Join the Burger Franchise Movement to Celebrate and Preserve the Authentic Harlem Culture We All Love
We’ve broken the franchise mold with a singular fast-casual concept that blends iconic cultural influences and high-quality burgers and shakes for an unforgettable retro-dining experience. Here’s your chance to build your own legacy with the best burger franchise Harlem has to offer!
Critically-Acclaimed:Shake & Burger Franchise
BEST SMASHED BURGERS IN NYC
- The Infatuation
TOP 5 THINGS TO SEE & EAT IN HARLEM
- Fodor's New York City Guide
BATTLE OF THE BURGERS 2018 WINNER
- Time Out New York
BEST PATTY MELTS IN NEW YORK
- Grub Street / New York Magazine
10 BEST MILKSHAKES IN NYC
- Gotham
THE BEST PLACE TO GET A SHAKE IN EVERY STATE
- MSN
BEST BURGER PLACES IN NYC
- Thrillist
BEST BURGERS IN NYC
- Bloomberg
And the list goes on...
Locally and Internationally Recognized As “A NYC MUST”
Customers see Harlem Shake as a community gathering spot where we serve critic’s-choice burgers and shakes made from premium ingredients in a comfortable, familiar space with a retro vibe that celebrates and preserves Harlem’s rich culture and history.
Our menu caters to both simple and sophisticated tastes and draws locals and tourists alike. It’s a welcoming space that appeals to people of all backgrounds and ages—from baby boomers down to Gen Z. Amid a backdrop of hundreds of autographed celebrity headshots and a “Wall of Fro,” burger and shake lovers make lifelong memories with friends and family. Special touches include organic shakes and fancy bottled sodas from small, independent and vintage producers.
We are proud to be entrenched in the Harlem community, where we hire predominantly in the neighborhood and support a variety of local organizations and non-profits.
All the above combines to lend Harlem Shake some serious local cred along with international brand recognition status and a strong, loyal following. As a result, Harlem Shake has been honorably dubbed a “NYC must.”
Established Burger Franchise Program Built by Industry Experts
Reasons why Harlem Shake is simply the Best Burger Franchise Harlem has to offer.
A uniquely designed “iconic” concept, optimized for a memorable and enjoyable dining experience.
Majority women-owned and inclusive franchisor with a diverse ownership structure
Environmentally conscious with eco-packaging
Simplified menus and award-winning in-house recipes. A full roster of vendor partners who supply best-in-class ingredients.
Streamlined virtual training systems that guarantee employees get the ins and outs of restaurant procedure in no time.
Technology-driven restaurant management systems, fully developed to accommodate high customer volume and support quick, efficient service.
Effective social media campaigning, designed to generate a large follower fan base.
Established programs for in-house marketing, PR, and corporate giving.
Burger Franchise Financial Requirements
Required Liquid Capital
$150,000
Franchise Fee
$40,000*
Franchise Term
10 Years with One 5 Year Renewal
Total Investment
$449,000-$880,000**
Welcome, Prospective Partners!
Available Territories
-Inquire today
-Coming soon
-No franchise available at this time
FAQs
What is the initial franchise fee to open our first location?
An initial franchise fee of $40,000 is needed to get your first location up and running.
What is the royalty?
The franchise royalty is 6% of gross sales.
What are the required advertising expenditures?
Brand Development Marketing Fund 2%
Local Advertising 1%
What is the liquid capital requirement in order to qualify for a Harlem Shake?
Our liquid capital requirement is $150,000 in non-borrowed cash or marketable securities.
What is the term of the franchise agreement?
The term of the franchise agreement is 10 years with one 5 year renewal.
How big of a space will I need?
Your chosen location can be anywhere from 2,500 sq. ft to 3,000 sq. ft.
Who is responsible for finding the location?
As the franchisee, you are responsible for finding and developing your franchise restaurant location. Harlem Shake can offer support by providing an expert, third-party commercial broker to assist you in your search and in submitting your site package to Harlem Shake for acceptance review.
What licenses and/or permits are required?
Harlem Shake works with you to ensure you have all the necessary licenses and permits to open and operate your franchise. Please note these may vary by city and state. Still, no matter your location, Harlem Shake will guide you to the appropriate resources in order to help you comply with local regulations.
Where do the food and packaging products come from?
To maintain the quality and consistency of our brand, Harlem Shake provides you with a list of approved vendors and suppliers for all menu ingredients and packaging materials.
Can I open multiple locations? Is there a discount?
Currently, there is no discount; however, in our updated FDD, effective after 4/30/2023, we will be offering a discount. Please check back then if you are interested in a multiple-unit discount.
Do I need restaurant experience to be successful?
Prior experience in owning a restaurant is not necessary to succeed with Harlem Shake, but we do require either you or a Certifed General Manager have a minimum of three years experience in restaurant management with a proven track record of success as well as solid financial acumen.
To reach your franchise goals at Harlem Shake, you should also possess an authentic passion for quality food and legendary service. In addition, a love of community engagement, excellent communication skills, and a hands-on attitude are all preferred attributes for acceptance into our franchise family.
Will I receive continuing franchise development, marketing and operational support?
Absolutely. As a member of our franchise family, you’re entitled to any and all information regarding updates to operational processes and/or marketing best practices as we continue to develop and fine-tune our Harlem Shake business.
Does Harlem Shake offer financing?
Not directly. However, we can connect you with funding sources that work specifically with franchisees and have secured thousands of loans for startup entrepreneurs.
Ready to Make The Life-Changing Leap?
Own an Iconic Burgers and Shake Concept that Breaks the Mold of Fast Casual Franchise Model. Reach Out Today and Find Out How.
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