Pack the kiddies into the SUV, text your significant other that it’s date night, or invite the team out for a post-game bite—it’s time to discover some of the best and brightest full-service restaurants across Canada!
From brewpubs that specialize in trendy cocktails to diners with menus brimming with kid-friendly fare, these brands are answering the call of hungry patrons looking for a relaxing night—or morning, or afternoon—out. And when you’re through, visit LookforaFranchise.ca to discover many other foodservice franchise options with a diverse range of concepts that are searching for their next franchise partner.
3 Brasseurs
For nearly 40 years, the 3 Brasseurs brand has brought the character, charm, and delicacies of northern France to the world. Now the bistro has more than 80 franchise units across the globe, including three in Canada, and is looking to expand into additional markets.
With a focus on providing perfect pairings of craft beer and traditionally inspired pub classics, and with three different restaurant models to choose from for a variety of investment capacities, 3 Brasseurs is an attractive option for those looking to invest in a unique foodservice concept that is already beloved worldwide.
Bàcaro Pizzeria
This neighbourhood restaurant brings the atmosphere and flavours of Venice, Italy, to communities across Canada. Wood-fired pizza and elevated Italian specialties, plus an international selection of wines and beers, make Bàcaro Pizzeria’s menu stand out in a crowded sector.
Bàcaro has a range of investment options for one of three franchise models: retrofit locations, existing locations, and new buildouts. The company is looking to make its presence felt through franchises in suburban or urban areas with a minimum population of 50,000, often in malls, entertainment centres, power centres, and streetfront locations. Location owners can also benefit from its national advertising fund, which amounts to two per cent of gross sales, and a robust community of committed franchisees.
Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery
A microbrewery with a macro-sized attitude, Big Rig Kitchen & Brewery serves up its signature “good beer, good friends, good food” mantra as it continues to expand in the Canadian full-service restaurant market.
Those interested in purchasing a Big Rig location should know that the brand favours areas with a minimum population of 75,000, and locations must have high visibility with enough space for a patio. Urban, suburban, and downtown locations are the perfect places to deliver their unique approach to high-quality brews and bites, and franchisees with unencumbered cash in the range of $575,000 to $625,000 would fit well in the Big Rig community.
Boston Pizza International Inc.
A well-known brand in the Canadian restaurant landscape, Boston Pizza celebrated the 60-year anniversary of the opening of its first location in Edmonton, Alberta, this year. Recognized as a platinum member of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies, selected by Deloitte, this family-friendly restaurant and sport bar under one roof offers its franchisees just as much as it offers its devoted customer base.
Franchisees pay a one-time franchise fee of $60,000, royalty contributions of seven per cent, and a national marketing co-op of three per cent. What sets Boston Pizza apart from other franchisors in the sector is that it collects no fees on alcohol sales, leaving more profit in their location owners’ pockets.
The brand has opportunities in three formats—new construction, restaurant conversions, and non-traditional restaurant opportunities—in many Canadian major markets, and with more than 370 locations within the country, new franchisees will be in good company.
Café 22
Since its launch in 1999 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Café 22 has been bringing its signature take on stone-fired pizza, beers, and wine to the city’s refined diners. A different approach to standard pizzeria fare, its two locations feature an extensive wine menu, served by the glass or bottle, and customers can even pay a small service fee to have their favourite Jones & Company wine ready at their table when they arrive.
The brand is currently seeking franchisees across North America to bring its unique bistro take on Italian staples to the masses.
Carlos & Pepe’s
From its vibrant décor to a menu featuring Mexican-inspired cocktails and other delights, Montreal’s Carlos & Pepe’s puts staying true to its roots at the forefront of its strategy, as it has since its founding 40 years ago.
For those looking to bring the flavours of Mexico (by way of Montreal) to their communities, locations are currently available in Canada as new builds or retrofit units in trade areas with a minimum population of 50,000. Restaurants have a projected cost of $1.2 million to $1.4 million, including a one-time franchise fee of $40,000. When you join the Carlos & Pepe’s team, as the brand says, “the south of the border has never been so close!”
Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill
One for the road? More like one for the roadhouse! With a look and feel that pays homage to traditional roadhouses, Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar & Grill continues to serve guests with the mantra of offering the best quality food for the best price possible.
