1972
60
$1,000,000
$40,000
$2,500,000
No
Houlihan’s is one of America’s most recognized and enduring casual dining brands — a name that has defined modern American dining for decades. Known for its warm hospitality, chef-inspired dishes, and welcoming bar atmosphere, Houlihan’s offers a dining experience that balances comfort and sophistication. From its fresh salads and signature entrées to its craft cocktails and contemporary interiors, Houlihan’s has earned a loyal nationwide following and continues to attract families, professionals, and food enthusiasts alike.
As a franchise opportunity, Houlihan’s stands apart for its strong brand heritage, operational excellence, and ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences. It’s more than just a restaurant — it’s a proven hospitality concept that blends the best of neighborhood familiarity with upscale appeal. Backed by a seasoned corporate team and decades of franchise experience, Houlihan’s remains one of the most respected names in the full-service restaurant industry.
Investing in a Houlihan’s franchise means joining a legacy of innovation and consistency in the casual dining sector. The brand’s proven business model, high guest retention, and strong marketing support make it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs seeking a premium dining concept with growth potential.
Houlihan’s continues to perform well in a competitive dining landscape because it focuses on what modern diners value most — scratch-made food, an inviting atmosphere, and exceptional service. Franchise owners benefit from a robust operating system, national recognition, and ongoing menu development that keeps the brand fresh and relevant.
With Americans dining out more frequently and seeking elevated experiences at approachable prices, Houlihan’s occupies a lucrative middle ground between fine dining and fast-casual — a sweet spot for long-term success.
Key Investment Advantages:
Established, reputable American brand with decades of success
Multiple revenue streams — dine-in, bar service, catering, takeout, and delivery
Comprehensive franchise training and operational support
Flexible restaurant formats suitable for suburban and urban markets
Strong marketing and brand awareness across the USA
Houlihan’s was founded in 1972 in Kansas City, Missouri, by Paul Robinson and Joe Gilbert, who envisioned a restaurant that delivered handcrafted food and a social, upbeat vibe. The first Houlihan’s Old Place opened near the iconic Country Club Plaza and quickly became a community favorite.
Over the years, Houlihan’s evolved from a local favorite into a respected national brand known for pioneering trends in the casual dining sector. From introducing scratch kitchens to featuring inventive cocktails and small plates before they became mainstream, Houlihan’s has always led with innovation.
The brand is currently operated by Houlihan’s Restaurants, Inc., under Landry’s, Inc., one of the largest restaurant and hospitality groups in the United States. Today, there are over 60 Houlihan’s locations nationwide, both company-owned and franchised, with a continued focus on sustainable growth and guest satisfaction.
Industry Category: Full-Service Casual Dining / Restaurant Franchise
Houlihan’s provides its franchisees with a complete suite of training, guidance, and operational tools to ensure consistent quality and profitability from day one.
Pre-Launch Support:
Site selection assistance and location analysis
Restaurant design, layout, and build-out guidance
Vendor selection and supply chain integration
Pre-opening training for management and staff
Operational Support:
On-site opening support team for launch phase
Detailed operating manuals and best practices
Point-of-sale systems, technology, and inventory management support
Quality control audits and performance benchmarking
Marketing & Brand Support:
Comprehensive national and regional marketing campaigns
Digital marketing tools, social media templates, and PR guidance
Seasonal promotions, menu launches, and loyalty programs
Ongoing Training:
Continuous culinary innovation and menu training
Leadership development and staff certification programs
Regular franchisee meetings and networking events
Houlihan’s focuses on making franchisees feel part of a larger family — combining corporate resources with personalized mentorship to ensure lasting success.
Houlihan’s seeks franchisees who are passionate about hospitality, business growth, and community engagement. The ideal candidate is not just an investor but someone who appreciates the art of creating memorable dining experiences.
Preferred Qualities:
Prior experience in restaurant management, hospitality, or food service
Strong leadership and team-building skills
Commitment to operational excellence and guest satisfaction
Ability to manage day-to-day operations or hire a qualified manager
Financial stability and long-term growth mindset
Investment Capability:
Ideal candidates typically have access to liquid capital of $750,000–$1 million and a net worth of $1.5–$2 million. Multi-unit developers and experienced restaurateurs are especially encouraged to apply.
Location Preferences:
Houlihan’s thrives in high-traffic suburban areas, mixed-use developments, and lifestyle centers — locations that attract both families and professionals seeking quality dining and social atmosphere.
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Initial Investment | $1,200,000 – $2,500,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | $1,000,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of gross sales |
| Marketing/Advertising Fee | 2% of gross sales |
| Working Capital | $100,000 – $250,000 |
| Infrastructure/Build-out | $800,000 – $1,500,000 |
| Expected ROI | 15% – 25% annually |
| Break-even Time | Typically 24–36 months |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, bar sales, takeout, catering, delivery, and merchandise |
These figures can vary depending on market size, location, and local construction costs, but Houlihan’s provides franchisees with detailed financial modeling tools and access to vendor partnerships to streamline setup.
