2021
20
$500,000
$45,000
$722,000
No
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop is revolutionizing the fast-casual dining scene with its innovative concept that reimagines classic diner staples as gourmet dumplings. Founded in 2021 by NYC restaurateur Stratis Morfogen, the brand combines the nostalgia of the traditional New York diner with cutting-edge automation technology to offer a seamless, contactless dining experience. Operating 24/7, the shop serves a diverse menu of over 30 dumpling varieties, including Korean BBQ, Mac 'n Cheese, and dessert-inspired options like Apple Pie Dumplings. This modern twist on comfort food has garnered attention for its efficiency, flavor, and unique approach to dining.
Innovative Business Model: Brooklyn Dumpling Shop's automated system minimizes labor costs and enhances operational efficiency, allowing for a streamlined customer experience.
Scalable Concept: The brand's compact store format and efficient operations make it ideal for rapid expansion across various markets.
Proven Demand: The concept has shown strong customer interest and loyalty, with plans for nationwide expansion.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure success.
Established Year & Founders:
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop was founded in 2021 by Stratis Morfogen, a seasoned restaurateur based in New York City. Morfogen envisioned a modern take on classic diner favorites, combining nostalgia with innovation to create a unique culinary experience.
Brand Journey & Concept:
From its inception, the brand focused on transforming traditional comfort foods into dumpling-based dishes. The menu features a diverse range of over 30 dumpling varieties, including savory options like Korean BBQ, Buffalo Chicken, and Mac ‘n Cheese, alongside dessert dumplings such as Apple Pie and Chocolate Hazelnut.
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop distinguishes itself through automated 24/7 ordering systems, providing a contactless and efficient dining experience. The concept merges the appeal of a classic New York diner with technology-driven service, ensuring faster operations and lower labor costs.
Ownership & Corporate Structure:
The brand is privately held under BDS Franchising LLC, allowing for strategic expansion while maintaining high-quality operational standards.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
Currently, Brooklyn Dumpling Shop operates fewer than 20 units across the USA and Canada, with dozens more under development. Its U.S. presence includes urban hubs such as New York City, Philadelphia, Dallas, Austin, Charlotte, and Miami. Internationally, the brand has signed a 100-unit master franchise agreement in Canada, reflecting its ambitious growth strategy.
Industry Category:
The franchise falls under the Fast-Casual Dining sector, specializing in Asian-American fusion cuisine. Its unique combination of innovative dining technology and gourmet comfort food positions it competitively in the expanding quick-service market.
Company Highlights & Reputation:
Known for innovation in foodservice automation.
Offers a highly scalable franchise model.
Recognized for quality, speed, and customer engagement, appealing to tech-savvy urban diners.
Positioned for rapid nationwide expansion in both the U.S. and international markets.
Other Notable Information:
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop’s concept aligns with current trends emphasizing contactless service, convenience, and fast-casual quality, making it highly appealing to modern consumers and investors seeking a forward-thinking franchise opportunity.
Pre-Launch: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store design tailored to the brand's aesthetic.
Operational Training: Comprehensive programs covering kitchen operations, customer service, inventory management, and the use of automated systems.
Marketing Support: Access to branded materials, digital marketing strategies, and promotional campaigns to drive customer engagement.
Ongoing Assistance: Regular performance reviews, operational audits, and continuous support to ensure franchisee success.
Entrepreneurial Spirit:
The ideal franchisee is an entrepreneurial individual or group with a passion for innovation in the foodservice sector. They should be eager to join a disruptive, technology-driven dining concept that blends traditional comfort food with modern automation.
Business Background:
While prior experience in restaurant management, retail operations, or hospitality is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Franchisees should have a strong business acumen, leadership skills, and operational understanding to manage day-to-day operations effectively.
Investment Capability:
Prospective franchisees should have the financial capacity to invest between $373,000 and $722,000, with a minimum liquid capital of $500,000. This ensures they can cover the franchise fee, build-out costs, equipment, inventory, marketing, and working capital without financial strain.
Passion & Vision:
A successful franchisee should have a genuine passion for customer experience, quality food, and innovative service. They should align with Brooklyn Dumpling Shop’s vision of fast, contactless, high-quality dining and be motivated to grow the brand in their region.
Location Preference & Market Understanding:
Ideal candidates are those interested in urban or suburban markets with high foot traffic, near colleges, business districts, or tech-savvy neighborhoods. Understanding local demographics and consumer behavior is important for maximizing sales and brand penetration.
Personal Traits:
Adaptable & tech-savvy: Comfortable using automation and digital platforms for operations and customer engagement.
Customer-focused: Dedicated to creating a seamless dining experience.
Team-oriented: Capable of recruiting, training, and managing staff effectively.
Growth-minded: Interested in scaling multiple locations over time.
Other Information:
Brooklyn Dumpling Shop values franchisees who are innovative thinkers and early adopters, capable of leveraging the brand’s unique 24/7 automated concept to build strong local presence and profitability.
| Financial Item | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $373,000 – $722,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $500,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $45,000 |
| Royalty Fee | Percentage of gross sales (as per Franchise Disclosure Document) |
| Marketing Fee / Budget | Allocated funds for local & national marketing campaigns (variable) |
| Build-out / Infrastructure Cost | Part of total investment, includes equipment, leasehold improvements, and décor |
| Working Capital | Included in investment estimate; supports initial operations |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location and operational efficiency; detailed projections available |
| Break-even Time | Estimated 12–24 months depending on market conditions and management performance |
| Revenue Streams | In-store sales, online ordering, catering, frozen products retail distribution |
| Franchise Units Current Number | < 20 units (U.S. and Canada) with multiple locations under development |
| Support & Training | Pre-launch assistance, operational & marketing training, ongoing support |
