Solutions Leisure has signed a licensing agreement with The One Group to open three STK Locations in Dubai, marking the US steakhouse brand’s first foray into the Middle East region.
An STK is expected to open at The Address Downtown Dubai hotel on Emaar Boulevard, and an STK Beach is planned for the Rixos The Walk, set to open in the second quarter of the year.
Both venues are expected to open in Dubai in late 2017.
Commenting on the partnership, Paul Evans, managing director Solutions Leisure told Catering News Middle East: “They are super-hot; everyone in the land wants to sign with them so we’re over the moon. It takes us to another level from what we’re doing with our homegrown brands; we’re now able to execute internationally-renowned brands.
“We are excited to have been the group chosen to roll out this top end brand. It shows the amazing growth of Solutions Leisure in only three years in Dubai, the hard work and grit from all our team over the last three years is really paying off. It’s the perfect marriage of brand and operating partner.”
A third restaurant is anticipated to open in Abu Dhabi and The ONE Group is currently evaluating multiple locations for this.
Jonathan Segal, CEO, The ONE Group said: “Dubai and Abu Dhabi represent some of the fastest growing leisure destinations, featuring the finest hospitality, fashion and lifestyle brands in the Middle East. We are thrilled to be announcing The ONE Group’s anticipated expansion into these sought-after Middle Eastern cities, with three new STK locations planned for late 2017.
“We have eyed this market for quite a while, but waited to find the right partner for our brand. By continuing to expand STK through licensing deals, we are able to grow into new markets without significant capital investment.”
STK Dubai at The Address Hotel is expected to have indoor seating for 240 guests, and will feature STK’s classic menu along with the brand’s signature décor.
The restaurant will also feature an outdoor terrace with 100 seats, overlooking The Burj Khalifa.
STK Beach will incorporate both STK menu staples and additional items and will have seating for 160 guests.
Additional STK restaurants currently in development include Edinburgh, San Diego, Denver, Boston, Dallas, Austin and Puerto Rico.
STK is a modern twist on the American steakhouse concept with locations in major metropolitan cities throughout the US and Europe.