As a Chuck’s Roadhouse franchisee, you will have exclusive access to food and beverage suppliers, equipment procurement, printing, and more, thanks to the company’s long-standing relationships with vendors. Franchisees are subject to a low 3.75 per cent royalty fee, and hands-on support is available through its head office, which leverages 28-plus years of experience in the foodservice and hospitality industry. Its marketing team also promotes the brand at a national level, providing brand recognition and exposure, and helps to maximize growth.
Copper Branch
Copper Branch’s unique 100-per-cent plant-based menu offers diners ample options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and appeals to customers who have sensitivities, allergies, or other food concerns. For prospective owners, their organic, gluten-free, and locally sourced ingredients attract a clientele interested in their health without sacrificing taste. Plus, as the system requires no grilling or frying, it takes only two to three weeks to train franchisees on how to operate their location.
A part of the Foodtastic family of brands, Copper Branch provides its franchisees with access to plant-based specialists in the foodservice industry and comprehensive training, as well as competitive fees, to set them on the right foot. Entrepreneurs searching for a forward-thinking concept that stands out would be a perfect fit for franchise ownership.
Coyote Ugly Saloon
There are no holds barred at this bar! If you’re familiar with the 2000 movie Coyote Ugly or The Ultimate Coyote Ugly Search reality TV series, then you have an idea what Coyote Ugly Saloon has to offer. Launched in 1992 by then 24-year-old Liliana “Lil” Lovell, the risqué bar concept has more than 20 locations worldwide and a cult following.
Franchisees benefit from the brand’s worldwide recognition as well as an international franchise program for selected candidates outside the U.S. that combines support with fun. While the total investment varies from $500,000 to $1,000,000 USD, the company has several non-negotiables for its location owners, including strong financial backing, ties to the community in which the restaurant will open, and a commitment to excellent customer experience. Experience in hospitality and business ownership isn’t a necessity but is strongly preferred.
Crabby Joe’s Bar∙Grill
At Crabby Joe’s, staff abide by the brand’s motto of “Cheers to a mediocre day!” In stark contrast to its humourously sour vibe, this casual dine-in restaurant prides itself on high-quality food delivered at a great value.
The brand has expanded to 16 locations in Ontario, with the goal of expanding to the rest of Canada and beyond. Both its individual locations and company headquarters contribute to local and regional charity and community initiatives, including sports teams. Franchisees are required to have $650,000 to $850,000 in investment available, plus a $35,000 franchise fee.
Eggsmart
Since 2008, Eggsmart has been living up to its promise of serving great casual breakfasts with quality and value in mind, and a sunny aesthetic that goes over easy. Now with an expanded menu that includes lunchtime favourites, and with over 45 locations in Canada, Eggsmart franchisees are banking on the booming breakfast and brunch trend.
The company assists franchisees in many aspects of their business, including site selection and lease negotiation, sourcing ingredients and equipment, research and development, marketing, and more. While the cost of a location may vary, the total cost of opening an Eggsmart location is around $573,000, plus weekly three-per-cent advertising and five-per-cent royalty fees.
Enoteca Monza Pizzeria Moderna
Traditional Italian culture emphasizes that food, family, and good wine are at the heart of a satisfying life, and that belief flows into every plate and glass served at Enoteca Monza. Hinging its menu on simplicity, authenticity, and integrity, Enoteca has found a fanbase with its family recipes that were passed down from generation to generation.
The brand is searching for franchisees to take its name across Canada, focusing on urban, suburban, and downtown locations. Serious candidates can expect to invest $1,600,000 to $2,200,000 into opening a location, plus ongoing five-per-cent royalty, two-per-cent national advertising, and one-per-cent local advertising fees.
Famoso Italian Pizzeria
At the heart of Famoso’s quick-casual dining experience is a passion for authentic ingredients and traditional pizza-making techniques. This full-service pizzeria, with an open-concept kitchen and relaxing atmosphere, serves up beloved favourites such as Neapolitan pizzas, Italian tapas, pastas, and sandwiches. The franchise system abides by the belief that the key to success is a strong commitment to excellent service and delicious food. Additionally, Famoso provides comprehensive training and operational support for the kitchen that is defining what a neighbourhood pizzeria should be.
