South Philly Steaks and Fries Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

South Philly Steaks & Fries is a quick-service franchise specializing in the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak and hand-cut fries. The brand traces its roots back to 1975 and entered the franchising market in 2003. It is part of Villa Restaurant Group, a family-founded company established in 1964 by Michele Scotto, which oversees a diverse portfolio of restaurant concepts.

The brand’s headquarters are in Morristown, New Jersey. Its menu showcases a variety of hearty options including traditional and chicken cheesesteaks, deli subs, loaded baked potatoes, and fresh salads. Every item is prepared with quality ingredients to capture the authentic flavors of South Philadelphia.

What makes South Philly Steaks & Fries stand out is its focus on genuine taste and a classic food experience presented in a modern fast-casual setting. The franchise combines the spirit of Philly street food with today’s dining expectations, attracting both loyal cheesesteak enthusiasts and newcomers in search of bold, satisfying meals.

Initial Investment

How much does it cost to start a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise? It costs on average between $321,000 – $607,000 to start a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchised restaurant.

This investment covers expenses such as construction, kitchen equipment, initial food inventory, and early operating costs. The total required amount can vary based on several factors, including the restaurant format, the chosen location, and whether the franchisee decides to lease or buy the property.

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Franchise Fee$25,000 – $35,000
Equipment and Furnishings$100,000 – $130,000
Signs$9,000 – $15,000
Real EstateAs required
Building Construction$125,000 – $300,000
Insurance$3,000 – $6,000
Opening Inventory$5,000 – $10,000
Utility Deposits$2,000
Business Licenses$1,000 – $4,000
Travel, Lodging and Meals$3,000 – $5,000
Grand Opening AdvertisingAs required
Professional Fees$10,000 – $25,000
Additional Funds (3 months)$25,000 – $50,000
Computer Equipment$10,000 – $20,000
Advertising and Marketing$3,000 – $5,000
TOTAL$321,000 – $607,000

Average Revenue (AUV)

How much revenue can you make with a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise? A South Philly Steaks and Fries franchised restaurant makes on average $1,183,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many South Philly Steaks and Fries locations are there?

As of the most recent data, South Philly Steaks & Fries operates a total of 20 locations. Out of these, 15 are franchise-owned and 5 are company-owned.

What is the total investment required to open a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise?

The total investment required to open a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise ranges from $321,000 to $607,000.

What are the ongoing fees for a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise?

A South Philly Steaks & Fries franchise has an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of gross sales and a marketing and advertising fee of 1% of gross sales.

What are the financial requirements to become a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchisee?

Prospective franchisees of South Philly Steaks & Fries must meet the following financial requirements: a minimum net worth of $300,000 and at least $75,000 in liquid assets.

How much can a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise owner expect to earn?

The average gross sales for a South Philly Steaks and Fries franchise are approximately $1.18 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $1.18 million yearly revenue can result in $177,000 EBITDA annually.

Who owns South Philly Steaks and Fries?

South Philly Steaks & Fries” franchise is owned by Villa Restaurant Group, a multi-brand restaurant operator and franchisor founded in 1964 by Michele Scotto and headquartered in Morristown, New Jersey.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.

All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

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