Georgia Welcomes Famous Dave’s Quick Service BBQ
Georgia is about to get a taste of Famous Dave’s, thanks to a trio of owners ready to make it happen. Derek S. Scott, M.D., Lord DeGraffenreid, and Vetra Stephens are combining their distinct experience to bring Famous Dave’s exciting quick service franchise model to the Peach State. With their first restaurant already under construction, the group has plans for two additional locations already on the horizon.
“It’s not about the money, it’s about the community, and then what you can bring to the community. But you have to have that synergy between the partners to basically understand that,” says Lord, reflecting on what makes the partnership work and the value behind Famous Dave’s franchise opportunity.
A Partnership Built on Experience and Opportunity
Each partner brings something unique. Derek is an experienced food service franchisee, having operated multiple Smoothie King locations. Lord brings three decades of finance and wealth management experience, while Vetra contributes solid business leadership and a personal connection to Famous Dave’s.
“When you look at an area and you see what’s missing, what’s lacking, and what you can bring to that area, it’s important for you to understand what you can offer,” Vetra shared, highlighting the community focus that drives the group. “I remember being young with my grandfather going to Sunday dinners at Famous Dave’s. Rest his soul. But those experiences you want to bring to other communities so that they can experience them as well.”
As opening day approaches, the team is zeroed in on serving the incredible BBQ Famous Dave’s is known for while connecting with their future guests. Brand recognition, proven systems, and franchise support give the new owners the tools to operate efficiently, scale into multi-unit ownership, and deliver the Famous Dave’s experience fans already know and love. Combined with the unique skills and backgrounds each owner brings and the fast-growing quick-service restaurant industry, having Famous Dave’s in their corner provides full support to help them get started and grow with confidence.
The Appeal of Famous Dave’s Quick ‘Que Franchise Model
The quick service market is booming, valued globally at over $900 billion and only continuing to grow as modern consumers juggle busy lifestyles while craving flavorful meals served fast. Many guests might skip the full sit-down experience but still want Famous Dave’s brisket, pulled pork, smoked chicken, and delicious sides. For motivated entrepreneurs, this trend makes the Quick ‘Que model a perfect match, letting them bring award-winning BBQ to their communities while tapping into a high-demand, profitable industry.
The Quick ‘Que format works because it’s designed for speed, efficiency, and scalability. Key features include:
- Smaller footprint: 2,000 to 2,400 square feet, making it easier to launch in prime locations.
- Fast-casual counter ordering: No table service involved, letting guests order quickly and owners manage operations more easily.
- Simplified operations: No bar or full-service requirements, reducing overhead and staffing needs.
- Ideal for high-traffic locations: Designed to serve busy customers quickly, whether in urban neighborhoods, shopping centers, or community hubs, without sacrificing the quality of Famous Dave’s BBQ.
- Built for multi-unit growth: The Quick ‘Que model features replicable systems and structured support, making it easier for owners to open additional locations while maintaining quality and a consistent guest service.
- Adaptable and modern: The Famous Dave’s brand is embracing non-traditional spaces, using innovative technology and streamlining operations to keep pace with modern dining habits.
This model is built for flexibility and growth. It allows owners like Derek, Vetra, and Lord to focus on delivering a great guest experience while building a strong community presence, offering a structure that supports both new and seasoned franchisees looking for new ways to explore restaurant ownership.
Support To Guide You Through
Famous Dave’s provides franchisees with comprehensive support every step of the way. From real estate assistance like site selection and construction guidance to marketing support, including social media, PR for new store openings, print materials, fundraisers, and local outreach, owners have the guidance they need to hit the ground running. Initial training also gets franchisees up to speed on managing their location, helping them learn operations, lead their team, and keep everything running smoothly from day one.
Derek, who brought Famous Dave’s franchise opportunity to the group, connected with the leadership team early on. “Very supportive, very informative. And I decided this is where I wanted to go,” he says, adding, “Communication has been great. We have our weekly meetings to discuss marketing, construction and just the whole process. If you have any questions, they make themselves available anytime you want to discuss something.”
With this level of support, new owners can bring Famous Dave’s to their community without much of the guesswork that comes with opening a traditional restaurant. Through the initial inquiry to grand opening and beyond, our team is always here to provide everything you need to launch, manage your business, and expand into multi-unit ownership with a reliable foundation backing every stage.
Start Your Journey with a Quick Service Franchise
With a strong partnership, proven systems, and comprehensive support, Derek, Lord, and Vetra are bringing Famous Dave’s quick service franchise to Georgia, offering a streamlined way to deliver high-quality BBQ to busy communities. From initial training and real estate guidance to marketing support and ongoing operational assistance, Famous Dave’s equips owners with everything they need to launch, grow, and connect with their community while serving the bold flavors fans have loved since 1994.
Ready to bring Famous Dave’s to your neighborhood? Explore our franchise pages to learn about our multiple business models, the investment needed to launch your own location, and the full support and training we provide to every owner. When you’re ready to take the next step, fill out our inquiry form to connect with our franchise development team. We’ll reach out to discuss your goals, experience, and how you can start your journey as a Famous Dave’s franchise owner.
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