WaBa Grill Celebrates 20 Years with Significant Growth in Sales and Expansion Plans

WaBa Grill, the LA-based better-for-you rice bowl restaurant chain, is celebrating its 20th anniversary in style. The brand recently reported an impressive +7.1% increase in same-store sales for the year ending 2025, signaling both a robust business model and the loyalty of its customer base. Driven by a combination of increased transactions and higher average checks, the restaurant saw overall systemwide sales grow 7.5% to reach nearly $185 million. With a total of 195 locations by the end of 2025, WaBa Grill is positioning itself for major achievements in 2026.

The strong performance recorded in 2025 has set the stage for an exciting 2026. Even in the early months of the year, systemwide sales are trending nearly 10% better than the same period last year, with same-store sales growth in the high single digits. This uptick can be attributed to several factors, including menu innovation, excellent guest engagement, and consistent performance across all dayparts.

Andrew Kim, CEO of WaBa Grill, expressed his enthusiasm for the brand’s consistent growth, stating, “Our performance in 2025 reflects the strength of the WaBa Grill model and the consistency of our execution across the system. We are excited about the trajectory of the brand as we enter our 20th year.” The company aims to surpass $200 million in systemwide sales, open its 200th location, and achieve an average unit volume (AUV) of $1 million during its anniversary year.

Supporting this exciting growth are new menu offerings, such as the Chicken & Shrimp Bowl and a revamped version of the beloved dumplings now called Chili Crisp Dumplings. These items have not only enhanced customer satisfaction but have also elevated the brand's position in the highly competitive fast-casual dining segment.

Afshin Compani, who serves as WaBa Grill's President and COO, highlighted that successful menu innovations, alongside strong operational strategies, are vital for long-term growth. “The brand is performing well across the metrics that matter most for long-term growth. We are seeing improved unit economics and robust engagement with new offerings,” Compani shared.

Plans for 2026 are ambitious and focused on innovation. WaBa Grill intends to expand its popular WaBeverage platform, enhance its Happy Hours, and launch first-party catering services. Additionally, a new core menu architecture is in the works, aiming to simplify the customer experience while simultaneously strengthening unit economics. This represents the most thoroughly tested menu evolution in the brand's history.

The early momentum in operations is particularly reflective of WaBa Grill’s evolution from a regional favorite into a nationally recognized fast-casual brand that emphasizes fresh, grilled proteins and healthier offerings. With bold flavors that cater to the growing demand for better-for-you food options, WaBa Grill is well-positioned to solidify its leadership in the rice bowl category as it embarks on a new decade of growth.

In summary, WaBa Grill is not just celebrating its 20th anniversary but is doing so while strategically focusing on significant sales targets, menu innovations, and expansion plans that promise to bring the brand to new heights. With a bright outlook ahead, WaBa Grill remains committed to delivering on its mission of providing accessible, affordable, and nutritious meal options to its expanding customer base.