2002
7
$350,000
$30,000
$550,000
No
Amsterdam Falafel Shop is a one-of-a-kind quick-service restaurant (QSR) franchise that brings the vibrant street food culture of Amsterdam to the USA. Known for its signature falafel sandwiches, freshly baked pita, and extensive toppings bar, Amsterdam Falafel Shop has built a reputation as a fun, customizable, and health-conscious dining experience. With a strong focus on fresh ingredients, authenticity, and fast-casual convenience, the brand has carved a unique niche in the growing Mediterranean and plant-based food category in the United States.
This franchise combines high-quality, vegetarian-friendly food with a memorable customer experience. Every guest creates their own falafel masterpiece by customizing their pita or bowl with a variety of flavorful toppings inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. The brand has successfully captured the attention of millennials, health-conscious consumers, and foodies who want bold flavors with quick service convenience.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in an Amsterdam Falafel Shop franchise offers entrepreneurs the chance to be part of a growing fast-casual food movement that is thriving across the USA. With plant-based and vegetarian food sales rising steadily, the demand for healthier, globally inspired quick meals continues to expand. The franchise stands out from typical fast-food chains by offering:
A unique concept focused exclusively on falafel and Mediterranean street food.
A customizable customer experience with endless topping options.
A fast-casual business model with lower operational complexity compared to full-service restaurants.
A proven franchise system with established brand recognition and loyal customers.
Strong positioning in the rapidly expanding ethnic and vegetarian dining segment.
Franchisees benefit from being associated with a brand that blends tradition with modern dining trends while ensuring scalability and profitability in diverse markets.
Established Year: 2002
Founders: Scott and Arianne Bennett
First Location: Washington, D.C. (inspired by their travels in Amsterdam)
Franchise Units: Multiple locations across the USA (exact count varies with expansion)
Ownership: Privately owned brand with franchise growth strategy in the USA
Industry Category: Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) / Fast Casual Dining / Mediterranean Cuisine
Since its inception, Amsterdam Falafel Shop has grown from a single store in Washington, D.C. into a franchise system with a strong urban presence. The concept was born after the founders experienced the lively falafel shops of Amsterdam and sought to bring that cultural and culinary experience to America. Over the years, the brand has gained recognition for its consistency, quirky ambiance, and niche menu, making it a standout in the fast-casual market.
Amsterdam Falafel Shop is committed to helping franchise owners succeed. The brand provides comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring franchisees are equipped with the knowledge and tools to operate profitably.
Pre-Launch Support
Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design.
Guidance on permits, equipment sourcing, and vendor partnerships.
Initial training at corporate headquarters and flagship locations.
Operational Training
In-depth instruction on day-to-day operations, food preparation, menu management, and staff training.
Standard operating procedures (SOPs) and best practices for efficiency.
Marketing Support
National and local marketing campaigns, PR strategies, and social media guidance.
Tools for customer acquisition, loyalty programs, and community engagement.
Grand opening marketing plan and materials.
Ongoing Support
Dedicated franchise support team for continuous operational guidance.
Regular field visits, performance reviews, and business development assistance.
Access to an established supply chain network for cost efficiency.
The Amsterdam Falafel Shop franchise is designed for motivated entrepreneurs who are ready to bring a unique, internationally inspired fast-casual dining experience to their local market. Since the concept is centered around simplicity, customization, and authenticity, the franchise does not require deep restaurant expertise — but passion, commitment, and a customer-first mindset are essential.
Passion for Food & Hospitality
Loves great food, enjoys connecting with people, and believes in the power of hospitality. A natural fit for someone who values authentic cuisine and vibrant dining experiences.
Entrepreneurial Drive
Self-motivated, willing to follow a proven system, and eager to grow a profitable business. A good balance of creativity and discipline works best.
Operational & Management Skills
While prior restaurant experience is helpful, it is not mandatory. Strong leadership, team management, and the ability to run day-to-day operations smoothly are more important.
Financial Capability
Should meet the minimum investment requirement of $350,000 and have sufficient working capital to sustain operations during the initial ramp-up period.
Community-Oriented Personality
Thrives in engaging with the local community, building brand loyalty, and driving customer traffic through word-of-mouth and events.
Commitment to Quality & Brand Standards
Must be dedicated to upholding Amsterdam Falafel Shop’s reputation for consistency, freshness, and exceptional guest experiences.
High-footfall urban centers, college towns, or suburban shopping districts with strong dining culture.
Areas with younger demographics, health-conscious professionals, and culturally diverse communities.
Locations near business districts, entertainment venues, or transit hubs where fast-casual dining thrives.
Experienced multi-unit restaurant operators looking to diversify with a unique niche concept.
First-time entrepreneurs with passion, energy, and the ability to follow a structured system.
Investors seeking entry into the fast-casual, Mediterranean, and vegetarian dining segment with strong growth potential.
| Financial Requirement | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $550,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out | $200,000 – $300,000 |
| Marketing Budget | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of Gross Sales |
| National Marketing Fund | 2% of Gross Sales |
| Expected ROI | 2 – 4 Years |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 24 Months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-In, Takeout, Delivery, Catering, Third-Party Delivery Partnerships |
