2006
16
$50,000
Inquire
$980,000
No
Buckhorn BBQ is a fast-casual restaurant franchise that offers specialty grilled tri-tip beef, chicken, pork, salmon, and vegetables, served in salads, sandwiches, and platters. The company's mission is to provide quality food with a service experience that exceeds customer expectations while maintaining a competitive price point. Founded in 2006 by Mike & Judy Buckhorn in Santa Barbara County on California's Central Coast, Buckhorn Grill has grown to become a beloved brand known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
Proven Concept: With a strong presence in Northern California, Buckhorn Grill has demonstrated the viability and appeal of its fast-casual dining model.
Quality Offerings: The menu features high-quality ingredients, including Certified Angus Beef®, and caters to various dietary preferences, ensuring a broad customer base.
Supportive Franchise System: Buckhorn Grill provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to franchisees, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed.
Brand Recognition: As a well-established brand in the region, Buckhorn Grill offers franchisees the advantage of entering the market with an already recognized name.
Established Year:
Buckhorn BBQ was founded in 2006 by Mike and Judy Buckhorn in Santa Barbara County, California. The brand’s roots trace back to their early success selling tri-tip sandwiches at local markets, which inspired them to open a formal restaurant concept.
Founders:
Mike Buckhorn – A passionate restaurateur with a vision for creating high-quality, fast-casual dining experiences.
Judy Buckhorn – Co-founder and key player in operations and customer experience, helping to shape the brand’s friendly and family-oriented atmosphere.
Brand Journey & Company History:
The idea for Buckhorn BBQ originated from Mike Buckhorn’s tri-tip creations, which gained popularity at local events and markets.
In 1999, the first full-scale Buckhorn Grill location opened in San Francisco’s Metreon, formalizing the brand concept.
Over the years, Buckhorn BBQ has expanded into multiple locations across Northern California, emphasizing consistency, high-quality ingredients, and fast-casual convenience.
The company prides itself on its “Really Good Food, Real Fast” philosophy, offering grilled tri-tip, chicken, pork, salmon, and fresh vegetables in salads, sandwiches, and platters.
Ownership:
Buckhorn BBQ is privately owned, maintaining tight control over brand quality, franchise support, and expansion strategy.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
As of 2025, Buckhorn BBQ operates 16 locations in Northern California.
Locations include both company-owned and franchised units, with strong market presence in regions like Sacramento, Bay Area, and surrounding cities.
The brand continues to explore expansion opportunities across California and potentially other U.S. states.
Industry Category:
Food & Beverage – Fast Casual Restaurants
Buckhorn BBQ competes in the premium fast-casual segment, focusing on grilled meats, fresh ingredients, and a quick-service dining model.
Additional Notes:
Buckhorn BBQ emphasizes sustainability, locally sourced ingredients where possible, and a friendly, welcoming dining environment.
The company leverages its Northern California roots and reputation for quality to attract both loyal local customers and new franchise investors.
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design to ensure optimal location and layout.
Operational Training: Comprehensive training programs covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including kitchen procedures, customer service, and inventory management.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and guidance on local marketing efforts to attract and retain customers.
Ongoing Support: Regular visits from field representatives, continuous training opportunities, and updates on best practices to ensure sustained success.
Academic Resources: Educational materials and resources to keep franchisees and their teams informed about industry trends and operational improvements.
Buckhorn BBQ is seeking motivated and committed individuals who are passionate about the food industry and are looking to invest in a proven, fast-casual franchise model. The ideal franchisee embodies a combination of business acumen, customer-focused values, and the financial capability to grow and sustain the brand.
1. Business Background:
Experience in food service, restaurant management, or hospitality is highly desirable, though not mandatory.
Strong entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to manage day-to-day operations, staffing, and customer service.
Understanding of basic business principles, including finance, operations, and marketing, is an advantage.
2. Passion and Commitment:
A deep passion for quality food and providing exceptional customer experiences.
Dedication to maintaining Buckhorn BBQ’s brand standards and consistently delivering “Really Good Food, Real Fast.”
Willingness to actively engage in the local community to build a loyal customer base.
3. Investment Capability:
Ability to meet the total investment requirements for the franchise, which includes franchise fees, infrastructure, working capital, and marketing budgets.
Readiness to commit financial and personal resources to ensure the franchise’s success.
Long-term commitment to growing the business and exploring potential for multi-unit ownership.
4. Location Preference and Market Understanding:
Interest in operating within Northern California, with potential for expansion to other strategic markets in the USA.
Awareness of local demographics, competition, and consumer preferences to maximize profitability.
Strong networking and community engagement skills to establish and maintain the restaurant’s reputation.
5. Personal Traits and Skills:
Leadership and team-building abilities to manage staff effectively.
Excellent customer service orientation, ensuring a friendly and efficient dining experience.
Ability to adapt to operational guidelines while also identifying opportunities for growth.
Strong problem-solving skills and resilience to overcome challenges in a dynamic business environment.
Summary:
The ideal Buckhorn BBQ franchisee is a passionate, business-savvy entrepreneur with a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. They are financially capable, willing to invest time and resources, and eager to grow within the thriving fast-casual restaurant market.
| Financial Component | Details / Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $430,000 – $980,000 |
| Minimum Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Franchise Units | 16 locations (company-owned + franchised; exact franchised number undisclosed) |
| Royalty Fees | 4% of gross sales |
| Advertising / Marketing Fees | Up to 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Costs | Included in total investment; covers restaurant construction, kitchen equipment, furniture, and décor |
| Initial Inventory | Included in total investment; covers food, packaging, and supplies for launch |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment; recommended to cover 3–6 months of operating expenses |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location, management, and market conditions; typical ROI 15–25% within 2–3 years |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 6 months to 2 years, depending on location and operational efficiency |
| Potential Revenue Streams | In-store dining, takeout, catering, online orders, delivery partnerships |
| Training & Support Costs | Included in franchise fee; covers pre-launch training, operational guidance, and ongoing support |
