Vegan Sushi Chain to Appear on New Episode of Shark Tank

Vegan Sushi Chain to Appear on New Episode of Shark Tank

  • Sarah Von Alt
  • Sarah Von Alt

Beyond Sushi offers a variety of mouthwatering plant-based sushi rolls, dumplings, and noodle salads. With six locations in New York City, this vegan sushi chain has developed a loyal fan base. Now it’s set to be the first vegan restaurant chain to appear on ABC’s Shark Tank, a reality television program that features business pitches to a group of potential investors. Co-founder Guy Vaknin will face the “Sharks” this Sunday, October 21.

Forward.com explains:

The Israeli-born Vaknin, who made it to the Hell’s Kitchen finals in 2012, will face the “Sharks”—a panel of tough tycoons—with a national expansion plan for his brand, which has grown from a single East Village counter for six New York eateries. According to ABC, Shark Tank winners have raised more than $100 million from judges, who open their own pockets to fund standout ideas.

Beyond Sushi’s menu focuses on all-organic, vibrantly hued fruits and vegetables paired with sauces such as white miso, carrot ginger, and toasted cayenne. Owners Guy and Tali Vaknin opened Beyond Sushi with vegetarian options, but requests from customers led them to ditch the eggs and become 100 percent vegan.

Their vegan venture follows several others to appear on Shark Tank, including Bee Free Honee, an all-vegan honey substitute made from apple; and Delighted By Hummus, a dessert hummus brand.

Perhaps the most well-known is Cinnaholic, the beloved vegan franchise that allows customers to build their own decadent cinnamon buns. After founders Florian and Shannon Radke appeared on Shark Tank, they received a $200,000 investment. And in May, the duo announced Cinnaholic would expand to 136 new locations.

As vegan eating gains popularity, the number of vegan chain restaurants continues to grow. But you don’t have to wait for an all-vegan chain to open in your town. Most cities have incredible restaurants that are either all-vegan or able to create fantastic vegan dishes—you just have to know how to find them.

If you’re ready to give meat-free eating a shot, check out our FREE Vegetarian Starter Guide. It’s loaded with easy vegan recipes, meal ideas, and tips on making the switch.