FAQs
Our proven process
One of the largest full-service dining companies in the world.
Established in 2007, Dine Brands brings together Applebee’s (founded in 1980) and IHOP (founded in 1958). Celebrating each brand’s individuality, Dine leverages their combined 100 years of hospitality experience and expertise so that guests feel welcome, satisfied and eager to return.
IHOP® leads the family dining category in the USA for brand awareness, menu variety and, of course, has the best pancakes in the business. There are currently over 1,750 IHOP restaurants around the world, including restaurants across all states in the USA, Puerto Rico and Guam as well as Mexico, Canada, Ecuador, Egypt, India, Pakistan, Panama, Peru, UAE and Saudi Arabia.
100% of all IHOP restaurants are owned by independent franchise operators. For over 60 years, the IHOP family restaurant chain has served its world-famous pancakes and a wide variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner items that are loved by people of all ages. IHOP offers its guests an affordable, everyday dining experience with warm and friendly service.
Priority Markets
Exclusive Territory Available
- Washington
- Oregon
- California
- Nevada
- Idaho
- Montana
- Wyoming
- Utah
- Colorado
- Kansas
- Nebraska
- South Dakota
- Oklahoma
- Arkansas
- Missouri
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Alabama
- Georgia
- South Carolina
- Nevada
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Illinois
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- Vermont
- Tennessee
- Delaware
- North Carolina
- Alaska
Select Markets Available
- Arizona
- New Mexico
- Texas
- Minnesota
- North Dakota
- Michigan
- Maine
- New Hampshire
- New York
- Ohio
- Indiana
- Kentucky
- West Virginia
- Maryland
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- District of Columbia
- Rhode Island
Inquire About Availability
- Florida
Hawaii is available through
International Markets
Get connected. We’ll dish about anything!
Is IHOP seeking new franchise candidates?
Yes, IHOP is seeking qualified candidates to develop restaurants in both new and existing markets to grow both traditional and non-traditional sectors.
How long is the term of the franchise agreement?
The initial term of the IHOP Franchise Agreement is typically 20 years, but could vary depending on lease, and if the location is a non-traditional location.
How much is the royalty fee?
The royalty fee for restaurants is 4.5% of gross sales.
How much is the advertising fee?
Restaurants pay 3.5% of gross sales for national advertising. For a non-traditional restaurants the marketing fee is lower.
What are the financial requirements in order to qualify for an IHOP franchise?
For development, minimum financial net worth of $1.5 million and $500,000 in liquid assets.
Is there financing available?
While IHOP does not provide financing, we have a variety of lending partners to meet your needs.
Is prior restaurant experience required?
Although prior restaurant experience is not an absolute requisite, our preferred partner will bring multi-unit management expertise, in restaurants and/or retail, and the ability to build and grow a business. Multi-unit restaurant experience, with other franchised concepts is a plus.
What is the size of a typical IHOP restaurant?
We have a variety of formats, which can range from 1000 sq ft to over 4500 sq ft. Optimal format and size will depend on the market specifics and other factors.
What support does IHOP provide when I become a franchisee?
IHOP offers a full range of franchise support including training, site selection assistance, restaurant-design-planning assistance, restaurant-opening assistance and ongoing operations and marketing consulting.
What is the term of a development agreement?
The term of a development agreement will vary depending on the market specific, territory and obligations, among other things. This will be discussed as part of the Approval Process.
