Tupelo Data Room

restaurant and food business for Sale in Illinois

Similar businesses sell at 1.2x to 4.0x SDE. Compare live listings and connect with sellers.

Popular Modern American Gastropub-Style Restaurant & Bar w/Gaming! photo
American Restaurants
+1

Popular Modern American Gastropub-Style Restaurant & Bar w/Gaming!

DuPage County, IL, US

Popular Modern American Gastropub-Style Restaurant & Bar w/Gaming Affluent Western Suburb - Turnkey! "Surrounded By Luxury Retailers, Office Buildings, Large Hotels, Entertainment Venues & Dense Affluent Residential Communities" An exceptional opportunity to acquire a stylish, full-service modern American gastropub-style restaurant & bar offering a broad menu designed to appeal to both casual diners and upscale patrons. This popular concept blends a contemporary chef-driven menu with classic American comfort cuisine. Plus, handmade craft cocktails made with fresh-squeezed juices and an extensive wine list as well as 20+ beers on tap. The restaurant & bar feature a modern interior perfect for dining, social gatherings and nightlife. Has built an outstanding reputation as a local neighborhood favorite offering lunch, dinner, happy hour and weekend brunch, plus private event capabilities. Accepts reservations. Also, offers online ordering for pickup or 3rd party delivery. Menu & drink highlights include: • Chef-inspired American comfort cuisine • Shareable small plates & appetizers • Fresh salads & lighter fare • Flatbreads, wraps, tacos & specialty sandwiches • Gourmet burgers, steak, seafood & pasta entrées • Seasonal specialties • Kids menu & family-friendly options • Craft cocktails using fresh-squeezed juices • Extensive wine list curated for food pairing • Rotating draft beer selection with an eclectic array of styles & breweries And offers a warm, contemporary dining environment with a lively yet comfortable atmosphere ideal for multiple occasions including: • Family dining • Business lunches • Happy hour gatherings • Dinner dates • Weekend brunch • Private parties & celebrations Also, several seating experiences: • Full-service bar & lounge seating • Counter & bar seating for casual dining • Spacious main dining room • Expansive outdoor patio dining with bar seating • Large private party/event room The venue also hosts live music nights, happy hour promotions and seasonal events creating additional traffic and evening energy. Plus, has a video gaming area in the bar with 6 video gaming machines and ATM. 2025 gaming revenue (location’s take) ~ $100,000! Well established over 8 years. Independent - no royalty, advertising or transfer fees. Asset sale - all furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) included. And seller financing with a minimum of $100,000 down. A turnkey restaurant opportunity featuring: • Attractive modern build-out • Popular American gastropub concept • Full bar with cocktail, wine & beer program • Ample indoor & outdoor seating areas • Private party/event space Prime corner retail space in a well-located commercial area of a highly desirable retail corridor. Key advantages of its location: • Strong visibility along a prime retail corridor • Minutes from 1 of the largest open-air luxury shopping centers in the US • In a major office hub with office towers/corporate campuses/major business districts • Surrounded by numerous hotels & event venues • Dense affluent customer base • Strong demographics with a population of 10k within a 1-mile radius, 116k within a 3-mile radius & 270k within a 5-mile radius with medium household incomes between 113k & $122k • Nearby communities with median household incomes exceeding $170k • Easy access to a major route & 2 interstates Located in the heart of a sought-after western suburb is known for its affluent residential communities & dense daytime workforce with strong restaurant demand, making it one of the most attractive suburban dining markets in the Chicago metropolitan area. Feel free to stop by the location as a customer first. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing, DO NOT talk to any owners, employees or patrons. If interested, please email Tim Ryan at [email protected] or call 847-343-1332 for more information. Showings by appointment only.

