2018
4
$179,800
$50,000
$265,500
No
By the Bucket is an innovative fast-casual dining concept that brings a fresh twist to classic Italian comfort food. Founded in 2018 by Bret da Costa, the brand quickly gained popularity for its signature pasta and meatball dishes served in generous, shareable portions. The unique bucket presentation not only offers a hearty meal but also creates an engaging dining experience. With a commitment to quality ingredients and a streamlined operational model, By the Bucket has positioned itself as a promising player in the competitive fast-food landscape.
Low-Cost Entry: By the Bucket offers a lower investment range compared to many fast-casual concepts, making it accessible for first-time franchisees.
Unique Concept: The brand's distinctive bucket presentation and focus on Italian comfort food set it apart in the crowded fast-food market.
Operational Efficiency: Designed for scalability, the business model emphasizes efficiency and consistency, ensuring a smooth operational flow.
Growing Brand: With multiple locations in Arizona and plans for expansion, By the Bucket is on a trajectory of growth and brand recognition.
1. Established Year:
By the Bucket was founded in 2018 by Bret da Costa. The concept started as a small, locally-focused fast-casual Italian eatery emphasizing hearty, shareable portions served in “buckets,” which quickly became its signature presentation style.
2. Founders & Ownership:
Founder: Bret da Costa, a restaurateur with a passion for Italian cuisine and innovative dining concepts.
Ownership Transition: In 2022, ownership transitioned to a group of food-industry professionals who acquired the franchise operations to expand the brand across the United States. This move brought in additional operational expertise and strategic growth planning.
3. Franchise Units:
As of 2025, By the Bucket operates 4 franchise units, mainly concentrated in Arizona, with plans for national expansion.
4. Brand Journey & Company History:
2018: Brand founded in Arizona. Initial location focused on authentic, freshly made pasta dishes.
2019–2021: Rapid local popularity due to the unique “bucket” presentation of meals, attracting both families and casual diners.
2022: Acquisition by a group of franchise-focused entrepreneurs to scale the concept across the U.S.
2023–2025: Expansion of franchise model, development of streamlined operations, and preparation for multi-state growth.
5. Market Presence in the USA:
Currently, By the Bucket has a strong Arizona presence, with plans to enter other high-traffic urban and suburban markets.
Positioned as a fast-casual Italian dining brand, it competes with other fast-casual chains but differentiates itself with its shareable portions and unique presentation.
6. Industry Category:
Segment: Fast-Casual Dining
Cuisine: Italian, focusing on pasta, meatballs, and comfort food with a modern, casual dining experience.
7. Other Key Information:
The franchise emphasizes fresh ingredients, operational efficiency, and a scalable business model suitable for urban and suburban locations.
The brand is building recognition for its fun and family-friendly dining experience, making it appealing for franchise investors seeking a strong niche in the fast-casual food industry.
By the Bucket offers comprehensive support to its franchisees, including:
Pre-Launch Training: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and store setup.
Operational Training: In-depth training covering kitchen operations, customer service, and inventory management.
Marketing Support: Guidance on local marketing strategies and access to brand assets.
Ongoing Support: Continuous support through regular communication, operational audits, and access to a franchisee portal.
The ideal franchisee is someone who aligns with the brand’s vision, can operate a fast-casual restaurant efficiently, and has the resources to sustain and grow the business. Key characteristics include:
1. Business-Oriented & Experienced:
Strong management skills to oversee day-to-day operations, staff, and inventory.
Operational experience in retail, food service, or hospitality is highly valued.
Ability to implement systems and processes consistently to maintain brand standards.
2. Passionate About Food & Customer Experience:
A genuine interest in the food and restaurant industry, particularly Italian cuisine and comfort foods.
Focus on delivering excellent customer experiences, fostering repeat business, and building a loyal customer base.
Creativity and enthusiasm for menu offerings, promotions, and community engagement.
3. Community-Focused & Customer-Centric:
Values local community engagement, supporting events, sponsorships, and partnerships.
Able to connect with customers and promote a family-friendly dining atmosphere.
Understanding of local market dynamics to tailor promotions and services effectively.
4. Financially Capable:
Sufficient investment capability to cover the franchise fee, setup costs, working capital, and initial marketing expenses.
Ability to manage cash flow, payroll, and operational costs until the business reaches break-even.
Prepared for ongoing royalty and marketing contributions as part of the franchise agreement.
5. Committed & Growth-Oriented:
Motivated to grow the business and potentially expand to multiple units in the future.
Willing to follow the franchise system and guidelines while leveraging support from corporate for success.
Exhibits resilience and adaptability, essential for navigating challenges in a fast-paced food service environment.
6. Location Preference:
Ideally located in high-traffic areas, such as urban centers, suburban plazas, or food courts, where the fast-casual dining concept can attract families, college students, and working professionals.
Ability to assess local market potential and select locations that maximize visibility and foot traffic.
1. Franchise Fee:
The initial franchise fee is $50,000.
This fee grants the franchisee the rights to operate under the By the Bucket brand and access its operational systems, training, and support.
2. Total Investment Required:
Estimated Range: $179,800 – $265,500.
The variation depends on factors like location size, lease agreements, equipment costs, and interior setup.
This total investment includes franchise fees, equipment, initial inventory, working capital, and pre-opening expenses.
3. Minimum Cash Requirement:
Franchisees should have at least $179,800 in liquid assets to cover initial setup and operational costs.
4. Infrastructure Cost:
Costs include restaurant equipment, furniture, signage, kitchen setup, and technology systems.
Location-dependent costs such as leasehold improvements can significantly impact total investment.
5. Marketing Budget:
Franchisees are required to contribute to local marketing initiatives to build brand awareness.
The brand may also require a marketing fund contribution (e.g., 2.5% of gross sales) for national campaigns and promotional materials.
6. Royalty Fees:
Ongoing royalty fees are 6.5% of gross sales.
These fees cover continued use of the brand, operational support, and access to corporate systems.
7. Working Capital:
Franchisees should maintain enough capital to cover initial operating expenses, inventory replenishment, staff salaries, and utilities until the business becomes profitable.
8. Expected ROI & Break-Even:
ROI: Varies depending on location, operational efficiency, and market conditions.
Break-even Time: Not publicly disclosed, but most fast-casual franchises typically reach break-even within 12–24 months if well-managed.
9. Potential Revenue Streams:
In-store Dining: Core revenue comes from dine-in customers enjoying pasta, meatballs, and bucket meals.
Takeout & Delivery: Leveraging online ordering platforms for additional sales.
Catering Services: Providing food for local events, parties, and corporate functions.
Merchandising & Promotions: Selling branded merchandise or seasonal specials.
