Anthony Tignola’s Path to Famous Dave’s Ownership
At Famous Dave’s, we’re proud to welcome new franchisees bringing our delicious barbecue to communities across the country. This month, we’re spotlighting franchise owner Anthony Tignola, who’s preparing to open his first Famous Dave’s location in Milford, Delaware.
Anthony’s restaurant career began years ago as a teenage busboy at a small, family-owned Italian restaurant. His true exposure to structured systems, however, came when he joined the grand opening team for Famous Dave’s first location in Brick, New Jersey.
“I went through the corporate training and that was my first experience with a franchise,” Anthony shared. “It was really interesting coming from a privately owned restaurant to a franchise model. You could see how well everything’s defined and laid out for them, especially with regards to training.”
That experience gave him firsthand insight into the support, operations, and customer service standards that define our franchise opportunities. Now, drawing on his extensive experience, Anthony is applying his knowledge as a franchise owner to ensure every guest enjoys the quality and experience that’s made Famous Dave’s a trusted name.
Why Famous Dave’s Was the Right Choice
Anthony recognized Famous Dave’s as the ideal path for expanding his restaurant portfolio. As an experienced restaurant franchisee, a look around Milford revealed a missing piece: high-quality barbecue. Along with his business partner, he determined the Quick ‘Que model was the perfect fit for his next venture. The billion-dollar quick-service segment is currently expanding, and Quick ‘Que locations tap directly into this market demand by offering a counter-service approach that minimizes staffing needs, eliminates table service, and speeds up operations.
“I started researching things, barbecue restaurants with a fast-service, casual dining feel. And I actually found one of the articles about Famous Dave’s Quick ‘Que,” Anthony said about our exciting quick-service model. He added, “It’s less overhead, smaller footprint, you’re not hiring as many people. Your costs are down a little bit compared to a full-service restaurant.”
This perspective shows how the streamlined format of the Quick ‘Que model makes it easier to open and run a Famous Dave’s restaurant, allowing the franchise owner to focus on delivering the exceptional guest experience and award-winning barbecue we’re known for.
How Support & Training Helps You Launch & Grow
Anthony’s connection to Famous Dave’s runs deep, giving him a unique insight into the value of our support systems. He recalls the depth of that initial training and support from his time as a server, even admitting, “I remember thinking it was a little too much in the beginning.” However, that detailed preparation proved its worth, covering everything from pre-opening guidance to learning the Famous Dave’s menu in and out.
Now, preparing to open his own Quick ‘Que location, the full spectrum of support is clear from the perspective of a franchise owner. Anthony recognizes that the Famous Dave’s team is there to guide franchisees at every turn, sharing, “They really help you lay things out… they’re really there to set you up.”
The Famous Dave’s commitment to partnership includes:
- Real Estate & Construction: Our dedicated support team helps identify the best locations, assists with lease negotiations, and provides a Construction Director for seamless build-out oversight.
- Comprehensive Training: Detailed training programs take place at a certified Famous Dave’s training location, ensuring you can deliver the standout brand experience that our guests know and love.
- Ongoing Support: We provide consistent check-ins and access to ongoing training designed to keep you up-to-speed on the Famous Dave’s brand and initiatives.
- Strategic Marketing Assistance: You gain access to consumer research, PR coverage for store openings, digital support (social, paid media, SEO), customizable print materials, and local marketing support for fundraisers and community outreach.
This hand-on guidance is in place so you can hit the ground running with your Famous Dave’s location and prepare for smooth operations from day one. Like Anthony, you’ll be equipped to launch your business with confidence and have the backing of a beloved, trusted, and recognized brand.
Become a Famous Dave’s Franchise Owner Today
Anthony’s journey from a Famous Dave’s server to a franchise owner shows how combining ambition and an entrepreneurial spirit with our structured guidance provides a clear pathway to ownership. Following our proven systems allows him to step into his new role fully prepared, making Famous Dave’s the ideal partner for an ambitious business owner seeking a streamlined way to enter or grow within the food franchise market. From our Quick ‘Que model to other concepts, you’ll be able to choose a business that fully aligns with your lifestyle and goals, providing a truly unique franchise opportunity.
Ready to bring quality service and award-winning barbecue to your community? Start by visiting our research pages, where you can learn more about our franchise models, startup costs, and the support we provide to every franchise owner. To take the next step toward ownership, simply fill out the inquiry form here to get in touch with our franchise development team.
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