$175,000Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow
Long-Established Highly-Acclaimed Restaurant N Suburb-Sales Over $2.9M photo
American Restaurants
+1

Long-Established Highly-Acclaimed Restaurant N Suburb-Sales Over $2.9M

Cook County, IL, US

Long-Established Highly-Acclaimed Restaurant North Suburb of Chicago - Sales Over $2.9M! "In A Highly Visible Freestanding Building Along One Of The North Shore's Premier Commercial Corridors" A rare opportunity to acquire one of Chicagoland's most respected chef-owned restaurants with decades of success and an exceptional reputation throughout the region. Its highly acclaimed farm-to-table concept has built a loyal following over 20 years by combining culinary flair with locally sourced ingredients and a warm, neighborhood-focused dining experience. Founded and operated by two nationally recognized culinary professionals, the restaurant has become a dining destination known for its seasonal menus, unwavering focus on quality and commitment to sustainable agriculture. Offering a mouthwatering menu of elevated American cuisine prepared with classic culinary techniques and fresh locally sourced ingredients. Menu Highlights • Locally sourced premium steaks & meats • Fresh fish & seafood • Legendary signature dishes • House-made soups & pastas • Local farmer-inspired omelets • Garden-fresh salads featuring local produce • Seasonal vegetables & pies • Exceptional homemade ice cream & house-made desserts Drink Highlights • Local & craft beers • Curated wine selection • Craft cocktails • Martinis & old fashioneds • Mocktails & non-alcoholic options In a warm and inviting space with an upscale yet approachable atmosphere that appeals to a broad demographic including professionals, families, local residents and destination diners. Featuring a full-service bar with seating, a well-appointed dining room, a spacious outdoor patio and a private event room, plus a full commercial kitchen. In addition to an experienced team dedicated to delivering exceptional hospitality. Long established 20+ years. Independent - no royalty, advertising or transfer fees. Dine-in or out ,plus carryout or pickup. Online ordering is also available and reservations accepted. Owner operated with long time staff in place - full back-of-house team, front-of-house manager, knowledgeable wait staff and longstanding bar program. This offering presents a unique opportunity to acquire a celebrated culinary destination with a distinguished reputation, strong community presence and a proven operating model. Or bring your concept here to this incredible facility in one of the most desirable dining markets in the Midwest. Take advantage of its amazing build-out, attractive lease, experienced team, area demographics and demonstrated volume. Also perfect for a steakhouse, seafood place, Italian eatery, Asian restaurant, Greek/Mediterranean kitchen, breakfast, brunch & lunch spot, grill, gastropub, brewpub and much more. Ideal for an owner-operator, hospitality group, chef-restaurateur or investor seeking an established, highly regarded restaurant with substantial goodwill and long-term growth potential or a plug-and-play to bring their own concept to one of the strongest demographic submarkets in the Chicago metropolitan area. Prime retail space in a highly visible freestanding building along one of the North Shore's premier commercial corridors, serving an affluent customer base with exceptional household incomes and strong discretionary spending power. The area benefits from a unique combination of affluent residential neighborhoods, corporate offices, professional services, healthcare facilities, various hotels and regional retail destinations that generate consistent lunch, dinner and special occasion traffic throughout the year. Feel free to stop by the location as a customer first. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing, DO NOT talk to any owners, employees or patrons. If interested, please email Ted Aretos at [email protected] or call 815-761-8334 for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$300,000Asking Price
$2,954,913Revenue
$163,284Cash Flow
Long-Established Authentic Mexican Restaurant Schiller Park, IL-26 Yrs photo
Mexican Restaurants
+1

