Established
1985
Franchise Units
00
Minimum Investment
$342,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$600,000
Home Based
No
Description
Jake’s Uptown is a standout franchise opportunity for anyone seeking to own a full-service, high-quality burger and bar concept with strong market appeal. Rooted in a reputation for fresh-ground half-pound burgers, hand-cut fries, cold draft beer, and a warm, lively atmosphere, the brand has carved its identity in the premium “better burger” category. Unlike quick-service or fast-casual burger joints, Jake’s Uptown offers a social dining experience — full bar, patio seating, family-friendly dining, brunch, happy hour, and community-driven events — making it more than a place to eat; it’s a place to gather.
This franchise is positioned for today’s American diner who wants elevated simplicity: a place with great food, friendly service, and authentic charm. With the burger segment still dominating US dining trends, Jake’s Uptown gives franchisees the opportunity to tap into a thriving market with a trusted regional brand that has decades of operational know-how behind it.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Jake’s Uptown stands out for several compelling reasons:
1. Full-Service Advantage
Most burger franchises operate in the quick-service space. Jake’s Uptown offers a more robust model: full dining, bar service, broader menu options, and social ambiance. This increases customer spend and expands revenue streams.
2. Strong Position in the “Better Burger” Category
Premium, craft-style burgers remain one of the fastest-growing categories in the United States. Jake’s Uptown blends high-quality food with atmosphere and hospitality — creating stronger loyalty and higher average ticket sizes.
3. Proven Legacy Since 1985
With deep Texas roots and nearly four decades of operational success, the brand offers a reliable foundation for franchisees entering the competitive restaurant market.
4. Multiple Revenue Streams
Jake’s Uptown benefits from more than just lunch and dinner traffic. Revenue can come from bar sales, happy hour promotions, brunch service, patio events, community nights, and catering.
5. Comprehensive Support System
From site selection to marketing launches and ongoing operational training, the franchisor provides strong guidance to help owners succeed.
Background
Established: 1985
Franchising Launched: Around 2012
Current Units: 00 franchise locations
Industry Category: Better-Burger / Casual Dining / Full-Service Restaurant
Headquarters: Dallas, Texas
Brand Style: Fun, casual, community-driven, with high-quality burgers and full bar service
Ownership: Corporate leadership and franchise network based in Texas with plans for national expansion
Jake’s Uptown evolved from a local Texas burger restaurant to a recognizable brand known for its consistency, generous portions, and laid-back ambience. With an established regional footprint in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, the company is now expanding through franchising, with exclusive territories available across the USA.
Support Training
Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection guidance
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Real estate assistance
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Restaurant layout and bar design
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Build-out planning and contractor support
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Vendor and supply chain setup
Initial Training:
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Restaurant operations
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Kitchen workflow
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Food preparation
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Bar management and alcohol-service compliance
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Customer service and staff training
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POS, systems and cost-control training
Marketing & Launch Support:
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Grand-opening promotional planning
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Local store marketing templates
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Social media guidance
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Community event strategies
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Ongoing promotional updates and seasonal campaigns
Ongoing Support:
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Regular operational check-ins
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Menu updates and recipe rollouts
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Continued staff training
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Quality assurance programs
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Multi-unit growth guidance
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Access to franchisee support network
Ideal Candidate
This franchise is best suited for:
Experienced Restaurant Operators
Ideal for individuals with prior experience in full-service dining or bar operations.
Hands-On Business Owners
Engaged operators who can lead teams, manage service standards, and be actively involved in community relations.
Food-Lovers with Hospitality Mindset
Owners passionate about creating a fun, welcoming environment backed by premium food and friendly service.
Financially Capable Investors
Recommended requirements include:
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Liquid capital of around $200,000
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Net worth of approximately $1,000,000
Multi-Unit Growth Aspirants
Those aiming to build multiple Jake’s Uptown locations or area development territories.
Location-Focused Entrepreneurs
Individuals who understand trade areas, demographics, and community engagement, especially in suburban and mixed-use urban zones.
Financial Detail
| Category | Amount / Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total Investment Range | $342,000 – $600,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $200,000 |
| Minimum Net Worth | $1,000,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing / Ad Fund Fee | 2% of Gross Sales |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | Included in total investment (varies by location size & condition) |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) | Included in investment range |
| Kitchen & Bar Equipment | Included in investment range |
| Initial Inventory | Included |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | Varies by market, typically within total investment |
| Training & Onboarding Costs | Included (travel may be extra) |
| Grand Opening Marketing Budget | Included within initial investment range |
| Ongoing Technology / POS Fees | Varies (not publicly disclosed) |
| Average Break-Even Timeline | 12–24 Months (location dependent) |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Bar/Alcohol sales, Brunch, Happy Hour, Catering, Patio Events |