Invest in Premium Concepts That Satisfy Taste and Trend
If you’re looking to stand out in the crowded burger franchise market, gourmet burger brands offer a profitable niche. These concepts go beyond the basics — serving chef-inspired creations with premium ingredients, unique toppings, and a focus on experience, quality, and sometimes even sustainability.
At BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, powered by Star Brands Consulting Group, we help investors discover high-growth, upscale burger franchise brands that appeal to discerning diners and deliver strong unit economics.
Let’s explore what makes gourmet burger franchises so compelling — and which brands are leading the way.
🍔 What Is a Gourmet Burger Franchise?
A gourmet burger franchise typically includes:
- Premium meats (grass-fed beef, wagyu, organic, plant-based)
- Artisan buns and sauces
- Chef-curated recipes with unique flavor profiles
- Modern, upscale décor and branding
- Often includes craft beverages (e.g., local beers, milkshakes, mocktails)
These brands often operate in the fast-casual or polished-casual segments, targeting urban professionals, families, and foodies looking for quality over quantity.
⭐ Top Gourmet Burger Franchise Brands
1. BurgerFi
- Founded: 2011, Florida
- Focus: All-natural Angus beef, plant-based options, upscale fast casual
- Locations: 100+ globally
- Franchise Investment: $629,900–$1.1M
- USP: Clean branding, eco-friendly packaging, transparency in sourcing
2. The Counter Custom Burgers
- Founded: 2003, California
- Focus: Build-your-own gourmet burgers with upscale toppings
- Locations: 30+ worldwide
- Franchise Investment: $750,000–$1.5M
- USP: High personalization and premium guest experience
3. Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes
- Founded: 2007, Texas
- Focus: Fresh-baked buns, hand-cut fries, real ice cream shakes
- Locations: 80+
- Franchise Investment: $400,000–$600,000
- USP: Fast casual feel with a gourmet twist; strong marketing support
4. Fatburger
- Founded: 1952, Los Angeles
- Focus: Build-your-own gourmet burgers with legendary West Coast branding
- Locations: 200+ internationally
- Franchise Investment: $200,000–$800,000
- USP: Retro-vibe plus modern global appeal; often paired with other brands (e.g., Buffalo’s Express)
5. Burgersmith
- Founded: 2008, Louisiana
- Focus: Signature burger sauces, hand-formed patties, local craft beers
- Locations: 6+
- Franchise Investment: $350,000–$750,000
- USP: Southern hospitality + upscale taste; ideal for smaller markets
💼 Why Invest in a Gourmet Burger Franchise?
✔️ Higher Profit Per Ticket
Average order values are significantly higher than in traditional QSR burger brands.
✔️ Trend-Forward Menus
Appeal to health-conscious, eco-aware, and flexitarian customers.
✔️ Market Differentiation
Less saturation compared to fast-food franchises — stand out with quality.
✔️ Urban and Suburban Versatility
Perform well in malls, lifestyle centers, and affluent suburbs.
📊 Investment Snapshot
| Brand | Min. Investment | Royalty Fee | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| BurgerFi | $629K | 5.5% | 100+ |
| The Counter | $750K | 6% | 30+ |
| Mooyah | $400K | 6% | 80+ |
| Fatburger | $200K | 6% | 200+ |
| Burgersmith | $350K | 5% | 6+ |
🤝 Final Thoughts
Gourmet burger franchises offer more than great taste — they deliver brand experience, premium margins, and customer loyalty. If you’re ready to go beyond basic and invest in a burger brand built for the future, gourmet is the way to go.
Want Help Selecting the Right Gourmet Burger Franchise?
BurgerFranchiseMaster.com, backed by Star Brands Consulting Group, will help you:
- Compare gourmet franchise models
- Plan site selection and upscale branding
- Assess investment-to-return potential
- Navigate franchise agreements and brand requirements
📞 Book a Gourmet Franchise Consultation
📥 Download the Gourmet Burger Franchise Guide (PDF)
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