2000
160
$1,800,000
$75,000
$2,700,000
No
Bonefish Grill is a distinguished American casual dining restaurant chain renowned for its commitment to delivering a premier seafood dining experience. Established in 2000 in St. Petersburg, Florida, Bonefish Grill has grown into a prominent brand within the Bloomin’ Brands portfolio, operating over 160 locations across the United States. The franchise offers a diverse menu featuring wood-grilled fish, signature sauces, and a vibrant bar atmosphere, catering to a wide array of culinary preferences. With a focus on quality ingredients and exceptional service, Bonefish Grill has cultivated a loyal customer base and established a strong market presence.
Investing in a Bonefish Grill franchise presents a compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the thriving casual dining sector. The brand's established reputation, coupled with its affiliation with Bloomin’ Brands, provides franchisees with a robust support system and a proven business model. Bonefish Grill's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction positions it for sustained growth and profitability in the competitive restaurant industry.
Established Year & Founders:
Bonefish Grill was founded in 2000 in St. Petersburg, Florida by Tim Curci and Chris Parker. Their vision was to create a modern, upscale casual seafood restaurant that offered high-quality, fresh fish cooked over a wood-grill, paired with innovative sauces and a welcoming atmosphere.
Brand Journey & Growth:
The brand began as a single location but quickly gained popularity for its fresh, flavorful seafood offerings, approachable price points, and contemporary dining experience. Within a few years, Bonefish Grill attracted attention from investors and larger restaurant groups due to its consistent performance, unique concept, and strong customer loyalty.
Ownership & Corporate Structure:
In 2001, Bonefish Grill was acquired by Bloomin’ Brands, Inc., the parent company that also owns well-known casual dining chains such as Outback Steakhouse and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar. Being part of Bloomin’ Brands gives Bonefish Grill franchisees access to corporate expertise, operational systems, and national marketing support.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
As of 2025, Bonefish Grill operates over 160 locations across 28 U.S. states, primarily in suburban and urban areas with high dining traffic. The franchise has established a reputation as a leading seafood casual dining brand in the U.S., known for quality, consistency, and a strong brand identity.
Industry Category:
Bonefish Grill belongs to the casual dining – seafood sector, which caters to customers seeking full-service dining experiences with premium seafood offerings. The brand competes with both national chains and regional seafood restaurants, distinguishing itself with wood-grilled fish, signature cocktails, and a modern, inviting restaurant ambiance.
Other Notable Information:
Bonefish Grill emphasizes freshness, quality, and innovation, frequently updating its menu to reflect seasonal ingredients and culinary trends.
The brand’s loyal customer base contributes to repeat business, a critical factor in long-term franchise success.
Its integration of technology (online ordering, loyalty programs, and POS systems) streamlines operations for franchisees and improves customer experience.
Bonefish Grill offers comprehensive support and training to its franchisees, ensuring a smooth and successful operation:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Training Programs: Extensive training covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including culinary techniques, customer service, and management practices.
Ongoing Operational Support: Continuous guidance on inventory management, staffing, and quality control to maintain high standards.
Marketing Assistance: Access to national and local marketing campaigns, promotional materials, and digital marketing strategies to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
Technology Integration: Implementation of advanced point-of-sale systems and operational tools to streamline processes and enhance efficiency.
This robust support infrastructure empowers franchisees to operate effectively and deliver a consistent dining experience to customers.
The ideal Bonefish Grill franchisee is an entrepreneur or investor who possesses a combination of business acumen, financial capability, and passion for hospitality. Bonefish Grill is a full-service, casual dining seafood brand, so the franchisee should be committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences while managing the operational and financial aspects of a restaurant business.
Key Characteristics:
Business Experience & Acumen:
Prior experience in restaurant management or food service operations is highly advantageous.
Strong understanding of business operations, staff management, and customer service standards.
Passion for Hospitality & Seafood Dining:
Genuine interest in the dining and hospitality industry.
Commitment to providing high-quality seafood and memorable customer experiences.
Financial Capability:
Ability to meet the initial investment requirement ($1.8M – $2.7M) and sustain operations during the startup phase.
Access to sufficient working capital to handle operational expenses until the business reaches break-even.
Leadership & Team Management:
Strong leadership and people-management skills.
Ability to recruit, train, and motivate staff while maintaining the brand’s service standards.
Commitment & Alignment with Brand Values:
Willingness to adhere to Bonefish Grill’s operational guidelines and corporate standards.
Dedication to upholding the brand’s reputation for quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction.
Location & Market Understanding:
Preference for areas with high dining traffic and growth potential, such as urban or suburban locations.
Understanding of local market trends, competition, and customer demographics.
Summary:
The ideal franchisee is a motivated, financially capable individual or partnership with a passion for the casual dining seafood market, who values quality, consistency, and customer service, and is ready to leverage Bonefish Grill’s proven business model and corporate support to achieve long-term success.
| Financial Component | Details / Estimates |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $1,800,000 – $2,700,000 |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $0 – $75,000 (depending on location and agreement) |
| Royalty Fees | 4% – 8% of gross sales |
| Marketing / Advertising Fees | Contribution to national and local marketing campaigns (varies by territory) |
| Infrastructure Costs | Includes restaurant construction, equipment, furniture, fixtures, and signage |
| Pre-Opening & Training Costs | Costs for staff training, pre-launch operations, and initial inventory |
| Working Capital | Funds required to cover operational expenses during initial months (varies by location) |
| Expected Revenue Streams | Dine-in services, takeout, catering, gift card sales |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 18 – 36 months, depending on location and market conditions |
| Projected ROI | Varies by location, market, and operational efficiency |
| Franchise Units (Current) | Over 160 locations across 28 U.S. states |
