entry into the European market. Brand officials cited a growing interest from Middle Eastern tourists at their international locations and a regional affinity for high-quality seafood as primary drivers for the move.

"We've seen increasing demand for regional cuisines on the global menu," Dan Beck, founder of Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls, said in a company press release. "We're excited to work with new Middle Eastern partners to create an experience that melds Mason's quality and Maine lobstering traditions with local elements and cultural preferences."

The expansion is a partnership with Pietro Funaro, an Italian investment banker overseeing the brand's growth in Europe. The plan includes the opening of 20 restaurants across the Middle East. While specific sites have not been finalized, the company intends to focus on urban retail centers that offer indoor environments to shield customers from the region's climate.

The Middle Eastern menu will largely mirror the U.S. and European offerings, with minor adjustments to adhere to local dietary restrictions and regional flavor profiles.

The announcement comes during a period of rapid growth for the Maryland-based company. Mason's operates 35 locations in the U.S., including recent openings in Colorado, Texas, Virginia and Florida. Internationally, the brand has three locations in Italy, with upcoming openings scheduled for Zurich, Madrid and London. The partnership with Funaro aims to establish 100 European locations over the next seven years.

Founded in 2014 by Beck, a former seafood buyer, Mason's specializes in authentic Maine lobster rolls using traditional recipes. The company began franchising in 2016.

A founder's journey

Click here to watch the Founderology episode featuring Beck sharing how he and his team turned it one store into a 40-plus unit brand without losing control.

Operations