1960
25
$800,000
$40,000
$2,200,000
No
Elmer’s Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner is one of America’s most beloved neighborhood restaurant brands, serving hearty, homestyle meals that have brought families together for over five decades. Known for its warm hospitality and all-day dining menu, Elmer’s has built a trusted reputation across the western United States by offering a combination of comforting classics, attentive service, and a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere. From fluffy buttermilk pancakes to savory prime rib dinners, Elmer’s offers something for everyone—making it a staple in communities for generations.
As a franchise opportunity, Elmer’s Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner combines a proven business model with timeless appeal. With strong brand recognition, a loyal customer base, and operational systems perfected over years of experience, Elmer’s continues to attract both new diners and seasoned investors. Franchisees benefit from a powerful combination of brand heritage, operational support, and a focus on creating memorable dining experiences that drive repeat visits and profitability.
Investing in an Elmer’s franchise means joining a well-established American brand that thrives on family values, consistency, and quality. Elmer’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a community hub. Its all-day dining concept maximizes revenue potential by catering to breakfast, lunch, and dinner crowds. The brand’s proven formula has withstood market shifts, consumer trends, and economic cycles, thanks to its adaptable menu, customer loyalty, and strong franchise support network.
Key reasons to invest include:
Decades of brand equity and customer trust in multiple U.S. markets.
All-day revenue model offering multiple meal periods.
Proven systems and scalable operations with simplified management.
Strong marketing support and local community integration.
Comprehensive training and field assistance for seamless setup and operations.
Menu innovation that keeps the brand relevant and appealing across generations.
Elmer’s Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner was founded in 1960 in Portland, Oregon, by Elmer Sauer, who originally opened a pancake house serving breakfast classics with a local touch. Over time, the concept evolved into a full-service restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, emphasizing comfort, freshness, and community.
Today, Elmer’s operates over 25 locations across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and California, many of which are franchise-owned. The brand’s consistent success is rooted in its commitment to quality ingredients, attentive customer service, and strong community engagement.
Elmer’s Restaurants, Inc. continues to expand strategically across the western United States, maintaining its legacy as a top-tier casual dining franchise. The franchise operates in the family restaurant and casual dining category—an evergreen segment that remains one of the most resilient in the U.S. restaurant industry.
Elmer’s provides a complete suite of training and operational support programs to ensure franchise success from day one. The company’s franchise support system is designed to guide owners through every phase—from restaurant launch to ongoing operations.
Pre-Launch Support:
Site selection guidance and demographic analysis
Assistance with restaurant design, layout, and build-out
Vendor and supplier coordination
Access to established equipment and ingredient sourcing channels
Training:
Comprehensive initial training for owners, managers, and staff (4–6 weeks)
Operations manuals, recipe books, and brand guidelines
Hands-on experience at an existing Elmer’s restaurant location
Ongoing Support:
Field operations and management consulting
Regional marketing programs and promotional campaigns
Social media and digital marketing support
Regular menu innovation and seasonal product launches
Ongoing refresher training and business development reviews
The support system ensures that franchisees have the tools, knowledge, and resources to deliver the Elmer’s brand experience consistently and profitably.
Elmer’s seeks driven, community-oriented entrepreneurs who share the brand’s passion for quality dining and exceptional hospitality. Ideal candidates include:
Experienced restaurateurs or multi-unit operators in food service, hospitality, or retail.
Investors or entrepreneurs passionate about community-based businesses and family-oriented brands.
Individuals with strong management, leadership, and people skills capable of building and motivating a team.
Financially qualified investors capable of meeting the capital requirements and supporting local marketing efforts.
Preference for franchisees in mid-sized to large suburban and metropolitan areas with strong community engagement and steady foot traffic.
Elmer’s values long-term partnerships with franchise owners who are dedicated to delivering consistency, quality, and heartfelt service.
Investing in an Elmer’s Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner franchise offers the opportunity to join a reputable, time-tested restaurant brand with strong ROI potential.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Initial Investment | $800,000 – $2,200,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $300,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Average Unit Size | 4,000 – 6,000 sq. ft. |
| Working Capital | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% (annualized) |
| Break-even Period | Typically 2 – 3 years |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, catering, delivery, and merchandise sales |
Note: Financial ranges vary by location size, market conditions, and local construction costs.
