---
title: "Pepper Lunch Signed a Hawaii Multi-Unit Development Agreement"
url: https://burnaze.com/article/22a96959-3921-4114-abf2-6ee975a4adca
source: "Franchising.com"
original_url: https://www.franchising.com/news/20231213_pepper_lunch_signed_a_hawaii_multiunit_development_agreement.html
category: "Fast casual"
industry: "Restaurants"
segment: "Fast casual"
topics: ["Development & multi-unit"]
published: 2023-12-13T12:00:00.000Z
modified: 2026-10-31T20:02:55.590Z
image: https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497366811353-6870744d04b2?w=1600&q=80&auto=format&fit=crop
---

# Pepper Lunch Signed a Hawaii Multi-Unit Development Agreement

**TL;DR:** NiKU LLC, led by Nari Uezu and Sean Uezu, has signed a multi-unit development agreement to develop 10 Pepper Lunch units in Hawaii over the next 10 years. The first location is planned to open in Q1, 2025, with initial development focusing on Honolulu and the greater island of Oahu.

*originally published in Franchising.com on 2023-12-13. [Read the original](https://www.franchising.com/news/20231213_pepper_lunch_signed_a_hawaii_multiunit_development_agreement.html).*

## Story

Led by Nari Uezu and her partner Sean Uezu, NiKU LLC has signed on to develop 10 units over the next 10 years in Hawaii, with the first location planned to open in Q1, 2025. Initial development will focus on Honolulu and throughout the greater island of Oahu. Nari serves as President of NiKU LLC and draws on her expertise in operations for Popeyes Hawaii including restaurant evaluations, brand standards, and sales growth initiatives.

Sean Uezu, Vice President of NiKU LLC, combines over two decades of successful strategic planning and development experience in Hawaii with his current role at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. His impressive track record includes the growth and subsequent sale of a 14-unit T-Mobile retailer.

“During a trip to Japan over a decade ago, we first encountered Pepper Lunch and were captivated by the restaurant packed with pleased customers. What struck us was the engaging open kitchen theatrically preparing customizable sizzling plates with speedy service - providing delicious flavor and an electric atmosphere that was uniquely entertaining,” explained Nari.

The group is thrilled to bring this concept to the Hawaiian Islands for locals and visitors alike. “This venture is about more than just food; it's about creating a memorable dining experience that emphasizes flavor, quality, convenience, and value - all presented with Aloha,” continued Nari.

Established in 1994, Pepper Lunch is renowned for quality food served in a unique and innovative way for dining with guests being able to get in, dine, and be on their way in 20 minutes for under $20.

Pepper Lunch offers a delightful alternative to pricey yakiniku Japanese BBQ, captivating diners with its reasonably priced teppanyaki-style dining. The brand's menu features a novel menu of Steaks, Curry Rice, Teriyaki, Pasta-based dishes, and the renowned Pepper Rice, all served on their patented hot iron plate. Pepper Lunch empowers diners to become the MasterChef of their meal, encouraging them to 'Sizzle It Your Way' for a personalized and interactive culinary experience.

“Pepper Lunch’s service and guest experience are unique and special, and the food is authentic, yet approachable,” said Pepper Lunch CEO, Troy Hooper.

## Entities

- Franchising.com (publication)
- Multi-Unit (sector)
- multi-unit development (topic)
- Popeyes (company)
- restaurant franchising (topic)
- Hawaii (location)
- japanese cuisine (topic)
- T-Mobile (company)
- Pepper Lunch (company)
- Troy Hooper (person)
- hawaii expansion (topic)
- NiKU LLC (company)

---
Originally reported by Franchising.com (https://www.franchising.com/news/20231213_pepper_lunch_signed_a_hawaii_multiunit_development_agreement.html). Summarized by Burnaze (https://burnaze.com/article/22a96959-3921-4114-abf2-6ee975a4adca).