Sarku Japan, the largest and most successful Japanese quick-service restaurant chain in the United States, will take its sizzling teriyaki and made-to-order sushi from mall food courts to the streets of Harlem, New York.

The store, which is launching on 125th Street between Seventh and Lenox, is part of a major expansion of the brand’s franchise program into the metro NYC area, including locations in Queens, Brooklyn, Yonkers, and Long Island.

Traditionally located in mall food courts nationally, Sarku expanded its brand in 2008 with the launch of freestanding restaurants in major metro markets across the country.

“I am thrilled to be opening a Sarku Japan Teriyaki and Sushi Express in the Harlem community,” says Harlem franchisee Vinny Vig.

“With the rise of Japanese quick-service cuisine, I am confident that I’ve made a smart investment and am pleased to be offering the Harlem neighborhood a healthier alternative to traditional fast food,” adds Vig, who is also part owner in Sarku’s East Meadow franchise, which opened during the summer.

“Many of our franchisees have made career changes with their decision to open a Sarku Japan franchise,” says Bruce Kim, assistant vice president of franchises. “We have former bankers, technical engineers, and sales and marketing professionals all finding success in owning and operating their own restaurant.”

With the popularity of healthy Japanese quick-service food like teriyaki and sushi on the rise, Kim says there has never been a better time to open a Sarku Japan franchise.

The company offers franchisee support in all areas including training, operations, and marketing.

Denise Lee Yohn: QSR's Marketing Guru, Growth, News, Sarku Japan