1963
26
$350,000
$40,000
$1,776,410
No
Bonanza Steak & BBQ is a legendary American steakhouse brand that has been serving hearty, high-quality meals since 1963. Originally founded by actor Dan Blocker, known for his role as "Hoss" Cartwright" on the television show Bonanza, the brand has evolved into a full-service dining experience that combines classic flavors with modern dining trends. Under the umbrella of FAT Brands, Bonanza Steak & BBQ offers a compelling franchise opportunity for investors seeking to be part of a beloved American institution.
The restaurant concept focuses on delivering a diverse menu that includes cooked-to-order steaks, gourmet Angus beef burgers, BBQ, sandwiches, chicken, and seafood, complemented by a fresh salad bar. This approach caters to a wide range of tastes, making it an ideal choice for family dining. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Bonanza Steak & BBQ has established a strong presence in the competitive casual dining sector.
Established Brand Legacy: With over six decades in operation, Bonanza Steak & BBQ is a trusted name in American dining, offering a sense of nostalgia and reliability to customers.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, including assistance with site selection, restaurant design, supply chain management, and marketing strategies.
Proven Business Model: The brand's successful transition from a buffet-style service to a full-service steakhouse demonstrates adaptability and a keen understanding of market trends.
Diverse Menu Offerings: The varied menu appeals to a broad demographic, ensuring a steady stream of customers and repeat business.
Part of FAT Brands Portfolio: As a subsidiary of FAT Brands, franchisees benefit from the resources and expertise of a larger organization with a diverse brand portfolio.
Established Year:
Bonanza Steakhouse was founded in 1963 in Westport, Connecticut. It quickly became known for offering hearty, American-style meals at reasonable prices, appealing to families and casual diners alike.
Founder:
The brand was originally conceptualized by Dan Blocker, the actor famous for his role as "Hoss" in the television series Bonanza. His influence on the brand helped establish a recognizable, family-friendly theme centered around quality steaks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Franchise Units:
Currently, Bonanza Steak & BBQ operates around 26 franchise units in the U.S., primarily concentrated in the central and western states. The brand has maintained a steady presence and continues exploring new locations to expand its footprint.
Brand Journey & Company History:
1963–1970s: Bonanza Steakhouse gained popularity as a casual buffet-style dining concept focused on steak and traditional American meals.
1970s–2000s: The brand expanded steadily, emphasizing consistency and value for families, while evolving its menu to include a wider variety of offerings.
2017–Present: Acquired by FAT Brands, the parent company of multiple restaurant brands, Bonanza Steak & BBQ now benefits from enhanced operational expertise, marketing support, and growth strategies. The brand has adapted to modern dining trends, including a transition from buffet-style service to full-service restaurants, catering, and takeout options.
Ownership:
Currently owned by FAT Brands, a publicly traded company managing a portfolio of restaurant brands such as Johnny Rockets, Fatburger, and Elevation Burger.
The acquisition has allowed Bonanza Steak & BBQ to leverage FAT Brands’ operational resources, marketing networks, and expansion capabilities.
Market Presence in the USA:
Bonanza Steak & BBQ is a recognizable name in casual dining and steakhouse categories, particularly in family-focused markets.
Its presence is stronger in suburban and mid-sized urban areas, catering to diners seeking value, consistent quality, and a classic American dining experience.
Industry Category:
Casual Dining
Steakhouse / BBQ / Buffet
The brand competes with other family-focused steakhouse franchises, offering a unique value proposition through its nostalgic branding, quality menu, and approachable pricing.
Other Information:
Bonanza Steak & BBQ emphasizes menu variety, including steaks, burgers, BBQ, chicken, seafood, sandwiches, and a salad bar, which helps attract a wide demographic.
The brand maintains a strong legacy appeal with its historical connection to television and American pop culture, giving franchisees a marketable story to attract customers.
FAT Brands offers a robust support system for Bonanza Steak & BBQ franchisees, ensuring they are equipped for success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Training: Comprehensive training programs covering operations, customer service, food preparation, and management practices.
Operational Support: Ongoing guidance in daily operations, staffing, inventory management, and quality control.
Marketing & Advertising: Access to national and local marketing campaigns, promotional materials, and digital marketing strategies to drive customer engagement.
Supply Chain & Procurement: Streamlined supply chain management and equipment procurement to maintain consistency and quality across locations.
Bonanza Steak & BBQ seeks franchisees who are passionate, motivated, and capable of managing a casual dining restaurant successfully. The ideal franchisee combines financial resources with business acumen and a commitment to upholding the brand’s quality and reputation.
1. Business Background:
Preferably, franchisees have experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or retail business ownership.
While prior experience in food service is beneficial, motivated entrepreneurs without direct experience but with strong business management skills are also considered.
Understanding operations, customer service, and staff management is critical for long-term success.
2. Financial Capability:
Prospective franchisees must have sufficient capital to invest in the franchise, including the franchise fee, infrastructure, marketing, and working capital.
Minimum liquid capital required is $350,000, and minimum net worth is $750,000.
Ability to manage ongoing operational expenses, royalty fees (4% of monthly sales), and marketing contributions (2% of monthly sales) is essential.
3. Passion & Commitment:
Franchisees should be passionate about the restaurant industry, especially casual dining and steakhouse concepts.
Commitment to maintaining high-quality food standards and providing an exceptional customer experience is a must.
4. Leadership & Management Skills:
Strong leadership and team-building skills to manage staff effectively.
Ability to oversee daily operations, implement training programs, and maintain operational efficiency.
5. Location Preference:
Ideal franchisees are interested in establishing Bonanza Steak & BBQ locations in high-traffic areas, including suburban markets or mid-sized cities.
Locations with family dining demographics and a strong appetite for casual American dining are preferred.
6. Entrepreneurial Mindset:
Willingness to follow the franchise system, adhere to brand standards, and participate in marketing initiatives.
Open to learning from ongoing support provided by FAT Brands and leveraging resources to maximize profitability.
7. Customer-Focused Approach:
Commitment to excellent customer service, creating memorable dining experiences that drive repeat business.
Focus on community engagement to build local loyalty and enhance brand reputation.
| Financial Parameter | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $316,000 – $1,776,410 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $350,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth | $750,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 4% of monthly sales |
| Marketing / Advertising Fees | 2% of monthly sales |
| Ideal Restaurant Size | 2,000 – 5,000 sq. ft. |
| Break-Even Time | 18 – 36 months |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location; typically positive within 2–3 years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, catering, delivery |
| Infrastructure Cost | Included in total investment (varies by size and location) |
| Working Capital | Part of initial investment (sufficient to cover operational expenses for 3–6 months) |