Long-Established Authentic Mexican Restaurant Schiller Park, IL-26 Yrs

Schiller Park, IL, US

Long-Established Authentic Mexican Restaurant Schiller Park, IL - 26 Years! "On One Of Chicagoland's Busiest Commercial Corridors Just Minutes From O'Hare, Rosemont & Major Expressways" An exceptional opportunity to acquire a long-established, independent Mexican restaurant that has been serving the Schiller Park community for more than 26 years. Offering a delicious traditional Mexican menu of: - Street & specialty tacos - Mini Taquitos - Burritos - Tortas - Quesadillas - Gorditas - Chimichangas - Choriqueso - Nachos - Homemade guacamole, salsas & soups - Combination dinners - Mexican soft drinks - Beer A beloved neighborhood Mexican restaurant with counter service and comfortable seating. Featuring an efficient layout designed for both dine-in and carryout service. Its compact footprint keeps occupancy costs manageable while still providing a welcoming dining environment. Asset sale - all furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) included. Its fully equipped open commercial kitchen includes a large hood, 4-burner range w/oven, grill, flat top, deep fryer, 8-well steam table, salamander, meat slicer, refrigerated prep table, reach-in refrigeration & freezers, ice machine, Toast POS system and more. An outstanding opportunity for an experienced owner-operator, family business or restaurateur looking to take over a turnkey well-known area favorite with an established reputation and loyal customer base. Prime corner retail space in a busy strip center with great signage and ample parking on one of Chicagoland's busiest commercial corridors. Conveniently located in Schiller Park just minutes from O'Hare International Airport, Rosemont and major expressways. Enjoys excellent visibility and consistent traffic from nearby businesses, industrial employees, hotel guests, travelers, visitors and local residents. The surrounding area provides a strong daytime population while nearby dense residential neighborhoods generate repeat neighborhood business throughout the week and weekend. Location Advantages - Excellent visibility on one of Schiller Park's primary N-S commercial streets - Minutes from O'Hare International Airport, I-294 and I-90 - Near Rosemont's hotels, convention traffic and entertainment venues - Strong daytime population due to nearby warehouses, manufacturing businesses, office parks and airport-related employment - Convenient for employees, travelers, visitors and local residents This is a HIGHLY confidential listing. If interested, please email Tim Ryan at [email protected] or call 815-343-1332for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$109,000Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow
Delis & Sandwich Shops
+2

European Subs, Grocery & Catering Business

Lake County, IL, US

Established European grocery store and deli offering authentic imported foods, freshly made sandwiches, homemade soups, desserts, specialty grocery items, and unique gift products in a welcoming neighborhood setting. The business has built a loyal customer base from both local residents and customers specifically seeking authentic Eastern European and Balkan offerings. In addition to in-store sales, the business also generates revenue through catering services and online orders. The sandwich and prepared food side of the business has become a major driver of customer traffic and repeat business. Freshly made hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, pierogi, homemade soups, and desserts continue to be customer favorites, often bringing customers into the store who then shop the grocery and specialty product aisles during their visit. The store has developed a strong local reputation through quality food, personalized customer service, and a warm, community-oriented atmosphere. The specialty grocery and prepared foods industry continues to see growing demand as consumers increasingly seek authentic international products, homemade meal options, and locally owned businesses. One of the strongest growth opportunities for a new owner is expanding the catering side of the operation, particularly corporate sandwich trays, office lunches, and catering orders for local businesses, schools, and events. This opportunity would be well suited for an owner-operator, family business, chef, caterer, or entrepreneur looking for an established specialty food operation with an existing reputation and loyal customer base. The owner remains actively involved in overseeing operations and is pursuing the sale in order to spend more time with family.

$185,000Asking Price
$345,870Revenue
$20,295Cash Flow
Popular Bar & Grill w/Gaming - Exceptional Suburban Downtown Location! photo
Bars, Pubs & Taverns
+1

Popular Bar & Grill w/Gaming - Exceptional Suburban Downtown Location!

