Handler Real Estate Organization arranges 3,400 s/f lease to Wasabi

As part of the Garment District's ongoing transformation, Handler Real Estate Org. has leased 3,400 s/f to Wasabi, a London-based sushi and bento chain, at 561 Seventh Ave. The two-floor flagship space is Wasabi's first branch in the U.S., and has already paved the way for the eatery's continued expansion throughout the city. Wasabi's flagship location at 561 Seventh Ave., with a new, 90-ft.glass curtain wall which wraps from Seventh Ave. around to West 40th St., includes 2,200 s/f on the ground floor and mezzanine level, with seating for in-house dining. Wasabi plans to open other locations over the next 18 months. "At Wasabi, our philosophy has always been to provide our busy customers with fresh food at a great value," said Minhee Hwang, operations director, Wasabi. "We're so excited to bring our sushi and bento to New Yorkers on the go, and what better location than the heart of Times Sq." "Wasabi is a popular, highly successful, sophisticated sushi and bento restaurant chain and has imported their program to Manhattan," said Handler partner and CEO Scott Galin. "We are delighted that they chose 561 Seventh Ave. for their U.S. flagship. They love the location, and have constructed beautiful space that draws you right in. They are a terrific addition to our building and the entire Garment District." The landlord, Handler, was represented internally in the Wasabi transaction by Scott Galin, and Jason Pennington, of Ripco Realty. Simon Gibbs, of CWM, represented the tenant. Established in 2003, and with 36 locations in the U.K., Wasabi became the first company in London to sell individually wrapped pieces of sushi, with the aim of revolutionizing the lunchtime market and providing a healthy alternative to sandwiches. The restaurant presents sushi, a made-to-order salad bar and hot authentic dishes such as bento boxes, Chicken Katsu curry, and Teriyaki Chicken, as well as an incredible line of noodle soups. All meals are prepared daily, competitively priced, served in a vibrant, clean, minimalist Japanese setting, with fast, efficient service. One of the most exciting Manhattan submarkets, the Garment District continues to evolve from its fashion supplier-based roots and into a diverse, full-service 24/7 neighborhood. The Garment District is now home to a wide range of office tenants, new hotels, retailers, residential developments, and restaurants, with the rapidly evolving streetscape ranging as far west as Eighth Ave. and south to 38th Street. The nearly 100% leased 561 Seventh Ave. is an 81,214 s/f office tower with 24-hour/7-day access, an attended lobby, and on-site security.