NEWS

Kokoro Handroll Bar, the internationally acclaimed Dubai-born concept known for redefining the modern handroll experience, will open its first international location in Cannes on the French Riviera. The flagship will occupy a prime address on La Croisette and is being developed through a strategic partnership with DB Group, the hospitality company founded and led by David Barokas.

The opening marks a pivotal moment for Kokoro Handroll Bar as it enters the European market, placing the brand at the center of one of the world’s most visible and culturally influential destinations.

Founded in Dubai by Tamer Elkhayat, CEO of FYTE Hospitality, and Faisal Yabroudi, COO of FYTE Hospitality, in collaboration with chefs Daniel Lee and Patrick Pham, Kokoro Handroll Bar began as a focused, counter-driven concept rooted in precision and product integrity. What started as an intimate dining experience quickly became one of the region’s most talked-about restaurants, earning international recognition and a ranking among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants.

At its core, Kokoro Handroll Bar is defined by immediacy and discipline. Each handroll is prepared and served within seconds, preserving temperature, texture, and balance. Seafood is sourced globally and flown multiple times weekly, paired with exclusive Japanese nori and proprietary rice techniques that ensure consistency at the highest level.

The Cannes location will translate this signature experience to the Riviera through a minimalist, chef-centered interior concept designed by Tzed, founded by Tarik Zaharna, the design studio responsible for shaping the visual identity across FYTE Hospitality’s portfolio. The space will emphasize material warmth, restraint, and precision – reinforcing the intimacy and immediacy that define Kokoro Handroll Bar – while sitting prominently along one of the most prestigious stretches of La Croisette..

The collaboration with DB Group brings together two operators aligned in vision. Under David Barokas’ leadership, DB Group has shaped the modern hospitality identity of the French Riviera, owning and operating landmark destinations including Palm Beach Cannes and La Guérite, as well as partnering in the globally renowned Le Petite Maison brand. The group’s footprint extends across France, Spain, and St. Barth, serving an international clientele drawn to refined yet vibrant hospitality experiences.

Tamer Elkhayat, CEO of FYTE Hospitality, said:
“We chose Cannes intentionally. During the summer, it becomes one of the most concentrated hospitality markets in the world, and throughout the year it remains active through major conventions and international gatherings. Its connection to the Middle East and its global audience make it uniquely positioned. Being on La Croisette places Kokoro Handroll Bar at the center of that energy. It is the right city for us to begin our international journey.”

David Barokas, Founder and CEO of DB Group, said:
“Kokoro Handroll Bar brings clarity and focus back to dining. Its precision, authenticity, and discipline align naturally with Cannes. We are proud to welcome the brand to La Croisette.”

Kokoro Handroll Bar Cannes is scheduled to open in Summer 2026.

Fact Box

Concept: Kokoro Handroll BarFounders: Tamer Elkhayat & Faisal Yabroudi (FYTE Hospitality)New Location: Cannes, French RivieraPartner: DB Group (David Barokas)Opening: Summer 2026Positioning: Chef-driven, premium handroll counter experience
Website: https://eatkokoro.xyz/ | https://fyte.group/ | https://www.db-group.fr/

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