The Flame Broiler is a fast-casual franchise known for serving Korean-style rice bowls built around simple, healthy ingredients. The concept was launched in 1995 by founder Young Lee in Fullerton, California, and has since expanded to more than 190 restaurants nationwide. The company now operates from its headquarters in Santa Ana, California.
The brand introduced franchising in 1999, giving business owners the chance to join a concept focused on convenient, better-for-you meals. Its menu centers on customizable bowls made with options like natural chicken, Angus beef, and organic tofu, paired with fresh vegetables and house-made sauces.
The Flame Broiler’s emphasis on clean ingredients and straightforward preparation has helped it stand out in the quick-service market. Its health-forward approach attracts customers who want satisfying food without the heaviness of traditional fast-food offerings.
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.
The Flame Broiler provides a structured and multi-tiered training program for its franchisees to ensure consistent operations across all locations. Here's a breakdown of the training programs offered by the franchisor:
The Flame Broiler does not grant exclusive territory rights to individual franchisees. Franchisees may face competition from other Flame Broiler outlets, including those owned by the franchisor, as well as other distribution channels or competitive brands under the franchisor’s control.
The franchised restaurant must operate at a location approved by the franchisor, and relocation costs fall solely on the franchisee.
However, franchisees who sign an Area Development Agreement may receive a defined Development Territory where no other Flame Broiler locations will be established—until the agreement expires or all restaurants are developed as per schedule.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
All you need to know about this franchise
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The Flame Broiler is a fast-casual Asian-rice-bowl franchise offering chicken, beef, tofu and rice or salad bowls, serving health- and value-focused diners, and known for simple model, quick service, and proven franchising system.
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