I Dream of FalafelI Dream of Falafel

Mark Brandau

HEADQUARTERS: Chicago
SEGMENT: fast casual
NO. OF UNITS: 3
LEADERSHIP: co-founders Shoaib Aziz, finance manager; Imran Kasbati, operations manager; Munaf Kasbati, marketing director; and Henry Nuguid, executive chef
YEAR FOUNDED: 2009
METHOD OF GROWTH: franchising
NOTABLE COMPETITORS: Roti Mediterranean Grill, Falafill

The founders of the Chicago-based I Dream of Falafel are hoping to awaken growth opportunities in the competitive fast-casual sector with the expansion of their three-unit Mediterranean-themed concept.


Co-founder Shoaib Aziz said the concept, which features a “Chipotle-inspired” service style and ingredient focus, plans to explore franchising in the next year or two.


I Dream of Falafel opened its first unit in C...