Is FOSTER'S GRILLE or THE EMPANADA MAKER cheaper to open?

FOSTER'S GRILLE costs $258,800–$538,600 and THE EMPANADA MAKER costs $246,274–$554,467 to open (FDD Item 7). THE EMPANADA MAKER has the lower entry cost.

Which is the better franchise, FOSTER'S GRILLE or THE EMPANADA MAKER?

FranchiseVerdict grades FOSTER'S GRILLE B and THE EMPANADA MAKER C, from FDD Items 5–7, 19–21 and SBA loan performance. See the full side-by-side above.

FOSTER'S GRILLE vs THE EMPANADA MAKER

Franchise Comparison 2026

Both FOSTER'S GRILLE and THE EMPANADA MAKER are quick-service restaurants franchises. FOSTER'S GRILLE requires an investment of $259K – $539K while THE EMPANADA MAKER requires $246K – $554K. FOSTER'S GRILLE discloses average revenue of $1.0M; THE EMPANADA MAKER makes no financial performance representation in its Item 19, which is voluntary under the FTC Franchise Rule. Note: Includes company-owned outlets. FranchiseVerdict rates FOSTER'S GRILLE B (Above average) and THE EMPANADA MAKER C (Average).

Metric	FOSTER'S GRILLE	THE EMPANADA MAKER
Verdict Grade	BAbove average	CAverage
Investment Range	$259K – $539K	$246K – $554K
Franchise Fee	$40K	$40K
Royalty Rate	5.0%	6.0%
Average Revenue (Item 19)	$1.0MIncl. company outlets	N/ANo Item 19 representation
SBA Charge-Off Rate	Limited data	N/A
Total Units	12	2
Unit Growth (YoY)	+0 units	N/A
Year Began Franchising	2005	2024
FDD Year	2025	2024