2011
6
$250,000
$35,000
$450,000
No
Elbows Mac N’ Cheese is redefining America’s favorite comfort food with a modern twist that’s both nostalgic and innovative. As one of the most distinctive fast-casual dining concepts in the U.S., Elbows Mac N’ Cheese blends the heartwarming appeal of homemade macaroni and cheese with gourmet creativity. The brand’s customizable menu allows guests to explore endless combinations—from classic mac with rich cheddar to bold creations featuring truffle oil, buffalo chicken, or spicy jalapeño blends.
Founded on the idea of delivering comfort food in a fast, casual, and modern environment, Elbows Mac N’ Cheese has become a destination for food lovers of all ages. Its cozy ambiance, family-friendly setting, and affordable price point make it a perfect fit for today’s quick-service restaurant market. The brand’s emphasis on quality ingredients, customer experience, and consistent flavors has positioned Elbows as a rising star in the American fast-casual franchise segment.
With a growing fan base, proven operations, and a unique concept that stands out in a crowded market, Elbows Mac N’ Cheese is offering franchise opportunities for passionate entrepreneurs who want to bring this beloved comfort classic to their local community.
Investing in an Elbows Mac N’ Cheese franchise means joining a brand with both emotional appeal and strong business fundamentals. Comfort food never goes out of style, and Elbows has transformed it into a scalable, profitable restaurant model that performs well in both high-traffic urban centers and suburban family areas.
Here’s why investors are choosing Elbows Mac N’ Cheese:
Unique Concept: A modern take on America’s favorite dish with gourmet variations and build-your-own options.
Strong Market Demand: The comfort food industry in the U.S. continues to thrive, particularly among millennials and Gen Z seeking nostalgic yet innovative dining options.
Streamlined Operations: The brand’s menu is efficient to execute, reducing food waste, kitchen complexity, and staffing costs.
High Customer Retention: Loyal customers keep returning for the consistent quality and emotional connection of the food.
Attractive Margins: Low food costs and a simple menu design make this a high-margin opportunity in the fast-casual category.
Community-Focused Appeal: Perfect for local markets and family-oriented neighborhoods that value familiar, feel-good meals.
Established Year: 2011
Headquarters: Brea, California, USA
Founders: Founded by a passionate team of food lovers and entrepreneurs who wanted to reinvent classic comfort food with a modern, gourmet twist.
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Dining / Comfort Food Restaurant
Current Franchise Units: 6+ locations and expanding across the United States
Elbows Mac N’ Cheese was created with one clear mission — to take America’s favorite comfort food and elevate it into a crave-worthy, customizable dining experience. Established in 2011 in Brea, California, the founders envisioned a restaurant that brought together the warmth of homemade mac and cheese with the creativity and efficiency of a modern fast-casual concept.
What began as a single neighborhood restaurant quickly became a local sensation, thanks to its flavorful menu and inviting atmosphere. The brand’s innovative approach — combining gourmet ingredients, global flavors, and nostalgic comfort — made it stand out in the crowded quick-service market. Each dish is made fresh to order, using high-quality cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and a range of delicious toppings and sauces.
Over time, Elbows Mac N’ Cheese has evolved into one of the most recognizable comfort food franchises on the West Coast. Its commitment to consistency, quality, and customer satisfaction has helped the brand attract loyal guests and strong franchise interest nationwide.
With over six operational units and more in development, Elbows continues to expand strategically across the U.S. The brand’s growth is fueled by rising consumer demand for indulgent yet accessible food experiences and the franchise’s streamlined operations that make it easy to manage and scale.
Backed by a tested business model, comprehensive training, and a growing fan base, Elbows Mac N’ Cheese is positioning itself as a leading player in the fast-casual comfort food category—offering franchisees a chance to be part of a brand built on flavor, familiarity, and fun.
Elbows Mac N’ Cheese provides franchisees with an extensive support system designed to ensure operational excellence from day one.
Pre-Opening Support:
Comprehensive site selection assistance and demographic analysis to find the best possible location.
Guidance with lease negotiations, store design, layout, and equipment procurement.
Help with initial marketing and grand opening strategies to ensure maximum local visibility.
Training Program:
In-depth, hands-on training for owners and staff on food preparation, menu management, and customer service.
Classroom and on-site instruction covering POS systems, operations, health & safety, and financial management.
Ongoing Support:
Continuous marketing support including seasonal promotions, social media campaigns, and local advertising materials.
Regular operational audits to ensure quality control and consistency.
Access to an online franchise portal with updated recipes, operational tools, and brand resources.
Dedicated field consultants for performance monitoring and growth guidance.
Franchisees are never alone—Elbows’ experienced corporate team works closely with each owner to build a strong, community-driven restaurant that customers love and trust.
Elbows Mac N’ Cheese is looking for motivated entrepreneurs who share the brand’s love for comfort food and community-driven business.
Ideal Candidate Traits:
Passionate about food, hospitality, and creating memorable guest experiences.
Entrepreneurial mindset with a drive to grow a local brand presence.
Prior restaurant or retail management experience is beneficial but not mandatory.
Strong leadership and people management skills.
Commitment to maintaining brand quality, cleanliness, and consistency.
Financial capability to invest in setup, operations, and marketing.
Preferred Locations:
Family-friendly neighborhoods
Shopping plazas and strip malls
Near universities, schools, and entertainment zones
High foot-traffic urban centers
If you’re passionate about bringing a fun, family-oriented dining concept to your community, Elbows Mac N’ Cheese could be your perfect franchise fit.
Total Investment Required: $250,000 – $450,000
Minimum Liquid Capital: $100,000
Franchise Fee: $35,000
Royalty Fee: 5% of gross sales
Marketing Fund: 2% of gross sales
Franchise Units (Current): Expanding across multiple U.S. states
Estimated Build-Out Cost: $150,000 – $250,000 depending on location size
Working Capital: $30,000 – $50,000
Expected ROI: 2–3 years
Break-Even Point: Typically within 12–18 months of operation
Revenue Streams: Dine-in, take-out, catering, delivery, and online orders
Elbows Mac N’ Cheese offers a strong financial model designed for scalability and profitability. With a proven operational system, efficient food costs, and high consumer demand, franchisees can expect sustainable long-term growth.