DeKalb County, IL, US

Popular Bar & Grill w/Gaming Western Suburb of Chicago, IL - Exceptional Suburban Downtown Location! "The Second Busiest Video Gaming Spot In Town With 2025 Gaming Income At $107,287" Outstanding opportunity to acquire a recently renovated, fully equipped neighborhood bar & grill with video gaming in a thriving western suburban historic downtown approximately one hour west of Chicago. Offering multiple revenue streams, an experienced management team, attractive lease terms, a loyal customer following and a turnkey operation that allows a new owner to step in and continue to grow with increasing sales! Its full-service bar offers craft beers and signature cocktails in addition to daily drink and happy hour specials. The menu has also been carefully developed to appeal to a broad customer base with an extensive selection of delicious appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, flatbreads, tacos, fresh salads, comfort food favorites and daily specials. Occupying 4,400 sqft, this inviting establishment has become a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The business features a warm, energetic atmosphere with a relaxing bar, fully equipped commercial kitchen, spacious dining areas and various pub games, plus a sought-after video gaming area. Featuring a flexible floor plan capable of supporting everything from casual lunches and family dinners to late-night entertainment, live music, game/trivia nights, private parties and special events. One of the business's greatest strengths is its diversified revenue model. In addition to a successful beverage and food operation, the business also benefits from 6 video gaming terminals, creating a valuable secondary income stream that requires minimal labor while producing strong cash flow. Currently, the second busiest video gaming spot in town with 2025 gaming income at $107,287. The business is being offered as a stock sale, allowing the gaming license to remain active, subject to Illinois Gaming Board approval and terminal operator requirements. And the current owners just completed substantial remodeling and equipment upgrades in 2024, creating an attractive, updated interior while maintaining the welcoming neighborhood atmosphere that has earned the business its loyal following. Complete with a wrap around bar, comfortable seating, pool table, dart boards, arcade games and an open video gaming area. Every piece of furniture, fixture and equipment necessary for day-to-day operations is included, making this an exceptionally turnkey opportunity. Equally attractive is the operation itself. The business is currently managed on a semi-absentee basis with an experienced kitchen manager and bar manager overseeing daily operations. One partner currently devotes only limited weekly hours to the business, presenting a tremendous opportunity for an owner-operator to increase profitability through more active involvement, tighter inventory controls, expanded marketing efforts and additional community engagement. Prime corner retail space in a freestanding building on one of the city's primary commercial corridors with excellent visibility, convenient public parking and steady pedestrian traffic. Strategically positioned in the heart of the historic downtown of a growing western suburb of Chicago. Benefits from nearby locally owned restaurants, bars, shops and professional offices as well as year-round community events and strong local demographics. Has become an area destination for both local residents and visitors seeking dining, entertainment and nightlife in an authentic downtown setting! - Location Advantages - Historic downtown suburban location - Excellent walkability - Main corridor visibility - Near local shopping and businesses - Established nightlife area - Destination for downtown events - Benefits from community festivals and seasonal events - Loyal local customer base Listed By Tim Ryan at EatZ & Associates

$230,000Asking Price
$426,404Revenue
$85,842Cash Flow
High-Volume Long-Established Family Restaurant DeKalb County–55+Years! photo
American Restaurants
Diners

High-Volume Long-Established Family Restaurant DeKalb County–55+Years!

