A slice of Lebanon has come stateside, and it looks as though it's here to stay.
Semsom, a Lebanese fast-casual chain with over 40 locations in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Oman, has come to New York City this year with its first location in Greenwich Village.
Lebanese entrepreneur Christine Sfeir — who in 1998 opened Lebanon's first Dunkin Donuts franchise at age 22 and has grown it to a 30-store operation — started Semsom in 2008.
By 2011, the first franchise opened in Saudi Arabia, and Semsom quickly became the fastest-growing company in Lebanon.
And with two New York City locations planned to open soon, and an ambitious expansion goal by 2020, Semsom is poised to make waves in the fast-casual marketplace.
I decided to see for myself if Semsom has what it takes to tackle America's toughest restaurant market: New York City.
Semsom's first US location — and only location until the second store opens in the Financial District in January 2016 — is a colorful spot on the corner of Astor Place and Broadway. It opened in May 2015, and has been busy ever since.
I walked in around prime lunchtime, and it was pretty packed — but the line seemed to be moving quickly.
The space is small, but well organized with plenty of seating. The decor is bright and clean, with lots of purple and blue touches.
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