NEW YORK—Wasabi, a London-based sushi and bento chain, has signed a 3,400-sq.-ft. lease at 561 Seventh Avenue. It is the first location for the chain in the brand and the space will serve as a two-floor flagship space.
The company plans to open additional Manhattan locations over the next 18 to 24 months.
The landlord, Handler Real Estate Organization, was represented internally in the transaction by Principal Scott Galin and Jason Pennington and Brad Cohen of Ripco Realty. Simon Gibbs of CWM represented the tenant.
Established in 2003, Wasabi became the first company in London to sell individually wrapped pieces of sushi. The restaurant presents sushi, sashimi, seasonal salads and hot authentic dishes.
Wasabi will open its flagship branch at 561 Seventh Ave. in spring 2013. The restaurant includes 2,200 sq. ft. on the ground floor and mezzanine level, with seating for in-house dining.
Situated at the northeast corner of West 40th Street and Broadway, the nearly 100-percent leased 561 Seventh Avenue is an 81,214-sq.-ft. office tower with 24-hour access, an attended lobby and onsite security.