Humpty’s Big Plate Diner
No matter the meal, or what its customers are craving, Humpty’s Big Plate Diner can answer the call with its varied menu of homestyle classic fare. Serving up guest favourites such as its famous pan scramblers, hearty big plate breakfasts, fresh burgers, and homestyle dinners, there’s something for every member of the family, from the kids to their grandparents.
Entrepreneurial-minded franchisees who are looking for a family restaurant with a retro diner feel will find Humpty’s is a good choice to share their passion for providing good homestyle food and delivering family-friendly hospitality.
Jacques Cartier Pizza
With 14 restaurants within the South Shore neighbourhood of Montreal, and with a menu highlighting local ingredients, Jacques Cartier Pizza marries the culinary traditions of Italy with the brand’s francophone roots, to the delight of its customers.
Owning a Jacques Cartier franchise location means receiving support in all aspects of business ownership, from design and construction expertise when preparing the site to proven market strategies that will elevate your restaurant’s presence within the local market. Ongoing operational advice ensures that franchisees are always on the right path to success.
L’Gros Luxe
A unique offering in the full-service restaurant space, L’Gros Luxe was founded on the principle that each location should adapt to the needs and wants of the community in which it lives. Add to that its commitment to eco-conscious approaches, brand recognition strengthened by a merchandise line and an upcoming in-store product line, and a varied, economical menu that includes plenty of vegetarian options, and you have a concept that founder Alex Bastide has spent more than a decade perfecting.
As a Foodtastic brand, L’Gros Luxe franchisees receive the same consistent, high-quality support that it applies to the other chains under its banner, including local and national marketing campaigns and support at all levels of business operations. L’Gros is looking to bring its friendly service and delicious food to urban, suburban, and downtown locations in shopping malls and other areas are available across Canada.
La Belle & La Boeuf
La Belle & La Boeuf (“Beauty and the Beef” in English) is a burger bar that takes its food and fun seriously by bringing mixology and tabletop gaming into its dining rooms. Its eye-catching ‘70s-inspired décor will appeal to burger lovers of all ages, and its recipe uses 100-per-cent Certified Angus Beef for an authentic, fresh flavour that foodies crave.
This “anarchist sports bar concept” has opportunities for interested investors across North America, preferring locations with high visibility and a trade population of at least 75,000. Parent company Foodtastic can help selected franchisees with determining the best location and provides ongoing support from set-up to launch and beyond.
La Chambre
La Chambre is a sports-driven bistro concept that welcomes fans of all sports, leagues, and teams to dine on traditional fare that’s perfect for enjoying while watching the game. La Chambre brings the post-game locker room vibes to an inviting restaurant space. Customers can pair wings, nachos, poutines, ribs, and more with La Chambre’s lineup of in-house and locally brewed beers for a game-time meal truly worth celebrating.
With a projected cost of $800,000 to $1,000,000, and a national and local advertising fund into which franchisees pay, owning a La Chambre location means being a part of the larger Foodtastic family. The brand is looking to expand across North America, with a preference for locations in urban, downtown, and suburban areas that have space for a patio.
Mandarin
An award-winning concept with a name recognized across Ontario, Mandarin offers Chinese and Canadian food in an all-you-can-eat buffet format as well as takeout and delivery options. Popular for birthday and anniversary celebrations, and with a catchy jingle that is the epitome of an earworm, its busy locations speak to the strength of the brand.
Franchise locations are currently available within the province. Shortlisted applicants must attend a training program at the company’s Brampton, Ontario, headquarters; franchisees are selected from this pool of talent following completion of the sessions. Franchisees can take advantage of the range of food on offer including traditional Chinese, soup or salads, grilled entrees, and desserts to satisfy several tastes at once.
Milestones Grill + Bar
Date night and Milestones Grill + Bar have become synonymous in the Canadian restaurant landscape, and with good reason: its casual-meets-fine-dining approach and focus on familiar foods with a refined twist have been bringing couples into its locations for more than 30 years. Recognized for its brunch and cocktail options, Milestones offers a balance of quality and comfort that is beloved by return patrons.
Franchisees benefit from the strong branding and fan-favourite menu that Milestones offers. For entrepreneurs with unencumbered cash of $800,000 to $900,000 who are looking for an opportunity to join a company with proverbial legs, Milestones may be the perfect fit.
