Starbird Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)
Starbird is a modern fast-casual restaurant concept built around elevated crispy chicken and a variety of contemporary menu offerings. The concept was created in 2016 by The Culinary Edge—an innovation-focused food and beverage agency founded by Aaron Noveshen.
The first Starbird restaurant opened in Sunnyvale, California, introducing a fresh take on fried chicken with an emphasis on flavor, quality, and consistency. The brand operates from the San Francisco Bay Area, where it continues to refine both its culinary approach and its operational systems.
Starbird entered the franchising market in 2022. Its menu features hand-breaded chicken that is never frozen and free of antibiotics and hormones, served across sandwiches, salads, tacos, tenders, and side dishes.
What sets Starbird apart is its positioning as a “super-premium fast food” brand. It combines the speed of fast-casual dining with ingredients and recipes typically found in higher-end establishments.
Initial Investment
How much does it cost to start a Starbird franchise? It costs on average between $843,000 – $2,027,000 to start a Starbird franchised restaurant.
This investment covers the build-out of the restaurant, kitchen equipment, opening inventory, and other early operating expenses. The total required amount can vary based on several factors, including the Starbird format selected, the market where the restaurant is located, and whether the franchisee opts to lease or buy the site.
| Type of Expenditure | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $40,000 – $40,000 |
| Lease | $24,000 – $71,640 |
| Utility Deposit | $0 – $4,500 |
| Architect Fees | $50,000 – $110,000 |
| Construction & Signage Costs | $235,000 – $1,100,000 |
| Expenses for Initial Training | $25,000 – $29,000 |
| Business Licenses and Permits | $6,000 – $17,000 |
| Business Insurance | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Initial Inventory and Smallwares | $28,574 – $36,763 |
| Computer Hardware & Software | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Furniture, Fixtures, & Equipment | $320,000 – $420,000 |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $30,000 – $35,000 |
| Professional Fees | $6,000 – $33,000 |
| Additional Funds (3 months) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| Total | $842,574 – $2,026,903 |
Starbird Franchise Disclosure Document
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Starbird locations are there?
Starbird currently operates approximately 13 locations in total across the U.S.
What is the total investment required to open a Starbird franchise?
The total investment required to open a Starbird franchise ranges from $843,000 to $2,027,000.
What are the ongoing fees for a Starbird franchise?
Starbird franchisees pay an ongoing royalty fee of 5% of net sales. In addition to the royalty, franchisees contribute a 0.5% Brand Development Fund fee, a 1.5% National Digital Media Fund fee, and 1.0% toward local store marketing.
Who owns Starbird?
Starbird franchise is owned by The Culinary Edge, a San Francisco–based food and beverage innovation consultancy founded and led by Aaron Noveshen.
Disclaimer
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