Founded in 1974 in Atlanta, Georgia, Mellow Mushroom Pizza Bakers began as a single pizzeria created by two college students from Georgia Tech, later joined by a third from the University of Georgia. The founders aimed to craft a dining experience that mirrored their eclectic philosophies and passion for quality pizza.

Over the years, Mellow Mushroom has expanded significantly, operating as a franchise under Home Grown Industries, Inc. of Georgia, with over 200 locations across 20 states. Mellow Mushroom specializes in stone-baked pizzas, calzones, hoagies, salads, and appetizers like pretzel bites, complemented by an extensive selection of craft and local beers.

Each restaurant is locally owned and uniquely decorated, often featuring tie-dye motifs and colorful mushroom imagery, creating a distinctive and vibrant atmosphere. Some locations also host live music, trivia competitions, karaoke, or bingo, enhancing the community-centric experience.

A hallmark of Mellow Mushroom's approach is its commitment to individuality; no two restaurants are alike. This emphasis on unique, locally inspired décor and ambiance sets it apart from competitors, fostering a one-of-a-kind dining environment that resonates with patrons seeking both quality food and a memorable experience.

Training

The franchise Mellow Mushroom provides a structured and multi-phase training program for its franchisees. The training programs include:

1. Initial Training Program: Before the restaurant opens, the franchisor trains the Managing Owner and up to two other designated individuals (which may include the potential Qualified General Manager and assistant managers). This training lasts approximately five weeks—two weeks at a training facility in Atlanta, Georgia, and three weeks at a designated training restaurant. It covers all essential aspects of restaurant operations and may include virtual or online components depending on the franchisor’s discretion.
2. Corporate Orientation: A 3-hour classroom training session held in Atlanta, Georgia, focused on introducing the corporate structure and expectations.
3. Brand Development Training: An 8-hour classroom session in Atlanta that covers the Mellow Mushroom brand, values, and marketing principles.
4. Product Knowledge – Food: This consists of 35 hours of classroom training and 35 hours of on-the-job training, held both in Atlanta and in an approved training restaurant. It focuses on the food items served, preparation, and presentation.
5. Product Knowledge – LBW (Liquor, Beer, and Wine): A total of 8 hours split evenly between classroom and on-the-job training in Atlanta and an approved restaurant setting.

Territory Protection

Mellow Mushroom grants franchisees an exclusive territory with a one-mile radius around their restaurant. Within this area, no other Mellow Mushroom restaurant will be opened during the franchise term.

However, the franchisor may still deliver products into the area, sell through other channels, and operate different businesses within the territory. Franchisees have no automatic rights to expand or open additional units in adjacent areas.