2012
20
$350,000
$35,000
$700,000
No
Dirty Buffalo is a fast-growing, award-winning restaurant franchise bringing the authentic taste of Buffalo, New York-style wings and comfort food to communities across the United States. Known for its bold flavors, house-made sauces, and casual, sports-themed atmosphere, Dirty Buffalo has carved out a distinctive niche in the American casual dining and quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.
From its signature hand-breaded wings to flavorful mac-and-cheese, subs, and fries, Dirty Buffalo delivers a one-of-a-kind dining experience that keeps customers coming back. The brand’s commitment to fresh ingredients, generous portions, and family-friendly service has made it a local favorite and a recognized name in the restaurant scene.
With the increasing demand for high-quality comfort food and the booming wing industry, Dirty Buffalo offers an exciting and profitable franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to join a proven concept with nationwide growth potential.
Investing in a Dirty Buffalo franchise means becoming part of a brand that blends passion, authenticity, and operational excellence. The brand’s strong reputation for consistency, quality, and customer loyalty positions franchisees for long-term success.
Here’s why investors love the Dirty Buffalo franchise model:
Proven Concept – Dirty Buffalo’s recipes and operations have been perfected over years of successful restaurant management.
Strong Customer Demand – Wings, comfort food, and casual dining continue to dominate the foodservice market, with high customer frequency and loyalty.
Flexible Store Models – Options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery ensure adaptability to various markets and demographics.
Comprehensive Support System – Franchisees benefit from training, marketing, and ongoing operational assistance designed to drive profitability.
Recognized Brand Identity – Dirty Buffalo’s edgy, fun, and sports-themed brand appeals to a wide customer base, from families to young professionals.
Established Year: 2012
Founder: Jay Johnson
Headquarters: Norfolk, Virginia, USA
Industry Category: Food & Beverage, Casual Dining, Chicken Wings, Restaurant Franchise
Total Operating Units (2025): Fewer than 20 (All Company-Owned)
Franchise Units: 1 (Previously operated, currently inactive)
Company-Owned Units: Multiple locations in Norfolk and Virginia Beach
The Dirty Buffalo was founded in 2012 by Jay Johnson, a Buffalo, New York native who was passionate about bringing the bold, authentic flavors of Buffalo-style wings and comfort food to the Virginia market. What started as a single restaurant in Norfolk, Virginia, quickly became a local sensation thanks to its signature sauces, crispy hand-breaded wings, and hearty, family-friendly menu.
From the beginning, Dirty Buffalo stood out by delivering an authentic Buffalo dining experience — from its homemade sauces and dressings to the sports-bar-inspired atmosphere that keeps customers engaged and coming back. The brand emphasizes fresh, made-to-order meals, generous portions, and genuine hospitality, setting it apart in the growing casual dining and quick-service restaurant (QSR) category.
Over the years, Dirty Buffalo expanded with additional company-owned locations in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, each maintaining the same high-quality standards and community-driven culture that defined the original. The company briefly ventured into franchising with one franchise-owned location in Chesapeake, Virginia, which has since closed — but the brand continues to refine its model for broader national expansion.
Today, Dirty Buffalo remains a locally loved and regionally recognized brand, preparing for its next phase of growth as a national franchise opportunity. Its strong foundation, loyal customer following, and proven operational systems make it a highly attractive investment for entrepreneurs ready to grow with an authentic American success story.
Dirty Buffalo ensures every franchisee is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to operate successfully from day one. Their comprehensive franchise support includes:
Pre-Launch Support
Site selection assistance and lease negotiation guidance.
Restaurant layout and design consultation to align with brand standards.
Vendor setup and supply chain coordination.
Training Programs
Initial Training: Hands-on training at the company’s flagship location covering kitchen operations, menu preparation, POS systems, staffing, and customer service.
Management Training: Instruction in financial management, staff supervision, and operational efficiency.
Ongoing Training: Periodic refresher sessions, webinars, and regional meetings to stay updated on new menu items and operational best practices.
Operational & Marketing Support
Grand opening marketing campaigns with social media promotions and community engagement strategies.
Access to branded marketing materials, digital advertising templates, and PR guidance.
Continuous operational support from a dedicated franchise consultant.
Centralized purchasing and logistics network for cost efficiency.
Dirty Buffalo’s support system is designed to help franchisees maximize profitability, ensure consistency, and maintain the high-quality standards customers expect.
The Dirty Buffalo franchise is looking for passionate, hands-on entrepreneurs who are driven to build a thriving business rooted in authentic food, local community engagement, and exceptional guest experiences. The ideal franchisee isn’t just an investor — they’re a leader who values teamwork, customer satisfaction, and the art of great flavor.
Dirty Buffalo’s success is built on passion, consistency, and quality. Franchise partners who share these values will be best positioned to grow successfully under the brand’s proven system. Whether you are an experienced restaurateur or a first-time business owner with strong management skills, Dirty Buffalo offers the tools, training, and support you need to succeed.
Passion for Food & Service:
A genuine love for great food and hospitality is at the heart of the Dirty Buffalo experience. The ideal franchisee should take pride in delivering delicious meals, outstanding service, and memorable dining experiences.
Strong Leadership & Management Skills:
The franchisee should be confident managing day-to-day operations, leading a team, and fostering a positive work environment that mirrors the brand’s friendly, energetic atmosphere.
Business Acumen:
A background in business management, restaurant operations, or customer service is highly beneficial. Franchisees should be comfortable analyzing performance metrics, managing budgets, and driving profitability.
Community-Oriented Mindset:
Dirty Buffalo thrives on local engagement — from sponsoring sports teams to participating in local events. The ideal franchisee should enjoy being an active member of their community and building strong local relationships.
Financial Readiness:
Prospective franchisees should have the financial capacity to invest in the brand and sustain operations during the startup phase. A minimum investment of around $350,000 is typically required, depending on location and build-out costs.
Commitment to Brand Standards:
Consistency is key to Dirty Buffalo’s reputation. Franchise partners must adhere to brand guidelines for food quality, customer service, and marketing to maintain the integrity of the brand.
Experience in restaurant management, food service, or retail operations (preferred but not mandatory).
Entrepreneurial individuals seeking to own and operate a community-centered business.
Investors seeking multi-unit opportunities in fast-growing markets.
Individuals or partnerships with a hands-on approach to management.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $350,000 – $700,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $350,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $40,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-Out | $200,000 – $400,000 |
| Working Capital | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Expected ROI | 20% – 30% annually |
| Break-Even Period | 18 – 24 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, Catering, Branded Merchandise |