Nickels Delicatessen
Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner since 1990, Nickels Delicatessen has a rich history backed by the star power of none other than Canadian royalty Celine Dion. Named after Celine’s lucky number (five, hence the nickel reference), she and her husband René were original investors in the brand, and though no longer involved she is still represented in the restaurant’s dessert menu with its Celine chocolate cake.
As it looks to expand further across the country, Nickels is interested in partnering with enthusiastic franchise owners in urban and suburban areas, with locations clocking in at 3,500 to 4,500 square feet or more plus patio.
Pacini
It’s been more than 40 years since Pacini introduced its signature take on Italian cuisine to Quebec. Unique menu items, such as its exclusive Bar à Pain (bread bar), and its curated wine list are just a small part of the brand’s standout offerings. The brand also offers a specialized menu that varies by region and features gluten-free options. Now, with 25 locations in Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, the company is eyeing other provinces in which to open its future restaurants, with the help of its enthusiastic and devoted franchisees.
With several franchise models, including locations in hotels and those converted from former restaurants or tourism businesses, there are many attractive options for would-be franchisees. Pacini’s Recognition Plan also helps in employee retention, and its constantly updated menu keeps customers coming back for more.
Ricky’s All Day Grill
Ricky’s All Day Grill has been a beloved destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for over 50 years. Located across British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, Ricky’s serves up diner favourites that have delighted generations of Canadians. Whether you are craving a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or comforting dinner, Ricky’s is the place to be.
Ricky’s All Day Grill excels with a customer-focused culture that is evident on every level of the brand and company. Offering competitive start-up costs and a national network of supportive, like-minded franchisees, Ricky’s is an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to partner with a known brand that has staying power. The company is dedicated to continually improving its menu offerings through ongoing research and cost monitoring, which means that each location evolves alongside the tastes of its customer base.
Shoeless Joe’s
Shoeless Joe’s is a sports grill that prides itself on standing out from the crowd. With the goal of creating the “ultimate fan experience,” the restaurant concept has been serving up wings, burgers, beers, and cocktails to its own fans for nearly 40 years.
There’s ample opportunity for interested investors looking to purchase a Shoeless Joe’s location, including new builds and retrofits. Selected sites must have high-volume traffic and ample parking, with favour being given to locations in shopping or entertainment centres, free-standing buildings in power centres, and streetfront locales.
Sunset Grill
More than 100 Sunset Grill locations across Canada means that the brand is well recognized in almost every market, with fans of its breakfast and lunch offerings returning time and time again, due to its consistent high quality.
Limited dayparts mean franchisees can enjoy good work-life balance and benefit from high profit margins of up to 20 per cent on all net sales. The brand provides support in the form of comprehensive training, and franchisees report low staff turnover alongside streamlined operations that allow them to focus on what they do best: providing their guests with delicious meals.
Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge
With upscale décor and a menu featuring classic dishes and signature cocktails, Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge has been dazzling diners since 1996. Whether customers are looking for a casual brunch or a celebratory dinner, Symposium delivers what they are craving.
The brand has been recognized with the CFA’s Franchisees’ Choice Designation 14 years in a row, which acknowledges outstanding franchisor-franchisee relationships. Numerous franchise opportunities are available within Ontario for investors who want to bring fresh, quality meals to customers in a well-designed restaurant concept.
White Spot Restaurants
British Columbia-based White Spot has been on the scene for almost 100 years, delighting guests with classic menu items and seasonal recipes that satisfy every member of the family. Its burgers have garnered a loyal fanbase, thanks much in part to its “secret” Triple “O” Sauce and use of quality ingredients.
Named one of Canada’s best managed companies, White Spot is proud to partner with passionate franchisees who care about great hospitality and great-tasting food. For those with the necessary business acumen and financial resources, the company provides nearly a century of insights and guidance into service excellence, kitchen labour efficiencies, supply management, state-of-the-art training programs, and much more.
Full-Service Stats
Curious to learn more about this popular franchise category? You’ve come to the right place!
In Ontario alone, full-service restaurants are expected to grow to an annualized $20 billion in revenue by 2024. At a national level, they are positioned to surpass $46 billion in revenue.
Across Canada, there are nearly 79,000 full-service restaurants, employing more than 600,000 people.
A 2022 public opinion survey showed that 74 per cent of Canadian consumers have a positive view of foodservice workers—that’s the highest of any of the country’s private-sector industries!
The largest segment of this category is Asian restaurants, followed by those that serve pizza.