DeKalb County, IL, US

High-Volume Long-Established Family Restaurant DeKalb County – Over 55 Years! "A Beloved Diner With Over Five Decades Of Proven Success" Become the next owner of one of DeKalb County's most recognized and enduring family restaurants. Successfully serving the community for more than 55 years, this highly respected independent restaurant has built an outstanding reputation for exceptional and made-from-scratch comfort food and hospitality, plus an incredibly loyal multigenerational customer base. This is a true turnkey operation that has become a local institution, attracting repeat guests who have been dining here for decades while continually welcoming new customers from surrounding schools, businesses, neighborhoods and visitors to the area. Many families have made this restaurant part of their weekly tradition, creating an exceptionally stable foundation for continued success. Their menu features an extensive selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner favorites, with its all-day breakfast as one of the restaurant's biggest traffic drivers. Guests return time and again for hearty skillets, omelets, pancakes and waffles, as well as fresh salads, homemade soups, sandwiches, burgers, hand-cut steaks and other comfort food classics, plus rotating daily specials. Its broad menu appeals to customers of every age and demographic, generating consistent business throughout the day and week. Also, the diner’s warm and welcoming dining room offers a nostalgic atmosphere unlike anything else on the market. Its unique theme and classic décor has created a memorable dining experience that has delighted generations of guests and differentiates the restaurant from typical diners and chains. Coupled with the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients, homemade recipes and attentive service has resulted in an extremely loyal customer following, strong word-of-mouth referrals and decades of repeat business. Business Highlights • Long-established & continuously operating for more than 55 years • Extensive breakfast, lunch & dinner menu • Highly desirable all-day breakfast concept • Made-from-scratch comfort food & homemade daily specials • Distinctive & memorable décor • Turnkey operation with established operating systems & experienced long-term staff in place • Well-known independent restaurant with outstanding community recognition • Diverse customer base including students, professionals, retirees, families & visitors • Strong multigenerational customer loyalty & repeat business • Excellent reputation & strong word-of-mouth following Asset sale - all furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) included. 2025 sales over $837,000! Prime retail space along one of the county's primary commercial corridors, the restaurant enjoys outstanding visibility, easy accessibility, ample parking and excellent traffic exposure. As well as a central location surrounded by higher education institutions, major employers, retail shopping, schools and established residential neighborhoods. This prime setting helps generate a steady mix of students, professionals, families, retirees, local residents and travelers throughout the week. Location Highlights • Ample customer parking with easy access • Excellent visibility on a major commercial corridor • Minutes from downtown DeKalb • Close to a major university • Near major employers • Convenient to residential neighborhoods • Easy access from Sycamore & surrounding communities Feel free to stop by the location as a customer first. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing, DO NOT talk to any owners, employees or patrons. If interested, please email Ted Aretos at [email protected] or call 815-761-8334 for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$179,000Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow
High-Volume Well-Established Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant w/Gaming! photo
American Restaurants
+1

High-Volume Well-Established Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant w/Gaming!

Kane County, IL, US

High-Volume Well-Established Breakfast & Lunch Restaurant w/Gaming Far NW Suburb of Chicago - Turnkey! "Along One Of The NW Suburbs' Busiest Commercial Corridors" Exceptional opportunity to acquire a highly successful, beautifully appointed breakfast & lunch restaurant that has become a favorite destination throughout one of Chicago's fastest-growing northwest suburban communities. This well-established independent concept has built a loyal following by combining elevated breakfast classics, creative brunch specialties, premium beverages, fresh ingredients, exceptional presentation & excellent customer service in a warm, contemporary setting. The restaurant has earned an outstanding reputation by elevating the traditional breakfast experience with an extensive menu of chef-inspired specialties. Every menu category has been thoughtfully developed to appeal to families, professionals, retirees, brunch enthusiasts & health-conscious diners alike, creating broad demographic appeal & exceptional repeat business. The restaurant further distinguishes itself apart from traditional pancake houses with its elevated beverage program. Guests enjoy a full selection of fresh-pressed juices, handcrafted smoothies, premium espresso & coffees beverages, seasonal drinks & a brunch cocktail program featuring mimosas, Bloody Marys & other favorites. Its beautifully appointed interior offers a bright, contemporary atmosphere with stylish farmhouse-inspired finishes, attractive décor, comfortable seating & an inviting ambiance. The spacious dining room comfortably accommodates both everyday dining & busy weekend brunch crowds, while a dedicated private dining room provides an ideal setting for meetings, gatherings & other special occasions. Further enhancing the business is a separate licensed video gaming lounge that provides an additional recurring revenue stream & further diversifies the operation. The business enjoys multiple established revenue streams, including dine-in, carryout, online ordering, catering, private events & video gaming. And proven operational systems are already in place, allowing for a smooth transition to new ownership. This offering is presented as an asset sale which includes the FF&E, leasehold improvements & goodwill. Due to the seller's recent acquisition of the business, financial history under the current ownership is not available. The business currently operates under an established trade name. Buyers may continue operating under the existing name through a separate licensing agreement or rebrand & operate under a new name, providing maximum flexibility. Ideal for an owner-operator, experienced restaurateur, hospitality group or investor. Opportunities to acquire restaurants of this caliber with such a recognizable local following rarely become available! Prime retail space in a busy strip center along with many other popular tenants along a main thoroughfare with over 28,000 VPD in a growing area of over 143,000 residents within a 5-mile radius. Strategically positioned along one of the NW suburbs' busiest commercial corridors, the restaurant benefits from outstanding visibility, convenient access, abundant parking & continuous exposure to significant daily traffic. Also, surrounded by an excellent mix of major retailers, offices, businesses, healthcare providers, recreational facilities, schools & dense residential neighborhoods that generate consistent customer traffic throughout the week. This premium location is further strengthened by its proximity to a transformational redevelopment of a former mall into a vibrant mixed-use destination featuring additional residential, retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality and public gathering spaces. It is also just minutes from a thriving downtown district. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing. If interested, please email Ted Aretos at [email protected] or call 815-761-8334 for more information. Showings by appointment only.

