News

I ♥ Mac & Cheese launches franchise program

January 9, 2018

I ♥ Mac & Cheese, a fast casual cheese bar, is adding franchisee opportunities to its business model, which includes two corporate locations in South Florida, according to a company release.

The first unit opened in 2016 in Fort Lauderdale, and a Parkland location opened in November 2017. Additional venues are slated to open in Pembroke Pines and Coral Springs, Florida, in January 2018. Boca Raton, Davie and Jupiter in Florida, and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, will also open locations, according to the release.

"We're excited about the enthusiasm for our brand," Managing Partner Stephen Giordanella, said in the release. "We're excited to find owners who share our passion for the concept while providing them with guidance to make the brand and their new franchise a success." 

The family restaurant specializes in build-your-own grilled cheese sandwiches and macaroni and cheese bowls. Diners choose from a variety of pasta or bread, including gluten-free, along with seven types of cheeses, vegetables and seven proteins.

Signature menu items include The Cuban with mojo marinated pulled pork, ham, Gruyere cheese and dill pickles; The Best of Both Worlds, a baked mac and cheese sandwich with slow-cooked short rib, white cheddar cheese and American cheese finished with BBQ Sauce; and Lobster and White Truffle consisting of Maine lobster, Muenster cheese and scallions finished with lobster cream and white truffle oil. 

A unique franchise concept in the restaurant industry since there are no fryers, grease trap systems or hood systems necessary, I ♥ Mac & Cheese requires a low investment and can be opened in a small space, such as a mall kiosk or food court, Giordanella said.

"Being a franchisee gives you the ability to be in business for yourself, but not by yourself," he said. "You receive an established business model and plan, and a proven operating system from the franchisor instead of figuring it all out by yourself. At I ♥ Mac & Cheese, you receive pre-opening and ongoing support from the franchisor, who shares information they as well as franchisees have learned that can help make you more successful and ensure your success."