Chef Yuval Ben Neriah Launches Japanese Fast Casual Restaurant Chain in Europe

Israeli chef Yuval Ben Neriah is expanding internationally by establishing a Japanese fast casual dining chain in Europe. The venture, backed by an investment of approximately 10 million euros, will open its first branch in Vienna, Austria. Ben Neriah is partnering with Alon Armer, a marketing and business development expert, alongside an international group of investors experienced in European and American markets. Japanese partners will ensure a direct supply chain of high-quality fish and seafood.

Ben Neriah aims to deliver authentic Japanese cuisine standards and ingredients in a quick and accessible format, focusing mainly on takeout with limited seating. Unlike other Israeli chefs such as Eyal Shani, Asaf Granit, and Meir Adoni who opened traditional restaurants abroad, Ben Neriah, known for his Taizu restaurant group in Israel, is entering the fast casual segment after nearly two years of development involving trips to Japan, supplier meetings, and supply chain construction.

The chain will offer quality Japanese rice-based dishes in compact locations across major European cities. Concurrently, in Israel, Taizu will for the first time offer home delivery and pickup through the Wolt platform. Ben Neriah expressed excitement about the project, calling it a long-held dream that will bring uncompromising Japanese standards to European customers.

Additionally, Ben Neriah has become a partner in a new boutique hotel in Tel Aviv's Kerem neighborhood called House of Delray, featuring eight rooms available for exclusive rental. He will contribute to the culinary concept and overall hospitality experience, with chef Maayan Simcha leading the hotel's restaurant. This news was first reported on August 12, 2026.