News

Naf Naf Grill expands into Madison

After a successful opening in downtown Minneapolis, the Middle Eastern concept is moving into Madison when it opens new doors Sept. 16.

September 10, 2015

Naf Naf Grill may have started in a run-down shack in the suburbs of Chicago, but it’s now expanding across the Midwest. After a successful opening in downtown Minneapolis the Middle Eastern concept is moving into Madison when it opens its doors Sept. 16 at 555 State St, according to a company press release.

Serving students and faculty from the nearby University of Wisconsin - Madison, the 2,700-square-foot restaurant will hold a capacity of 75 diners and create approximately 25 new jobs. Grand opening events include a DJ with music and giveaways, including Naf Naf Grill tTshirts and sunglasses, as well as a free pita sandwich, fries and a drink for anyone who stops in between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.  

"Options for Middle Eastern cuisine are nearly non-existent in Madison, so we’re giving them a taste of the best there is," said Co-Founder Sahar Sander.

Sander and Elan Burger established the first Naf Naf Grill in Naperville, Ill., six years ago in a 1,200-square-foot building with no air conditioning. They eventually opened 12 additional locations in the Chicago market after partnering with David Sloan and Justin Halpenny.

"Our concept started with great food, and we built a business around that from the very beginning," Sander said. "Our fresh pitas are born daily, and the falafel and salads are ground and cut fresh every day. People can customize their own individual pita or bowl however they like."