Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant is a fast-service franchise brand that focuses on serving traditional Jamaican and broader Caribbean dishes. The concept was launched in 1989 by the Hawthorne family, who opened their first combined bakery and eatery in the Bronx, New York.
The company remains based in the Bronx and expanded into franchising in 1996. Since then, Golden Krust has developed into the largest Caribbean-themed restaurant franchise across North America.
The brand is widely recognized for its signature Jamaican patties, along with jerk chicken, curries, pastries, and other classic Caribbean meals.
Golden Krust also operates its own production facility, where it manufactures millions of patties every week for both franchise locations and retail distribution. This integrated supply chain allows the brand to maintain consistent quality and flavor across all stores.
Golden Krust stands out in the quick-service and fast-casual market by offering a distinct Caribbean menu that blends authentic island taste with streamlined, modern restaurant operations.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise? It costs on average between $213,000 – $776,000 to start a Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchised restaurant.
This investment covers expenses such as build-out, kitchen equipment, fixtures, initial inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount varies based on several factors, including the restaurant format, the market where the location will operate, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the space.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $81,000 – $407,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment | $48,000 – $98,000 |
| POS – Computer Hardware & Implementation | $2,700 – $3,900 |
| Signage | $4,400 – $16,000 |
| First Month’s Rent | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Security Deposit | $0 – $45,000 |
| Opening Inventory and Supplies | $10,000 – $18,000 |
| Grand Opening Advertising | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Training Expenses | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Miscellaneous Opening Costs | $8,000 – $18,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $10,000 – $100,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $212,600 – $775,900 |
Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant locations are there?
As of the recent data, Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant operates 103 locations across the United States.
What is the total investment required to open a Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise?
The total investment required to open a Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise ranges from $213,000 to $776,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise?
A Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise pays a royalty fee of 5% of gross sales and contributes 3% of gross sales to the marketing fund. These ongoing fees support system operations and brand-wide advertising.
Who owns Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant?
Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant franchise is owned by the Hawthorne family, who founded the brand and continue to operate the company through Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery & Grill.
Disclaimer
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