2006
20
$636,500
$50,000
$998,000
No
Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar is redefining the casual dining experience with its unique blend of quality American cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and Southern hospitality. Since its inception in 2006, Big Whiskey’s has grown from a single establishment in Springfield, Missouri, to a nationally recognized brand with a rapidly expanding franchise network. The brand's commitment to excellence is evident in its innovative approach to restaurant design, menu offerings, and customer service.
With a focus on community engagement and a dedication to providing a welcoming environment, Big Whiskey’s has become a go-to destination for families, sports enthusiasts, and food lovers alike. The introduction of the "Whiskey’s Yard" outdoor experience has further enhanced its appeal, offering patrons a unique setting to enjoy their meals and drinks.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Proven Profitability: Big Whiskey’s boasts an impressive EBITDAR of 21.8%, surpassing industry giants like Buffalo Wild Wings and Red Robin.
Innovative Build-Out Strategy: The brand's second-generation franchising model allows for cost-effective conversions of existing restaurant spaces, reducing initial investment costs.
Strong Brand Recognition: With a growing presence across multiple states, Big Whiskey’s is becoming a household name in the casual dining sector.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring operational excellence and sustained growth.
Established: July 2006 in downtown Springfield, Missouri.
Founders: Matt Caetano, Paul Sundy, and Scotty Shively.
The brand's inception was inspired by a local legend of a man named "Big Whiskey," who frequented a modest tavern, leaving a lasting impression with his stories and toasts. This legend became the cornerstone of the restaurant's identity, blending rich storytelling with a vibrant dining experience.
Franchising Since: Late 2015.
Current Units: As of September 2025, fewer than 20 locations, including both corporate-owned and franchised establishments.
Recent Developments:
Opened a new location in Poplar Bluff, Missouri, in October 2023.
Plans to open new corporate stores in Neosho and Lebanon, Missouri, in early summer 2024.
Set to open its first Texas location in Willis, near Houston, as part of a multi-location franchise deal.
Ownership: Privately held by the original founders.
Leadership Team:
Paul Sundy
Mike Heslin
Jameson Clark
Randy Gildehaus
Austin Herschend
In recent years, Big Whiskey's streamlined its focus by acquiring English Management, a Springfield-based company that previously operated other restaurant concepts. This strategic move consolidated resources and efforts to strengthen the Big Whiskey's brand and its franchise operations.
Big Whiskey’s is renowned for its unique blend of classic American cuisine, a vibrant bar atmosphere, and a commitment to community engagement. The brand has been consistently recognized as one of the best restaurant/bars in the Springfield/Branson area.
The introduction of the "Whiskey’s Yard" outdoor experience has further enhanced its appeal, offering patrons a unique setting to enjoy their meals and drinks.
Big Whiskey’s is poised for continued growth, with plans to expand into new markets and introduce innovative concepts that resonate with its target audience. The brand's commitment to quality, community, and a memorable dining experience positions it as a promising opportunity for prospective franchisees.
Big Whiskey’s American Restaurant & Bar offers a comprehensive and hands-on support and training program designed to ensure the success of its franchisees. This program is centered around Big Whiskey’s U, a dynamic training initiative that combines in-person instruction with digital resources to equip franchisees and their teams with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Big Whiskey’s U is an immersive training experience that prepares franchisees and their staff for successful restaurant operations. Key components include:
In-Person Training: A seasoned new store opening team is deployed to the franchise location five weeks prior to the grand opening. They work closely with the franchisee and staff, providing hands-on training in areas such as customer service, kitchen operations, and bar management.
Online Learning Platform: The program offers a flexible, modular online training component accessible via smartphones or store computers. This platform includes engaging videos, presentations, and quizzes to reinforce learning and assess progress.
Continuous Learning: Training materials are regularly updated to reflect new procedures, promotions, and operational best practices, ensuring that staff remain informed and proficient.
Beyond initial training, Big Whiskey’s provides continuous support to franchisees through:
On-Site Assistance: The Director of Franchise Operations offers ongoing training, support, and guidance both on-site and remotely. Regular unit reviews help ensure that each location operates at its full potential, delivering a consistent and high-quality guest experience.
Staff Training: General Managers undergo a four-week training program, with the final two days dedicated to managing a store. Assistant Managers receive two weeks of training, while lead cooks participate in a ten-day program. Additionally, the training team spends at least two weeks at the franchisee's site to train staff.
Experienced Trainers: The training team comprises individuals who have progressed through the ranks at Big Whiskey’s, including former servers, hosts, and team members. Their firsthand experience and passion for the brand enhance the effectiveness of the training program.
Franchisees have praised the training and support provided by Big Whiskey’s:
“The Big Whiskey’s training group were extremely knowledgeable, worked tirelessly to get us up to speed, and were so pleasant that we were sad to see them go. They instilled a strong work and success ethic into our staff.”
— Steve Swanson, NOS Development, franchisee of the Davie, FL location.
Big Whiskey’s seeks franchisees who are not only financially capable but also aligned with the brand’s culture, values, and operational standards. The ideal franchisee profile includes the following attributes:
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Candidates should have a strong desire to own and operate a restaurant or hospitality business.
Management Experience: Prior experience in managing restaurants, bars, or other customer-service-focused businesses is highly valued but not mandatory.
Financial Acumen: Understanding of budgeting, P&L management, and basic financial planning is preferred to optimize operations and profitability.
Customer-Centric Mindset: A genuine commitment to providing excellent service, ensuring guests feel welcomed and valued.
Community Engagement: Interest in participating in local events and fostering a strong connection with the community.
Brand Enthusiasm: Passion for Big Whiskey’s culture, storytelling, and food-and-beverage experience is crucial.
Financial Resources: Ability to meet the total investment requirement, including franchise fees, build-out costs, and working capital.
Access to Funding: Capability to secure financing if needed, including SBA loans or other financing options.
Market Focus: Ideal candidates target suburban and high-traffic areas suitable for family dining and social gatherings.
Growth Mindset: Willingness to explore multi-unit ownership opportunities for expansion within a region.
Leadership Skills: Ability to motivate and manage a team effectively.
Commitment & Dedication: Willingness to invest time, energy, and effort into running a successful restaurant.
Resilience & Problem Solving: Capability to navigate operational challenges while maintaining a high standard of service.
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $636,500 – $998,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $636,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Royalty Fees | Percentage of gross sales (specific rate disclosed upon inquiry) |
| Marketing / Advertising Fund | Included in total investment; contributes to local & national marketing campaigns |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies depending on location, size, and condition of the facility |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment; typically sufficient to cover initial operations |
| Expected ROI | Achievable within 3–5 years depending on location and operational efficiency |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 18–36 months, depending on market conditions |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, bar sales, special events |
| Franchise Units Current Number | Fewer than 20 locations (corporate + franchise) |
| Financing Options | SBA loans and other financing available for qualified investors |
