2012
6
$200,000
$40,000
$750,000
No
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar is a vibrant and innovative restaurant concept that brings the bold flavors of northern Peru to the heart of South Florida. Founded in 2012 by Chef Carlos Brescia, the brand has redefined the ceviche dining experience by blending traditional Peruvian recipes with a contemporary Miami flair. With a menu that boasts over 20 varieties of ceviche and a unique hospital-themed ambiance, Dr. Limón offers a dining experience that is both authentic and entertaining. Each dish is crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every guest.
Proven Concept: Dr. Limón has established a strong brand presence in South Florida, with multiple successful locations.
Unique Brand Identity: The hospital-themed décor and innovative menu set Dr. Limón apart from other dining establishments.
High Customer Loyalty: The brand's commitment to quality and authenticity has cultivated a dedicated customer base.
Comprehensive Support: Franchisees receive extensive training and ongoing support to ensure operational success.
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar is a dynamic and rapidly growing restaurant brand that offers a unique fusion of traditional Peruvian cuisine with a contemporary Miami twist. Founded in 2012 by Chef Carlos Brescia, along with partners José Antonio Combina and Fiorella Terrazas, the brand has expanded its presence across South Florida, establishing a strong foothold in the casual dining sector.
Chef Carlos Brescia, originally from Chiclayo, Peru, was trained in culinary arts from a young age. In 2012, he partnered with José Antonio Combina and Fiorella Terrazas to create Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar. The concept was to offer authentic northern Peruvian dishes, particularly ceviche, in a modern and inviting setting that appealed to the diverse tastes of South Florida residents. The restaurant's unique "hospital-themed" décor, where dishes are named with medical terms, adds an element of fun and creativity to the dining experience.
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar began with a single location in Kendall, Miami. The increasing demand for its distinctive offerings led to the opening of additional locations in Sweetwater and Miami Lakes. In 2017, the Miami Lakes location marked the brand's first franchise venture, operated by Rufino Paulino and his family. Paulino, who had worked as a server at the original Kendall location, seized the opportunity to bring the Dr. Limón experience to a broader audience.
As of 2025, Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar operates multiple locations across South Florida, including Kendall, Miami Lakes, Hallandale, Homestead, Pinecrest, and FIU. The brand continues to explore opportunities for further expansion, both within Florida and potentially into other regions .
The corporate entity overseeing the Dr. Limón brand is Doctor Limon Franchise Group, LLC, a Florida Limited Liability Company established on August 4, 2015. The company is actively registered with the Florida Department of State and is headquartered at 13701 North Kendall Dr, Suite 304A, Miami, FL 33186 .
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar prides itself on delivering high-quality, authentic Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of ceviche options, each crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Signature dishes include the "Dr. Limón" ceviche, the "Rocoto Power" sauce for those seeking a spicy kick, and the "Acevichada" sauce, perfect for seafood lovers. The restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation has garnered a loyal customer base and positive reviews across its locations
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar is committed to ensuring the success of its franchisees by providing a comprehensive support system that spans the entire lifecycle of the franchise—from pre-launch to ongoing operations.
Before opening, franchisees receive hands-on guidance to set up their business for success:
Site Selection & Lease Negotiation: Assistance in identifying optimal locations for foot traffic, visibility, and demographic alignment. Franchise experts provide market analysis and help negotiate favorable lease terms.
Design & Construction Guidance: Support in designing the restaurant layout, including kitchen flow, dining area aesthetics, and hospital-themed décor to ensure brand consistency.
Permits & Licensing Assistance: Guidance on obtaining local permits, health department approvals, and compliance with federal and state regulations.
Initial Inventory & Supplier Setup: Help in sourcing high-quality ingredients and establishing relationships with approved suppliers for consistent product quality.
Franchisees and key staff receive in-depth operational training to ensure smooth day-to-day management:
Kitchen Operations: Training on food preparation, portion control, hygiene standards, and maintaining authentic Peruvian flavors.
Service Excellence: Customer service training to deliver a memorable dining experience that aligns with the brand’s hospital-themed hospitality.
Management Practices: Guidance on staff scheduling, payroll, inventory management, and cost control.
Point of Sale (POS) & Technology: Training on POS systems, online ordering, and integrating delivery platforms.
Dr. Limón ensures franchisees can successfully market their locations and attract a loyal customer base:
Grand Opening Marketing: Full support for launch promotions, social media campaigns, and local advertising to generate initial traffic.
