Established
2002
Franchise Units
00
Minimum Investment
$300,000
Franchise Fee
$25,000
Total Investment Range
$650,000
Home Based
No
Description
SanSai Fresh Grill & Sushi Kitchen is a fast-casual Asian dining brand that blends fresh Japanese-inspired cuisine with the speed, affordability, and scalability modern consumers demand. Known for its made-to-order rice bowls, grilled proteins, sushi rolls, and customizable meals, SanSai has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality food in a streamlined, guest-friendly environment.
Positioned at the intersection of healthy fast casual and Asian comfort food, SanSai appeals to a broad demographic—from professionals and students to families and health-conscious diners. The brand emphasizes fresh ingredients, simple menus, efficient kitchen layouts, and strong unit economics, making it an attractive franchise opportunity in the competitive U.S. restaurant landscape.
With decades of operational experience, established brand recognition in multiple U.S. markets, and a flexible footprint suitable for malls, urban streets, food courts, and standalone locations, SanSai Fresh Grill & Sushi Kitchen offers franchisees a proven system designed for sustainable growth.
Why Invest in This Franchise?
SanSai stands out as a compelling restaurant franchise investment for several reasons:
• Strong demand for Asian fast-casual cuisine across U.S. markets
• Balanced menu combining grilled entrées, rice bowls, and sushi
• Efficient operations with limited kitchen complexity
• Broad customer appeal across age and income groups
• Lower labor intensity compared to full-service restaurants
• Scalable model suitable for single-unit and multi-unit owners
• Established brand history and operational systems
• Opportunities in urban, suburban, and travel-based locations
Background
Established Year
SanSai Fresh Grill & Sushi Kitchen was founded in 2002.
Founders
The brand was founded by the Choi family, who identified a gap in the market for fast, high-quality Japanese-style food that could be served efficiently without compromising taste or freshness.
Brand Journey & Company History
SanSai began as a single restaurant concept focused on teriyaki-style dishes and rice bowls. Over time, the brand expanded its menu to include sushi, bento-style meals, and customizable bowls, allowing it to stay relevant as consumer tastes evolved.
The company gradually expanded through company-owned and franchised locations, particularly in high-traffic retail environments such as shopping malls, universities, airports, and business districts. Its consistent food quality and operational simplicity helped it scale steadily while maintaining brand standards.
Ownership Structure
SanSai operates under a franchise-supported model, with centralized systems for branding, training, menu development, and operational guidance.
Industry Category
• Fast-Casual Restaurant
• Asian / Japanese Cuisine
• Sushi & Grill Concept
Support Training
SanSai provides franchisees with structured, hands-on support designed to simplify launch and long-term operations.
Pre-Launch Support
• Site selection guidance and location evaluation
• Restaurant layout, kitchen design, and equipment planning
• Assistance with permitting and pre-opening logistics
• Vendor sourcing and supply chain coordination
Training Programs
• Comprehensive initial training covering operations, food prep, and quality control
• Management training focused on staffing, scheduling, and cost controls
• Food safety, sanitation, and compliance education
• POS system and reporting training
Operational Support
• Standardized operating procedures and recipe manuals
• Ongoing field support and operational check-ins
• Menu innovation and seasonal updates
• Labor efficiency and cost-management guidance
Marketing & Branding Support
• Brand guidelines and in-store marketing materials
• Local store marketing strategies and promotions
• Grand opening planning and launch support
• Digital and community-based marketing recommendations
Ongoing Support
• Continuous training updates
• Franchisee performance benchmarking
• Access to corporate support teams
• Ongoing product and operational improvements
Ideal Candidate
SanSai is best suited for operators who value systems, consistency, and hands-on business ownership.
Best-Fit Candidates Include:
• Single-unit or multi-unit restaurant investors
• Owner-operators or semi-absentee operators
• Entrepreneurs with food service or hospitality experience
• Multi-brand franchise owners seeking diversification
• Investors with strong operational discipline and people-management skills
Key Traits & Capabilities
• Passion for food quality and customer experience
• Ability to manage staff and maintain brand standards
• Financial capability to meet investment requirements
• Willingness to follow a proven system
• Interest in long-term market development
Location Preferences
• High-traffic retail areas
• Shopping malls and food courts
• Urban commercial corridors
• Near universities, offices, or mixed-use developments
Financial Detail
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $300,000 – $650,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | ~$150,000 – $200,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Build-Out | $180,000 – $350,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & POS Systems | $70,000 – $120,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Signage | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Initial Inventory & Supplies | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Grand Opening & Local Marketing | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 months) | $30,000 – $60,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of gross sales |
| Marketing / Brand Fund Contribution | 1% – 2% of gross sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 18 – 36 months |
| Expected ROI (Well-Run Units) | Industry-competitive fast-casual margins |
