1935
17
$350,000
$60,000
$1,315,000
No
Anchor Bar, the birthplace of the iconic Buffalo wing, offers a unique and compelling franchise opportunity in the U.S. restaurant industry. Founded in 1935 in Buffalo, New York, the brand has become synonymous with authentic, flavorful wings, attracting food enthusiasts nationwide. With a rich history and a commitment to quality, Anchor Bar provides franchisees with a proven business model, extensive support, and a beloved brand that resonates with customers.
Iconic Brand Recognition: As the originator of the Buffalo wing, Anchor Bar holds a special place in American culinary history, offering franchisees a unique selling point.
Proven Business Model: With over 80 years in operation and a growing number of franchise locations, Anchor Bar has demonstrated consistent success and resilience in the competitive restaurant industry.
Diverse Revenue Streams: Beyond in-restaurant dining, Anchor Bar's bottled wing sauces are sold in over 5,000 supermarkets nationwide, providing additional revenue opportunities.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support in operations, marketing, and site selection, ensuring a smooth and successful business journey.
Established Year: 1935
Franchising Since: 2011
Franchise Units: Approximately 17 locations across the U.S.
Founders: Frank and Teressa Bellissimo
Company History: Anchor Bar began as a small tavern in Buffalo, New York, where the original Buffalo wing was created in 1964. The restaurant has since expanded, with multiple locations and a strong presence in the retail market through its wing sauces.
Ownership: Anchor Bar Franchise & Development Company, LLC
Market Presence in USA: Anchor Bar has locations in various states, including New York, Texas, and Florida, with plans for further expansion.
Industry Category: Casual Dining, Fast Casual, American Cuisine
Before your restaurant opens, Anchor Bar helps franchisees with:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Guidance in choosing high-traffic, profitable locations and negotiating favorable lease terms.
Restaurant Design & Layout: Expertise in creating efficient kitchen layouts and inviting dining spaces aligned with the brand image.
Permits & Compliance: Assistance with local permits, health regulations, and licensing requirements.
Anchor Bar provides an in-depth training program to equip franchisees and staff with the necessary skills to run the business efficiently:
Operational Training: Hands-on instruction on restaurant operations, food preparation, and inventory management.
Customer Service Training: Emphasis on delivering the high-quality service that customers expect from the Anchor Bar brand.
Brand Standards: Training on maintaining the brand’s reputation, including décor, menu presentation, and service procedures.
Manager & Staff Training: Structured programs for both franchise owners and their team to ensure consistent performance.
Anchor Bar ensures that franchisees can attract and retain customers through marketing initiatives:
Local Marketing Guidance: Help with local promotions, grand openings, and community engagement strategies.
National Marketing Campaigns: Inclusion in broader campaigns to enhance brand visibility and drive traffic.
Digital Marketing Support: Assistance with social media, email marketing, and online presence management.
Once the restaurant is operational, franchisees continue to receive support:
Field Support: Regular visits from operations experts to evaluate performance, suggest improvements, and maintain quality standards.
Technology Assistance: Access to point-of-sale systems, inventory tracking, and reporting tools.
Continuous Education: Periodic workshops, webinars, and updated training materials to keep franchisees informed of industry trends and brand updates.
Supply Chain Management: Guidance on sourcing quality ingredients and products efficiently to maintain menu consistency.
Anchor Bar looks for motivated, capable, and passionate individuals or groups who can successfully run a franchise while upholding the brand’s reputation for quality and customer experience. The ideal franchisee combines business skills, financial capability, and a genuine interest in the restaurant industry.
Restaurant or Food Service Experience: Prior experience in managing or owning a restaurant, fast-casual outlet, or food service business is highly beneficial.
Management Skills: Ability to supervise staff, oversee daily operations, manage finances, and ensure operational efficiency.
Entrepreneurial Mindset: Eagerness to take initiative, make business decisions, and solve operational challenges effectively.
Brand Alignment: A strong appreciation for the Anchor Bar brand and commitment to maintaining its high-quality standards.
Customer Focus: Passion for delivering excellent customer service and creating memorable dining experiences.
Community Engagement: Willingness to become an active participant in the local community to grow brand awareness and loyalty.
Investment Readiness: Ability to meet the total investment requirement, including franchise fees, infrastructure costs, and working capital.
Sustainable Operations: Capacity to fund initial operations and maintain smooth cash flow until the business reaches break-even.
Long-Term Vision: Willingness to invest time, effort, and resources for steady growth and profitability.
Market Insight: Understanding of the local market, including demographics, competition, and potential customer base.
Commitment to Location: Dedication to selecting a strategic location with high visibility and foot traffic, ensuring long-term success.
Leadership & People Skills: Ability to motivate and manage staff effectively while fostering a positive work environment.
Adaptability: Open to guidance, training, and adherence to Anchor Bar’s established systems and procedures.
Resilience & Determination: Capability to handle challenges, learn from experiences, and continuously strive for operational excellence.
| Financial Element | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $908,000 – $1,315,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Infrastructure / Setup Costs | Varies based on location, restaurant size, and leasehold improvements |
| Marketing Budget | 1% of gross sales |
| Working Capital | Funds to cover initial operating expenses (payroll, inventory, utilities, etc.) |
| Royalty Fees | 5% of gross sales |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and market conditions |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 2–3 years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | - In-restaurant dining - Takeout & delivery - Retail sales of wing sauces - Catering & special events |
