Anchor Bar Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Anchor Bar is an iconic U.S. restaurant franchise celebrated as the birthplace of the Buffalo wing. The brand’s roots go back to 1935, when Frank and Teressa Bellissimo opened their restaurant in Buffalo, New York. In 1964, Teressa famously prepared the first batch of spicy chicken wings for her son’s friends — a simple creation that would become a culinary legend.
This dish’s popularity quickly spread, earning Anchor Bar a lasting reputation as the original source of Buffalo wings. The company began franchising in 2011 through Anchor Bar Franchise & Development, LLC, and its headquarters remain at 651 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo, New York.
Today, Anchor Bar serves more than just wings, offering a diverse menu that includes pizzas, burgers, salads, and regional specialties like beef on weck. With a warm, family-friendly setting combined with the lively feel of a sports bar, the brand leverages its historic status to stand out in the competitive casual dining market.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Anchor Bar franchise? It costs on average between $908,000 – $1,315,000 to start a Anchor Bar franchised restaurant.
This encompasses expenses for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating costs. The total investment can vary based on several elements, such as the restaurant format selected, the specific location, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $60,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses While Training | $4,000 – $8,000 |
| Lease, Utility & Security Deposits | $10,000 – $40,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements & Décor | $400,000 – $600,000 |
| Design and Architectural Fees | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| POS System | $25,000 – $40,000 |
| Kitchen Equipment | $110,000 – $130,000 |
| Tableware, Glassware & Flatware | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Office Equipment | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Business Licenses & Permits | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Signage | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Furniture & Fixtures | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Audiovisual Services & Equipment | $80,000 – $110,000 |
| Professional Fees | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Initial Advertising | $5,000 – $15,000 |
| Insurance | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 Months | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Total | $908,000 – $1,315,000 |
Average Revenue (AUV)
How much revenue can you make with a Anchor Bar franchise? A Anchor Bar franchised restaurant makes on average $2,193,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.
Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Anchor Bar locations are there?
As of the latest data, Anchor Bar operates 17 locations in total, with 16 being franchise-owned and 1 company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Anchor Bar franchise?
The total investment required to open a Anchor Bar franchise ranges from $908,000 to $1,315,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Anchor Bar franchise?
Anchor Bar franchisees pay 5% of sales in royalties, plus 1% of sales toward marketing and advertising efforts.
What are the financial requirements to become a Anchor Bar franchisee?
To qualify as an Anchor Bar franchisee, you typically need around $350,000 in liquid capital on hand. The required net worth appears to range from $350,000 to $750,000, depending on the source consulted.
How much can a Anchor Bar franchise owner expect to earn?
The average gross sales for a Anchor Bar franchise are approximately $2.19 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $2.19 million yearly revenue can result in $329,000 EBITDA annually.
Who owns Anchor Bar?
The Anchor Bar franchise is owned by the Anchor Bar Franchise & Development Company, led by President and CEO Mark Dempsey.
Disclaimer
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