Established
2013
Franchise Units
2
Minimum Investment
$250,000
Franchise Fee
$35,000
Total Investment Range
$600,000
Home Based
No
Description
In a sea of repetitive sub shops and predictable salad bars, Wolfnights stands out as a predator. Founded on the bustling streets of Manhattan, Wolfnights was born from a simple but ambitious goal: to create the "Ideal Bite." This isn't just marketing speak; it’s a culinary philosophy ensuring every mouthful contains a perfect balance of salty, sweet, sour, crunchy, and chewy elements.
Wolfnights has carved out a unique niche in the $50 billion+ fast-casual industry by blending Mediterranean and New American flavors into overfilled, gourmet wraps. What truly sets the brand apart is the IronWolf—a massive, flaming iron dome where proprietary dough is pressed and grilled right in front of the customer. It’s dinner and a show, resulting in a wrap that is fresh, hot, and impossible to replicate at home.
Positioned as a "cult-favorite" brand with a youthful, urban aesthetic, Wolfnights appeals to Gen Z and Millennials who crave Instagrammable, high-quality, and health-conscious meals. Whether it's the ginger-infused dough or the spicy pickled pineapple, the brand offers a flavor profile that keeps customers coming back, earning it the title of "Best Wrap in NYC" by major reviewers for over a decade.
Why Invest in this Franchise?
Investing in Wolfnights isn't just about buying into a restaurant; it’s about securing a territory with a brand that has already mastered the "cool factor" and the "bottom line."
Exceptional Unit Economics: With a focus on high-margin ingredients and efficient prep, Wolfnights offers one of the most competitive cost structures in the QSR space.
Low Labor Dependency: The kitchen is designed for maximum efficiency. The chef-driven menu is executed through a systemized process that doesn't require high-priced executive chefs on-site.
Small Footprint, High Output: Wolfnights models are optimized for high-traffic urban and suburban locations, often operating successfully in compact spaces ranging from 500 to 1,500 square feet.
Multi-Channel Revenue: The brand is built for the modern era, with robust systems for dine-in, third-party delivery, and a rapidly growing catering arm.
Background
- Established Year: 2013
- Founder: Itai Afek
- Brand Journey: The journey began when Itai Afek noticed a glaring gap in the late-night NYC food scene: there was plenty of food, but very little great food available on the go. He spent years perfecting proprietary dough recipes and spice blends to ensure the brand could scale without losing its gourmet soul.
- Market Presence: Starting with its flagship on the Lower East Side, the brand has expanded across Manhattan and is now targeting aggressive growth across the USA.
- Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Gourmet QSR (Quick Service Restaurant).
- Franchise Active Units : 2
Support Training
Wolfnights treats its franchisees as "part of the pack." You aren't just given a manual; you're given a roadmap to success.
Pre-Launch Support: Expert guidance in identifying high-visibility "A-tier" locations, navigating lease negotiations, and managing the construction process with 3D prototype designs.
Comprehensive Training: A multi-week program combining classroom instruction and hands-on kitchen experience at a flagship location. This includes specialized training on the proprietary IronWolf grilling techniques.
Marketing Engine: A full suite of digital marketing tools, social media templates, SEO support, and a loyalty app designed to drive repeat business.
Operational Support: Ongoing field visits, supply chain access to proprietary spice packs and dough, and regular performance audits to ensure the "Ideal Bite" standard is met.
Ideal Candidate
Wolfnights is looking for "Alpha" operators—entrepreneurs who are hungry for growth and passionate about food quality.
The Multi-Unit Developer: Investors ready to develop a minimum 3-to-5-unit territory in major U.S. markets.
Business Background: While restaurant experience is a plus, a strong background in business management, operations, and "people leadership" is essential.
Passion & Culture: Individuals who will engage with their local market and uphold the brand’s high standards of respect for ingredients and customer experience.
Location Preference: Prime interest in high-density urban areas, university towns, and busy suburban lifestyle centers.
Financial Detail
| Investment Category | Estimated Cost / Detail |
| Total Investment Required | $250,000 – $600,000 (Varies by location/size) |
| Minimum Cash Required | $150,000 |
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 – $40,000 |
| Royalty Fees | 6% of Gross Sales |
| Marketing Budget | 2% of Gross Sales |
| Expected ROI | High potential based on low labor and food costs |
| Break-Even Time | Typically 18–24 months for well-managed units |
| Revenue Streams | Dine-in, Take-out, Third-party Delivery, and Corporate Catering |