$150,000Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow
Popular Longtime Historic Downtown Pub w/Gaming-Nearly $1.1M In Sales! photo
Bars, Pubs & Taverns
+1

Popular Longtime Historic Downtown Pub w/Gaming-Nearly $1.1M In Sales!

Kane County, IL, US

Popular Longtime Historic Downtown Pub w/Gaming Far Northwest Suburb of Chicago - Nearly $1.1M In Sales! "A Rare Opportunity To Acquire One of Kane County's Premier Downtown Hospitality Venues" Opportunities like this are exceptionally rare. Located on the main street of a thriving historic downtown of a far northwest suburb of Chicago, this long-established independent pub (bar & grill) has been serving loyal guests for nearly two decades. Beautifully built out and fully equipped, this impressive 4,500 sqft venue offers everything an operator needs to step into a proven, revenue-producing facility. Its spacious layout features 2 completely separate full-service bars, including a vibrant main-floor pub and a private upstairs bar with its own dedicated street entrance - creating multiple revenue centers under one roof. Its second level is ideal for private celebrations, sports watch parties, live entertainment, fundraisers, corporate gatherings, networking events and countless other special occasions. Combined occupancy exceeds 300 guests, making this one of the area's largest and most versatile suburban downtown hospitality venues. The current owners have invested heavily in refreshing the concept, menu, branding and overall guest experience while preserving the character and charm that made this establishment a longtime local favorite. The operation is fully staffed, professionally equipped and currently generating nearly $1.1 million in annual sales, with incredible upside from 6 video gaming terminals recently added, creating a brand-new, high-margin ancillary revenue stream that requires virtually no additional labor. This one-of-a-kind bar and grill offers the warm atmosphere guests expect from a classic neighborhood pub, featuring exposed brick walls, attractive wood finishes, abundant televisions, inviting bars, multiple dining areas and a fully equipped commercial kitchen. Included in this asset sale is an extensive inventory of quality furniture, fixtures and equipment including numerous mounted televisions, seating for hundreds of guests, multiple bars with draft beer systems, beverage coolers, dedicated keg cooler, walk-in cooler, prep refrigeration, walk-in freezer, large hood, 6-burner range w/oven, grill, flat top, fryers, POS terminals and much more. As an independent with no franchise fees, royalty obligations or transfer fees, a buyer has complete flexibility to continue operating the current concept or can introduce their own take of a gastropub, sports bar, tavern or taproom, the infrastructure is already in place. Whether you're an experienced restaurateur looking to expand, an owner-operator seeking a premier location or an investor searching for an established hospitality asset with multiple revenue streams, this offering presents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a fully operational venue with substantial replacement value. Businesses offering this combination of size, character, location, licensing, two-bar configuration, event capabilities and immediate revenue potential seldom become available. Prime retail space in an attractive two-story historic building in the heart of the city’s historic downtown. Boasts great signage, exceptional main street frontage, high visibility, strong pedestrian/vehicle traffic and convenient public parking, including a large city parking garage for both daily guests and large private events. Perfectly situated along the community's historic main street, the venue benefits from daily shopping, nightlife and entertainment as well year-round community events and festivals that continually drive customers into the district. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing. If interested, please email Tim Ryan at [email protected] or call 847-343-1332 for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$275,000Asking Price
$1,081,477Revenue
-Cash Flow
Rare 2nd Generation Drive-Thru Restaurant Chicago - 79th St Corridor! photo
Other Restaurants & Food
+1

Rare 2nd Generation Drive-Thru Restaurant Chicago - 79th St Corridor!

