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Franchise Info
What is the upfront cost to own a The Original Pancake House franchise?
Starting your own The Original Pancake House franchise doesn’t come with pocket change—but for the right person, it’s a breakfast dream come true. The initial franchise fee is around $60,000, with total startup costs ranging from $372,500 to $966,250. This includes everything from kitchen equipment and signage to initial inventory and training. You’ll also need a minimum of $100,000 in liquid capital to get your pancakes flipping.
- Initial Franchise Fee: $60,000
- Total Investment: $372,500 – $966,250
- Liquid Capital Required: $100,000
- Royalty Fee: 2% of monthly gross receipts
If that sounds like a tall stack of money—remember, you’re buying into a brand with over 70 years of loyal customers and a reputation for top-tier breakfast.
How much can I earn by owning a The Original Pancake House franchised business?
Ah, the million-dollar question—literally, in some cases. While The Original Pancake House doesn’t publish exact earning figures (and we don’t blame them, as each location varies based on traffic, demographics, and operational skills), many franchisees report strong breakfast-to-lunch revenue potential. With popular items like the Dutch Baby, Apple Pancake, and thick-cut bacon drawing repeat customers, it’s not just about the flapjacks—it’s about steady traffic, quality, and customer loyalty.
If you’re someone who’s hands-on, loves food, and treats your team well, your chances of cooking up healthy profits are much better.
How many franchise outlets does The Original Pancake House franchise have?
The Original Pancake House boasts over 100 franchise locations, including restaurants in the U.S., Japan, and South Korea. What started as one cozy spot in Portland has become a globally recognized breakfast institution. Despite its size, the franchise still holds tight to its family-run roots, focusing on quality ingredients and consistency across all locations.
That means whether you’re in Chicago or Honolulu, your Dutch Baby will taste like it came from the same griddle back in Oregon.
Are there any The Original Pancake House franchises in my area?
If you’re in the U.S. and wondering whether there’s a The Original Pancake House nearby—good news! With over 100 locations across the country, there’s a solid chance one might be just a short drive away. These beloved breakfast spots are sprinkled across states like California, Illinois, Texas, Florida, Oregon, and beyond.
If your town doesn’t have one yet, well… maybe it’s waiting for you to bring it there.
Training and Support
Franchisees receive comprehensive training to ensure they uphold the brand’s high standards. This includes ten weeks of training at the Portland headquarters, covering everything from food preparation to customer service FranchiseHelp. Ongoing support is provided to help franchisees navigate the challenges of the restaurant industry.
Ideal Candidate
The Original Pancake House seeks franchisees who are passionate about food and customer service. While prior restaurant experience is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. What matters most is a commitment to maintaining the brand’s reputation for excellence and a willingness to engage with the community.
If you want to try cooking some pancakes here are some recipes:
FAQs About The Original Pancake House Franchise
How many Original Pancake House restaurants are there?
There are currently over 100 Original Pancake House restaurants across the United States and in select international markets like Japan and South Korea. That’s a lot of fluffy pancakes being flipped every morning! Each location is independently owned and operated, which helps the brand maintain its cozy, home-style vibe no matter where you’re dining.
Are Walker Brothers and Original Pancake House the same?
They’re closely related—think cousins rather than twins.
Walker Bros. is actually a franchise of The Original Pancake House, based primarily in the Chicago suburbs. While they share the same core recipes (yes, you can still get the famous Apple Pancake and Dutch Baby), Walker Bros. is known for giving the dining experience a slightly more upscale twist, with wood-paneled dining rooms and white tablecloths. So yes, they’re part of the same pancake-loving family, but with a local flavor all their own.
How much do Original Pancake House managers make?
Management salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the size of the restaurant. However, in the U.S., Original Pancake House managers typically earn between $45,000 to $60,000 per year, according to job sites like Indeed and Glassdoor. Some higher-volume locations or experienced managers may earn even more, especially when bonuses or profit-sharing come into play.
Which location is the first Original Pancake House?
The very first Original Pancake House opened in Portland, Oregon, in 1953. Founded by Les Highet and Erma Hueneke, the original location was built on their shared passion for traditional recipes and scratch-made breakfasts. And yes—it’s still open today, flipping pancakes the same way they did over 70 years ago. If you’re ever in Portland, it’s a must-visit for any breakfast lover or franchise hopeful.