Famous Dave’s Reveals New, Smaller Footprint Prototype
Less than half the size of its average location, Famous Dave's opened the first of its smaller footprint prototype restaurants with tabletop ordering and digital kiosks in Uptown, Minneapolis on December 20. The new restaurant is approximately 3,000 square feet, compared to the average 6,500 - 7,000 square feet of a typical Famous Dave's and features a bar-centric environment and compact dining area.The restaurant's technological innovations such as tabletop ordering and digital kiosks are an effort to appeal to a younger demographic. The location will focus heavily on its off-premise delivery and catering business, which was previously a large aspect of the brand’s former Uptown location. The executive team has focused on curating a different and exciting experience for its guests within the space by introducing activities such as trivia, game nights and karaoke, while continuing to implement the same core values that Famous Dave’s has held for 25 years.
“We’re excited to explore this new concept, which allows our brand to operate from a smaller space with a bar-centric atmosphere, resulting in a comfortable and fun local hangout,” said Jeff Crivello, CEO of BBQ Holdings, Inc. “Our team is looking forward to this initiative in which will capture efficiencies in occupancy costs, labor, and an abbreviated menu of our legendary, core BBQ.”
Famous Dave’s parent holding company, BBQ Holdings Inc. is looking to open five to 10 of these smaller footprint restaurants by the end of 2020. The brand is also looking to implement a drive-thru to continue the convenience factor at their existing stores. In addition to expanding the concept in the Minneapolis market, Famous Dave’s is also looking at opening in Atlanta, New York, New Jersey, the Carolinas, Illinois, and Wisconsin.
The BBQ restaurant chain is focusing on growth and innovation while continuing to invest in technology, customers and franchisees to support their new openings and continued growth.
“At the end of the day, our foundation is built on great BBQ and fantastic service,” said Al Hank, Sr. Director, Strategy & Franchise Operations. “You can still enjoy that same Famous Dave’s experience but we’re taking the steps towards ensuring that our customers are able to come in to catch the game and grab a beer while also having the option to order our Famous BBQ from the comfort of their own homes.”
