Famous Dave’s vs Mellow Mushroom
Franchise Comparison 2026
Both Famous Dave’s and Mellow Mushroom are full-service restaurants franchises. Famous Dave’s requires an investment of $71K – $6.1M while Mellow Mushroom requires $1.3M – $4.8M. In terms of revenue, Mellow Mushroom reports higher average unit revenue at $2.7M. On SBA loan performance, Famous Dave’s has a lower charge-off rate (11.1%) compared to Mellow Mushroom (15.0%). FranchiseVerdict rates Famous Dave’s F (Bottom Quintile) and Mellow Mushroom B (Above Average).
| Metric | Famous Dave’s | Mellow Mushroom |
|---|---|---|
| Verdict Grade | FBottom QuintileBottom Quintile | BAbove AverageAbove Average |
| Investment Range | $71K – $6.1M | $1.3M – $4.8M |
| Franchise Fee | $45K | $50K |
| Royalty Rate | 5.0% | 5.0% |
| Average Revenue (Item 19) | $2.4M | $2.7M |
| SBA Charge-Off Rate | 11.1% (15 loans) | 15.0% (142 loans) |
| Total Units | 116 | 161 |
| Unit Growth (YoY) | N/A | N/A |
| Year Began Franchising | 1998 | 1987 |
| FDD Year | 2024 | 2026 |
Investment Range
$71K – $6.1M
$1.3M – $4.8M
Franchise Fee
$45K
$50K
Royalty Rate
5.0%
5.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)
$2.4M
$2.7M
SBA Charge-Off Rate
11.1% (15 loans)
15.0% (142 loans)
Total Units
116
161
Unit Growth (YoY)
N/A
N/A
Year Began Franchising
1998
1987
FDD Year
2024
2026