Established
1992
Franchise Units
30
Minimum Investment
$1,100,000
Franchise Fee
$50,000
Total Investment Range
$1,800,000
Home Based
No
Description
Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill has carved out a strong niche in the competitive fast-casual dining space by blending bold Mexican flavors with a clean-eating, wellness-driven philosophy. Known for its wood-grilled proteins, fresh ingredients, and customizable menu, the brand appeals to modern consumers who want indulgent taste without compromising on nutrition or quality.
Positioned at the intersection of healthy dining and crave-worthy Mexican cuisine, Sharky’s attracts a broad demographic—fitness enthusiasts, families, professionals, and millennials who value transparency, sustainability, and flavor. The menu emphasizes hormone-free proteins, non-GMO ingredients, organic beans and rice, and scratch-made salsas, all prepared in an efficient fast-casual format that supports strong throughput and repeat business.
With decades of brand equity, a loyal customer base, and a scalable operating model, Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill presents a compelling franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking to enter the high-growth better-for-you restaurant segment in the USA.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Sharky’s stands out in a crowded Mexican fast-casual market by offering more than just tacos and burritos—it delivers a lifestyle brand aligned with health, sustainability, and community.
Key investment highlights include:
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Strong brand recognition and long-standing reputation in core U.S. markets
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Differentiation through wood-grilled cooking methods and clean ingredients
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Proven fast-casual model with dine-in, takeout, and digital ordering channels
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High customer loyalty driven by transparency and menu customization
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Scalable footprint suitable for urban, suburban, and lifestyle centers
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Growing demand for healthy, protein-forward quick-service concepts
Background
Established Year: 1992
Founders: Steve and Paula Paperno
Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill was founded in Southern California with a simple but powerful idea: serve Mexican-inspired food made from real, wholesome ingredients in a fast, approachable setting. What began as a single neighborhood restaurant quickly gained traction as customers embraced the brand’s commitment to quality and flavor.
Over the years, Sharky’s evolved into a recognized leader in the fast-casual Mexican and healthy dining category, expanding across California and select U.S. markets through a combination of company-owned and franchised locations. The brand is privately owned and continues to emphasize responsible sourcing, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.
Franchise Active Units: Approximately 30+ locations across the United States
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Mexican Restaurant | Healthy & Better-For-You Dining
Support Training
Sharky’s offers a structured, hands-on support system designed to help franchisees launch confidently and operate efficiently from day one.
Pre-Launch Support:
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Site selection guidance and lease review support
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Restaurant design standards, layout planning, and build-out coordination
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Vendor sourcing and equipment specifications
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Pre-opening marketing strategy and launch planning
Training Program:
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Comprehensive initial training covering operations, food preparation, and brand standards
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On-site and classroom training for franchisees and key managers
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Systems training for POS, inventory management, and labor controls
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Food safety, quality assurance, and compliance education
Operational & Ongoing Support:
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Dedicated franchise support team and field operations guidance
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Ongoing menu innovation and product development
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Supply chain management and approved vendor programs
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Performance benchmarking and operational reviews
Marketing & Brand Support:
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National and regional marketing initiatives
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Digital marketing, loyalty programs, and promotional campaigns
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Creative assets and brand guidelines
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Ongoing support for local store marketing and community outreach
Ideal Candidate
Sharky’s is best suited for owner-operators or multi-unit investors who are passionate about food quality, wellness, and customer experience.
The ideal franchisee typically has:
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Prior restaurant, hospitality, or multi-unit retail experience (preferred but not mandatory)
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Strong operational mindset and people-management skills
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Financial capability to meet investment requirements comfortably
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Commitment to brand standards, food integrity, and service excellence
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Interest in developing one or multiple units within a defined territory
While hands-on involvement is encouraged, Sharky’s also supports experienced operators seeking to build a regional footprint with professional management teams in place.
Financial Detail
| Cost Component | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $50,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $1,100,000 – $1,800,000 |
| Minimum Liquid Capital Required | $500,000+ |
| Leasehold Improvements & Construction | $600,000 – $1,000,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $250,000 – $350,000 |
| Initial Marketing & Grand Opening | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Technology, POS & Systems | $20,000 – $35,000 |
| Training Expenses (Travel & Lodging) | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Opening Inventory & Supplies | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Brand / Marketing Fund Contribution | 2% – 3% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 24 – 36 Months |
| Potential Annual Revenue (Mature Unit)* | $1.8M – $3.0M+ |