2013
2
$1,730,000
$35,000
$2,670,000
No
The modern American consumer craves authentic experiences, vibrant social spaces, and a return to simple, shared pleasures. Dacha Beer Garden is perfectly positioned at the intersection of these trends, offering a high-performance, proven concept that transcends the typical bar or restaurant model. It’s more than a hospitality venue; it’s a cultural anchor—a communal, European-inspired retreat designed for maximum social engagement and year-round revenue generation.
The Dacha concept leverages a unique blend of expansive, aesthetically stunning outdoor patios ("Dachas") and versatile indoor spaces, specializing in a curated selection of world-class draft beers, ciders, wines, and simple, high-quality European-inspired comfort food. This streamlined menu and high-volume beverage focus result in superior operational efficiency and simplified labor management compared to full-service restaurants.
We are actively seeking strategic partners to capitalize on the explosive growth of the "experience economy" and bring the magnetic appeal of the Dacha Beer Garden to high-density, cultural centers across the USA market. Invest in a brand that is synonymous with community, quality, and high-volume throughput in the lucrative $900+ billion U.S. food and beverage industry.
Investing in a Dacha Beer Garden franchise offers compelling advantages over traditional food and beverage (F&B) opportunities:
High-Volume Scalability: The business model is built around maximum seating capacity, primarily through large, efficient outdoor spaces. This allows for exceptional revenue throughput, especially during peak seasons, maximizing profit potential in prime real estate locations.
Simplified Labor Model: By focusing on beverage sales and a concise food menu (sausages, pretzels, simple bites), Dacha minimizes the need for a large, specialized kitchen staff. This drastically reduces payroll costs, simplifies training, and mitigates common F&B labor challenges.
Powerful Brand Recognition: Originating in the dynamic Washington D.C. market, Dacha has earned widespread recognition for its stunning aesthetics, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to quality. This proven, transferable brand equity reduces the initial lift required for new franchisees.
Resilience to Market Shifts: As consumers continue to prioritize outdoor, socially distanced, and experiential dining, the beer garden model proves highly resilient. It provides an immediate, coveted destination for group gatherings and community events.
Robust Support Infrastructure: Franchisees benefit from a turnkey operating system, leveraging years of operational refinement, preferred supplier relationships, and centralized digital marketing strategies that drive customer flow from day one.
Dacha Beer Garden has established itself as a premier outdoor beer garden brand in the United States, blending European beer garden charm with a modern American twist. Its background reflects a strong foundation, strategic growth, and a growing presence in the hospitality industry.
Founded: 2013
Founders: Ilya Alter and Dimitri Chekaldin
The founders envisioned a casual yet vibrant community gathering space where craft beer enthusiasts, families, and friends could enjoy quality beverages and food in an inviting outdoor environment. Their focus on authenticity, quality, and community has been central to the brand’s identity.
Currently, Dacha Beer Garden operates 2 established locations in Washington, D.C.:
Shaw Neighborhood – The original location, known for its community-driven atmosphere and wide selection of beers.
Navy Yard – Opened in 2019 near Nationals Park, strategically positioned for high foot traffic and event-driven business.
The brand is now expanding through franchising, targeting additional markets primarily along the East Coast and Southeast USA.
From its first beer garden in 2013, Dacha quickly became a local favorite, renowned for its outdoor communal seating, curated craft beer selection, and seasonal food offerings.
The success of its first location led to the opening of the second venue in Navy Yard, further cementing its reputation as a top destination for outdoor beer experiences.
In 2023, Dacha partnered with Strategic Franchise Development, LLC, led by Charlie Dobyns, to initiate national franchise expansion, bringing its proven concept to new communities across the U.S.
Privately owned by the founders and strategic partners.
The brand maintains a hands-on approach, ensuring each location adheres to its high standards for quality, service, and customer experience.
Strong local recognition in Washington, D.C., with plans to expand through franchising in urban and high-traffic suburban areas.
Recognized as one of the top five beer gardens in the U.S. by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards (2022).
