Learn Why More Restaurants are Turning to the Counter Service Model
At Famous Dave’s BBQ, we’ve always been known for bold flavors, legendary ribs, and a passion for authentic, slow-smoked BBQ. As dining habits evolve, we’re evolving too — without compromising what makes us great. Our new counter service business model delivers the same award-winning food with even more speed, flexibility, and convenience.
You can experience this approach firsthand at our new franchise location in Brookfield, Wisconsin, which reflects a fresh, modern take on how we serve guests. By shifting from traditional table service to a streamlined, counter service format, we’re creating a dining experience that meets today’s expectations while staying true to our roots.
6 Reasons Why Counter Service Works
In our counter service model, guests place their orders at the front counter, pick up their meals when ready, and choose where they want to enjoy them — in our dining room, on the patio, or to go. It’s a simplified dining experience that never sacrifices quality, making it a smart, efficient solution for both guests and operators.
In an era where customers are often on the go or looking for streamlined dining experiences, counter service hits a sweet spot. It delivers the same bold, slow-smoked BBQ people associate with Famous Dave’s, but with faster ordering, quicker turnaround, and greater customization.
Let’s explore five reasons why the counter service model stands out:
1. Smaller Footprint, Big Flavor
Our new counter service locations feature a more compact and efficient design compared to our traditional full-service restaurants. This smaller footprint allows us greater flexibility to open in high-traffic suburban areas, urban centers, and mixed-use developments. Despite the streamlined space, we continue to serve up the same bold, authentic flavors our guests expect — from ribs and pulled pork to our famous cornbread muffins — all delivered hot and fresh, just faster and more efficiently.
As Al Hank, COO of Famous Dave’s, explained in BizTimes, “The consumer continues to tell us how they want to interact with the brand and what that’s obviously changed is our needs in the dining room, where we don’t need 7,000-square-foot restaurants that have 220, 240 seats because obviously a vast amount of our guests are choosing the off premise route.”
2. Streamlined Staffing Model
Our counter service model simplifies operations by reducing the need for extensive front-of-house staff. This allows our team to focus on delivering quick, accurate orders and genuine hospitality. By minimizing table service roles, we create a more efficient work environment that helps franchise owners manage labor challenges while still providing a welcoming atmosphere for every guest.
4. Lower Buildout Costs and Faster Openings
Smaller, more efficient spaces generally mean lower construction and equipment costs. This can reduce the initial investment needed to open a Famous Dave’s location and help franchisees get up and running more quickly.
5. Staying True to Our Roots
While the service format is evolving, our commitment to authentic, scratch-made BBQ remains unchanged. The counter service model is a modern way to deliver the same quality and flavor that have made Famous Dave’s a beloved brand.
6. A Scalable Model for the Future
The counter service model features a smaller footprint and flexible design that works well in a variety of locations—from urban centers and food courts to airports and college campuses. This versatility makes it easier to reach new markets and meet the changing needs of today’s customers, offering strong potential for growth and expansion.
Counter Service at Famous Dave’s: Built for Today and Tomorrow
The counter service model isn’t a trend, it’s a thoughtful, strategic evolution designed to meet the needs of today’s guests. At Famous Dave’s, we’re committed to bringing our bold, award-winning BBQ to more people through formats that are efficient, flexible, and rooted in the authentic experience our brand is known for.
As part of the BBQ Holdings family of brands, we’re proud to continue innovating while staying true to our heritage. This new format allows us to serve communities in a way that fits modern lifestyles, while offering our franchisees a streamlined model with strong growth potential.
Whether you’re grabbing ribs on the go, feeding your family, or exploring your next business opportunity, our counter service model is designed to deliver real value, one order at a time. If you’re ready to join a trusted brand and bring handcrafted BBQ to your community, visit our research pages to learn more information about our franchise opportunity. You can fill out our form here to connect with our team and get started today. We’re excited to share what’s next.
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