Buona: Chicago’s Original Italian Beef Franchise

Buona is a family-owned fast-casual restaurant chain specializing in authentic Italian beef sandwiches. Founded in 1981 by Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto in Berwyn, Illinois, Buona has grown from a single location into a beloved Chicago institution.

The company remains family-operated, with three generations actively involved in its expansion and operations. Headquartered in Burr Ridge, Illinois, Buona began franchising in 2022 to bring its signature Italian beef to new markets across the U.S.

The franchise offers a menu anchored by slow-roasted, all-natural Italian beef, complemented by burgers, Chicago-style hot dogs, salads, pasta, and more. Buona's commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes sets it apart in the fast-casual dining sector.

Buona differentiates itself through its dedication to authentic preparation methods and family recipes passed down through generations. The brand's expansion includes dual-branded locations with The Original Rainbow Cone, offering a unique combination of savory and sweet Chicago favorites.

Training

Buona offers a comprehensive training program designed to prepare franchisees for successful operation and long-term compliance with brand standards. The franchisor provides the following structured training initiatives:

1. Initial Training Program: Before opening, the Operating Owner and three managers must attend and successfully complete Buona’s initial training, which includes virtual pre-training and in-person instruction. The program is conducted at Buona’s designated facilities and is provided at no cost for up to four attendees. Additional attendees can participate for a tuition fee, and all travel-related expenses are the responsibility of the franchisee.
2. On-Site Opening Assistance: Prior to and immediately after opening, Buona sends representatives to provide hands-on training and support at the franchise location. This service is charged at the franchisor’s current daily rate per trainer, plus a $20,000 non-refundable deposit and travel costs.
3. Supplemental Education: Franchisees, their owners, and managers may be required to attend additional training seminars, regional meetings, or webinars throughout the year—up to five days annually. Buona may charge tuition for these sessions, and attendees must cover their own expenses.
4. Conferences and Conventions: Attendance at national, regional, or local Buona franchisee conferences may be mandatory, especially for updates on products, operations, and marketing. Franchisees pay a registration fee and all related costs for participation.
5. Additional Requested Training: Franchisees may request extra training beyond standard offerings. If approved, this is billed at Buona’s then-current training fees, plus travel and living expenses for the trainers.

Territory Protection

Buona grants its franchisees a defined “Protected Area,” typically comprising a half-mile radius around the approved location in urban settings or an area with at least 60,000 people in non-urban settings.

Within this zone, the franchisor agrees not to establish or authorize another Buona restaurant, provided the franchisee remains in good standing. This territorial protection aims to shield franchisees from internal brand competition and support market development.

However, this protection has notable limitations. Buona reserves the right to operate or license restaurants under other trademarks, even within a franchisee's territory, and to engage in various business activities through alternate distribution channels like supermarkets, online platforms, and direct marketing.