Chicago, Cook County, IL 60620-5242, US

Don't miss this exceptional opportunity to lease one of Chicago's few remaining second-generation drive-thru restaurant buildings. Situated on a highly visible hard corner along the busy 79th Street commercial corridor, this freestanding 3,712 sqft building sits on a generous 0.51-acre parcel with 32 dedicated parking spaces, an existing permitted drive-thru and extensive restaurant infrastructure already in place - saving an incoming tenant significant time and capital. Unlike new construction, this property allows operators to avoid the lengthy entitlement process and substantial build-out costs typically associated with developing a new drive-thru location. With 3 commercial exhaust hood systems, black iron gas lines, Ansul fire suppression, multiple walk-in coolers and freezers, grease trap infrastructure, commercial kitchen layout and an existing drive-thru with proper vehicle stacking, the property offers an estimated $200,000 to $400,000 in tenant improvement savings while potentially reducing development timelines by 6 to 18 months. The building is immediately available and ideally suited for: - National or regional quick-service restaurants - Fast-casual restaurants - Drive-thru coffee concepts - Pharmacy operators - Urgent care or medical users - Dialysis centers - Banks or financial institutions - Automotive service concepts - Convenience retail and other B3-1 permitted commercial uses Prime retail space in a freestanding building with drive-thru in the heart of Chicago's Auburn Gresham neighborhood, the property serves a dense urban trade area with over 257,000 residents within 3 miles and nearly 1.9 million residents within 10 miles. The surrounding corridor includes major national retailers such as Walmart Neighborhood Market, McDonald's, Burger King, Dunkin', Popeyes, Aldi and Family Dollar, providing consistent daily consumer traffic and strong co-tenancy. Plus, exceptional public transportation with CTA Route 79 directly in front of the property, convenient access to the CTA Red Line and the new Auburn Park Metra Station opening nearby in late 2026, providing direct service to downtown Chicago. Feel free to stop by the location first. If interested, please email Ted Aretos at [email protected] or call 815-761-8334 for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$6,186Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow
Well-Established Shark’s Fish & Chicken Franchise DeKalb, IL - NIU! photo
Other Restaurants & Food
+1

Well-Established Shark’s Fish & Chicken Franchise DeKalb, IL - NIU!

