Israeli Kosher Fast-Food Chain Zalman's Sold for $1.9 Million

The Israeli kosher fast-food chain Zalman's has a new owner, with Kamari Retail Group acquiring a 50% stake for 3.5 million shekels, valuing the entire brand at 7 million shekels (approximately $1.9 million). The chain, known for its American-style street food adapted for a kosher market, was founded by Moshe Zalman Olive, a Chabad Hasid of American origin who aimed to bring popular American street food flavors to Israel with a "mehadrin" (highly stringent) kosher standard. Zalman's menu includes beef hot dogs, corn dogs, pastrami sandwiches, sausage toast, and schnitzels, with prices like a beef hot dog sandwich starting at 38 shekels and a children's meal at 19 shekels.

The brand significantly strengthened its position among the ultra-Orthodox (Haredi) community after obtaining a "Badatz Eda Haredit" kosher certification, previously operating mainly in secular and Religious Zionist cities. Zalman's currently operates 12 branches in locations including Jerusalem, Bnei Brak, Tel Aviv, and Ra'anana.

Kamari Retail Group, which owns over 130 convenience stores and more than 50 other retail and food service locations, expects the partnership to accelerate Zalman's growth. The plan is to expand the chain to approximately 20 branches by the end of 2026, with a long-term goal of reaching 40 locations nationwide. New branches are planned for Haredi-populated cities such as Elad, Beit Shemesh, Beitar Illit, and Modi'in Illit.

Assaf Kamari, a co-owner of Kamari Retail Group, stated that the deal's primary objective is to make Zalman's American kosher concept accessible to a broader audience across Israel. The article also briefly mentions that chef Hila Saar will close her restaurant "Rotenberg" at the end of the year.