SAJJ Mediterranean is accelerating growth in its home market, adding locations in downtown San Francisco and at Stanford University while developing a franchise program for broader expansion. The Bay Area fast-casual chain is entering what founder and CEO Zaid Ayoub called its "next phase" after posting 10% year-to-date same-store sales growth. The brand currently operates ten restaurants across California, with the largest concentration in the San Francisco Bay Area. "The Bay Area is home for SAJJ, and we believe there is still tremendous opportunity to grow here," Ayoub said. "At the same time, the strength we're seeing across our existing restaurants gives us confidence that the brand is ready for its next phase. We're continuing to invest in corporate growth in our home market while building a franchise strategy that can introduce SAJJ to more communities throughout California and beyond."
New San Francisco Location The new San Francisco restaurant at 71 Stevenson St., Suite 100, marks SAJJ's third location in the city. The 2,100-square-foot space features high atrium ceilings, abundant natural light, and the brand's signature "green farm feature"—an architectural element reflecting its emphasis on fresh, locally sourced California produce and halal-certified proteins. Guests can build customizable meals in an assembly-line format, selecting from wraps, pita sandwiches, rice and grain bowls, salads, proteins, spreads, sauces, and toppings.
Stanford University Expansion SAJJ's Stanford location, opening inside Tresidder Memorial Union at 459 Lagunita Drive, marks the brand's first "non-traditional" restaurant format, with additional locations of this kind planned for the future. The Stanford location will offer the same customizable Mediterranean menu to the university community.
Franchise Strategy While corporate expansion remains focused on Northern California, SAJJ is laying the groundwork for a franchise program with an initial focus on California opportunities and potential expansion into select markets outside the state as the program develops.
Why It Matters
Fast-casual Mediterranean concepts have gained traction in major metros, and SAJJ's 10% same-store sales growth signals strong unit-level economics. The combination of corporate expansion in a proven market with franchise development signals the chain is balancing near-term scaling with disciplined long-term growth—a model that could appeal to prospective franchisees seeking established brands with regional strength.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
