Cupbop Expands Its Boundaries
Cupbop, the pioneering fast-casual restaurant that serves Korean BBQ in a cup, is making waves as it announces its launch into the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the first time. This exciting development marks a significant milestone for the brand as it seeks to expand its popularity beyond its well-established U.S. and Indonesian locations.
Founded in 2013 by
Junghun Song, Cupbop began its journey in Salt Lake City as a humble food truck. Since then, it has grown to encompass over 57 locations in the United States and has made a remarkable footprint in Indonesia with more than 200 outlets. Now, as Cupbop sets its sights on the UAE, the brand has signed a development deal with
RMAL Hospitality, a reputable restaurant and hotel development firm.
Led by
CEO Elias Madbak, RMAL Hospitality has a rich portfolio featuring esteemed international restaurant chains such as Wagamama and Marco Pierre White. The company is known for its exceptional strategic planning and successful franchise launches, which makes it a fitting partner for Cupbop. Under this partnership, the company plans to establish
10 Cupbop locations across the UAE, aiming for the first opening in the first half of 2025.
MD Elias Madbak stated, "At RMAL Hospitality, we continually seek out revolutionary ideas that can shake up the restaurant market. We are excited to collaborate with Cupbop, as its unique approach to Korean cuisine and impressive growth in various international markets underscore its remarkable appeal."
Cupbop's menu distinguishes itself by offering an array of customizable Korean dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. The brand emphasizes inclusivity and caters to diverse dietary preferences, providing gluten-free and vegetarian options. This dedication to quality has endeared Cupbop to its loyal customer base, and it is poised to introduce these savory flavors to the Middle Eastern market, where culinary diversity is highly appreciated.
Dok Kwon, the Chief Operating Officer of Cupbop, expressed excitement about expanding into the UAE, stating, "We are eager to share our vibrant cuisine with the Middle East. The enthusiastic responses from our customers in both the U.S. and Indonesia have encouraged us to venture into new territories, and we aim to establish a solid foothold in the UAE."
The concept revolving around serving Korean BBQ in a cup has redefined the traditional dining experience. Customers can now enjoy hearty meals on-the-go without sacrificing flavor—an innovative solution reflecting the fast-paced demands of modern dining.
With Cupbop's ambition to infuse Korean culture and cuisine into communities across the globe, the UAE is set to become another chapter in its expanding story. As the brand prepares for its grand entry into the Emirati market, anticipation is building for how local food enthusiasts will embrace this unique culinary experience.
For more information on Cupbop and its offerings, you can visit
Cupbop's Official Website.