2015
1
$250,000
$29,500
$717,300
No
Cole's Backyard Grill offers a fresh take on American comfort food, combining the warmth of a backyard gathering with the efficiency of fast-casual dining. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Richardson, Texas, the brand is a subsidiary of Homestyle Dining LLC, which also owns Bonanza Steakhouse and Bonanza Steak & BBQ. Cole's Backyard Grill aims to provide high-quality American food at affordable prices, serving a limited menu of burgers, steaks, sandwiches, and salads with a culinary twist to make eating out as a family hassle-free.
The franchise is designed to cater to the growing demand for quick-service restaurants that don't compromise on taste or quality. With a focus on fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere, Cole's Backyard Grill is positioned to attract families and food enthusiasts seeking a satisfying dining experience without the wait.
Proven Business Model: Cole's Backyard Grill operates under a streamlined concept that emphasizes quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction.
Growing Market: The fast-casual dining sector continues to expand, with consumers increasingly seeking convenient yet high-quality meal options.
Supportive Franchise System: Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, marketing support, and operational guidance to ensure success.
Scalable Opportunity: With a relatively low initial investment, Cole's Backyard Grill offers potential for multi-unit ownership and regional expansion.
Established Year: 2015
Cole’s Backyard Grill was launched in 2015 as part of Homestyle Dining LLC, a company with a history of operating casual dining concepts such as Bonanza Steakhouse and Ponderosa Steakhouse.
Founders & Ownership:
The brand is owned by Homestyle Dining LLC, a privately held company focused on creating family-friendly, affordable dining experiences. The founders aimed to modernize the steakhouse concept by combining quick-service efficiency with homestyle meals, making it appealing for families and casual diners.
Brand Journey & Company History:
2015: First Cole’s Backyard Grill location opened in Richardson, Texas.
2015–Present: Focused on delivering a fast-casual dining experience emphasizing fresh, high-quality American cuisine at affordable prices.
Vision: To create a friendly, backyard-style dining atmosphere where families and communities feel welcome.
Ownership Evolution: Remains under Homestyle Dining LLC, leveraging their experience from other casual dining brands to ensure operational excellence and consistent customer experiences.
Market Presence in the USA:
While still a small chain, Cole’s Backyard Grill operates primarily in Texas and surrounding areas, with potential for national expansion. The brand competes in the fast-casual dining sector, appealing to families and individuals looking for quality food in a relaxed environment.
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining / American Cuisine
Other Information:
Focus on Quality: The brand emphasizes fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals.
Community-Oriented: Often involved in local events and community engagement, strengthening brand loyalty.
Franchise Vision: The company is opening opportunities for franchisees to expand the brand regionally and nationally.
Cole’s Backyard Grill offers a comprehensive and structured support system to ensure franchisees can successfully launch and operate their business. The support covers pre-launch, operational, marketing, academic, and ongoing assistance:
Site Selection Assistance: Expert guidance to choose a location with strong traffic, visibility, and growth potential.
Lease Negotiation & Design: Help negotiating lease terms, plus store layout and design consulting to align with brand standards.
Equipment & Supply Setup: Assistance in selecting equipment, sourcing vendors, and setting up supply chains for smooth operations.
Permitting & Licensing: Guidance to secure local permits, licenses, and meet health & safety regulations.
Initial Training: Comprehensive programs covering all aspects of restaurant operations, including food preparation, service standards, and hygiene protocols.
Management Training: Focused on managing staff, inventory, scheduling, and handling customer relations efficiently.
Franchise Operations Manual: A detailed guide containing standard operating procedures, operational checklists, and best practices.
Brand Marketing: Access to national marketing campaigns, social media support, and promotional materials to boost visibility.
Local Marketing Guidance: Advice on local advertising, events, and community engagement to attract a loyal customer base.
Digital Presence: Assistance in building a strong online presence, including website optimization, SEO strategies, and online ordering integration.
Field Consultants: Regular visits from experienced franchise consultants to ensure operational standards are maintained.
Performance Monitoring: Continuous evaluation of sales, customer service, and operational efficiency to identify improvement areas.
Menu & Product Updates: Guidance on seasonal menu changes, promotions, and adapting offerings to local preferences.
Workshops & Seminars: Periodic workshops on new operational techniques, marketing strategies, and industry trends.
Staff Training Modules: Ongoing training modules for new hires to maintain consistency in service and quality.
POS & Inventory Management: Assistance in setting up modern point-of-sale systems and inventory tracking tools.
Operational Software: Training and support in using software for scheduling, ordering, and performance reporting.
Cole’s Backyard Grill seeks franchise partners who are motivated, business-savvy, and passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences. The ideal franchisee combines operational capability, community engagement, and a love for quality food.
Franchisees should have a genuine interest in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
A commitment to maintaining high food quality, service standards, and a positive customer experience is essential.
A passion for creating a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere aligns with the brand’s backyard-style dining concept.
While prior restaurant experience is beneficial, it is not mandatory; however, strong business management skills are crucial.
Ability to manage staff, operations, finances, and inventory efficiently.
Capacity to implement operational best practices and adhere to brand standards.
Franchisees should be dedicated to delivering excellent customer service.
Strong interpersonal skills to interact with staff, suppliers, and customers.
A focus on building long-term relationships within the local community.
Must have sufficient personal investment capital to cover the initial franchise fee, working capital, and operational costs until the business becomes profitable.
Ability to maintain financial stability while managing the business.
Willingness to actively engage in growing the franchise, including participating in local marketing initiatives.
Ambition to potentially operate multiple units or expand the brand within a region.
Resourcefulness and adaptability in responding to market trends and operational challenges.
Ideally located in areas with high family traffic or community-centered neighborhoods.
Franchisees should be willing to participate in local events and community activities, enhancing brand visibility and loyalty.
Alignment with Cole’s Backyard Grill’s core values: quality, consistency, customer satisfaction, and community engagement.
Dedication to upholding the brand’s reputation and fostering a welcoming dining environment.
| Financial Aspect | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $236,600 – $717,300 |
| Franchise Fee | $29,500 |
| Minimum Cash Required | $250,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of monthly sales |
| Marketing / Advertising Fee | 2% of monthly sales |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Varies by location and lease agreement |
| Working Capital | Recommended to cover initial operational expenses |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location, management, and market conditions |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 6 months – 2 years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, catering services, delivery options |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 1 |
Notes:
The total investment range includes franchise fees, equipment, leasehold improvements, initial inventory, and working capital.
Royalty and marketing fees are ongoing monthly payments based on gross sales, supporting brand growth and marketing initiatives.
ROI and break-even are estimates; actual results depend on location, local market demand, and operational efficiency.
The brand offers potential for multi-unit ownership and regional expansion as the franchise network grows.