Miami’s vibrant culinary scene is welcoming another taste of authentic Japanese hibachi as Benihana Express proudly announces the opening of its second location in the area. Situated at the bustling Bayside Marketplace, this new establishment operates under a franchise agreement with The ONE Group, marking a significant step in the brand’s fast-casual expansion strategy.
A Taste of Hibachi, Made-to-Order
Benihana Express offers a streamlined approach to the beloved Benihana dining experience, focusing on delivering popular hibachi menu items in a convenient, made-to-order format. This fast-casual concept allows diners to enjoy the signature flavors and fresh ingredients that have made Benihana a household name, all within a quicker service model that caters to a dynamic lifestyle. Unlike its traditional full-service counterparts, Benihana Express locations are characterized by their smaller footprints, designed to highlight the brand’s core culinary offerings without the elaborate teppanyaki tables, making it an accessible option for a wider range of dining occasions.
Strategic Growth in the Miami Market
The opening at Bayside Marketplace represents the second Miami-area venture for Benihana Express, following the brand’s initial foray into the Brickell neighborhood earlier this year. This dual presence underscores the growing demand for its unique fast-casual Japanese cuisine within the South Florida market. The expansion is driven by a clear strategic vision from The ONE Group, which has identified Benihana Express and its franchise development as a key component of its overall growth strategy. The company is committed to leveraging the established appeal of the Benihana brand to capture new market segments through this adaptable concept.
Ambitious Franchisee Plans
Spearheading the expansion in Miami is franchisee Erick Passo, a seasoned restaurateur known for his ownership of successful establishments such as Black Market Miami and Ben’s Pizza. Passo’s confidence in the Benihana Express model is evident in his ambitious plans, which include the launch of a third Benihana Express location in Miami later this year. This commitment stems from a multi-unit development deal, signaling a strong belief in the concept’s potential for sustained success and profitability in the region.
Extended Hours and Future Horizons
The new Benihana Express at Bayside Marketplace is poised to become a go-to destination for both locals and tourists, with operating hours set to cater to a broad spectrum of dining needs. The location will be open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, ensuring ample opportunity for customers to enjoy their favorite hibachi dishes throughout the day and into the late evening. Looking beyond its Miami successes, Benihana Express also has its sights set on national expansion, with plans to open locations in San Francisco later in the year. This cross-country growth trajectory further solidifies The ONE Group’s dedication to making the Benihana Express concept a national player in the fast-casual dining landscape.
The strategic placement in high-traffic areas like Bayside Marketplace, combined with a robust franchise development program spearheaded by experienced operators like Erick Passo, positions Benihana Express for significant growth. As the brand continues to evolve, its commitment to delivering quality hibachi fare in an accessible, convenient format promises to resonate with a diverse and growing customer base across the United States.
