Established
1976
Franchise Units
35
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$450,000
Home Based
No
Description
Samuel Mancino's Italian Eatery is a well-established Italian fast-casual restaurant brand known for its generous portions, scratch-made recipes, and neighborhood-friendly atmosphere. Built around authentic Italian comfort food, the brand has carved out a loyal following by delivering consistent quality, approachable pricing, and a menu that appeals to families, students, and working professionals alike.
Positioned between traditional sit-down Italian restaurants and quick-service pizza concepts, Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery offers the best of both worlds—freshly prepared pasta, oven-baked pizzas, subs, salads, and classic Italian favorites served quickly without sacrificing taste. This balance has allowed the brand to thrive in competitive local markets, particularly in college towns and suburban trade areas where value, speed, and consistency matter most.
For entrepreneurs seeking a proven food franchise with deep roots, a simple operating model, and broad customer appeal, Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery represents a compelling opportunity within the Italian fast-casual dining segment in the United States.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
Investing in Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery offers franchisees a chance to enter the resilient Italian food category with a brand that prioritizes operational simplicity and repeat business.
Key reasons investors are drawn to this concept include:
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Strong demand for Italian comfort food across all demographics
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A streamlined menu that supports efficient kitchen operations
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Dine-in, takeout, and delivery-friendly business model
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Lower complexity compared to full-service Italian restaurants
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Established brand recognition in core regional markets
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Scalable footprint suitable for single or multi-unit ownership
Background
Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery was founded in 1976, making it a long-standing brand with decades of operational experience. The concept originated as a family-focused Italian restaurant emphasizing hearty portions, traditional recipes, and consistent quality. Over time, the brand refined its fast-casual positioning, allowing it to expand efficiently through franchising.
The company is privately owned and operates primarily within the United States, with a strong presence in Midwest and college-centric markets. The brand has grown steadily by focusing on operational discipline rather than rapid, uncontrolled expansion.
Key background highlights:
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Established Year: 1976
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Industry Category: Italian Fast-Casual Restaurant Franchise
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Franchise Model: Single-unit and multi-unit opportunities
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Market Presence: United States (regional concentration)
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Franchise Active Units: Samuel Mancino's Italian Eatery currently operates approximately 35 active franchise locations across the United States.
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Brand Focus: Quality Italian food, value pricing, community engagement
Support Training
Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery offers a structured support system designed to help franchisees launch confidently and operate efficiently.
Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection guidance and trade-area evaluation
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Restaurant layout and kitchen design recommendations
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Equipment specifications and vendor sourcing assistance
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Opening timeline planning and pre-opening checklists
Training & Operational Support:
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Comprehensive initial training covering food preparation, kitchen systems, and service standards
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On-site opening assistance to support staff readiness
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Operations manuals detailing daily procedures, food safety, and quality control
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Inventory management and cost-control guidance
Marketing & Ongoing Support:
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Brand standards for local marketing and promotions
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Grand opening marketing strategies
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Ongoing operational coaching and performance reviews
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Access to franchisor support team for day-to-day guidance
Ideal Candidate
Samuel Mancino’s Italian Eatery is best suited for hands-on operators or multi-unit investors who value consistency, community involvement, and operational discipline.
Ideal candidates typically have:
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Previous experience in food service, hospitality, or multi-unit operations (preferred but not required)
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Strong people-management and customer-service skills
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Willingness to be actively involved in daily operations or oversee a reliable management team
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Financial capability to meet investment and working capital requirements
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Interest in suburban, college-area, or high-traffic neighborhood locations
Entrepreneurs who appreciate proven systems and long-term brand stability tend to perform well within this franchise model.
Financial Detail
| Cost Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $30,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $250,000 – $450,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$250,000 |
| Real Estate & Leasehold Improvements | $80,000 – $150,000 |
| Equipment & Kitchen Setup | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Signage | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Opening Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Royalty Fee | ~5% of Gross Sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fund | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 30 Months |
| Expected ROI | Market-dependent, competitive fast-casual returns |
| Primary Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Takeout, Delivery, Catering |
