Dubai, 31 May 2014: UAE based Hotbrands International (HBI) has once again reaffirmed its commitment to grow within the region, with the opening of another Haru casual dining restaurant offering Japanese cuisine, at the Dubai Silicon Oasis.
For all those who relish authentic Japanese cuisine, Haru provides a refreshing experience with its Robatayaki cooking method that has become a big hit with diners. Robatayaki, literally means "cooking over an open flame" which is a unique Japanese grilling technique known for its simplicity. Haru features an open cooking concept, in full view of customers, for an intimate atmosphere that creates a sense of interactivity and participation in the cooking process. The traditional Japanese grills are served as small eats, whilst retaining elements such as tempura, sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki dishes.
The new branch was officially opened by Mr. Adnan Juma Al Bahar – Vice President Marketing & Corporate Communications, Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA). The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Mohammed Qasqoos, Assistant Director of Sales, DSOA, other senior DSOA officials and HBI executives.
As part of the celebrations, veteran Executive Chef Junichi Kawamura, who has been with the company since the inception of Haru, gave a cooking demonstration that offered guests a glimpse of the Robatayaki style of cooking. The event was further enhanced by special activities for children including one involving the traditional Japanese Daruma dolls.
Cheryle Treanor, spokesperson for HBI, said: “Robatayaki restaurants are growing in popularity in the UAE. Haru was the first casual dining restaurants to serve Robatayaki cuisine in the UAE, when it opened in The Green Community and Haru at Dubai Silicon Oasis is yet another destination offering the same original taste. We had identified a need within the community at Dubai Silicon Oasis for a different type of dining experience and realized that Haru would cater to such a craving.
“The opening of another Haru restaurant is also part of our expansion strategy aimed at opening more outlets in the UAE to add to the current portfolio of quick service and casual dining concepts ”she added.
Hotbrands International, which has its roots in Dubai, is particularly well known for its Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) format led by the Shamiana brand. Currently, HBI’s QSR concepts include Indian (Shamiana), Chinese (Magic Wok), Italian (Santino’s), Thai (Sala Thai) and Japanese (Sugoi!) cuisines, which reflect the flavours and cultures of the countries they represent. Its Casual Dining Restaurant (CDR) concept features Haru, which serves Japanese cuisine, and Da Shi Dai, service Chinese food.
Starting from humble beginnings in Dubai as a small proprietorship in May 1992, HBI has now grown to over 50 outlets in the GCC, India and United States.