Benihana Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Benihana, founded in 1964 by Hiroaki “Rocky” Aoki, brought the tradition of teppanyaki cooking to the United States with its first restaurant in New York City. The brand’s main office is now based in Aventura, Florida.
To expand its unique dining concept, Benihana began offering franchise opportunities, allowing the brand to reach a variety of domestic and international markets.
Specializing in Japanese teppanyaki cuisine, Benihana showcases the skill of chefs who cook meals directly on steel grills at the guests’ tables.
The restaurant’s menu includes a wide selection of steak, chicken, seafood, and fresh vegetables, all prepared using traditional Japanese techniques. This combination of interactive cooking and entertainment sets Benihana apart from its competitors, providing diners with a memorable experience that merges culinary expertise and performance.
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Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Benihana franchise? It costs on average between $616,000 – $6,250,000 to start a Benihana franchised restaurant.
This encompasses costs for restaurant construction, kitchen equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The total investment required can vary based on factors such as the specific Benihana location, the market, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or purchase the property. Benihana offers 2 types of franchises:
| Model | Initial Investment |
|---|---|
| Full-sized BENIHANA Restaurant | $3,405,200 to $6,250,000 |
| Concession Model BENIHANA Restaurant | $616,000 to $1,090,000 |
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a Full-sized BENIHANA Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses while Training | $25,000 to $100,000 |
| Real Estate Improvements (Excluding Purchase Real Estate) | $2,500,000 to $4,500,000 |
| Equipment, Furniture & Fixtures | $500,000 to $700,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $40,000 to $60,000 |
| Liquor License | $200 to $300,000 |
| Insurance | $50,000 |
| Additional Funds | $250,000 to $500,000 |
| TOTAL MINIMUM | $3,405,200 to $6,250,000 |
Competitors
Below are a few Benihana competitors as a comparison:
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We have compiled the list of the top 400 franchises across 9 industries. Download the report below.
Benihana Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Benihana locations are there?
As of the latest data, Benihana operates a total of 77 units, with 8 of them being franchised and 69 being company-owned.
What is the total investment required to open a Benihana franchise?
The total investment required to open a Benihana franchise ranges from $616,000 to $6,250,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Benihana franchise?
Benihana franchisees are required to pay a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales, while the marketing/advertising fee is 1% of gross sales. These fees contribute to the support of brand marketing and advertising expenses. It’s important to note that these fees are due regardless of the franchise’s profitability.
What are the financial requirements to become a Benihana franchisee?
To become a Benihana franchisee, candidates are generally required to have a minimum net worth of $5 million and liquid assets of at least $2.2 million. The initial franchise fee is $40,000, with ongoing royalty fees set at 5% of gross sales. Additionally, franchisees contribute 1% of gross sales toward marketing and advertising efforts.
Who owns Benihana?
The Benihana franchise is owned by One Group Hospitality Inc., a Denver-based company known for upscale dining experiences. In February 2024, One Group acquired Safflower Holdings Corp., the parent company of Benihana, in a transaction valued at $365 million.
Disclaimer
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