Established
1989
Franchise Units
14
Minimum Investment
$1,049,350
Franchise Fee
$100,000
Total Investment Range
$3,810,000
Home Based
No
Description
When you think of Shula’s Restaurant Group, you aren’t just thinking of a steakhouse; you are looking at a masterclass in American hospitality. Founded on the principles of legendary NFL Coach Don Shula—the architect of the only "Perfect Season" in NFL history—this franchise group has translated the discipline of the gridiron into the art of the grill. For over three decades, Shula’s has been a dominant force in the upscale and premium casual dining sectors, positioning itself as a "Winning Tradition" for both diners and investors.
The brand's reputation is anchored by its commitment to the Shula Cut®, a selection of premium Black Angus beef that meets the most rigorous quality standards in the industry. But Shula’s is more than just world-class steak. The group offers a diverse portfolio of concepts—ranging from the high-octane atmosphere of Shula’s 347 Grille to the refined elegance of Shula’s Steak House and the modern vibrancy of Shula’s American Kitchen. This multi-tiered approach allows franchisees to capture various market segments, from business power lunches to celebratory family dinners, ensuring a resilient revenue model in the competitive USA market.
Background
Established Year: 1989
Franchising Since: 1998
Founders: Don Shula (NFL Legend)
Headquarters: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Active Units: 15
Brand Journey: What started as a single steakhouse in Miami Lakes has evolved into a sophisticated restaurant group. Following Coach Shula’s legacy, the brand remains a family-led powerhouse, ensuring the original "winning" culture remains intact while modernizing for today's foodie culture.
Industry Category: Full-Service Restaurant (FSR) – Upscale Steakhouse & Premium Casual Dining.
Support Training
Pre-Launch & Operational Support
Site Selection & Design: Expert assistance in analyzing local demographics and choosing the right footprint, whether it's a standalone site or a hotel partnership.
Supply Chain Excellence: Access to the proprietary Shula Cut® beef program and established relationships with premium vendors to ensure consistency and cost-control.
Project Build-out: Guidance through the construction and interior design phases to ensure the "polished" Shula aesthetic is maintained.
Training Programs
Headquarters Training: An intensive management program at the Shula’s corporate offices for owners and senior managers.
On-Site Training: Hands-on training at your location for the General Manager, Chef, and Front-of-House staff prior to the grand opening.
Academic Learning: Comprehensive manuals and digital tools covering everything from "Menu Engineering" to "Mixology."
Marketing & Ongoing Support
Brand Assets: A digital vault of high-res photography, logos, and print-ready marketing materials.
Digital Presence: Professional management of digital listings and participation in national guest loyalty programs.
Field Visits: Periodic site visits from corporate consultants to audit operations, help with cost control, and ensure brand standards are being met.
Ideal Candidate
The Experienced Operator: Ideally, you have a background in high-volume, full-service restaurant management or have successfully managed a multi-unit franchise portfolio.
The Hospitality Visionary: A passion for fine dining and a commitment to "uncompromising quality" is non-negotiable.
Financial Capability: You must have the liquid capital and net worth required to sustain a high-end build-out and initial months of operation.
Location Preference: Prime urban centers, affluent suburbs, or high-traffic luxury hotel environments.
Culture Fit: You believe in the "Coach Shula" philosophy—integrity, preparation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Financial Detail
| Category | Estimated Range / Fee |
| Initial Franchise Fee | $100,000 - $150,000 |
| Total Investment Required | $1,049,350 – $3,810,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $500,000+ |
| Royalty Fees | 7% of Gross Sales |
| Infrastructure & Build-out | Included in Total Investment |
| Working Capital | $210,000 – $310,000 |