2008
10
$750,000
$40,000
$1,200,000
No
Bagger Dave’s is a fast-casual burger restaurant franchise that has carved its name in the American dining scene with its signature burgers, craft beers, and community-driven dining experience. Known for its made-to-order gourmet burgers, fresh ingredients, and inviting casual atmosphere, Bagger Dave’s stands out in the competitive restaurant industry as a brand built on flavor, quality, and customer loyalty.
Franchisees of Bagger Dave’s benefit from operating in the thriving American fast-casual dining sector, which has consistently grown due to consumer demand for high-quality yet affordable dining options. With a proven business model, established supply chain, and a strong regional presence in the Midwest and beyond, Bagger Dave’s is a franchise designed for entrepreneurs who want to combine profitability with a recognizable and loved dining concept.
Why Invest in Bagger Dave’s Franchise?
Strong Brand Identity – Well-recognized for gourmet burgers, hand-cut fries, and a craft beer selection that appeals to both families and young professionals.
High-Growth Industry – The U.S. fast-casual restaurant industry is valued at billions of dollars and continues to expand.
Proven Operational Model – Franchisees benefit from streamlined operations, effective marketing strategies, and a loyal customer base.
Flexibility & Scalability – Suitable for single-unit owners as well as multi-unit investors looking to expand their portfolio.
Supportive Franchise System – Comprehensive training, site selection guidance, and ongoing operational support are part of the package.
Established Year: 2008
Founder: Michael Ansley
Headquarters: Michigan, USA
Current Franchise Units: 5 (as of February 2025)
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining / Burger Restaurant Franchise
Bagger Dave’s was founded in Berkley, Michigan in 2008 by Michael Ansley, an entrepreneur passionate about creating a unique burger restaurant that combined gourmet flavors with a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The brand was originally developed under Diversified Restaurant Holdings, Inc. (DRH), which also operated numerous Buffalo Wild Wings franchises across the Midwest.
From the beginning, Bagger Dave’s positioned itself as more than just another burger joint—it branded itself as a “Burger Tavern”, offering made-to-order burgers, hand-cut fries, craft beers, and train-themed interiors designed to appeal to both families and young professionals. The brand quickly gained popularity, expanding its presence across Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, at one point operating more than 25 locations.
However, like many fast-casual chains, Bagger Dave’s faced challenges with scaling operations, market competition, and shifting consumer preferences. Over time, several underperforming locations were closed. Today, the franchise has streamlined its footprint and operates 5 remaining locations in the U.S., primarily in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, with a focus on maintaining quality, profitability, and strong community connections.
Despite downsizing, Bagger Dave’s continues to be recognized for its signature gourmet burgers, casual dining atmosphere, and locally inspired menu innovations. The franchise model still appeals to investors looking for an established fast-casual concept with strong regional recognition and growth potential in underserved markets.
Bagger Dave’s falls under the fast-casual restaurant industry category, which has remained one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S. foodservice industry. Its focus on high-quality food, affordable pricing, and a unique guest experience positions it as a competitive investment opportunity for the right entrepreneur.
Bagger Dave’s provides end-to-end support to ensure that franchisees are equipped for long-term success.
Pre-Launch Support
Site selection assistance
Restaurant layout & design guidance
Vendor and supply chain setup
Initial marketing campaign launch support
Comprehensive Training
In-depth training programs for owners and staff covering operations, customer service, food preparation, and compliance standards
On-site training at corporate and flagship locations
Operational Support
Access to proprietary recipes, systems, and management software
Guidance on staffing, hiring, and scheduling
Continuous improvements and menu innovations
Marketing Support
Local and national marketing campaigns
Social media promotion and digital advertising tools
Brand guidelines and promotional materials
Ongoing Support
Field support teams for periodic evaluations
Continuous professional development programs
Access to franchisee network for collaboration and shared learning
The ideal Bagger Dave’s franchisee is:
Entrepreneurial & Passionate – Must have a genuine passion for the food and hospitality industry.
Business-Minded – Prior restaurant, retail, or business management experience is preferred but not mandatory.
Financially Qualified – Should have the capital required to invest in the restaurant business, with sufficient liquidity and net worth.
Community-Oriented – Someone who values local connections and understands how to build a loyal customer base.
Scalable Vision – Suitable for single-unit operators and investors planning multi-unit expansion.
Location Preference – High-traffic suburban, urban, and college-town areas with strong demand for casual dining experiences.
| Financial Component | Details (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $750,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $750,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Cost | $450,000 – $800,000 |
| Marketing Budget | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Working Capital | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of gross sales |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 10+ operating locations |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 20% annually |
| Break-even Time | 24 – 36 months |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in sales, take-out, online orders, catering, bar/craft beer sales |
