TGI Fridays is a globally recognized American casual dining franchise, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative menu. Founded in 1972, in New York City by Alan Stillman, the brand aimed to create a public space for young adults to socialize.
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, TGI Fridays began franchising in 1978, rapidly expanding its footprint across the United States and internationally.
The franchise offers a diverse menu featuring American classics such as steaks, burgers, chicken, seafood, and pasta, complemented by a full-service bar known for its signature cocktails.
TGI Fridays distinguishes itself through its commitment to a celebratory dining experience, emphasizing bold flavors and a lively environment. In May 2025, the brand revamped 85% of its menu, introducing innovative dishes and modernized cocktails to reconnect with its roots as a pioneer in casual dining.
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.
TGI Fridays offers 2 types of franchises:
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a "PROTO 2017" Prototype6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
TGI Fridays offers 2 types of franchises:
We are summarizing below the main costs associated with opening a "PROTO 2017" Prototype6,800 Square Foot TGI Fridays™ Restaurant.
For more information on the various types of franchises and its costs, refer to the Franchise Disclosure Document (Item 7).
TGI Fridays provides a thorough training framework to ensure franchisees and their teams can effectively operate a Fridays Restaurant. Below is a breakdown of the training programs offered:
TGI Fridays does not provide exclusive territory rights under its standard Franchise Agreement. Franchisees may face competition from other TGI Fridays locations, including those owned or franchised by the company, as well as from other brands or distribution channels under the franchisor’s control.
Limited territorial protection may be granted under a Development Agreement, which allows a franchisee to open a set number of restaurants in a defined area. However, this protection can be reduced or terminated if the franchisee defaults, and the franchisor retains the right to operate in various venues within that territory.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
?
?
?
?
Below are some of
TGI Fridays
key competitors in the
Other Food
sector.
134
$50,000
$2,721,000
$4,326,000
n.a.
$2,547,000
$xxx,xxx
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
n.a.
Sticks Kebob Shop is a fast-casual Mediterranean franchise offering marinated kebabs, salads, and sides, serving health- and value-focused diners and families, and known for fresh ingredients, bold flavors, flexible formats and strong growth potential.
?
?
The New York Butcher Shoppe is a retail-butcher franchise offering hand-cut steaks, premium meats, prepared entrées, sides, and gourmet grocery items, serving families and food enthusiasts, and known for high-quality product, inviting atmosphere, and proven franchise model.
?
?
Capt Loui is a seafood & coastal dining franchise offering fresh seafood, coastal American cuisine, and casual dining ambiance, serving families and coastal diners, and known for ocean-fresh ingredients, nautical branding, and relaxed upscale vibe.
?
?
Potato Corner is a quick-service franchise known for its flavored French fries. Originating from the Philippines, it has expanded globally, offering a variety of seasonings and serving options to appeal to diverse tastes.
?
?
Hawaiian Bros Island Grill is a fast-casual restaurant franchise serving Hawaiian plate lunches, featuring marinated meats, rice, and macaroni salad in a tropical-themed environment.
?
?
Shah's Halal is a fast-casual franchise offering halal food options like gyros, platters, and wraps, with authentic flavors and quick service.
?
?
Choosing a franchise goes beyond reviewing fees and financials — it requires an honest assessment of your goals, skills, and risk tolerance. This article outlines the key questions prospective owners should ask before committing. It helps clarify whether the opportunity aligns with your lifestyle, long-term plans, and operational preferences.
Speaking with current and former franchisees is one of the most reliable ways to understand how a franchise really operates. This guide explains how to conduct validation calls, what questions to ask, and how to identify patterns in feedback. It provides a practical framework for uncovering real performance expectations and support quality.
Not all franchise opportunities offer the same potential. This article breaks down how to evaluate a brand’s industry, financial health, support systems, and competitive positioning. It helps prospective buyers compare options and identify franchises with strong long-term viability.
A clear, well-structured business plan is essential for securing financing and preparing for the realities of franchise ownership. This article explains how to build a plan that covers market analysis, operations, staffing, and local marketing. It also outlines how to create realistic pro forma financials, including revenue projections, startup costs, and break-even analysis. Readers gain a practical framework they can use when applying for loans or planning their first years of operations.
.png)
