2013
50
$400,000
$40,000
$900,000
No
Bibibop Asian Grill is redefining the fast-casual dining experience in the United States with its focus on health, balance, and Asian-inspired flavors. Known for its customizable rice and noodle bowls made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Bibibop has become a go-to destination for health-conscious customers seeking a fast yet nourishing meal. The brand’s concept is rooted in the traditional Korean dish “bibimbap,” meaning “mixed rice,” but adapted for American tastes with a vibrant, modern twist.
Since its inception, Bibibop has earned a loyal following for its commitment to “Well-Being,” offering gluten-free, clean-label, and wholesome menu options. The franchise stands out in the crowded fast-casual market by combining speed, simplicity, and nutrition — creating a winning model that aligns perfectly with modern consumer preferences. As a Bibibop franchisee, you become part of a trusted, rapidly growing brand with a proven business model and operational systems that drive profitability and long-term growth.
Investing in a Bibibop Asian Grill franchise means joining one of America’s fastest-growing healthy dining brands. The U.S. fast-casual Asian food segment continues to surge as consumers shift toward nutrient-dense, customizable meals that cater to all dietary needs. Bibibop has positioned itself as a category leader by offering fresh, high-quality ingredients with a strong focus on wellness and lifestyle balance.
Key benefits include:
Proven Success Model: Bibibop has demonstrated consistent growth and high average unit volumes.
Health-Centric Menu: 100% gluten-free, balanced, and customizable offerings appeal to a broad demographic.
Operational Simplicity: Streamlined menu and efficient prep processes reduce waste and increase margins.
Corporate Support: Backed by Gosh Enterprises, the same powerhouse behind Charleys Philly Steaks, ensuring strong franchise guidance and operational excellence.
Market Momentum: With increasing demand for health-driven fast-casual options, Bibibop’s timing and positioning couldn’t be better for investors looking for long-term stability and expansion potential.
Founded: 2013
Founder: Charley Shin
Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, USA
Parent Company: Gosh Enterprises, Inc.
Industry: Fast-Casual Restaurant / Asian-Inspired Healthy Dining
Franchise Units: 50+ Locations Across the USA
Bibibop Asian Grill was founded in 2013 by Charley Shin, the successful entrepreneur behind Charleys Philly Steaks, one of America’s most recognized quick-service restaurant brands. Shin’s vision was to introduce the Korean concept of “bibimbap” — meaning “mixed rice” — to the U.S. market in a way that combines authentic Asian flavors with modern American appeal.
The first Bibibop restaurant opened in Columbus, Ohio, and quickly gained popularity for its fresh, customizable bowls that are 100% gluten-free and made from high-quality ingredients. Built around the core principle of “Well-Being,” the brand’s mission is to promote a balanced lifestyle through nutritious, flavorful food that energizes the body and nourishes the mind.
Following its early success, Bibibop expanded rapidly under the leadership of Gosh Enterprises, leveraging its strong infrastructure and operational expertise to open multiple locations across major U.S. markets, including California, Illinois, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
Over the years, Bibibop has developed a strong reputation as a leader in the healthy fast-casual segment, appealing to health-conscious diners, working professionals, students, and families alike. Its approachable concept, clean ingredients, and efficiency-focused operations have made it one of the most promising franchise opportunities in the better-for-you dining category.
Bibibop provides comprehensive support at every step of your franchise journey to ensure success:
1. Pre-Launch Support:
Assistance with site selection and lease negotiation.
Guidance on restaurant design, layout, and construction management.
Vendor and supply chain setup to ensure consistent ingredient quality.
2. Training Programs:
Intensive multi-week training covering daily operations, food preparation, staff management, and customer service.
On-site operational training before and after opening.
Leadership and management courses for franchise owners and general managers.
3. Marketing Support:
Strategic brand marketing with national and regional campaigns.
Grand opening promotions and digital marketing support.
Access to Bibibop’s social media, loyalty program, and community engagement tools.
4. Ongoing Operational Support:
Regular performance reviews and field visits.
Access to proprietary technology systems for inventory, labor, and sales management.
Continuous product innovation and menu development updates.
Bibibop’s franchise team provides end-to-end guidance, empowering franchisees to operate efficiently while maintaining brand consistency and profitability.
