UAE's Just Falafel opens first Aussie restaurant

UAE-based casual restaurant chain Just Falafel has opened its first outlet in Australia, the company announced on Monday.

The branch, in the Sydney suburb of Parramatta, which has one of the country’s highest Middle Eastern populations, is the latest in the company’s ambitious international expansion plans that includes North America, Europe and MENA.

The Australian menu will feature local specialties including signature falafel topped with mango salsa, avocado, cucumber and lettuce.

Sherkawi Group International will be the franchisor and the company said it was seeking additional franchising opportunities across Australia.

Just Falafel, whose stated aim is to revolutionise the traditional falafel, has signed agreements with commitment to develop more than 903 outlets in 18 different countries.

Last year it was named the top performing SME in the government-backed Dubai SME 100 rankings.

Its CEO Fadi Malas ranked 12th in the Caterer Middle East Power 50 in December 2013.