Established
2011
Franchise Units
10
Minimum Investment
$350,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Jimmy Hula’s is more than a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle brand built around good vibes, bold flavors, and the laid-back energy of a beach town. From the moment guests step inside, they’re met with a tropical, surf-inspired atmosphere that feels like a mini-vacation. Known for its signature fish tacos, creative burgers, fresh bowls, and vibrant island-themed dishes, Jimmy Hula’s has carved out a niche in the fast-casual dining market by blending quality food with an unforgettable experience.
For entrepreneurs looking to invest in a restaurant franchise that stands out from traditional fast-casual concepts, Jimmy Hula’s offers the perfect mix of strong brand identity, community appeal, and proven operational systems. Its modern, lifestyle-driven positioning resonates with families, young professionals, and food-driven consumers who want something different from predictable chain dining. With growing demand for experiential dining, Jimmy Hula’s is a brand poised for expansion and long-term success.
Why Invest in Jimmy Hula’s?
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Unique Brand Experience – The surf-shack concept, tropical décor, and relaxed dining environment make Jimmy Hula’s instantly memorable and highly shareable on social media.
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Strong Unit Economics – Reports indicate average unit volumes around $1.85 million, making it competitive within the fast-casual restaurant category.
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Flexible Investment Options – Total investment ranges from $350,000 to $1.2 million, depending on location, size, and build-out needs.
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Full Franchise Support System – From real estate guidance to training, marketing, and operations, franchisees receive comprehensive backing to succeed.
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Broad Market Appeal – The menu appeals to multiple demographics—from families to surfers to young urban diners—allowing franchisees to capture diverse customer bases.
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Lifestyle-Driven Brand Culture – Jimmy Hula’s thrives on positivity, creativity, and a fun dining experience. Franchisees become part of a brand that customers genuinely love.
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Room for Multi-Unit Growth – The brand is actively expanding and welcomes area developers and multi-unit operators.
Background
Founded: 2011
First Location: Winter Park, Florida
Founders: Jim “Jimmy” Hartman and Zach Hartman
Headquarters: Winter Park, Florida
Jimmy Hula’s was created by industry veteran Jim Hartman, who had deep experience as a large fast-food franchisee. He and his son Zach envisioned a fresh, beach-inspired concept with great food, a welcoming ambiance, and a strong community presence. Since launching in 2011, the brand has expanded steadily across Florida and nearby regions.
Reports show that Jimmy Hula’s had at least 10 franchise locations as of 2022, along with active development agreements for additional markets. The brand operates in the fast-casual restaurant category, focusing on tropical-inspired fusion cuisine, beer service, relaxed dining, and high-quality ingredients.
Ownership is private, operating under Jimmy Hula’s Licensing LLC.
Support Training
Pre-Launch Support
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Site Selection Assistance – Help analyzing demographics, negotiating leases, and choosing high-visibility locations.
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Architectural & Design Templates – Complete build-out specifications, décor guidelines, kitchen layouts, and branding elements.
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Real Estate & Construction Guidance – Support through planning, permits, layout design, and contractor coordination.
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Pre-Opening Training – Hands-on training for franchisees and management teams covering operations, menu execution, customer service, POS systems, and staffing.
Operational & Marketing Support
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Comprehensive Operations Manual – Detailed procedures, recipes, checklists, and standards.
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Proprietary POS System – Integrated platform for inventory, labour, sales, and menu management.
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Grand Opening Marketing Support – Local marketing strategies, launch events, and promotional guidance.
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Ongoing Brand Marketing – National branding, seasonal campaigns, creative assets, and digital support.
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Supply Chain & Purchasing Power – Approved vendors and negotiated pricing for ingredients, décor, and equipment.
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Continuous Training & Field Support – Store visits, performance audits, coaching, and operational updates.
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New Store Formats – Opportunities for express models, food trucks, and flexible layouts in select markets.
Ideal Candidate
Jimmy Hula’s seeks franchise partners who can bring the brand’s energetic, positive personality to life. The ideal candidate includes:
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Restaurant or Hospitality Experience – Background in restaurant operations, multi-unit management, or foodservice leadership is highly preferred.
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Hands-On, Entrepreneurial Mindset – Franchisees should be involved, engaged, and enthusiastic about customer experience.
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Strong Community Presence – People who love engaging with guests, local events, and shaping a lifestyle-driven brand.
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Financial Capability – Adequate liquidity and net worth to support build-out, operations, working capital, and growth.
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Brand-Fit Personality – Someone who embodies the chill, upbeat, and community-focused culture that defines Jimmy Hula’s.
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Growth-Focused Vision – Ideal for operators who want to develop multiple units or anchor a region with area development rights.
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Good Location Insight – Ability to select markets that align with the brand’s beachy, energetic feel—suburban, coastal, lifestyle-center or entertainment districts.
Financial Detail
Franchise Fee: $25,000
Estimated Total Investment: $350,000 – $1,200,000
Minimum Liquid Capital (Suggested): Approximately $500,000
Royalty Fee: 5%
Marketing Fees: As outlined in the FDD (typically national + local spend)
Average Unit Volume: Approximately $1.85 million
Franchise Units: Estimated 10+ active U.S. locations
Cost Breakdown May Include:
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Lease acquisition and rent
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Construction and build-out
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Furniture, fixtures, décor and signage
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Kitchen equipment
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POS and technology systems
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Initial food inventory and supplies
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Grand opening marketing
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Staff training and hiring
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Working capital reserves
Potential Revenue Streams:
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Dine-in and take-out sales
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Alcohol and bar service (select locations)
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Catering and group orders
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Seasonal and limited-time menu specials
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Food truck or express model (market-dependent)
ROI & Break-Even Expectations:
While timelines vary by location, build-out cost, and management strength, well-run units with strong sales potential may achieve break-even between 18 to 36 months. Higher-volume stores, especially those with bar service or outdoor seating, may accelerate returns.