BUTTERMILK CAFÉ Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Buttermilk Café is a breakfast and lunch franchise that combines a lively dining atmosphere with hearty, flavor-packed meals. The concept first launched in 2014 in Geneva, Illinois, and has since grown into a popular spot throughout the Chicagoland suburbs, with locations in Naperville, Vernon Hills, and Downers Grove.
To support its expansion, Buttermilk Franchise Group, Inc. was created in 2023, operating from its headquarters at 65 North River Lane, Suite 201, Geneva, Illinois 60134. This marked a new chapter for the brand as it formally entered the franchising space.
The menu highlights a wide variety of breakfast favorites—ranging from pancakes, omelets, and French toast to their signature, house-made biscuits. For lunch, guests can enjoy freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, and burgers designed to appeal to different tastes.
What makes Buttermilk Café stand out is its focus on generous portions, fresh ingredients, and a vibrant dining experience, giving it a strong position in the competitive daytime dining segment.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a BUTTERMILK CAFÉ franchise? It costs on average between $1,237,000 – $1,673,000 to start a BUTTERMILK CAFÉ franchised restaurant.
This covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, furniture, signage, initial inventory, and opening working capital. The overall cost will vary based on several factors, including the specific site selected, local market conditions, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or purchase the property.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Initial Training Fee | $45,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses and Employee Wages During Training | $25,000 to $40,000 |
| Initial Inventory | $15,000 to $30,000 |
| Lease Security Deposit and Utility Deposits | $25,000 to $50,000 |
| Rent (Initial 3 months) | $48,000 to $60,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $315,000 to $412,500 |
| POS/Back Office System | $15,000 to $20,000 |
| Kitchen/Prep Equipment | $350,000 to $450,000 |
| Furniture & Fixtures | $250,000 to $300,000 |
| Signage (Interior and Exterior) | $15,000 to $56,000 |
| Business Licenses & Permits | $3,500 to $7,000 |
| Design and Architect Fees | $55,000 to $85,000 |
| Professional Fees | $2,500 to $10,000 |
| Business Insurance | $3,000 to $12,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $15,000 to $30,000 |
| Additional Funds for First 3 Months | $15,000 to $25,000 |
| TOTAL | $1,237,000 to $1,672,500 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many BUTTERMILK CAFÉ locations are there?
As of the latest data, Buttermilk Café has four company-owned locations, with no franchise-owned units currently open.
What is the total investment required to open a BUTTERMILK CAFÉ franchise?
The total investment required to open a BUTTERMILK CAFÉ franchise ranges from $1,273,000 to $1,673,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a BUTTERMILK CAFÉ franchise?
A Buttermilk Café franchise requires a 5% royalty fee on gross sales and a 2% marketing and advertising fee on gross sales, both paid on an ongoing basis.
Who owns BUTTERMILK CAFÉ?
The Buttermilk Café franchise is owned by Buttermilk Franchise Group, Inc., a company established in 2023 to oversee the brand’s franchising operations.
Disclaimer
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