Tom and Chee is a restaurant franchise that brings a creative twist to classic comfort food. Known for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup, the brand started as a small food tent and quickly grew into a popular dining concept. Its focus on simple ingredients, bold flavors, and friendly service has made Tom and Chee a standout in the fast-casual restaurant industry.
For entrepreneurs who love food and want to join a franchise with a fun, welcoming atmosphere, Tom and Chee offers a unique opportunity. The total investment to start a Tom and Chee franchise in the USA ranges from $339,700 to $704,000, depending on factors like location, restaurant size, and build-out costs.
About Tom and Chee
Tom and Chee began as a small operation near an ice-skating rink in Cincinnati, Ohio. Its founders focused on creating a fresh, creative take on grilled cheese and tomato soup—a combination that appeals to both nostalgic comfort and modern flavor trends. The restaurant became known for its inventive menu items, including unique sandwich combinations and its signature grilled cheese doughnuts.
As the brand grew, it maintained its focus on quality ingredients and made-from-scratch meals served in a friendly, relaxed environment. Tom and Chee’s approachable concept has broad appeal, attracting families, college students, and professionals alike. This wide customer base helps franchise owners build steady business year-round.
Cost To Start a Tom and Chee Franchise
The investment to start a Tom and Chee franchise in the USA ranges from $339,700 to $704,000. The total amount varies depending on several factors, including location, lease terms, restaurant size, and construction costs. High-traffic areas or larger store formats typically require higher startup costs, while smaller or second-generation restaurant spaces can reduce expenses.
This investment generally covers the franchise fee, build-out expenses, kitchen equipment, signage, furniture, initial inventory, and working capital. It also includes training, support, and access to Tom and Chee’s operating systems. Each restaurant requires an investment that ensures franchise owners can open with the right equipment, marketing, and team in place to run the business effectively.
Tom and Chee’s flexible restaurant design allows franchisees to adapt to different spaces, from stand-alone locations to in-line retail settings. This flexibility makes it easier to find suitable real estate and manage startup costs based on local market conditions.
Training and Support for Franchise Owners
Tom and Chee provides comprehensive training and support to help franchise owners build successful businesses. Before opening, franchisees participate in hands-on training programs that cover everything from daily operations and food preparation to employee management and customer service.
In addition to operational guidance, franchise owners receive support with site selection and restaurant layout. Tom and Chee’s corporate team assists franchisees in evaluating potential locations and designing efficient, appealing restaurants. This helps ensure that each store delivers a consistent brand experience while maximizing space and customer flow.
After opening, the brand continues to support its franchise owners through marketing assistance, menu development, and operational coaching. This ongoing support helps new franchisees navigate the challenges of running a restaurant while maintaining high quality and service standards.
Why Invest in a Tom and Chee Franchise?
Investing in a Tom and Chee franchise means joining a brand that blends creativity with comfort. The restaurant’s unique menu and fun personality make it stand out from traditional sandwich shops and fast-casual chains. Its signature grilled cheese and soup combinations provide a familiar yet exciting dining experience that keeps customers coming back.
Tom and Chee also benefits from strong brand recognition and a loyal customer base built over years of steady growth. The franchise model is designed to be efficient and manageable, even for first-time restaurant owners. With a proven system, straightforward menu, and strong operational support, franchisees can focus on providing great food and service while building their business.
The relatively moderate investment range makes Tom and Chee an appealing choice for entrepreneurs seeking an affordable entry point into the restaurant industry. Combined with its creative concept and brand reputation, this franchise opportunity offers a balance of financial accessibility and growth potential.
Summary
Starting a Tom and Chee franchise in the USA offers entrepreneurs a chance to bring comfort food with a creative twist to their local communities. The investment ranges from $339,700 to $704,000, depending on location and store size.
With its fun concept, flexible restaurant design, and strong franchise support, Tom and Chee provides an inviting opportunity for those looking to own a business in the fast-casual dining sector. For anyone passionate about serving delicious food in a welcoming setting, joining the Tom and Chee family can be a rewarding and flavorful business venture.
