Founded in 2015 by chef Michael Blum, I Heart Mac & Cheese is a fast-casual restaurant franchise that elevates classic comfort food through a modern, customizable dining experience. Headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, the brand began franchising in 2017 and has since expanded to over 50 locations across the United States and Puerto Rico.
The franchise's menu centers on build-your-own mac and cheese bowls and grilled cheese sandwiches, allowing customers to choose from a variety of pastas, proteins, vegetables, and sauces. Signature dishes like the “Lobster & White Truffle Mac” appeal to gourmet tastes, while plant-based and gluten-free options address a wide range of dietary preferences.
I Heart Mac & Cheese sets itself apart in the competitive fast-casual landscape through its focus on premium ingredients, extensive customization, and a nostalgic yet contemporary concept.
Here's what you would need to invest if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
I Heart Mac and Cheese provides a structured training program designed to ensure franchisees are fully prepared to operate their restaurants effectively. The franchise requires that both the franchisee and one designated manager attend the initial training program, which lasts up to 7 days and includes a mix of classroom and on-the-job training.
I Heart Mac and Cheese grants franchisees a designated territory, but it does not guarantee full territorial protection. While the franchisor agrees not to open another franchise within that area under the same brand, it may still reach customers there through online sales or national marketing.
Franchisees also do not receive exclusive rights against competition from different brands operated by the franchisor.
The franchisor can adjust marketing and distribution strategies that may overlap into a franchisee’s territory. Therefore, although the territory is defined, franchisees may still face competition initiated by the franchisor through indirect channels.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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Below are some of
I Heart Mac and Cheese
key competitors in the
Sandwich
sector.
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$35,000
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Jason’s Deli
Over $500K
73
$35,000
$1,720,000
$2,529,000
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Earl of Sandwich
$200K - $500K
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$25,000
$315,000
$664,000
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