When we think of Robert De Niro, we immediately associate him with cinema. However, his influence transcends the big screen. Together with chef Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro co-founded Nobu Hospitality, a brand that has redefined the luxury hospitality and dining industry. This business is a great example of how investments in the United States can generate a global empire.

If you’re looking for profitable businesses in the United States, read on to find out how Nobu became one of the most exclusive Japanese hotel and dining franchises in the world.

The meeting between De Niro and Nobu that changed everything

In 1988, Robert De Niro visited Matsuhisa Restaurant in Los Angeles, owned by Chef Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa. Impressed by the innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, De Niro proposed a partnership to open a restaurant in New York. Although initially reluctant, Matsuhisa accepted in 1994, opening the first Nobu in the Tribeca neighborhood.

What started as a single restaurant has grown into aU.S. company with international reach. As of October 2023, Nobu has 56 restaurants and 13 luxury hotels on five continents, including cities such as London, Tokyo and Dubai.

Nobu’s success is based on three fundamental pillars:

Innovative gastronomy

The fusion of Japanese techniques with Peruvian ingredients has created emblematic dishes such as black cod with miso and white fish tiradito. This unique proposal has captured global palates and laid the foundations for its gastronomic success.

Solid equipment

Matsuhisa emphasizes the importance of building committed and passionate teams, offering ongoing training programs to ensure an exceptional culinary experience at each location. Internal cohesion and a shared vision have been key to replicating the brand’s success in different markets.

Strategic locations

The choice of iconic locations in key cities has been crucial to attracting an exclusive clientele and maintaining brand relevance. Nobu is located in luxury areas, close to financial and tourist centers, which increases its visibility and ensures a constant influx of customers with high purchasing power.

Nobu hotels and restaurants around the world

Nobu’s success is not only limited to gastronomy; Its foray into hospitality has elevated the brand to a higher level. Each Nobu hotel combines luxury, design and a world-class culinary experience, appealing to both sophisticated travelers and fine-dining enthusiasts.

Iconic restaurants in Nobu

Nobu Robert De Niro Restaurants

Nobu Malibu (California)

Opened in 1999, Nobu Malibu has grown into a renowned dining destination on the West Coast of the United States. Its prime location facing the Pacific Ocean offers panoramic views that complement an exceptional culinary experience. The restaurant is hostedby celebrities and prominent figures, enhancing its status as an exclusive meeting point.

Nobu London

Since opening in 1997, Nobu London has been instrumental in introducing Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine to the UK. The restaurant has maintained its relevance over the decades, adapting to culinary trends without losing its essence. Its sophisticated atmosphere and innovative menu have established it as a mainstay in London’s dining scene.

Nobu Tokyo

Opened in 1998, Nobu Tokyo represents the perfect amalgam between Japanese culinary tradition and the innovation that characterizes the brand. Located in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, the restaurant attracts both locals and tourists looking for a unique dining experience.

Nobu Hotels: luxury and exclusivity

Hotels Nobu Robert De Niro

Nobu Hotel Las Vegas

Located inside the iconic Caesars Palace, Nobu Hotel Las Vegas offers a personalized luxury experience in the heart of the entertainment city. With 182 rooms and suites designed with a contemporary Japanese aesthetic, the hotel provides guests with exclusive access to custom menus and private events, merging the energy of Las Vegas with the serenity of the Nobu philosophy.

Nobu Hotel Miami Beach

This hotel combines Japanese elegance with the vibrant atmosphere of Miami. Located on the waterfront, Nobu Hotel Miami Beach offers 206 rooms and suites that reflect a harmonious design between Japanese and tropical elements. Guests can enjoy an exceptional culinary experience at Nobu Restaurant, as well as relax in the world-class spa and oceanfront pools.

Nobu Hotel Marbella

Nobu Hotel Marbella is a Mediterranean oasis that combines luxury, entertainment and high-quality gastronomy. The hotel has 80 rooms and suites designed to offer maximum comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a lively beach club, a renowned spa, and direct access to Nobu Restaurant, which offers the best of Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine in a sophisticated setting.

Beyond gastronomy and hospitality, Nobu represents a philosophy of quality and simplicity. Every detail, from interior design to customer service, reflects a commitment to excellence. This consistency has allowed the brand to remain relevant and desired for more than three decades. In addition, it has become a benchmark for profitable investment in the United States, serving as an inspiration for those looking for successful businesses in the country.

Do you want to invest in a profitable franchise in the United States?

Nobu’s story is a testament to how passion, innovation and strategic partnerships can transform a vision into a global reality. Robert De Niro and Nobu Matsuhisa have proven that with the right partners and a shared vision, it is possible to redefine industries and create profitable businesses with lasting impact.

If you are inspired by Nobu’s story and are interested in exploring investment opportunities in gastronomy and hospitality franchises in the United States, we invite you to schedule a free consultation with Interlink FBC.

Our team of experts will help you find the profitable investment that best suits your investor profile. Take the first step toward your next big business success.

Franchising in the United States