Ongoing Marketing: Access to a library of marketing materials, digital marketing strategies, email campaigns, and seasonal promotions.
Brand Guidelines: Ensures consistent visual branding across signage, uniforms, menus, and packaging.
Social Media Support: Guidance on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and local online listings to maintain visibility.
Franchise Training Manual: Comprehensive manuals covering every aspect of operations, from kitchen prep to customer interaction.
Periodic Workshops & Webinars: Updates on new menu items, operational efficiencies, and customer engagement strategies.
Performance Monitoring: Regular assessments and feedback to optimize operations, quality, and profitability.
Even after launch, franchisees benefit from continuous support to grow their business:
Field Visits: Regular site visits from franchise consultants to review operations, quality, and compliance.
Operational Helpdesk: Dedicated support team available for troubleshooting operational challenges.
Expansion Guidance: Assistance for multi-unit operators or opening additional locations.
Supplier & Menu Updates: Recommendations on seasonal menu adjustments, new dishes, and trending flavors to keep offerings fresh.
Dr. Limón Ceviche Bar seeks franchise partners who are not only financially capable but also aligned with the brand’s values, vision, and operational excellence. The ideal franchisee combines entrepreneurial drive with a passion for authentic cuisine and exceptional customer experiences.
Business-Oriented: Franchisees should have experience in running or managing a business, preferably in the restaurant or hospitality sector.
Goal-Driven: Someone motivated to grow their business, achieve operational efficiency, and maximize profitability.
Adaptable & Innovative: Ability to implement standardized processes while adapting marketing and operations to local market nuances.
Culinary Enthusiasm: A genuine interest in authentic Peruvian cuisine, especially ceviche and seafood, is highly desirable.
Customer-Centric: Committed to delivering outstanding dining experiences, maintaining high service standards, and building long-term customer loyalty.
Community Engagement: A franchisee who enjoys engaging with the local community, hosting events, and promoting the brand locally.
Investment-Ready: Ability to meet initial investment requirements ($200,000 – $750,000 depending on location).
Working Capital: Sufficient funds for working capital, operational expenses, and marketing initiatives.
Long-Term Vision: Prepared for the long-term commitment of growing a successful franchise, including reinvesting in marketing and staff development.
Leadership Skills: Capable of hiring, training, and managing a motivated team, maintaining morale and performance.
Attention to Detail: Ensures compliance with brand standards, food safety regulations, and operational protocols.
Problem-Solving Ability: Quick to address operational challenges, customer concerns, and market changes efficiently.
Urban/Suburban Focus: Ideal for high-foot-traffic areas such as commercial districts, college campuses (like FIU), shopping centers, or tourist hubs.
Market Knowledge: Understanding of local dining trends and customer preferences to drive sales growth.
Passionate & Committed: Willing to dedicate time and energy to the franchise’s success.
Collaborative: Open to working with corporate support and adhering to brand guidelines while contributing fresh ideas.
Resilient: Prepared to face challenges and navigate the competitive restaurant industry with determination.
| Category | Details / Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $500,000 – $750,000 | Includes build-out, equipment, furniture, signage, and pre-opening expenses. |
| Minimum Investment | $200,000 | Required liquid capital to cover initial expenses and working capital. |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 | One-time fee for brand licensing, initial training, and access to systems. |
| Number of Franchise Units | 6 (as of 2025) | Locations include Kendall, Miami Lakes, Hallandale, Homestead, Pinecrest, and FIU. |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | $250,000 – $400,000 | Varies depending on location size, lease terms, and interior décor (hospital theme). |
| Marketing Budget | ~2% of Gross Sales | Covers local marketing campaigns, social media, and promotional activities. |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $100,000 | To manage payroll, inventory, and operational expenses during the first 3–6 months. |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of Gross Sales | Paid monthly to corporate for ongoing support and brand usage. |
| Expected ROI | 2 – 3 years | Typical return based on operational efficiency and market location. |
| Break-even Time | 18 – 24 months | Depends on location, foot traffic, and local marketing effectiveness. |
Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, Catering, Merchandise | Leveraging multiple revenue channels increases profitability. |
Notes:
Costs can vary depending on lease terms, square footage, and local market conditions.
Corporate provides detailed projections during the franchise disclosure process to ensure clarity.
Marketing fees are separate from the initial investment and are calculated based on gross sales.
