Established
2002
Franchise Units
10
Minimum Investment
$1,275,000
Franchise Fee
$75,000
Total Investment Range
$4,000,000
Home Based
No
Description
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse brings together the charm of a classic supper-club, the warmth of Italian hospitality, and the indulgence of premium steakhouse dining—all in one sophisticated yet approachable brand. Guests walk into a rich, moody atmosphere highlighted by the iconic “Blue Bar,” elegant finishes, and a menu that balances hand-cut steaks, pastas, seafood, and craft cocktails. For investors, the brand delivers a rare combination: upscale positioning with broad customer appeal, strong unit economics, and a concept that thrives in both suburban and metropolitan markets.
Positioned between casual dining and fine dining, Johnny’s creates an elevated but comfortable dining experience that resonates with families, business diners, travelers, and special-occasion guests. With a refined identity, strong culinary reputation, and a proven operational system, Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse stands out as a franchise opportunity built for long-term growth.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
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Unique Market Positioning: Most competitors fall strictly into “steakhouse” or “Italian.” Johnny’s blends both, appealing to multiple dining groups at once.
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Upscale Yet Accessible: Premium food, stylish interiors, and strong brand personality—without the ultra-luxury price tag.
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Strong Visual Identity: The signature Blue Bar and supper-club aesthetic make the brand instantly recognizable.
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Diversified Revenue Channels: Dinner, lunch (select markets), bar/cocktails, private events, catering, holiday dining, and hotel-embedded locations create multiple income streams.
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Growing Brand with Expansion Room: Ideal for investors seeking early-stage growth potential in untapped or under-served markets.
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Comprehensive Franchise Support: From site selection to grand opening and ongoing operations, franchisees receive full corporate backing.
Background
Established Year: Founded in 2002
Founders / Ownership: Created by the Heart of America Group, a well-established hospitality operator known for developing high-performing restaurant and hotel brands.
Franchising Since: Approximately 2013
Industry Category: Full-service dining, upscale casual, steakhouse + Italian fusion
Market Presence in the USA:
Operating in several states including Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Franchise Active Units (Current Estimate): Around 10 operating units across the U.S.
Brand Evolution:
Johnny’s was created to merge the timeless appeal of steakhouse dining with Italian culinary heritage, wrapped in a luxurious supper-club ambiance. Over the years, it has grown through consistent brand standards, strong menu development, and strategic placement in lifestyle centers, hotels, and premium suburban corridors.
Support Training
Pre-Launch Support
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Real Estate & Site Selection Guidance: Assistance in evaluating demographic fit, traffic patterns, hotel partnerships, and prime suburban sites.
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Design & Build-Out Support: Complete assistance with layout, décor, kitchen flow, furniture/fixture selection, and integration of the signature Blue Bar aesthetic.
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Construction & Vendor Coordination: Streamlining of the build-out process through recommended vendors and design specifications.
Training & Operational Support
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Initial Classroom Training: Comprehensive multi-week curriculum covering culinary operations, service standards, food safety, staff management, cost control, and leadership.
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On-Site Restaurant Training: Hands-on training for franchisees, managers, and key staff during pre-opening and launch period.
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Grand Opening Support: Marketing activation, staff onboarding, menu rollout, community launch events, and operational guidance.
Marketing & Brand Support
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National-level brand marketing assets (digital, print, photography, branding).
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Local store marketing planning for launch and long-term traffic building.
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Social media guidance, content templates, and advertising suggestions.
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Menu innovation support and regular brand updates.
Ongoing Support
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Continuous field support and operations reviews
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Purchasing advantages with preferred suppliers
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Business performance benchmarking
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Multi-unit development guidance for scaling operators
Ideal Candidate
Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse is best suited for:
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Experienced Restaurant Operators: Ideal for individuals or groups who have run full-service or multi-unit restaurants.
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Hospitality-Focused Investors: Those who value premium guest experience, elevated service, and high-quality food execution.
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Strong Owner-Operators or Professional Management Teams: A hands-on mindset—especially during the first 6–12 months—is highly beneficial.
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Financially Qualified Candidates: Investors capable of committing to a high-end buildout and maintaining strong working capital.
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Location-Savvy Investors: Franchisees who understand demographic fit, lifestyle centers, hotel-embedded opportunities, and suburban upscale markets.
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Community-Oriented Leaders: Those who excel in creating repeat business through hospitality, reputation, and local partnerships.
Financial Detail
Estimated Initial Investment
$1,275,000 – $4,000,000
(Includes build-out, equipment, décor, kitchen infrastructure, licensing, opening inventory, and training.)
Franchise Fee
$75,000
Minimum Financial Requirements
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Net Worth: $2,500,000 – $5,000,000
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Liquid Capital: $500,000 – $1,000,000
Ongoing Fees
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Royalty Fee: 5% of gross sales
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Marketing/Brand Fund: Typically 1–2% (varies)
Working Capital Needed
Approximately $50,000 – $150,000 for early operations, staffing, marketing, and initial ramp-up.
Average Unit Sales (Varies by Location)
Some sources indicate an estimated average revenue of around $2.3 million per unit, though actual results vary based on market, operations, and size.
Break-Even Time
Typically 3–5 years, depending on real estate costs, management efficiency, and market dynamics.
Key Revenue Streams
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Dinner service (primary driver)
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Lunch service (in select markets)
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Craft cocktails and bar sales
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Private dining and banquet events
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Catering and group bookings
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Hotel guest traffic (in hotel-integrated locations)