Chef Ran Shmueli Exits Claro Restaurants in Tel Aviv and London After 12 Years

Chef Ran Shmueli, a prominent figure in Israeli cuisine, is stepping down from the Claro restaurants he founded in Tel Aviv and London. After 12 years of leading the culinary institution, Shmueli sold all his shares to his business partners from the Kolber family for millions of shekels. The separation was amicable, with both sides agreeing to end their partnership respectfully and without conflict.

Claro, established in 2014 in the historic Sarona complex in Tel Aviv, became one of Israel's most successful farm-to-table restaurants. Its success led to an international expansion with a London branch opening about a year ago in a central city location, a move that required significant investment and planning. Shmueli previously spoke about the challenges of operating the London restaurant amid protests against Israel, noting the absence of Israeli flags at the entrance and the mixed public reactions.

Despite leaving Claro, Shmueli will continue to lead the "Maarava" event complex in Kibbutz Gaash and is currently developing a new culinary project, the details of which have not yet been revealed. The Kolber family will now fully own and operate both Claro locations moving forward.