Positioned within the casual dining and craft beer industry, Dacha is part of a growing market segment that emphasizes outdoor dining, social experiences, and premium beverages.
Casual Dining & Craft Beer
Outdoor Dining & Community Gathering Spaces
Beverage & Hospitality Sector
Dacha is known for its inclusive, dog-friendly, and community-focused approach, creating an environment where locals feel at home.
It utilizes a cashless system and streamlined operational processes, which makes it scalable and franchise-ready.
The brand emphasizes sustainability and local partnerships, which resonates with modern consumer trends in dining and beverage consumption.
Dacha Beer Garden offers comprehensive support to franchisees, ensuring a smooth and successful launch and operation:
Pre-Launch Support: Assistance in site selection, lease negotiation, and design and construction of the beer garden
Operational Training: In-depth training covering daily operations, staff management, inventory control, and customer service
Marketing Support: Guidance on local and national marketing strategies, including digital marketing, social media, and community engagement
Ongoing Assistance: Regular site visits, performance evaluations, and continuous access to the Dacha support team
Supplier Partnerships: Established relationships with beverage and food suppliers to ensure quality and consistency
Franchisees also benefit from a streamlined, cashless business model and a robust technology platform that supports efficient operations.
Dacha Beer Garden is looking for franchise partners who are not just investors but also passionate ambassadors of its brand, culture, and community-focused experience. The ideal franchisee embodies a combination of business acumen, leadership skills, and a personal passion for hospitality and craft beer culture. Below are the key traits and qualifications:
Business & Operational Experience
A strong background in restaurant management, hospitality, or retail operations is highly preferred.
Understanding of daily operations, staff management, and customer service is essential to maintain the high standards of the Dacha brand.
Experience in managing budgets, inventory, and vendor relationships ensures smooth operations and profitability.
Leadership & Team Management Skills
The franchisee should have the ability to recruit, train, and motivate staff, fostering a positive and efficient work environment.
Leadership extends beyond employees to the local community, representing Dacha’s brand values and cultivating loyalty.
Financial Capability & Commitment
Must have the capital required for initial investment, including franchise fees, infrastructure, and working capital.
Ability to sustain the business through the pre-break-even phase while focusing on long-term growth and profitability.
Passion for Hospitality & Craft Beer Culture
A genuine enthusiasm for beer, food, and outdoor social experiences aligns with Dacha’s mission to create vibrant community gathering spaces.
Franchisees who value customer experience and community engagement are better positioned to replicate Dacha’s success in new locations.
Community-Oriented Mindset
Ideal franchisees are locally engaged and socially responsible, understanding that a beer garden thrives when it becomes a hub for the neighborhood.
Active participation in community events, local partnerships, and sustainability initiatives enhances the brand’s reputation and customer loyalty.
Location Preference & Strategic Thinking
Focus on high-traffic urban areas or vibrant suburban locations, particularly on the East Coast and Southeast USA, where the brand plans expansion.
The ability to analyze local markets and adapt marketing strategies ensures the franchise aligns with community needs and trends.
| Category | Details / Estimates |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Estimated Total Investment | $1,730,000 – $2,670,000 |
| Minimum Cash Required | $1,730,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 5% of Adjusted Gross Sales |
| Marketing Fees | 4% of Gross Sales (3% National Brand, 1% Local Marketing; up to 2% Regional Marketing may apply) |
| Franchise Units (Current) | 2 (Shaw and Navy Yard, Washington, D.C.) |
| Infrastructure Costs | Site development, construction, outdoor furnishings, specialized brewing/serving equipment |
| Working Capital | Sufficient to cover initial operating expenses until break-even (~2-3 years) |
| Expected ROI | Strong potential, supported by proven unit performance and brand recognition |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 2–3 years, depending on location and market conditions |
| Revenue Streams | - On-site food & beverage sales |
Seasonal events & private rentals
Merchandise sales
Sponsorships and promotions |
| Other Notes | Cashless, streamlined operations for efficiency; scalability for multi-unit ownership |
