UAE-based hospitality platform Mezza has officially launched, introducing a model designed to help restaurants access upfront, debt-free capital while also driving customer footfall and repeat visits.
Built for independent restaurants and hospitality groups, Mezza aims to solve two persistent challenges in the sector: securing growth capital without dilution, and attracting diners consistently in a competitive market.
The platform provides restaurants with upfront funding in exchange for future food and beverage credit. Instead of taking on loans, paying interest, or giving up equity, partner venues receive immediate cash flow while Mezza distributes the credit gradually to its app members over time. The model is intended to spread redemption over roughly 12 months, giving restaurants a more predictable flow of customers throughout the year.
According to the company, partner venues can access between AED 20,000 and AED 10 million through the platform, with funds available to support operations, expansion plans, or revenue stability.
“Restaurants often face two major challenges: access to capital and the ability to consistently attract new customers,” said Kevin Boubil, Founder of Mezza. “Mezza was built to solve both. We provide funding without debt or dilution while helping restaurants bring more diners through their doors, not just on weekends but throughout the year.”
Mezza says it has already signed partnerships with hospitality groups and restaurants including Gates Hospitality, Rosy Hospitality, Chic Nonna, and Fab Food Co., with more venues expected to join as the platform scales. The company is focusing on curated casual-to-fine-dining concepts selected for quality, reputation, and guest experience.
To support its launch and growth, Mezza also closed a seed round, backed by notable investors including the founders of Property Finder and Jellysmack, as well as the chairman of Deel. The company did not disclose the size of the round.
“Our goal is to empower restaurants to grow on their own terms,” Boubil added. “Independent operators often face challenges securing financing without giving up ownership. Mezza provides an alternative that supports both financial stability and consistent customer footfall, helping restaurants thrive in a competitive market.”