DeKalb, DeKalb County, IL 60115-2100, US

Well-Established Shark’s Fish & Chicken Franchise DeKalb, IL - Adjacent Northern Illinois University! "Has Successfully Operated Within The DeKalb Market For Over 15 Years" Fantastic opportunity to acquire a well-established Shark's Fish & Chicken franchise located at 901 Lucinda Ave in DeKalb, IL, directly adjacent to Northern Illinois University (NIU). This highly visible quick-service restaurant benefits from its strategic location on one of DeKalb's busiest commercial corridors, serving thousands of students, faculty, staff, visitors & residents throughout the year. Shark’s menu features the brand's most popular offerings including whole chicken wings, chicken dinners, catfish fillets, ocean perch, shrimp, Philly steak sandwiches, burgers and signature sides along with combo platters and family meals. Its broad menu appeals to a diverse customer base and generates repeat visits from both students and local residents. Shark's Fish & Chicken is one of the Midwest's most recognized fish and chicken concepts, known for its extensive menu of freshly prepared seafood, chicken, wings, sandwiches, burgers and signature sides as well as combo platters and family meals. The brand has developed a loyal customer following throughout Illinois and continues to benefit from strong consumer recognition and repeat business. This established location has successfully operated within the DeKalb market for over 15 years and enjoys a steady stream of dine-in, carryout and delivery customers. The restaurant's proximity to NIU creates exceptional demand from students and campus personnel, particularly during lunch, dinner and late-night operating hours. Its fully equipped facility offers an efficient operational layout designed to maximize production and service. Customers enjoy online ordering capabilities, quick-service convenience, convenient access and ample parking. The business has established delivery channels and benefits from strong off-premise sales generated by surrounding student housing, apartment communities and residential neighborhoods. Business Highlights - Established Shark's Fish & Chicken franchise location - Recognized regional franchise brand with loyal following - Proven operating history in the DeKalb market - Diverse menu with multiple revenue streams - Freshly-cooked made-to-order food - Fully equipped turnkey operation - Experienced staff & operational systems in place - Established digital ordering & delivery channels - High-volume online ordering business, carryout & delivery - Directly adjacent to Northern Illinois University (NIU) - Strong student, faculty & resident customer base - Strong late-night sales Whether you are an owner-operator, multi-unit franchisee, restaurant group or investor seeking an established franchise concept w/a proven track record, Shark's Fish & Chicken in DeKalb represents an outstanding opportunity to acquire a recognized brand in a premier university market. Asset sale - all furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) included. Prime retail space in Village Commons, a busy retail center along Lucinda Ave. Boasts excellent visibility, easy access & ample parking. Along with other popular eating & drinking establishments including Cast Iron Coffee, Domino’s Pizza and Zahao’s Express. Perfectly situated on one of the primary commercial routes serving Northern Illinois University. Its surrounding trade area includes student housing developments, apartment complexes and established residential neighborhoods in addition to local businesses and national retailers that provide consistent customer traffic throughout the year. Feel free to stop by the location as a customer first. This is a HIGHLY confidential listing, DO NOT talk to any owners, employees or patrons. If interested, please email Tim Ryan at [email protected] or call 847-343-1332 for more information. Showings by appointment only outside of business hours.

$59,000Asking Price
-Revenue
-Cash Flow

Market Snapshot

National transaction benchmarks for restaurant and food business businesses.

Under $500K

Median revenue$456k
Median cash flow$80k
Median sale price$130k
Multiple range1.2x - 2.5x

$500K to $2M

Median revenue$1.50m
Median cash flow$276k
Median sale price$750k
Multiple range2.1x - 3.5x

Over $2M

Median revenue$4.27m
Median cash flow$1.03m
Median sale price$3.20m
Multiple range2.7x - 4.0x

A variety of factors can cause businesses to trade outside this range, including earnings quality, operational transferability, key-person risk, growth trajectory, and geography, so a listing priced above or below the typical multiple usually reflects real differences in the underlying business.

What to know about restaurant and food business acquisitions

GW

By George Wellmer

Cofounder & CEO

Key diligence, valuation, financing, and transition considerations for buyers evaluating restaurant and food business acquisitions.

Reconcile the sales — point-of-sale against bank deposits and tax returns

Cash-heavy businesses invite optimistic numbers; verify reported revenue against the processor and the returns before you trust a figure.

Read the lease like it's the deal

Remaining term, escalations, and assignment rights can make or break a restaurant; a strong concept on a non-transferable lease is a problem you inherit.

Pressure-test prime cost — labor plus food

Margins are thin and move with wages and commodities; understand prime cost and how stable the kitchen and front-of-house staff are.

Confirm licenses and health standing transfer

Liquor licenses, health permits, and inspection history are valuable and sometimes fragile; review the record before you commit.

Test how much rides on the owner and concept

A chef-owner or personality-driven concept may not transfer; understand the recipes, systems, and whether the brand survives new ownership.

Budget for equipment and build-out condition

Kitchen equipment, refrigeration, and the dining room wear and date; tour it with someone who knows the gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common buyer questions for this market.

Yes, but they're scrutinized closely because margins are thin and failures common. Verifiable cash flow, a transferable lease, and systems that run without the owner make the difference.