Established
1972
Franchise Units
60
Minimum Investment
$450,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$1,200,000
Home Based
No
Description
Leo’s Coney Island is one of America’s most recognizable family-dining and quick-service crossover brands, rooted in classic comfort food, timeless hospitality, and dependable community presence. For decades, the brand has earned a fiercely loyal customer base thanks to its signature coney dogs, hearty breakfasts, fresh salads, burgers, and an all-day menu that appeals to every generation. As consumer demand continues to shift toward approachable, affordable, everyday dining, Leo’s Coney Island stands in a strong position—built on heritage, consistency, and the type of neighborhood connection that newer restaurant concepts struggle to replicate.
Franchisees appreciate Leo’s for its operational simplicity, wide menu appeal, and reliable guest traffic from morning until late evening. The brand’s strong Midwest footprint has become a blueprint for expansion nationwide, attracting operators who value a concept with staying power, strong unit economics, and a proven operating system that has been refined over decades. In a competitive foodservice landscape where many concepts come and go, Leo’s Coney Island remains a steady, recession-resilient franchise opportunity that balances tradition with modern franchise support.
Why Invest in the Leo’s Coney Island Franchise?
Investing in Leo’s Coney Island means partnering with a brand that has stood the test of time—known for consistency, community connection, and everyday affordability. Its broad customer base spans families, workers, students, and retirees, giving franchisees a steady flow of diners throughout the week rather than relying heavily on weekends or one specific meal period. The menu is designed to deliver value, strong margins, and operational efficiency, helping owners maintain profitability despite fluctuating food costs.
Leo’s Coney Island also thrives due to its unique positioning: not quite a fast-food chain, not quite a sit-down restaurant, but a bridge between the two. This hybrid structure creates a versatile business model with multiple dayparts, strong takeout revenue, and the warm hospitality customers associate with neighborhood diners. Operators gain access to a timeless brand, refined systems, trusted suppliers, and a name that sparks nostalgia and credibility.
Background
Leo’s Coney Island was established in 1972 by brothers Peter and Leo Stassinopoulos, who began with a modest family diner in Southfield, Michigan. What started as a small neighborhood restaurant built on genuine hospitality, everyday affordability, and simple, comforting food quickly grew into one of the region’s most beloved dining institutions. Their signature coney dogs, hearty breakfasts, burgers, salads, and all-day comfort classics soon became staples for families, workers, and students across the state.
The brand’s success is rooted in consistency—fresh ingredients, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere that feels familiar to every guest. As demand grew, Leo’s Coney Island developed a formal franchise program, allowing passionate operators to bring the authentic Leo’s experience to new communities. Today, the company remains proudly headquartered in Michigan and continues to expand through franchise ownership.
With over 60 active units nationwide, Leo’s Coney Island has built a strong presence in the Midwest and is steadily extending its reach to surrounding states. Its enduring popularity, multigenerational customer base, and proven operating model make it a standout franchise opportunity within the casual restaurant and diner/QSR hybrid category.
Support Training
Leo’s Coney Island offers a structured, hands-on support system designed to help franchisees open successfully and operate confidently from day one.
Pre-Launch Support
Site selection assistance, traffic analysis, and demographic review
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Lease negotiations and contractor coordination
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Architectural guidelines and store layout planning
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Vendor introductions, purchasing systems, and equipment lists
Operations & Training
Comprehensive multi-week training at an operational Leo’s location
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Front-of-house and back-of-house training for owners and key staff
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Menu execution, food safety, and service standard education
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Cost control, inventory management, and labor optimization training
Marketing & Brand Support
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Grand opening marketing strategy and local store promotions
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Access to branded marketing assets, digital templates, and seasonal campaigns
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Social media guidance and online reputation management strategies
Ongoing Support
Field support visits and operational audits
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Continuous menu innovation and product development
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Technology upgrades, POS training, and reporting system support
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Franchisee meetings and knowledge-sharing opportunities
Ideal Candidate
A strong Leo’s Coney Island franchisee is someone who values community, hospitality, and hands-on leadership. The ideal operator is committed to delivering a welcoming environment and maintaining the consistency that made the brand iconic.
Ideal candidates include:
Entrepreneurs with experience in restaurant, retail, or customer-service industries
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Multi-unit operators seeking a stable, family-friendly brand
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Investors who appreciate a proven concept with broad everyday appeal
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Operators who enjoy community involvement and local relationship-building
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Individuals with strong financial capability and willingness to follow a proven system
Successful franchisees are detail-oriented, team-focused, and passionate about running a restaurant that becomes part of the neighborhood’s daily life.
Financial Detail
| Financial Category | Amount / Range |
|---|---|
| Total Investment Required | $450,000 – $1,200,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $500,000+ |
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 4% – 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing Fund Contribution | 1% – 2% of gross sales |
| Store Size Requirement | 2,800 – 4,000 sq. ft. |
| Buildout & Infrastructure Cost | $250,000 – $750,000 |
| Equipment Package | $80,000 – $200,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Pre-Opening Marketing Budget | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (First 3 Months) | $40,000 – $100,000 |
| Expected ROI | 2.5 – 4 years |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 months |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Dine-in, takeout, delivery, catering, late-night service (location dependent) |