The ideal Bibibop Asian Grill franchisee is an entrepreneur who believes in the power of healthy living, hospitality, and community connection. While prior restaurant experience can be an advantage, the brand welcomes both seasoned operators and motivated new investors who share its passion for well-being and quality dining experiences.
Here’s what Bibibop looks for in a successful franchise partner:
1. Passion for Health and Wellness
Franchisees should be genuinely enthusiastic about Bibibop’s mission of promoting “Well-Being.” A strong personal belief in nutritious, balanced eating and community wellness helps owners connect with customers and inspire their teams to live the brand’s values every day.
2. Strong Business and Leadership Skills
Bibibop franchise owners should have sound business judgment, operational discipline, and leadership capabilities. Experience in managing teams, customer service, or multi-unit operations is valuable, but what matters most is the ability to build a positive work culture and maintain high operational standards.
3. Financial Capability
Owning a Bibibop franchise requires sufficient financial stability. Franchisees should have a minimum liquid capital of $250,000 and a net worth of $1 million or more to cover startup costs, initial investments, and working capital. This ensures a strong foundation for long-term growth.
4. Community-Oriented Mindset
Bibibop values franchisees who are passionate about becoming local ambassadors of the brand. Ideal candidates actively engage in their communities, partner with local organizations, and build loyal customer relationships that drive consistent traffic and brand visibility.
5. Commitment to Excellence and Growth
The best franchisees are hands-on operators or multi-unit investors who focus on quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Bibibop provides a structured system, but franchisees who stay proactive, adapt to trends, and uphold the brand’s integrity achieve the greatest success.
6. Preferred Backgrounds:
Restaurant, hospitality, or retail management experience.
Multi-unit or regional franchise ownership.
Investors seeking a scalable, health-focused food concept.
Entrepreneurs passionate about wellness and community impact.
7. Location Preference:
Bibibop franchises thrive in high-traffic urban centers, suburban shopping districts, college towns, and business communities where customers seek quick, nutritious meals. Areas with a strong base of health-conscious consumers or professionals are especially ideal.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the estimated investment and ongoing costs for owning a Bibibop Asian Grill franchise in the United States. These figures are based on current market averages and available franchise data to provide prospective investors with realistic financial expectations.
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 | One-time fee paid to Bibibop Asian Grill for brand rights, training, and initial support. |
| Total Initial Investment | $400,000 – $900,000 | Includes franchise fee, construction, equipment, initial inventory, and working capital. |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $250,000 | Minimum cash or readily available funds required to qualify for franchise ownership. |
| Minimum Net Worth Required | $1,000,000 | Demonstrates financial stability and ability to support long-term operations. |
| Royalty Fee | 6% of Gross Sales | Ongoing fee paid to the franchisor for continued brand use and support. |
| Marketing / Advertising Fee | 2% of Gross Sales | National and regional marketing contributions to maintain brand visibility. |
| Leasehold Improvements | $200,000 – $450,000 | Costs for construction, design, and setup of the restaurant location. |
| Equipment, Fixtures & Furniture | $100,000 – $150,000 | Includes kitchen equipment, counters, seating, and technology systems. |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $15,000 – $25,000 | Ingredients, packaging, and utensils required for opening. |
| Training Expenses | $5,000 – $10,000 | Travel, accommodation, and material costs during franchise training. |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 – $20,000 | Local promotional campaigns to launch the restaurant successfully. |
| Working Capital (3 Months) | $40,000 – $80,000 | Cash reserve for payroll, rent, and operational expenses during ramp-up. |
| Franchise Agreement Term | 10 Years | Renewable agreement with option for extension based on performance. |
| Average Unit Volume (AUV) | $1.2M – $1.5M per year | Typical annual revenue generated by an established location. |
| Estimated ROI | 18% – 25% | Approximate return on investment, depending on performance and location. |
| Break-Even Point | 24 – 36 Months | Average time to achieve profitability after opening. |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 50+ Locations | Operating across multiple U.S. states and expanding steadily. |
Dine-In & Takeout Sales: Primary source of daily revenue.
Online & App Orders: Mobile-friendly ordering platforms drive digital growth.
Catering Services: Group and event orders provide additional profit streams.
Delivery Partnerships: Integrated with third-party apps for expanded reach.
