Shawarma Press® Expands Franchising Footprint as More Americans Clamor for Fresh Mediterranean Flavors

IRVING, Texas, June 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As Mediterranean cuisine has flourished from a niche food trend to a nationwide staple in the fast casual industry, Shawarma Press is steadily expanding with brick and mortar franchise locations and digital kitchen concepts. Since opening the nation's first authentic Shawarma franchise in Irving, Texas in 2017, Shawarma Press franchises have since expanded throughout Texas in Arlington, Denton, Frisco, Georgetown, Plano, and San Antonio. The brand's flagship restaurant thrives in the downtown Dallas Arts District while the first of several planned Georgia restaurants opened last year in the metropolitan Atlanta community of Johns Creek, followed by a recently opened digital kitchen in Midtown. By early fall, Shawarma Press will hold its first grand opening in Lawerence, Kansas with a location near the University of Kansas that CEO Sawsan Abublan says is expected to attract residents and college students alike.

"We have been strategic with franchise growth and purposefully chosen locations with diverse demographics that will appreciate our authentic and fusion flavors," said Abublan. "Our menu offers traditional Mediterranean items such as Shawarma wraps, made-from-scratch falafels, hummus, and fresh soups, salads, and pastries, but we are making our mark within the industry by introducing new, exciting fusion dishes to the menu."

One example of innovation is the Tex-Mex Press™ Shawarma, which was created after Abublan recognized the need for strong local preferences as the brand expanded throughout Texas. To connect with local communities and cater to regional tastes, the Tex-Mex Press Shawarma blends familiar smoky Texas flavor profiles with the authentic Mediterranean tradition of shawarma. Abublan said the popular menu item differs from original shawarma in both seasoning and build.

Another twist on traditional Mediterranean fare is The Tandoori Press™ Shawarma, created by Shawarma Press founders as an original menu innovation. The wrap's secret sauce was inspired by the bold, vibrant flavors of South Asian cuisine, particularly the rich, smoky spices found in traditional tandoori cooking. The wrap represents a new flavor experience developed specifically for Shawarma Press customers.

In addition to introducing new fusion dishes, Shawarma Press identified a growing demand for gluten-free, low-carb, and customizable options among their customer base.  The Shawarma Rice Bowl was developed to meet specific dietary preferences while maintaining the authenticity of traditional ingredients.

By introducing new formats, flavor pairings, and dietary-friendly options, the brand is addressing evolving customer needs while remaining true to its culinary roots.

"As we continue to grow and expand our franchising program, we are committed to blending tradition with accessibility and without compromising quality or authenticity," Abublan said. "With more consumers clamoring for fresh, healthy, Mediterranean food, we are well positioned to offer more franchise opportunities nationwide."

ABOUT SHAWARMA PRESS

Award-winning Shawarma Press is the nation's first authentic shawarma franchise. Shawarma Press plans to open as many as 50 locations throughout the country in the next five years. For information about franchising, visit https://shawarmapressfranchise.com 

Contact: Shawarma Press Media Team

Phone: (877) 776-0250

SOURCE Shawarma Press