October 14, 2026 // Franchising.com // TORONTO, ON – Tahini’s, the Canadian Mediterranean fusion restaurant brand known for its highly engaged social media presence and innovative menu, is accelerating its franchise growth with plans to open 30 new restaurants across Canada and the United States over the next two years. The chain is seeing its digital reach translate into real-world growth, including attracting franchisees who first discovered the brand through social media.
“My son was a huge fan of Tahini’s videos, so he was actually the one who introduced me to the brand,” said Juliet Noronha, Tahini’s franchisee in Toronto, with partner, Saurav Kaushal. “He really wanted to try the shawarma, so when we saw a Tahini’s restaurant, he begged me to go in. We loved the food! I was already looking for a business and could see that this was an up-and-coming brand with a strong connection to the younger generation. The kids look at Aly, who is in the videos, like he’s a celebrity!”
With more than 3 million YouTube subscribers and more than 2 billion video views, Tahini’s has built a significant following among younger audiences through its entertaining food and restaurant content. That connection is increasingly extending beyond views and likes, with young fans recognizing the brand in restaurants and, in some cases, introducing their parents to Tahini’s.
“It’s amazing to see how social media can create that connection with a customer before they’ve ever walked through the door,” said Aly Hamam, Chief Marketing Officer, Tahini’s. “For us, it’s not just about building an audience; it’s about building a community around the brand. We’re seeing that community translate into real business growth. Our approach is simple: put the guest first, support the franchisee, and when those two things are working, the business succeeds.”
The brand currently has 76 restaurants and 70 franchisees with eight of those locations having opened in 2026, including its first restaurants in Vancouver and Winnipeg. Two additional U.S. locations are planned to open before the end of the year, in Chicago and New Jersey.
“When I met with Aly and Omar, Tahini’s CEO, I could tell how invested they are in the brand, food and community,” added Juliet. “The support I get from corporate, combined with the
dedication of my partner and my team, has helped me achieve my dream of being an independent business owner. My son is a teenager now and still tells everyone that becoming a franchisee was because of him!”
Tahini’s starts with the franchisee, then works with the operator to identify the right location, establish the supply chain, provide training and support the build-out.
“Our mission is to serve unforgettable Mediterranean fusion experiences that bring love, laughter and community around every table,” added Hamam. “We’re looking for franchisees, like Juliet, who want to bring that same spirit to their communities.” For more information on Tahini’s franchising: https://tahinis.com/franchise/.
Founded in 2012, Tahini’s operates more than 73 locations across Canada. From sizzling shawarma to flavour-packed bowls, Tahini’s offers delicious, authentic & healthy Middle Eastern foods with fast, friendly and reliable customer service. Follow Tahini’s on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest and X.
SOURCE Tahini’s
Tahini’s is dedicated to serving delicious, authentic, and healthy Middle Eastern cuisine paired with fast, friendly, and reliable service.