Diafa, an Abu Dhabi-based luxury and hospitality investment firm, plans to expand the renowned British restaurant brand The Ivy into the United States, with a focus on selective growth in key American cities. The company, which acquired a majority stake in Richard Caring’s hospitality group earlier this year for £1.4 billion, is also exploring opportunities beyond dining, including hotels, wellness, and branded products.

Founded in 1917 in London’s theatre district, The Ivy has long been a cultural landmark frequented by prominent figures ranging from Winston Churchill to contemporary celebrities like Meryl Streep and Kim Kardashian. The Ivy Collection currently operates 48 restaurants across the United Kingdom and Ireland, with 16 locations in London and others spread across cities including Bath, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and Manchester.

Ravi Thakran, Diafa’s chief executive and former chairman of LVMH’s Asia business, emphasized that the company intends to maintain the unique qualities that have defined The Ivy’s success while building a global presence. He noted that expansion will be carefully managed to ensure the brand retains its “local soul” as it grows internationally. “Growth will be curated and measured — creating global brands with a local soul, while growing their value and protecting their legacy and DNA,” Thakran said.

Diafa is an affiliate of IHC Group, chaired by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan, deputy ruler of Abu Dhabi and brother to UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al-Nahyan. The acquisition, completed in April, included not only The Ivy Brasseries but also other notable properties such as Scott’s, Sexy Fish, Noema, Annabel’s, Harry’s Bar, Mark’s Club, and George. The sale was widely anticipated within the hospitality sector throughout late 2023 and early 2024.

Richard Caring, known as the “King of Mayfair,” purchased The Ivy and related restaurants in 2005 and retains his position as executive chairman of the group. Under Diafa’s ownership, the company plans to leverage its diverse portfolio—including the Azumi Group, which owns Zuma and Roka restaurants, and the Los Angeles-based h.wood Group—to enhance its international footprint.

Among upcoming developments, London’s exclusive Annabel’s members’ club will open its first overseas branch in New York’s Meatpacking District in 2025. Additionally, Zuma, a Japanese high-end restaurant brand with locations in London, Cannes, Hong Kong, and New York, is set to launch its first Zuma Beachhouse in Dubai next year, introducing a new daytime beach and pool dining concept to the market.

Diafa’s strategic expansion signals a significant move by a Middle Eastern investor to bring iconic British hospitality brands to global markets, combining heritage with contemporary luxury to appeal to a broad range of international customers.