2010
20
$228,000
$42,000
$595,500
No
Chicken In A Barrel BBQ offers a distinctive barbecue experience that stands out in the competitive food industry. Originating from Hawaii, this franchise has captivated taste buds with its unique cooking method—smoking meats in custom-made steel drum barrels. The result is a smoky, tender, and flavorful barbecue that keeps customers coming back for more.
The brand emphasizes a family-friendly atmosphere, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to quality. Each location serves a menu featuring smoked chicken, ribs, pork, and beef, complemented by homemade sides like chili and Hawaiian-style coleslaw. The open-barrel cooking method not only delivers mouthwatering flavors but also creates an engaging dining experience for guests.
With a strong presence in Hawaii and select mainland locations, Chicken In A Barrel BBQ is expanding its footprint, offering franchise opportunities for entrepreneurs eager to bring this unique concept to new markets.
Proven Concept: The barrel-smoking technique is a unique selling point that differentiates Chicken In A Barrel BBQ from other barbecue establishments.
Strong Brand Identity: The brand's commitment to quality, customer service, and a fun dining experience fosters customer loyalty and repeat business.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support, ensuring they are well-equipped to operate successfully.
Scalable Model: With both full-service restaurants and roadside express formats, the franchise offers flexibility to suit various market sizes and investment levels.
Community Engagement: The brand's roots in community events and gatherings build a strong local presence and customer base.
Established Year:
Chicken In A Barrel BBQ traces its roots back to 2010 when the first official restaurant opened in Kapaa, Hawaii. While the family tradition of smoking meats in barrels goes back further, the brand as a commercial franchise began in the early 2010s.
Founders:
The brand was founded by Michael and his family, who turned a beloved Hawaiian family cooking method into a successful restaurant concept. Their passion for authentic, flavorful barbecue laid the foundation for the franchise.
Brand Journey & Company History:
What started as a family BBQ tradition evolved into a community-favorite restaurant in Hawaii.
The unique barrel-smoking method—cooking chicken, ribs, and other meats in steel drum barrels over an open flame—became the signature technique that distinguishes the brand from other BBQ chains.
Following the success in Kapaa, the brand expanded to Hanalei and other Hawaiian locations, gradually building a reputation for high-quality smoked meats and family-friendly dining.
By the mid-2010s, Chicken In A Barrel BBQ began exploring franchise opportunities to expand to the U.S. mainland.
Ownership:
The company is privately owned, maintaining strong control over quality, operations, and the brand experience.
Franchise Units & Market Presence:
Current Units: Fewer than 20 across the USA.
Hawaii Locations: Approximately 5.
Mainland Locations: 1 in California and 1 in Idaho, with expansion plans underway.
Offers Full-Service Restaurants and Roadside Express formats, along with Area Development Opportunities for multi-unit development.
Industry Category:
Chicken In A Barrel BBQ operates in the Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) and Casual Dining segments, specializing in authentic barbecue and smoked meats.
Reputation & Market Positioning:
Known for authentic Hawaiian BBQ and the interactive barrel-smoking experience.
The franchise emphasizes quality ingredients, flavorful recipes, and community engagement, which positions it as a niche but growing player in the BBQ restaurant industry.
The combination of unique cooking methods and family-friendly branding creates a loyal customer base and a differentiating factor in a competitive U.S. market.
Chicken In A Barrel BBQ offers a robust support system to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance with site selection, lease negotiation, and restaurant design tailored to the brand's specifications.
Training: Comprehensive training covering operations, cooking techniques, customer service, and management practices.
Marketing Support: Access to marketing materials, promotional strategies, and guidance on local marketing efforts to drive brand awareness and customer engagement.
Ongoing Assistance: Continuous operational support, including regular visits, performance evaluations, and updates on best practices.
Supply Chain Management: Guidance on sourcing quality ingredients and managing inventory to maintain consistency and cost control.
Chicken In A Barrel BBQ seeks franchisees who are passionate about food and community:
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Individuals with a strong desire to own and operate a business.
Customer-Focused: A commitment to providing excellent customer service and creating a welcoming environment.
Operational Skills: Experience in managing a team, overseeing daily operations, and ensuring quality control.
Community Engagement: Interest in participating in local events and building relationships within the community.
Financial Capability: Ability to invest in the franchise and manage the financial aspects of the business.
| Category | Full-Service Restaurant | Roadside Express |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $228,000 – $595,500 | $136,300 – $291,500 |
| Franchise Fee | $42,000 – $55,000 | $41,000 – $50,000 |
| Minimum Investment | Varies by location and size | Varies by location and size |
| Infrastructure / Build-out Costs | Included in total investment estimate | Included in total investment estimate |
| Marketing Budget | Guidance provided; typically 2–4% of revenue | Guidance provided; typically 2–4% of revenue |
| Working Capital | Included in total investment estimate | Included in total investment estimate |
| Royalty Fees | As per FDD (varies by agreement) | As per FDD (varies by agreement) |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location; typically 18–24 months break-even | Varies by location; typically 18–24 months break-even |
| Break-Even Time | 18–24 months | 18–24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, catering, merchandise | Takeout, roadside sales, catering |
