Established
2003
Franchise Units
8
Minimum Investment
$400,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$750,000
Home Based
No
Description
Tin Drum Asian Kitchen is a bold, fast-casual Asian concept that brings together the vibrant street flavors of China, Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, and India—under one modern, approachable brand. Designed for today’s consumer who craves variety, freshness, and speed, the brand has carved out a unique niche in the competitive U.S. fast-casual dining space.
Unlike traditional single-cuisine Asian restaurants, Tin Drum Asian Kitchen offers a Pan-Asian menu built around customizable bowls, wok-fired specialties, signature sauces, and globally inspired ingredients. Guests can enjoy everything from Pad Thai and Korean BBQ to General Tso’s Chicken and Vietnamese-inspired dishes—all in a contemporary, energetic environment that appeals to students, professionals, and families alike.
With a streamlined operational model, strong brand identity, and flexible footprints suitable for urban, suburban, and university-driven markets, Tin Drum Asian Kitchen represents an attractive opportunity for entrepreneurs seeking a scalable restaurant franchise in the growing Asian fast-casual segment.
Background
Established Year: 2003
-
Founder: Steven Chan
-
Industry Category: Fast-Casual Asian Restaurant Franchise
-
Headquarters: United States
-
Franchise Active Units: Approximately 10+ locations across the USA
Tin Drum Asian Kitchen was founded in 2003 by Steven Chan, who envisioned bringing authentic Asian street food flavors to a modern American audience. The concept launched in Atlanta, Georgia, and quickly gained popularity among university students and young professionals seeking flavorful, affordable, and customizable Asian meals.
Over the years, the brand refined its operational systems, menu innovation, and franchise model. The company positioned itself in high-density retail and campus-oriented markets where demand for quick, high-quality meals is strong.
Support Training
Tin Drum Asian Kitchen offers structured franchise support designed to help franchisees launch and scale successfully.
Pre-Launch Support
-
Site selection assistance and demographic analysis
-
Lease negotiation guidance
-
Store layout and design consultation
-
Equipment procurement support
-
Vendor sourcing and supply chain setup
-
Pre-opening marketing strategy development
Initial Training Program
-
Comprehensive classroom and in-store operational training
-
Food preparation and quality control systems
-
Inventory and cost management training
-
POS and technology system training
-
Hiring and staff training guidelines
Operational Support
-
Ongoing field support visits
-
Operations manual and SOP updates
-
Menu innovation and seasonal promotions
-
Food cost optimization strategies
-
Performance benchmarking
Marketing Support
-
Brand-level marketing campaigns
-
Social media templates and creative assets
-
Local store marketing playbooks
-
Grand opening marketing strategy
-
Digital advertising guidance
Ongoing Business Coaching
-
KPI tracking and performance reviews
-
Multi-unit growth planning
-
Operational audits and improvement plans
Ideal Candidate
Tin Drum Asian Kitchen is ideal for:
1. Multi-Unit Restaurant Operators
Experienced operators looking to diversify into Asian fast-casual concepts with proven menu demand.
2. Owner-Operators
Hands-on entrepreneurs willing to manage day-to-day operations and build strong local community presence.
3. Hospitality or Retail Professionals
Individuals with management or operations experience who understand customer service excellence.
4. Investors with Growth Vision
Entrepreneurs seeking scalable restaurant concepts with multi-unit expansion potential.
Key Qualities
-
Strong leadership and team management skills
-
Customer-focused mindset
-
Financial capacity to meet investment requirements
-
Passion for food and hospitality
-
Willingness to follow proven systems
Preferred markets include high-density suburban trade areas, college towns, mixed-use developments, and urban retail corridors across the United States.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Total Estimated Investment | $400,000 – $750,000 |
| Minimum Investment Required | ~$400,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $150,000 – $300,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E) | $75,000 – $150,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment & Wok Systems | $80,000 – $140,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing Budget | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Working Capital (3–6 Months) | $50,000 – $100,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 5% – 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing/Brand Fund Contribution | 1% – 2% of Gross Sales |
| Estimated Break-Even Period | 12 – 24 Months (Location Dependent) |
| Potential Annual Revenue Range | Varies by Market & Traffic |
